Random Idea... Thing

[dyingstar]

Hey Guys, I have an idea for a computer case which has been growing for quite some time now. I have never modded before nor have I used a forum, so forgive me for my cluelessness (with respect to posting and modding). The basic idea is to build a case from the ground up, hopefully with aluminum (if it is affordable), in the shape of a bookself-type stereo unit. It would have a custom made front panel with buttons connected to the computer using a keyboard encoder hacked from a cheap keyboard, and also some nice dials too. Not sure on whether to use rotary encoders cause of extra hardware though. But anyway, I would also like to use a cheap VFD or LCD on the front like a standard stereo display. I don't quite know the specifics on that, but I'll deal with it later. But here's where things get interesting: I am trying to find a method to place an audio amplifier inside the case connected directly to the soundboard to output to the speakers. Using this method no extra equipment is needed to use high quality speakers with the computer (a.k.a. a/v receiver). So far I have been looking at car audio amplifiers, because they tend to be smaller, but I'm not sure how they accept power. Also, I would like to incorporate some sort of media remote into the computer, with RF preferably, and this remote will power on the computer from a fully off state. I have looked into this alot already and have several options in mind. As far as componenets are concerned, I don't want top notch, but enough for today's games and multimedia. The budget I have is around 1500 dollars (a whole summer's worth). I realize that an audio amplifier in there is going to generate alot of heat, so I'll need to figure out some was to dissipate it. Anyways, comments or suggestions are welcome.

[DaveW]

First up, welcome to TBCS!

I personally love these mods, and have done a lot of research into them. Unfortunately, you're in for a long hard fight!

First up: a display!
You can get a nice display by buying some of the USB remote control/panel combinations. Combined with Vista, or a windows XP Media center edition, it will allow you to turn on your PC from off. In fact, you can theoretically access your files in Vista without turning it on using Windows Sideshow.

As for using the PC's sound processor, this is possible simply by feeding its audio output into a decent enough amplifier. Then you need to find yourself a power supply for the amp. Now, the amp and the power supply being fairly large, and what with the heat issues, it might be worth putting this into something that will sit underneath your PC unit, or even on top of it. As you're building them yourself, you can easily merge their styles together, to get exactly what you want; forcing them into a single unit, although possible, seems to me to be trying to force the idea a touch.

Hope this helps, and good luck with your mod!

-Dave

[dyingstar]

As this is my modding idea (not yet attempt), I'm curious about metalworking.

1) What kinds of tools would I need to work with aluminum?
2) How thick should aluminum in a computer case be?
3) How would I construct a motherboard tray/ back plate for connections? Is it better to use a motherboard tray from a cheap computer case?

Any help would be appreciated.

[DaveW]

1) I'd recommend a jigsaw for cutting, and files for shaping and finishing.
2) Doesn't need to be very thick at all...1mm? 0.8mm?
3) That would probably be easiest i think.

-Dave

[Ichbin]

jigsaw for cutting. Dremel for the REALLY small bits. Get a drill, and if you have a drill press even better (of course with metal workin bits). I'd suggest a nice rivet gun. And dont forget...your hammer....when you get pissed off.

You dont need neccesarly ALL of those tools....but it's nice to have some of them.

[Eclecticos]

The basic idea is to build a case from the ground up, hopefully with aluminum (if it is affordable), in the shape of a bookself-type stereo unit.

The best advise I could give you is start with a "Media center PC Case" HTPC
I Just bought a couple like a month of so ago. They were $27.00 plus shipping at Newegg I just looked for them a sec ago there gone now.

http://img451.imageshack.us/img451/1957/coolermaster1at5.jpg