Imperial Shuttle Mod [Archive]

Megatron1977

01-14-2005, 07:42 PM

OK, I've talked a little about doing this mod for awhile now, so here it goes...
My plan is to build a mp3 server in my original Return of the Jedi Imperial Shuttle. I plan on using a mini-ITX mobo (can someone reccomend a good one, and a good place to buy one?) with 1GB of RAM, a 60GB laptop hard drive, a MSI 52x CD player, and a Audigy2 soundcard. On top of all this, I plan on adding lights and making the wings lower when I start the computer, and raise back up when I turn it off. I also plan on having it pnumatically lifted as the computer starts up to simulate take-off and landing. I also want to make the computer start by remote control.
Here is a picture of the Shuttle after I took it all apart. Still got Lord Vader and a Royal Guard in it. lol
http://img99.exs.cx/img99/2318/picture0013uy.jpg
It's got a lot of build up on it from when I used to smoke in the house, but I'm going to run it under some water which will also help get the stickers off (I'm going to repaint it to look more like the one in the movie).
This is the body of the Shuttle.
http://img108.exs.cx/img108/7800/picture0026vm.jpg
This will pretty much be gutted so I can fit everything in, I really hate to cut up an old toy, but hopefully this will make a great computer.
This is going to take a LONG time since I'm in school full time, money for parts is tight and time isn't a luxury that I have a lot of. I promise to update when I can if anyone is interested. Wish me luck.

hungrych

01-14-2005, 07:47 PM

This'll definetly be cool. Good luck!

Metae

01-14-2005, 08:50 PM

http://www.logicsupply.com/default.php

Megatron1977

01-14-2005, 08:57 PM

I actually looked there, any idea what a good mobo for the application would be?

slice-and-dice

01-14-2005, 10:02 PM

if its just going to be an mp3 sever then go with the VIA EPIA 800
its only 800mgz but gets the job done

DevilHacker

01-14-2005, 10:32 PM

Or you can put some power into it with this Mobo.
(http://www.viaembedded.com/product/epia_ms_spec.jsp?motherboardId=281)
It has:
“Providing greater design flexibility for flat panel and telematics digital entertainment developers, the VIA EPIA MS mainboard redefines low profile platforms with its unique layout that does away with bulky I/O ports. Integrating all the connectivity and expandability available on other VIA EPIA Mini-ITX mainboards, the VIA EPIA MS introduces an array of onboard pin headers for TV-out connections, up to six USB 2.0 ports and 6-Channel surround sound, allowing system designers to place connectors at easily accessible positions. Additionally, the use of pin headers allow for lower profile designs than a standard PC I/O plate.
The VIA EPIA MS is available with the fanless 1GHz or 800MHz VIA Eden™ ESP processors for ultra low power consumption and quiet operation, or the 1.2GHz VIA C3™ processor for slightly more demanding applications. All available processors on the VIA EPIA MS incorporate the on-die VIA Padlock Hardware Security Suite that can supply state-of-the-art random number generation and AES cryptography to security programs. The VIA EPIA MS provides enhanced digital performance through the VIA CLE266 chipset featuring integrated VIA UniChrome™ 2D/3D graphics and an MPEG-2 accelerator. High data transfer speeds are achieved through the sizable memory bandwidth of DDR266 SDRAM and ATA-133 support.
An array of storage and connectivity options are provided, including onboard CompactFlash and a PCI slots. The VIA EPIA MS also offers support for 6 USB 2.0 connectors, 6-channel audio, as well as S-Video and RCA TV-Out (NTSC & PAL) and 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet. The VIA EPIA is also compatible with Microsoft® Windows® and Linux operating systems and offers support for a number of embedded LCD panels.”

It is due out this later this month, and is guessed to be around the $150 range.

Megatron1977

01-14-2005, 11:45 PM

Thanks everyone, I'm really looking foreward to this mod, it's been in my head for quite some time. I picked up CrimsonSky's new book, and it got me inspired. lol

DevilHacker

01-15-2005, 01:02 PM

Thanks everyone, I'm really looking foreward to this mod, it's been in my head for quite some time. I picked up CrimsonSky's new book, and it got me inspired. lol

I have been looking at his book for a while, How is it? Any good?

