Unusual Computer Build

[DSTM]

If they can fit everything into a mini tower, I'm sure you'll find a way of fitting everything into that shelf Radio.

Keeps the old grey cells active.

 

As I just posted this is half the size of a mini computer, Pete.

Yes a lot of fun for me to see if it's possible.

It does keep the old grey cells very active.What I have left.:big_grin:

Something to do, and I like building Computers.

Retired, you need something that occupies the mind.:)

[Digerati]

No, the larger challenges is to make everything fit in an area half the size of a mini tower, make it still look like a radio and maintain cooling under any load.

If they can fit everything into a mini tower, I'm sure you'll find a way of fitting everything into that shelf Radio.

 

I agree. With careful homework and shopping, I don't see space being a problem. After all, notebooks are much smaller and AiO computers jam everything into the back of monitors. You may need a low profile CPU cooler but they are easy to find. This Zalman is just over 1" tall. And you may be stuck with integrated graphics, if a low profile graphics card won't fit. Many ITX motherboards use external power supplies so that is not a problem. If going with µATX board, you can use a TFX low profile PSU like this SeaSonic which is pretty small at only 6.9" x 3.3" x 2.8".

 

SSDs take up little room and can be mounted with Velcro. So that leaves the DVD drive and there are plenty of slim models that are just 12.7mm (less than 1/2 inch) tall.

Everyone has their hobby. Mine is building computers.

Then we have something in common. And since my first love in consumer electronics was (and still is) audiophile electronics (I still have my Acoustic Research AR-3a Speaker Systems), we may have 2 things in common. That said, my computer builds are more conservative as I use standard ATX mid-tower cases. I get tired of scrapping my knuckles in confined spaces!

 

And I refuse to go with hand-helds. I have a smart phone but I use it for... what are they called? Oh, yeah, phone calls. ;) Bottom line here, I will give up my full sized keyboard, mouse and two 24" monitors when I die, and not a minute sooner.

[DSTM]

Hi Bill. I said on the onset I want to use normal size hardware which indeed makes everything so tight.

Wanted to see if it was possible.That's the fun.

 

Here is a stage update with photos so far for those following.To make floor and rear panel took ages.

 

 

[allheart55 Cindy E]

It looks awesome, Dougie. :thumbsup:

Very well planned and thought out.

[DSTM]

Thanks Cindy

[Digerati]

Yeah, normal sized hardware does makes it a challenge - especially for cooling. It does seem however, that your project is moving so fast, you will be done by the end of the week. I hope you have another project waiting in the wings! ;)

[starbuck]

You seem to have thought it out well Dougie.

[bassfisher6522]

Looking good!

[Bill M.]

I'm anxious to see the result.

[AWS]

Looks like it's shaping up nicely.

[DSTM]

I stayed up most of the night, and assembled everything, including the front panel bits and pieces.

 

It booted first up.:wow:

Loaded OS, Drivers and all updates.

I have photos and will post them after resizing them later today, or tomorrow.

 

Cooling is within limits so that's good.:)

[allheart55 Cindy E]

That's awesome, Dougie. I can't wait to see your pictures. :clap:

[DSTM]

Thanks Cindy,

I even made it more conjested buy fitting leds which I like. (blue ones)

Have just finished fitting them.Drilled 13 holes for the Leds and had to glue in place..

The extra job which took a while.

Will posts photos shortly.

Made this post with the wireless computer.:)

[allheart55 Cindy E]

I like the blue led's too.

[DSTM]

Here are some photos. The blue LEDS look lovely but camera wouldn't take the colour properly.

Nice when all works properly. Took it down to the computer shop yesterday. The guys wanted to see it.

Even their customers were looking at it.:)

 

Top view

 

 

Rear view

 

 

Finished

 

 

Switched on. End monitor shows Free PC Help Forum. Cover not on.Reflection on wall shows correct LED Colour.

 

[Bill M.]

Good job Dougie! BTW I like your desk layout.

[starbuck]

I have to hand it to you Dougie... You're the man :clap:

[allheart55 Cindy E]

It looks awesome, Dougie! :wow:

It came out even better than I imagined. :winner:

Great job! Now, where's mine? :woohoo:

[AWS]

I'm blown away. That is so awesome.

 

Good job Dougie. I can't wait to see what you come up with next.

[DSTM]

Thanks everyone. Just something different to attempt for me.:)

 

Thanks Bill.M.

5 Computers 3 Monitors. 2 KVM Switches. Works well.:thumbsup:

 

 

Starbuck and Cindy have great Computer Workstations. Top set ups.:up:

Edited April 21, 2016 by DSTM

[Bill M.]

Just out of curiosity, what O/S did you put on the Radio/Computer?

[DSTM]

Windows 7 SP1x 64bit, Bill.:)

[Mikelgorg]

I envy you your know how and also your patience, admirably demonstrated when helping me through the process of setting up my machine for dual boot with W7 & W10. both of which are working perfectly and then also helping me set up WXP on an old (very old) laptop) the reason for that one was purely and simply enabling me to put photographs in a folder in the sequence of my choosing which was lacking in W7 & W10. Well done.

[DSTM]

Thanks Mike. It was a pleasure to help you, as the help you were getting from another Tech Site wasn't the correct advice.

Now you are a member here, post any issues you may have in the future here, as the Techies here are so friendly,experienced and eager to help.

By doing so, you are helping anyone else with like problems at the same time.

Enjoy your stay with us, my friend.:thumbsup:

[IceMan37]

Nice Job Dougie :cool: