This is the start to a great tutorial on making your very own Macquarium. Take that old Apple Classic computer and make it into something that will make your office a bit happier.
I had originally started this project several years ago, but only got as far as gutting the case and painting the inside. In stage one we will prep the case to allow for the tank to fit and get the inside painted for the lighting system. This is going to be done in stages so keep checking back for the rest.
Here is a basic Material List of things you will need for this tank.
So this is the first stage towards creating your very own Macquarium with on old Apple Classic II computer. Now you can have that aquarium screen saver in glorious never ending 3D.
I had started this project over 4 years ago and just recently finished it. You may notice that some things in the pictures are done out of order from the steps…. well when a project stands stagnant for this amount of time things are going to be a bit screwy. Also the picture quality is crap. Sorry, but a fury critter resembling a kitten broke my camera and I had to use an older one.
First things first. You need to acquire an Apple Classic II computer, open it and rip out all the guts. Be careful with the monitor tube when removing it. After you have all the guts out it is now time to cut all the extra little mounting tabs off the case. I used a Dremel tool with the snake attachment (life saving tool). On the face you need to leave 4 of the tabs to keep it attached to the main part of the case while still leaving it easily opened.
The handle area is a pain in the ass. There are some pretty awkward angles and thick parts to cut, just be patient and get it as closely trimmed as possible.
I opted to paint the inside of my case, but it’s totaly optional. I am painting the inside of mine white making it reflective so when I add my lighting system under the take it will illuminate the whole tank. You can use brush on paint, but I would recommend that you use spray paint. Be sure to mask off any part you don’t want painted with newspaper and masking tape. You will have to do several coats for good coverage.
If you are going to put lights under the tank you might want to cover the holes and vents so light doesn’t leak out. I simply took some heavy white paper (mine was from an old folder) and painted one side black. The black will be facing out while the white is on the inside of the case. I found that spray-application glue works well.
You’ll notice I left the back vent open. I did that so that any extra heat will be vented out and not cook the fish. Only use low heat light sources like a few small LED lights to light under the tank or you will cook your fish….. and gold fish isn’t very good eating.
Once the holes are covered the case is good for the time being.
Time to start Working on the tank
finally i find something that i want to know..
I had to refresh the page 2 times to view this page for some reason, however, the information on here was worth the wait. I loved that it is also really easy to read for the eyes.