-Good luck on your mod, I will be looking at this one... :)

Megatron1977

01-15-2005, 03:35 PM

CrimsonSky's book is great, lots of goot tips on airbrushing, and case cutting. It also details how to set up a great watercooling setup, which is what I really needed to know. There were alot of basic things in there that are geared towars a newer audience, but there were alot of new ideas I've never thought of. I highly suggest getting the book. Oh yeah, and if CrimsonSky reads this, how about a paid endorsement? lol J/K

delerious

01-15-2005, 04:49 PM

Oh, I definately want to see this mod done.
And have a diaroma of Vader scaring Jerjerrod in the 2nd Deathstar....Vader's shuttle could move back and forth on a wire when something is loading, that would be awesome.

Megatron1977

01-15-2005, 06:42 PM

DevilHacker

01-15-2005, 07:59 PM

I have alot of great ideas in store for this mod, I just hope I have the skill and the ability to do all the things I want. I'll be working with servos this time around to raise and lower the wings, guns, landing gear, and ramp, plus I'll be doing alot of cusom lighting. I've never messed with servos before, so it should be interesting.
Hey, thanks for your thoughts on the book. I ordered it a few min. ago, and am going to head on over to B&N to pick it up.

Also, another choice for your motherboard, could be the VIA EPIA N, coming in at 12cm X 12cm. This will also be shipping in “early 2005” (sorry, that all the ones I suggest are not out yet). But if you decide to go this route, this would give you time to get the servos working before ordering the Mobo.

- VIA EPIA N (http://www.viavpsd.com/product/epia_N_spec.jsp?motherboardId=221)

Megatron1977

01-15-2005, 08:05 PM

So that board is only 4.73 inches square??? I wonder how much power it has being that small? I'll really need to look into that since room in the Shuttle is very tight. Thanks for that link, like you said, I can focus on the servo mods and stuff while the board comes out.

DevilHacker

01-15-2005, 08:39 PM

Hmmm...
I guess I got some bad information and this motherboard is already out.
Because there are already reviews out on the internet...
O-Well I will go and see if I can find a place that sells them...
http://mini-itx.com/news/cebit2004-1/images/cebit2004-1-0016L.jpg

-Sorry for the bad information, DevilHacker

EDIT: LOL, this night just keeps on getting better! Sorry my original information was correct, and the board is still not out. The website just got it for an early review. Mini-ITX will be selling it soon, and have a mailing list so you can be one of the first informed of the release. The Mailing list is here:
http://www.mini-itx.com/store/subscribe.asp?s=8

Megatron1977

01-15-2005, 09:13 PM

DevilHacker

01-16-2005, 06:21 PM

I see one possible problem though, it says unichrome IGP graphics...
While I don't need much by the way of graphics, I will be hooking it up to my TV so I can make playlists, but I also want to use the visualizations with Media Player for when my friends come over to party.

I think that an Integrated Graphics Processor would be able to handle basic visitations such as Windows Media function. A few months ago, I built a budget PC for my grandparents, so they could surf the internet, send e-mail (thanks G-Mail) and watch DVD’s and Listen/Burn CD’s. The system had an IGP, and everything worked fine. Granted it wasn’t a “unichrome” IGP, but a IGP none-the-less.

Megatron1977

01-16-2005, 06:57 PM

I don't mind the IGP part, I just want more colors. I could always buy a PCI graphics card though.

DevilHacker

02-06-2005, 03:28 PM

any word on how this is going?
:)

Megatron1977

02-06-2005, 04:19 PM

Unfortunatly I've hit a wall untill I can afford parts. I had to buy a one year anniversary present for my wife, plus having to pay for school, taxes, and my first house, have drastically drained my bank account. Hopefully I'll get some money back on my tax return so I can start again. But, if anyone wants to send me some extra parts so I can complete this mod, I'll be your best friend. lol

Megatron1977

02-13-2005, 08:13 PM

OK, I'm going to start buying pieces one at a time for this mod, so my question is, what should be first. I don't have the money to start with the mobo, so I was thinking about getting the HDD. I think I'm going to go with a 2.5" 40GB one since that should be enough to hold my Mp3's. Any suggestions on good ones?

