Box Computer Project

Ever wanted a computer that looks more like a decorative piece rather than an ugly box? Me too.... I was looking for a computer to put in my entertainment center that would not stand out too much.

Here is the box I decided to work with. $20 from TJMaxx

My work area at the time was my coffee table, and yes, I did use my couch to muffle the sound of the jigsaw when the time came.

The motherboard fit very snug and it was fun squeezing everything into the small box.
I built supports for the board and disassembled everything I could to save space.

What better way to turn the computer on and off but with a wireless remote?
I hacked apart a wireless doorbell and used the computer's power supply to power it.

In the end, the box looks nearly identical to the original box. I added an in/out fan system to create more airflow through the box later even though I had no heat issues. There is also a touch sensitive switch on the side of the box that is flush mounted just in case you wanted to turn the PC on directly. Lastly, I used fiber optic cable to port the LED indicators out to the side of the case. (very subtle). When it's all up and running, you can barely tell. The video cable goes straight out of the back of the entertainment center and into the T.V. I used a wireless keyboard and mouse that can get stashed under the coffee table for surfing the web.