which should i start with

[saxa]

i would like to start a project and have no idea where to start. i have two old gateways to choose from. one is good for parts, and the other is a decent machine.
i would like to make one of them look all pretty, but i cannot decide which. i will also be using the newer as a tv\ media computer when i go off to college in a month, what are the chances that i will completely kill it? should i start with the older one?

i know that i am being vague, but i do not really know what i want to do with it, i just know that it should not be too advanced, and i should be able to finish in a few weeks. i need to figure out which computer i should use first.

[rendermandan]

First off, Welcome to TBCS, You could start off with something pretty easy like adding a window on the side and maybe a few lights inside. or if you feel up to it, paint the case.

[saxa]

so, lights and windows are easy then?be overestimating the

i thought about just cutting a hole , but i didnt want a window without lights. i am not experienced with complex electronics, what are the chances that i will blow up the computer?

i think i may be underestimating my abilities, but i dont want to start too fast.

[rendermandan]

thats ok, don't feel overwhelmed. there are alot of threads here on how to get started. for instance: Check out the Tips, tricks and tutorials section:http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=38

You can purchase lights for your case from numerous places.
you can get led lights, cold cathode, and electroluminescent lights:

they usually sell the lights ask kits you simply plug in and mount in your case and your done.

Don't worry about blowing up your pc. thats pretty hard to do. Just take your time and if you unplug soemthing, just make sure you remember where to plug it back into.

[modmansage]

you could start off with repaint of the case.
add a blowhole over the processor, perhaps a remote power switch, a window and some lights would be good too.

[Crazy Buddhist]

Don't worry about blowing up your pc. thats pretty hard to do. Just take your time and if you unplug soemthing, just make sure you remember where to plug it back into.

It is really hard to blow up the PC. Plugs won't go where they aren't meant to for a start. Just remember to have the electricity off and unplugged when working. And that water and water based paints etc don't mix well with live electricity !

You can take pictures of where it all started off and label things as you detach/remove them so you know where they go back.

Also if you have never done this before you can try taking your computer to pieces slowly and carefully, then putting it all back together the same way it came out, making no modifications. Then turn it on. When it works you will enjoy a much higher confidence level than you had before.

Enjoy yourself !!! :D

[saxa]

i have replaced parts and rebuilt computers before. i have never added things, and that is where things could go wrong.