Centrally Controlled Digital Picture Frame

Step 6 Hardware Build - Assemble the Frame

Now it's time to attach the LCD to your frame...

Cut the Mat
Measure and cut a rectangle in center of your mat material. Be sure the metal edges of your LCD do not show through on the front of your frame (cut the mat slightly smaller than LCD size).  Remember the old rule...measure twice, cut once!

Attach LCD
Place the LCD on the mat and secure the edges using hot glue and tape.  Be very careful not to use large "gobs" of hot glue.  It could burn through the mat and you'll end up starting over from scratch.  It's better to secure a little at a time, allowing it to cool before adding more.  Add a strong tape in the flat areas just as an extra precaution.  Hot glue can weaken over time with changing temperatures.

Hot Glue Hot Tip - If you ever need to remove hot glue from something, use a few drops of Isopropyl Alcohol around the edges.  It will quickly seep between the glue and the surface and you should be able to take the glue off in one large chunk instantly!  I discovered this over 20 years ago while working at a previous job that used a lot of hot glue.  If you search the net you'll find that few people have discovered this method and often resort to much more toxic chemicals for removal. (Maybe I need to create a quick Instructable video on this!).

Flip Motherboard
After everything has dried and you've confirmed that the LCD has been attached correctly, re-attach the motherboard using the ribbon cable. Be very careful not to put stress on these connections.  After attached, gently flip the motherboard forward to lay on top of the LCD. (see pictures below for detail).