Maker presents 3D model for retro computer from the 3D printer

Maker Salim Benbouziyane recently presented an interesting project in which he built a functioning retro computer in miniature format. Inspired by the typical beige and grey desktop PCs of the 90s and early 2000s, he created a detailed replica of a classic PC using a Raspberry Pi 4 and a 3D printer.

Salim started his project by collecting various images of retro PCs to define the key design features for his miniature version. For the computing power, he opted for a Raspberry Pi 4, which he integrated into a horizontal desktop housing. Special attention was paid to the screen. After several attempts with different displays, he decided in favour of a square 720×720 display from Waveshare.

The replica of the typical illuminated displays found in many electronic devices in the 1990s is particularly charming. Salim found matching rectangular light guides that he integrated into his model to complete the illusion of a real desktop PC.

The majority of the housing was created using a 3D printer. Salim used PA10 resin, which is characterised by its high stability and attention to detail. To finish and paint the case, Salim used a combination of sanding, priming and airbrushing techniques to achieve the characteristic beige-grey look of the original PCs. He used specially mixed colours to achieve the desired nostalgic look.

In addition to the housing, Salim also developed his own circuit board to efficiently integrate the power supply and additional features such as the SD card slot and the indicator lights. The software that runs on the Raspberry Pi is Twister OS, a distribution that makes it possible to recreate the retro feel of old Windows environments.

The individual steps, from soldering the circuit boards to the final assembly of the electronics, have been documented in detail by the maker. Salim Benbouziyane has published building instructions on Instructables. He has made the 3D model files available free of charge on Thingiverse.