Exotic Wood Computer Cases

Alien54 writes "Exotic Wood Crafts has turned an aluminum case into a wood veneer case. For those who don't know, a veneer is a very thin layer of wood, in this case, pressed onto the panels of the case, maintaining the strong and stable characteristics of an aluminum case, while giving it a one of a kind wood finish. Lots of pics, some pretty nice looking stuff."

Comments

Pretty but expensive

[erick99]

They are pretty nice looking cases. However, the range in price from $250 to $600 so they are quite pricey. You can buy them from them via eBay,Here's the inexpensive one, or via online retailers. I don't think they are so nice that I would pay that much, though. But, if you wanted your computer to match the decor in your oh-so-very-expensive-and-professionally-decorated office, then it might be worthwhile.

Happy Trails!

Erick

Reviews -- and prices (ouch)

[JoshuaDFranklin]

Since I'm sure their poor site will be slashdotted soon, you can look at the pretty pictures from these reviews:

• Voided Warranty
• Virtual-Hideout.Net

Looks like they're not cheap--US$350-600--but they do look nice.

Larry Ellison's probably got a custom one on his desk.

I still prefer metal/plastic cases

[gotr00t]

Usually, when I think of computers, I think of something highly technological, characterized by cool, sleek designs (casemodding?). However, wood is more natrual, thus being the exact opposite.

Though it is great for matching furniture, I would never buy one of these, because in my mind, nature and technology just don't mix.

Re:I still prefer metal/plastic cases

[kfg]

. . .in my mind, nature and technology just don't mix.

Where do you suppose silicon comes from? I like computers because they match the hand hewn exertior walls of my home.

My computer runs on electricty. Without electrons nature would be pretty much hosed. Although I have found out from experience that's it's best not to allow the naturally occuring electrons in the atmosphere to mingle with those in your computer. Lets all the magic smoke out and stuff.

Veneer itself is the result of technology, you'd be pretty hard pressed to make any without some, not to mention the technology of a wood-aluminum composite material, and composites are all the technological rage these days.

Got blue jeans? Nothing more than plant fibers twisted together ( depending on the brand there may also be some copper rivets. That's the only thing that seperates them from being neolithic. Copper is a natural material). You should try making a pair from scratch though. You'll find there's lots of technolgy involved.

Maybe your idea of nature needs reconsideration?

KFG

Re:I still prefer metal/plastic cases

[Amiga Lover]

Same here. Wood just makes me think of trailer park fake wooden panelling, cheap porn, and 1960s station wagons.

Re:I still prefer metal/plastic cases

[zakezuke]

Usually, when I think of computers, I think of something highly technological, characterized by cool, sleek designs (casemodding?). However, wood is more natrual, thus being the exact opposite.

I say this often... there was a time where wood was common place for household technology items. Classic radios like Philco or Maganox use to make, television sets, you name it. Wood was a low cost material, good strength to weight ratio and very easy to work with. In fact I go out of my way to collect a few classic wooden pieces simply because I like it's character. I think of it less being nature vs technology but rather a balance between what is in fashion and what is cheep to produce.

I'm not going to say there is anything wrong with the modern plasic and powder coated computer cases. They typicaly can take more abuse then your typical wooden finish with the exception of good thick epoxy.

The last time I wanted something diffrent I selected spray paint, hunter green with black trim. It was hip, it was spiffy, it was a baby AT. Knowing my luck, the next time I custom style a case they'll change the standard again.

Wood LCD Frame

[DeadBugs]

I am looking into making a wood LCD frame. This is for a home built Digital Picture Frame project. Maybe a wood veneer over a metal frame instead of a true wood frame would work better.

Hardwood veneers on sheet metal?

[Nakito]

I've worked with hardwood veneers on musical instruments. Two points: (1) you want a porous substrate so the veneers adhere properly; (2) you want a reasonably rigid (non-flexible) substrate so the veneers adhere properly. I can't image a worse substrate for fine veneer work than sheet metal. How intact will the veneers be after a year of normal use?

A quandary...

[taernim]

If a wood-case gets slashdotted on the web and nobody sees it, does it make a sound? ;-)

Re:Why buy one?

[cybermace5]

Actually, I think that this is the right approach to making a wood-grain PC, though I agree with you about the price.

There is one problem with building your own case out of chunks of wood (or plastic for that matter). The problem is shielding. Computers are extremely noisy RF interference sources. That's why most normal retail cases are metal or have shielding inside. If you build a wooden case, and I've drawn up a few concepts before, it would be a good idea to get some adhesive foil to line the inside, or some EMI spray (conductive paint).

Everyone thinks that their computer is such a small influence that it doesn't matter. Well, RF noise pollution is a real problem that engineers have to deal with...don't complain if your wireless connection or cell phone doesn't work very well in the room with all your unshielded computers. Or if there's a persistent buzz in your stereo system.

If you start with a good metal case and then apply a wood layer to the outside, you don't have to worry as much about it. Unless, of course, you cut a huge ugly gaping hole in the side and glue in some plexiglass so people can see a couple of blue LEDs rattling around inside. You can't completely shield a computer, but cutting it open doesn't help.

It deserves it.

[The Desert Palooka]

Think of all the times you've spent with your computer.

All the hours of internet surfing, emerging and gaming.

All the good times.

All the time looking at pr0n.

All these years your computer has given you the gift of wood.

Won't you do the same for it?