Introduction: YADPF (YET Another Digital Picture Frame)
I know this isn't new stuff, I know, I have seen some of these projects here, but i always wanted to build my own digital picture frame. All Picture frames i have seen are nice, but i was looking for something else, I am looking for a really nice frame (custom made and that's ain't cheap), a nice size (14.1") and with some "extras" (wi-fi, bluetooth, etc).
I think i got it and i happy (almost) with the final result.
This is a brief description how to disassemble a notebook and assemble a nice digital frame.
Thank you everyone to read it.
Attachments
Step 1: First Things First - "the Brain"
All the process start with the notebook. I got from a friend an old KDS Valiant 6480iPTD. A 14.1" p3 800mhz, 512Mb 20Gb HD. HE gave to me only because the LCD inverter was damaged, otherwise would tkae another couple of months before i had the project started.
Well. I manage to find another inverter and then i was ready to start my dream digital frame.
Step 2: Disassembling
That's was the easiest thing ever. Who doesn't love dismantle things. The only tools needed was 2 screw drivers (phillips to be exact). And i felt like i was 6 years old, after disassemble a watch, with all the pieces laying around my table and I thinking if i was able to re-assemble again :)
I just love to "destroy" things : )
Step 3: The Frame
I decide to order a custom made frame. I'm sorry guys, I didn't feel confortable building my own, maybe next time. Remember i was looking for a "state of the art" frame.
So i went to a frame store with the LCD in hands and order this job:
Step 4: Installing the Hardware
Now my problems start.
I was planning to install the motherboard "inside" the frame, but i also want be able to use the dvd-rom, pcmcia, speakers, microphone, network , etc., so i had to make some kind of support. For now I decide work with aluminum for the supports. next version i will use acrylic (lexan). I think the pictures are self-explanatory.
Step 5: Installing OS
Self-explanatory
Step 6: Final Product
This isn't definitely the final place, but I'm happy that I was able to finish this project.
Now the next one. I have to pick between a mini arcade and a carputer (already have the parts for both projects). LOL
Step 7: Final Thoughts
Don't think i will let those wires running from the frame to the power outlet. My plan is to install an outlet behind the frame to make the appearance even better. This picture is the first idea. I will add usb, vga, serial, audio ports later.
I know this is not a "step-by-step" instructables. But I also understand we are also lead by example (I am). I hope you all like my project and I hope you all decide to make different in your lives. Creativity are the engine that makes us grown.
PC
14 Comments
15 years ago on Introduction
Digital picture frames are a really popular gift project here on Instructables, and lots of people are searching for digital picture frame how-to's. So, in addition to this great project, check out this guide to some of the best digital picture frames we have:
Instructables Digital Picture Frame How-to Building Guide
13 years ago on Introduction
You should somehow connect a wireless mouse/keyboard to it and double it as a hanging web browser ;)
16 years ago
Hmm.. I have a crummy oooooold laptop (think early 1997) that might be just enough to do something similar to this. Maybe display flashing colors?
Reply 16 years ago
LOL, good idea. I have a IBM thinkpad 486, 20mg RAM and 810mb HD running win95 waiting to become something else. Im trying to have win98 intalled, but with only a floppy its gonna take me some time. LOL. 256 colors RULEZ cheers PC
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
My IBM thinky R31 had 128mb and runs XP perfectly!
14 years ago on Introduction
I believe so. Unfortunately I never heard about that distro. I will check it out (now I'm curious).
Reply 14 years ago on Introduction
Is there a way to make this into a xbox 360 monitor? I have a dated toshiba laptop thats begging to be recycled into something useful. Any incite would be nice.
14 years ago on Introduction
you could do this easily with a monitor to get a bigger screen size also you could disguise it as a frame and when nobody is looking ,GAMES.
16 years ago on Introduction
hi there is a chance to build a digital frame with a regular flat monitor becouse i want biger 19" with a sand scand
Reply 16 years ago on Introduction
hi the mexican, Actually it is possible but you will need one of those 3 things: 1- A mini-itx motherboard 2- A very long VGA cable 3- A notebook with VGA output I believe you have to think carefully about thickness and air flow, but i believe its 100% possible cheers PC
16 years ago on Introduction
You say this is old but thanks to you this is the first time I have seen it. To think, I was getting ready to buy one I didnt want too much but loved the idea, now I can make a better one and make it look how I want too. Thanks for the post!
Reply 16 years ago on Introduction
Hey, Im glad you like it. It make me fell proud of my little gadget. If you decide not ti build one but buy, let me know because Im thinking about selling this one on ebay to be able to build the second generation LOL :) Thank you again for the post. It make me happy again :) cheers PC
16 years ago
If nothing else you made a really cool monitor.
Reply 16 years ago
Hell no!!! This is way beyond a "cool monitor". Remeber this is an entire computer in a picture frame. This "monitor" have DVD drive, 256Mb RAM, 20Gb HD, wifi, bluetooth, etc. Come on. Anyway. I glad you like, even if you think its just a cool monitor LOL