Megatron1977

02-14-2005, 01:41 PM

Well, I got the 2.5" 30GB HDD ordered, and I picked up a slimline DVD/CD-RW drive as well, so, as soon as I get the parts I can start deciding on where to place them. I already know the HDD is going in the ****pit, I've measured it all out and it should fit with little modification. I'll keep you posted.

LMAO, it edited c0ckpit. Silly thing.

Southerntracker

02-14-2005, 01:57 PM

Sounds great, Megatron. Keep us posted!

Megatron1977

02-14-2005, 02:00 PM

Thanks, I will. Now I've gotta decide how to do the "wings". Anyone here work with servos? I need to find some that are really slow moving.

nate007

02-14-2005, 03:13 PM

servos are suprisingly easy to work with.(for the most part) all servos move at pretty much the same speed. try gearing them up to a slower speed.

Megatron1977

02-14-2005, 03:23 PM

Cool, know where I can get some good ones that are easy to change the gears with?

blackacidevil

02-14-2005, 05:07 PM

you said you needed help with parts...are you talking big hardware or the small shiite like fans, molexes etc.?

Megatron1977

02-14-2005, 05:33 PM

Well, the main parts I'll need help with is choosing the right mini-ITX mobo, since I've never used that form-factor before, and the servo controller type stuff, but any ideas would be helpful.

TMG

02-14-2005, 05:36 PM

http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin/wti0095p?FVPROFIL=++&FVSEARCH=servo&FVPROFIL=++&search=Go

Megatron1977

02-14-2005, 06:13 PM

Thanks TheModGod, now I just need to take some mesurements to see which one will fit.
I'll probably get the HDD seated first, the dvd player will have to wait until I get the placement of the mobo, but I have a good idea where it will go as well. Right now I'm working on cleaning my ship. Since I used to smoke in the house it's got years of tobacco stains on it. lol

nate007

02-17-2005, 08:10 PM

try this site: http://www.kronosrobotics.com/xcart/customer/home.php

Megatron1977

02-17-2005, 08:29 PM

Thanks Nate, that should help alot too. I'm still waiting one the DVD/CD-RW drive and the HDD to come in. Once I get those installed, I'll pick up a PSU and then start saving up for the mobo. I'll keep everyone posted, and I'll get some pics up as soon as I get some of the actual work started.

SillyName

02-17-2005, 08:47 PM

lol, I read that post and was like, why is he thanking me?! lol. We want many pics when its done btw.

Megatron1977

02-21-2005, 07:12 PM

OK, I got my HDD and DVD/CD-ROM dive in today, so I'm gonna start measuring and cutting tomorrow. The DVD/CD player is a little bigger than I expected, so it might be awhile untill I can find a place for it. Look for pics in the next few days depending on how much I can get done.

Megatron1977

02-26-2005, 04:20 PM

OK, I haven't had a chance to do anything lately because of my wife's problem, but I hope to get back on track this week. Anyways, I have two questions for everyone. First, the mobo I'm looking at uses the Realtec 97 audio codec, but I plan to run it through my THX stereo reciever. I'm assuming that this will do the THX decoding for me without having to use a THX soundcard. Am I right in thinking this? Second, what do I nee to hook up my Gamecube to the computer without having to put in a Radeon All-In-Wonder videocard (or any card for that matter)?

SillyName

02-26-2005, 04:35 PM

for the sound, it should do thx, both my realtek sound chips do, and for the gamecube, you'll haveto get a card for it. Unless you can find a mobo with video-in on it. other than that, you could get a PCI tv tuner pro card.

