Hdd Window And Leds, Flush mount plexi Options

[GSX]

This is a Tutorial on how to make a flush mount plexi glass window on the Xbox360 hard drive.

Ok, I will assume you know how to open the HDD(if not there is pleanty tutorials). I don't have actual pics of the work, so I will just give you an idea of what to do.

After disassembling the HDD and removing the chrome trim, you're ready to draw your window on the hdd cover.


For example 2"x5". Trace it onto the top of the plastic cover and cut out with a dremel. File and sand the edges untill smooth.

Now get the plexi ready(don't remove the protective film). Lay the cut out HDD cover on top of the plexi, and trace the window onto the plexi. Now you have an idea of how much you have to cut to make the window fit.

DO NOT CUT ON THE LINE! Make sure you give some space all around the outline(I do 1/8" and have a steady hand).

So now you have a rough cutout with atleast 1/8" extra plexi all around. Get your file out and start working your way closer to the line you traced, test fitting as you get closer. The best advice I can give you is, take your time, one slip and you have start over.


Hopefully everything went well and it almost fits into the hole. The window will have to have a tight fit if you don't want to glue it. To the point that you need to force it into the hole.


Once you get it to pop in and it stays you're basically done. You can glue it into place, but be carefull that you don't spill extra glue.


Now you will have to cut out the center support for the chrome trim(you can leave it, but it will in the middle of the window).Cut it on the red lines.


Now the lights...

Unscrew the four t-8 screws from the hdd and slide it back(no need to remove it).


Unplug the cable from the drive and wiggle the whole cable and plugs out.


You will need to strip the yellow wire(5v+), and the black wire(ground).


I used 3 leds on each side in parallel. This way you only need 2 resistors. Glues them into place with whatever glue you like. Attach the leds to the power source, and youre done.


The finished product.

If you have any questions or I didn't make it clear enough, let me know(this is my first tut, if you can't tell )

This post has been edited by GSX: Mar 19 2006, 10:00 AM

[x Boarder x]

quality tutorial!

thanks bud i will be trying this

[Sloppy Fat Dump]

Ya, he could explain a little better. I've never done a flush mount and I'm sorta lost.

I understand the whole concept, but I've just got a few questions. If you don't glue it, as said is possible, how are you going to prevent the plexi from just popping in the hole along with the hard drive?

But, other than that, GREAT TUT!

Btw, mind sharing some tips for making those smooth straight cuts you've got?

[Granulated]

Freaking hot, mang.

[celticsfan]

Wow, That is Amazing

[bubba_g]

nice job, ive been waitin for this

[Thr3e Sixty]

Hey. I wouldn't mind doing this for my First ever mod.

But one thing i am concerned about is the LED's. Is there a way to have LED's without having to Solder?

Also please can you Describe the Flexi glass thingy abit more. I didn't quite understand it.

[Avaric3]

instead of soldering u can just twist the wirees togetherafter u strip them

[Thr3e Sixty]

You see im 14 years old, so I dont reli have the right tools for stripping wires and soldering etc. And i wouldnt want to break the hdd.

[Thr3e Sixty]

Hmmm, How much is it total for like all the tools? For the Screw Drivers, Dremel, File, LED's.

i think i'll twist the LED's around insted.

[Arjun]

Keep the ages out of the thread. It's completely pointless and makes you look stupid.

Nice tut man. I really like how it turned out. It's a nice subtle glow. Is the harddrive already upside down? I still haven't had time to crack my 360 open...

[Sloppy Fat Dump]

Hmmm, How much is it total for like all the tools? For the Screw Drivers, Dremel, File, LED's.

i think i'll twist the LED's around insted.

Seriously, you shouldn't worry about tools. Your main concern should be experience. Start on something that you can easily get fixed or help with. Such as your personal computer.

Try out stuff on your computer. That way you don't have to jepordize your investment on a fragile piece of hardware.

But ya, tools are involved in that too. So see what basic items you have around to work with. Then buy general items that you need that you can use for more than just your 360.

This post has been edited by Sloppy Fat Dump: Mar 20 2006, 12:57 AM

[Okkkay]

is it possible to turn the hdd around to see the front? if you could that would be sweet to put a window in your hdd so you could see it!

[GSX]

I did read, you can always take some more pictures, or if he couldnt do that then just EXPLAIN better. Im just saying it would help alot of people. And yes it was a good tut.

I will try to give a better example of how to trace the window. Hopefully tomorrow, if an mod is around to edit it.

MY GOD that is some thick paint!!! I love how it gives the texture, but I'd hate how it will dent/scratch easier.

I know what you mean, at first it is fagile. But after it cures for 2 weeks, its hard as a rock.

If you don't glue it, as said is possible, how are you going to prevent the plexi from just popping in the hole along with the hard drive?
Btw, mind sharing some tips for making those smooth straight cuts you've got?

If you dont want to glue it, then you will need a interference fit. In other words the window has to be a hair bigger then the hole you're mounting in, and you have to force it in. It will stay in place unless you start putting pressure on it. Now the key to get straight edges on the plexi, is to keep the file stationary and move the plexi across it.

like this

You see im 14 years old, so I dont reli have the right tools for stripping wires and soldering etc. And i wouldnt want to break the hdd.

You can pick up a soldering iron for $15 at radio shack, or any other store like it. Soldering is must to make proper led mods.

Is the harddrive already upside down? I still haven't had time to crack my 360 open...

Yes the hdd is mounted upside down stock.

is it possible to turn the hdd around to see the front? if you could that would be sweet to put a window in your hdd so you could see it!

Well, it is possible, but you will have to push the hdd further back in the case. This is because the two pugs won't clear if you filp it. Also the stock screw holes won't align.

This post has been edited by GSX: Mar 20 2006, 04:44 AM

[t sizzles]

Nice. Out of all of the modded 360s I've seen, yours is the coolest.

This post has been edited by t sizzles: Apr 10 2006, 01:08 AM