n00b help requested

[twhited]

I am currently building my latest PC, and I really want to make it a show piece. I have a great concept, that I don't want to disclose because 1) it has probably already been done and I still want to do it (seeing someone else do it better will demotivate me), and 2) I hope that I will do a good enough job that I will be proud to post it here...

That being said, the needs I have, that fit in this forum, are as follows:
-- Remote start - Yes, I saw the GideonTech post, but I want to check out other options.
-- I need moving parts on start up and/or remotely. These need to have a defined travel distance (they can't just run forever).
-- Sound devices that allow recording and playback, preferably that I can also activate remotely.

[jdbnsn]

I'm going to move this to the Q&A section, this forum is more for already written tutorials.

[.Maleficus.]

Welcome to the forums twhited.

As for remote start, we have a great tutorial right here! And, it was written by our resident over-the-top mods guy danthegeek (Watercooling Turbine, Motorized Maddness) so you know it's good. http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7765

For the other stuff, specifics will really help us help you.

[twhited]

Details, ok, here goes, but no laughter, I'll know... :)

I have been designing (in Visio) a PC case that looks like a castle. It really hit home that I need to get off my butt when I saw the one in Maximum PC a couple of issues ago. Not that it isn't a good case, I just want to start and finish my idea.

http://www.maximumpc.com/article/daniel_klus_jan_henryk_dabrowskis_castle

My vision is a remotely controlled drawbridge that will open when the PC is powered on locally or remotely. I would also like to have an iron gate behind it that raises when the drawbridge is fully lowered. The backside of the iron gate will be the resting place for my rechargeable cordless USB mouse, as well as access to front panel USB, etc.

The sound device is to be used to play recorded theme sound bites when particular things happen. Grinding chains while the drawbridge is moving, clank when the gate closes, maniacal laughter when the stealthed DVD drive access panel is opened, general mayhem all around.

The general case mods concepts are (I think) easy enough, but the electronics and sound are beyond my current scope. I have pinged a kid I know that attends a highly rated Engineering school and he does robotics for school and a hobby, so he will have some ideas as well.

I have decided that if I buy even one component for this build I will start a work blog somewhere. Having people ask me how things are going and giving me encouragement (or kicking me in the junk for doing something stupid) will drive my motivation.

As I contemplate these things, other details are flushing out in my mind.

Like:
"How do I maintain my liquid cooling device and incorporate it into the project?"
And:
"How do I hide cabling on the backside to complete the effect?"
Not to mention:
"What other cool castle type features can I build in?"
-- Gargoyles (glowing eyes optional)
-- Cornerstones
-- Windows
-- Lighting in said windows
-- Artistic detail (like a mural of my and/or my wife's famly coat of arms)
-- A customized on switch to look like every portal on DDO (red/orange swirly)
-- Custom mouse paint job to look like a shield.

Yeah, I know I said I wanted to maintain some secrecy, but if the more feedback I get, the more likely I'll get to work.

Let the flaming begin...
:banghead:

[jbaldwinroberts]

flickery lights.... think the candle style bulbs you get in old fashioned pubs. would be a cool effect through the windows.

these (http://www.goldenageusa.com/product/b/company1/4402.jpg)

joe

[twhited]

Thanks, that is EXACTLY what I had in mind. I think they have them in Christmas tree style bulbs for smaller applications. I think they will give a great effect for a castle room lit only by candle or fireplace light.

Thanks.
(I'd give you a +rep, but alas, I have to few posts... :(

[jbaldwinroberts]

You could try model shops for doll house bits. They have some cool mini fires and stuff.

Glad i could help

Joe