Megatron1977

02-26-2005, 04:54 PM

Well, the mobo I'm looking at has S-video in (I believe), so I think I can just use that. My wife's got me doing the whole painting the house thing, and I'm going to be re-arranging the house as well. My next few weeks are going to be really tied up, but I hope to get back on track soon. With this mod, I'm also going to build the big screen projector from Tom's Hardware Guide. I'm making my second bedroom into my playroom, so this is quite a large undertaking. lol

Megatron1977

03-04-2005, 07:08 PM

I started working on the project again, mainly to get my mind off my mom being sick, but anyways, here's what I've done so far...
http://img8.exs.cx/img8/4407/10002030bs.th.jpg (http://img8.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img8&image=10002030bs.jpg)
This is the 2.5" 30GB Travelstar notebook hard drive that I'm going to use.

http://img8.exs.cx/img8/5842/10002026pk.th.jpg (http://img8.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img8&image=10002026pk.jpg)
I decided to mount the hdd in the c0ckpit of the shuttle. I broke out my trusty Dremel and cut the divider in the lower part of the c0ckpit.

Megatron1977

03-04-2005, 07:08 PM

http://img233.exs.cx/img233/8243/10002019qk.th.jpg (http://img233.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img233&image=10002019qk.jpg)
When I test fitted the hdd, the top of the "seats" were in the way, so I chopped them off.

http://img233.exs.cx/img233/9465/10002055ko.th.jpg (http://img233.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img233&image=10002055ko.jpg)
This is a side shot after all the cuts were made, it fits really nicely and there is enough room under the hdd for some air movement.

Megatron1977

03-04-2005, 07:09 PM

http://img233.exs.cx/img233/7599/10002065js.th.jpg (http://img233.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img233&image=10002065js.jpg)
This is a head on view.

http://img233.exs.cx/img233/4155/10002049zd.th.jpg (http://img233.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img233&image=10002049zd.jpg)
This is the last pic for right now, it shows how the "seats" had to be cut away to allow for the connectors.

That's it for right now, hope you like it.

kisa

03-04-2005, 07:49 PM

I've got some leftover blinking 5000 or 6000 mcd blue leds (about 30 of them) if you find a need in this project for them. I'm not much for pc's in models but when they are little ones like this where its more of a challenge, I like to see them. Keep up the good work.

If you happen to find an old cheesy RC car at a garage sale or whatever, poof, you have servos on the cheap!

Megatron1977

03-04-2005, 07:58 PM

Thanks for the offer, but I'm going to try to go with white leds, if you have any of those I'll gladly take them off your hands. As for the RC car idea, I was thinking about doing that, but I wonder if they would be strong enough to lift those wings since they are suprisingly heavy, I might could use them for the gun turrets though...
Thanks for the advice.

kisa

03-05-2005, 11:05 AM

Sorry, I only bought a few super bright white leds and I used them all. depending on the size of the rc that you get, the servos should handle the weight, if not, try trimming out some of the excess weight from the inside of the wings. You should be able to find the superbright white leds on E-bay cheaply. There are a few e-stores there that specialize in leds.

Southerntracker

03-05-2005, 01:42 PM

Hard drive placement looks great Megatron. Great job!

Megatron1977

03-05-2005, 06:05 PM

Thanks, I've actually got to build some sort of frame for the hard drive so it will have some support for when it spins, and I've also got to figure out a cooling system for the case. I don't know how hot those fanless nanoITX boards and fanless PSU's are, but I'd think they need a little bit of air movement over them.

Megatron1977

03-05-2005, 08:20 PM

Here's some more pics.
http://img218.exs.cx/img218/548/10002070zh.th.jpg (http://img218.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img218&image=10002070zh.jpg)

http://img218.exs.cx/img218/9030/10002105dt.th.jpg (http://img218.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img218&image=10002105dt.jpg)
OK, basically, all I did was cut out the interior so I could have more room. I'm really starting to sweat if I'll have enough room for the DVD/CD-RW drive, if all else fails I might have to opt for an external drive, but that's a last resort.

Megatron1977

03-07-2005, 03:48 PM

OK, I have a few questions for you all.
http://img41.exs.cx/img41/8995/10002115ii.th.jpg (http://img41.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img41&image=10002115ii.jpg)
First off, I was thinking about installing a fan here, but I can't make it look like the grill you see in the pick, so I was thinking about using an Imperial insignia fan grill there, what do you think? Does anyone know where I could get a replica of the grill that's in the photo?

http://img54.exs.cx/img54/3553/10002120pq.th.jpg (http://img54.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img54&image=10002120pq.jpg)
Second, I want to heat up some plexiglass and lay it over this part so it can get the shape of it, but I don't want them to fuse together, what can I put between them so I can still get the shape? Any ideas?

kisa

03-07-2005, 04:41 PM

you can use wax paper between them to prevent fusion. I don't think you'll have too much of a problem though depending on how you heat it.

as for the grill, you can get louvered 3" round vents at Lowe's/Home Depot they are in the roofing section.

