iBook picture frame
Please note: This post was written some time ago (19 years ago). My perspectives, knowledge, and opinions may have evolved significantly since then. While the content might still offer valuable insights, I encourage readers to consider it in the context of its publication date.
I have always wanted a digital picture frame. I originally thought that the audrey would fulfill my need - but it became apparent that i needed something much more powerful. I needed something that i could manage remotely and could run reasonable programs on. I needed a technology that would allow me to use open source software to display and manipulate the pictures as well as possible. I thought of using a custom linux solution - but decided that it would be cost prohibitive. I also noticed that there are a handfull of good picture frame tutorials already on the internet - so i checked them out and noticed a really nice powerbook hack as well as the apple duo hack and got to thinking about my roommates old clamshell ibook sitting in the corner…
The clamshell ibook is a good choice because:
- OSX - it can natively run a lot of the apps i was dreaming about
- Small Form factor - it is already small and can get smaller thanks to Apples brilliant component design
- Good Screen - has a decent screen
- Heat dissipation - doesn't run hot
- Cheap - sub $500
- Ports - has airport(802.11), ethernet, usb and line out all built in.
So around christmas time i flew to colorado to be with my family. I brought the remenants of my picture frame project from awhile ago to finish up in my fathers shop.
I shopped around for a frame that would be around 8x10 and would be deep enough to hold the mother board and such with the screen well enough. I thought about doing a custom frame, but i figured out (with dylan’s help) that it would be prohibitively expensive. I eventually found two box frames that when stacked created enough depth to hold everything well. I then used some braces and some thick foam to hold the motherboard in.
It turned out really well.
here are some pictures:
All of the pieces separated out and fancilike.
The initial test - in a box.
This is the frame i picked.
This is where the power connector hooks. I have drilled a hole into the frame. It is an incredibly type fit.
Here is a view of the hard drive and airport card.
Booting up
So. That is that. For the complete set of pictures check hereThe Frame in action