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Psst! Want to Hack Your Hardware? Here's How!
Posted 06/04/08 at 10:15:45 AM | by Norman Chan
As much as we would love for our computers to work perfectly, the fact is that PCs and gadgets are complex devices that often fall short of exactly what we want. When confronted with this fact, we’re reminded of the old saw that says if you want something done right, it’s best to do it yourself. And who are we to doubt that kind of wisdom? As power users, we’re not content with hardware the way it comes out of the box; we have an insatiable need to hack our electronics in ways that will improve performance, functionality, and ease of use. And there’s no doubt about it, modifying your hardware will increase your productivity and make your life that much simpler.
The following pages contain a wide selection of hardware projects, ranging from novice-level tweaks to expert-only operations. From cable management and case mobility to LED soldering and firmware upgrades, each of these useful hacks has been tested and verified for effectiveness. Still, you’ll definitely want to read through our step-by-step instructions completely before starting, to avoid any mishaps. If you’re prepared to accept the risks—possibly voiding warranties and damaging your hardware—your efforts will yield some sweet rewards. So let’s get hacking!
Journeyman: Soundproof your Case
Noisy fans and rattling disk drives can be a nuisance, especially if you regularly leave your system powered on overnight. Short of confining your PC to a closet, the best (and most practical) sound-dampening solution we’ve found is to apply sound-absorbing foam to our case’s side panels (on the inside, of course). Acoustic PC (www.acousticpc.com) sells dual-layered foam sheets ($50 for a three-pack) that can easily be adhered to case interiors for priceless peace and quiet. The panels are just 7mm thick, which is convenient for densely packed systems where space is limited.
First, measure the dimensions of your case’s side panels. If a fan is permanently attached to the side panel, create a paper template based on the fan’s dimensions and trace that shape at the appropriate place on the foam.
Cut a sheet of sound-dampening foam based on your measurements. Excess material can be used to line other locations, such as the floor or ceiling of your case; just be careful not to cover any ventilation holes or high-heat areas, such as the power supply.
To apply a large sheet of foam, start from one corner of the panel and slowly move to the opposite end. Press the foam firmly against the panel while slowly removing the thin plastic sheet protecting the self-adhesive gum with your other hand. Avoid creases and air bubbles by peeling and progressing patiently.
Next: Add a Media Reader, Rock Three Monitors, and more!
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Audigy2
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Mon, 2008-07-21 15:13
Does the Audigy2 share the same pin arrangement as the Xfi?
Pocket PC display
Submitted by beef_wellington on Tue, 2008-07-08 20:40
Very nice my Dell Axim has been collecting dust for quite some time now and I was about to buy one of those programable LCD displays to show my temps during gaming sessions. Finding a new use for an old tool is one of the most satisfying feelings. Thanks Norm
charging station
Submitted by Shalbatana on Tue, 2008-07-08 08:27
Just as another option, at the auto store you can buy one of those no-slip mats, that are made to go on your dashboard. They have a relatively "tacky" no slip feature that if used on your charging station box would prevent things from falling or bumping around should the box get knocked.
I'm still brainstorming how to make custom cradles for everything.
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"There's no time like the future."
Submitted by simonlarano on Fri, 2008-07-04 16:58
I recently took my first steps in soundproofing my already quiet XPS 420 case. I purchased Dynamat Extreme (top of the line name, top of the line results) and it was a snap to install. The noise from vibration of my HDD is greatly reduced, and the relatively cheap modification was definitely worth it.
Submitted by boottoob on Mon, 2008-06-09 16:28
The x-fi hack was in the July 2006 issue. It bears repeating but it is unfortunate that creative doesn't make, list or provide a link for a cable to convert their outputs for front panel use. They'd sell for sure.
js
founding reader
Alternative?
Submitted by chaos.13037 on Sat, 2008-06-07 08:49
"A roll of linerless rubber splicer tape will do the job and is available at Home Depot for $3 a pop."
Is that just electrical tape without adhesive?
Cause I have electrical tape but not "linerless rubber splicer tape".
Submitted by nduanetesh on Wed, 2008-06-04 22:13
This is pretty much a great article. I was just thinking the other day about how MaxPC has gotten away from it's old school roots of hardware hacks. Great to see you guys bringing something like this back.
In the "Create a Charging Station" section, you seem to imply sloths are...messy? "Just because you’re a gadget junkie doesn’t mean you have to be a sloth." Urm. What? Sloths are known for being very slow. Did you mean to say "slob"?
Teh splatted kitteh.
Submitted by Lodis4 on Wed, 2008-06-04 15:08
The splatted kitteh was the best, my apologies to TheMurph.
All media readers are not created equal...
Submitted by Marcus_Soperus on Wed, 2008-06-04 14:33
Some media readers use a removable USB Type A/Type B cable that is designed to plug into a USB port on the rear of the system (or an internal port on a USB add-on card). However, if you buy one of these and you have a spare USB header on the motherboard, follow Gordon's advice to convert a spare USB port rear bracket into an internal adapter and you're all set: http://www.maximumpc.com/article/how_to_make_an_internal_usb_adapter
When you shop for a media reader, make sure it also works with the media types you want to use. One potential concern right now is the popular SDHC format used for 4GB and larger SD-type cards. You must make sure your reader (and your digital camera or other device) can read them.
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It's amazing how illogical a business built on binary logic can be.
Submitted by Shalbatana on Wed, 2008-06-04 10:26
Now you've gone and done it.
Just go ahead and give me MORE projects to immerse myself in that will take me away from the things I SHOULD be doing!
You've sparked my imagination!
Thanks tremendously for this.There's no time like the future.
Submitted by Keith E. Whisman on Wed, 2008-06-04 12:14
Um I loved this article when I read it in the magazine last night on the toilet. Why is this article in the News section though? Shouldn't this be in the From The Mag section? Oh well I'm sure the missing Podcast has something to do with this.
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