Megatron1977

03-07-2005, 04:51 PM

I was thinking about heating it with my heatgun, if that doesn't work I'l use the oven, and when it's pliable, I'll place it over the part to shape it. Thanks kisa.

Megatron1977

03-07-2005, 05:48 PM

OK, one more question, my Samsung DVD/CD-RW drive uses a EIDE / ATAPI interface, what cable do I need to buy to hook it up with? I know this is a n00b question, but I can't seem to find the right one to use.

WeetaBiX

03-07-2005, 05:54 PM

A normal IDE 40 cable will do.

kennyt772

03-07-2005, 05:55 PM

get a single rounded cable. you will probly only need one port so get a 18" one and cut the second lead off

Megatron1977

03-07-2005, 06:10 PM

OK, so does this take care of the device's power needs too cause I don't see any other place to put the power lead (I can get a pic of the interface imput if it will help).
Second, am I going to need some kind of converter when I go to plug this into the nanoITX mobo?
Third, can anyone recommend a good place to buy a rounded IDE 40 cable?
Thanks for all the help.

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 08:00 AM

Well, I might be doing some more cutting tonight, depends on how I feel. I plan to get the engine bay cut out, and the intake at the top of the ship done. I think I'm going to see if I can't scrounge the piece I need from the back of an old PC monitor. I'll let everyone know how it turns out.

kennyt772

03-09-2005, 08:14 AM

i got mine from tigerdirect

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 09:13 AM

You got what from Tigerdirect?

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 11:44 AM

See what you all think of this for the fan grill. I cut out the back of an old monitor, I think it'll look pretty good once I get it painted and glued in. Here are the before and after shots. Tell me what you all think.
http://img225.exs.cx/img225/8529/10002117tu.th.jpg (http://img225.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img225&image=10002117tu.jpg)
Before
http://img225.exs.cx/img225/3641/10002166uv.th.jpg (http://img225.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img225&image=10002166uv.jpg)
After

reeseslover531

03-09-2005, 06:17 PM

that looks fine! for the IDE cable you can go to compusa or basiclly any computer or eletronics store near you. they are quite common.

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 06:35 PM

I actually will need a converter for both the DVD and HDD. I'm going to get them off of logicsupply.com tomorrow. I'm also going to see how much air is going to be blocked by this grill, if it blocks too much I'll have to go with a different design.

kennyt772

03-09-2005, 06:43 PM

i got my rounded cables from tiger. i want to see this done its looking very nice and professional.

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 06:58 PM

Oh, I see. I've got a bunch of rounded cables laying around, I'll probably just use one of those. As far as this mod getting done, I'm going to get as much done as possible, but I can't finish it untill the nanoITX mobo's are released. This isn't as bad as it might seem, it gives me time to get everything else properly placed.

kennyt772

03-09-2005, 07:01 PM

are you gong amd or intel?

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 07:15 PM

The nanoITX mobo's will be VIA I'm sure. It won't be overclockable, but it will be more than enough to play mp3's and DVD's.

kisa

03-09-2005, 08:28 PM

laptop converter (http://froogle.google.com/froogle?hl=en&lr=&tab=wf&scoring=p&q=laptop+ide+converter)

here is a quick way to find the converter that you need for your laptop drive and for your HDD. you will need a power connector for each one. The Hdd is 5v and I don't remember if the optical drive is 5 or 12v. If you match connector to your drive you should end up with a converter that has the right hook up for power.

As for the grillwork, that was good improvisation!! It looks bulkier but good.

Nano ITX boards are designed to keep their heat low. If it does become and issue, you can go discrete and use the tiny exhaust fans from a laptop or two and integrate them. If you can't find any PM me I have some drive converters and at least one spare fan at work. I can really slam the price down for you. Being a co-owner has its perks.

