Hacking Printed Circuit Boards to Create Casing and Instrument Panels

In a fascinating project that's raising eyebrows among the electronics enthusiast community, two Hackaday.io contributors, Angelo and Oscarv, have embarked on an ambitious endeavor: creating a replica of the PDP-1 computer using printed circuit boards (PCBs) as casing and instrument panels. What makes this project remarkable is not just the complexity of replicating a vintage computer, but rather the novel approach to 3D printing the case and panel components.

The process begins with designing KiCad files for each side of the case/panel using computer-aided design (CAD) software. These custom PCBs are then ordered from a board house, allowing the creators to have precise control over the materials and dimensions of the final product. This level of precision is what makes this project so intriguing – by creating custom PCBs for each component, the makers can achieve a level of detail and accuracy that would be impossible with traditional methods.

In the video below, we'll take a closer look at how these custom PCBs are used to build the case and panel components. The process involves applying sticky tape as scaffolding, allowing the creators to temporarily hold the pieces together while they assemble them. Once in place, the final touches are applied by soldering the solder joints on each edge together.

This innovative approach to 3D printing has significant implications for the electronics community. By using PCBs as casing and instrument panels, makers can achieve a level of customization and precision that was previously unimaginable. The possibilities for this technique are endless – from creating complex prototypes to building working models of vintage computers like the PDP-1.

We're grateful to Oscarv for sharing this fascinating project with us, and we invite you to explore more PCB hacks over at our dedicated category: PCB Hacks. Whether you're an experienced maker or just starting out, the world of PCBs is full of exciting possibilities – and this project is a great example of what can be achieved with creativity and determination.

Thanks for reading, and we'll catch you on the flip side!