Introduction: LED Mod--for an Old Dell (any Computer Will Work)
I decided to make my old Dell (now a linux box) some bling(ish) so I grabbed some LED's, a switch, a terminal block, and some wire, a molex, and some resistors. You only need one (value depending on 12 v or 5 volt--I had 6 because I did not have a correct value) Very simple mod, but soldering skills were required. I just hotglued the LED's to the front panel of my case, and drilled a hole for the microswitch. A $10 mod that is very simple and looks very good.
Step 1: This Is the Original Computer
This is the original computer. Any computer will work, but the grille in this computer is perfect for invisibly making it glow.
sorry for the sideways--just turn yer head
Step 2: Create the Module for Installation.
From left to right:
SPST switch-2 LED's wired in paralell-terminal block-resistors-molex-power supply cord (NOT part of project)
See schematic image for wiring. One does not need a terminal block-any prototyping PCB will do. It was just convenient for me.
Step 3: Final Product
Here is what it looks like. Note the switch, and light placement.
26 Comments
13 years ago on Introduction
I have the same computer(not used anymore ofcourse)
13 years ago on Introduction
I was Thinking about using usb so it would be controlable from your computer to turn them on/off
14 years ago on Step 3
... and black, and transparent.. : )
15 years ago on Introduction
i have an emachine, time to break out the drill, evil laff
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
Me too. What model do you have? I have the E-tower 500 is and it's a piece of junk!
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
emachine T2862 3.8 ghz Celeron D 2gb ram
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
oooohhh i has a slightly older......or maby newer model its a 3.33 with 512ram
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
I have a emachines too! Yesterday I just painted the case and a week ago I cut out a window.
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
i dont know about yours but mine is fast great, never crashed and plays games great.
14 years ago on Introduction
DELL DIMENSIONS make great linux pcs! I had the same model. It worked great! But my mom made throw it out! Whaaaaah!
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
I had one but i never put linux on it
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
IT was much faster with xubuntu. My mother threw it away, so now I have moved on to a Panasonic toughbook (CF-72)!
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
I also switch my old dell inspiron 5000 to xubuntu and it goes much faster!
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
It is good isn't it?
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
Your mom made you throw out a perfectly good, working computer? Can I stab her?
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
Noooo.... You may not stab her, and yes. Our basement was flooded and the insurance replaced it. It was not damaged by water at all though.
14 years ago on Introduction
now just add the raving fan mod, id be pimpin
https://www.instructables.com/id/Raving-out-your-Computer/
15 years ago on Introduction
I found like five of these in the recycling center, and this time, I got away with them.
15 years ago on Introduction
Cool I have that SAME exact computer too! Dell Dimension 4100
Reply 15 years ago on Introduction
I found one in a recycling center with a DVD burner, RAM, CPU, and Hard Disc, but I was kicked out before I could take it!