Megatron1977

03-09-2005, 08:36 PM

Thanks kisa. By the way, if I get you the spec's on the hdd and DVD, like the make and model number, could you tell me what connectors I'll need?
As for the grillwork, I can't take credit for the idea, I actually posted this mod on pimprig and one of the members there suggested it. They've actually got some really cool people there.

Megatron1977

03-10-2005, 06:04 PM

Work will be delayed untill Monday or Tuesday when more parts will arrive. I probably could paint this weekend, but I plan on being really drunk. I must say this is the best batch of hunch punch I've ever made. Cheers. =)

reeseslover531

03-12-2005, 04:03 PM

thats lookin awesome megatron

SLAY3R

03-12-2005, 04:05 PM

Too bad it really didn't fly.

I have a r/c plane that is HUGE! The thing is I couldn't put a computer in it because of wieght issues.

Megatron1977

03-15-2005, 02:23 PM

Still waiting on my parts to come in. Hopefully tomorrow they will be here so I can start back to work on this project.

Megatron1977

03-15-2005, 09:33 PM

Forget that last message, the parts did come in today, but they came so late that I didn't have a chance to do anything with them today. I'll start more work tomorrow. =)

Megatron1977

03-16-2005, 08:21 PM

OK, so I have this idea, and I'm not yet sure it will work, yet though. I ran across this http://crap.mousetoy.com/pez.html it's a pez usb mod featuring a stormtrooper helmet, and I thought this would be great for my mod. I cut the rest of the seats out of the c0ckpit so the hdd could sit lower and I would have more room for the usb sticks. I'll have to find on of my old usb ports. What do you think?

JustJon

03-17-2005, 12:09 PM

If you want to do something like the above, could you buy a Kenner/Hasbro action figure and use that? That way, you'd be in scale with the Shuttle, as oppoed to a giant head in the ****pit.

Megatron1977

03-17-2005, 12:19 PM

Yeah, that might be my other alternative if this doesn't work out. I want to do it this way so everything is functional as well as go along with the theme. Thank you though, that is a good idea, and I'll keep it in mind.

Megatron1977

03-17-2005, 01:50 PM

Here's the painted fan grill, nothing major, I know I'm not a great painter, but I'm trying. lol
http://img8.exs.cx/img8/6595/10002249al.th.jpg (http://img8.exs.cx/my.php?loc=img8&image=10002249al.jpg)

Megatron1977

03-17-2005, 08:54 PM

I hit a snag, looks like the NanoITX mobo won't be released till the end of the year. I'm going to try to slow my work down and get as much done as possible before I have to worry about the mobo, so hopefully I can wait around for it, if not I'll have to find some way to fit a miniITX in there.

kennyt772

03-17-2005, 09:15 PM

damg that sucks. itx are the ones with a expantion riser card right?

reeseslover531

03-18-2005, 05:58 AM

ya, You could though work on other parts of the case to make sure everything is ready for the motherboard. Like doing the wires and everything.

Megatron1977

03-22-2005, 08:14 PM

ya, You could though work on other parts of the case to make sure everything is ready for the motherboard. Like doing the wires and everything.

Yeah, that's what I plan on doing. I'm also going to do some of the painting and try to get the LED's installed. I'm also going to spend alot of time studying up on how to do the servos the correct way since I've never worked with them before.

reeseslover531

03-23-2005, 08:06 AM

I played a tad with servos back when I was into RC cars. They aren't that bad, but I will look for the site that taught me everything.

Megatron1977

03-23-2005, 01:21 PM

Thanks bro, that will help alot. I'll be sure to ask plenty of questions as well. lol

reeseslover531

03-23-2005, 06:43 PM

I can't seem to find the site I used but here is a good site http://www.repairfaq.org/filipg/RC/F_Servos.html

Megatron1977

07-15-2005, 02:29 PM

Just a little info, I've started working on this project again. Mostly working with LED placement, and I put in an on/off switch, right now I'm going with a rockerswitch, but I may change it to a pushbutton style. Tomorrow I'm going to try to make some brackets for the HDD, and work on the DVD placement. I'm going to try to work on painting and all that good stuff when the rain slacks off.