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Step One: Getting Started
A great place to find an old Macintosh is at your local Goodwill Store. I have found two this way and I have not paid more than ten dollars each. The original (downloadable) plans by Andy Ihnatko are hard to find, but I have listed a few sites in my links section that provide ample information on constructing your MacQuarium. |
Step Two: The Hardest Part
Once you have found your Macintosh of choice, the fun part begins. I highly recommend that you use a Dremel when it comes time to gut the beast. After opening the case remember to use EXTREME CAUTION !! when removing the tube. The plans from Andy provide step by step instructions for preparing the case. |
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Step Three: The Little Things
Now that you have finally finished cutting, sanding and cursing, it is time to put the finishing touches to the case. I removed all of the plugs, connectors and switches from the case and main board. I then used wood and a glue gun to position the pieces back to their original spots. I then mounted the main board to the back. |
Step Four: The Tank
Putting the tank itself together was not as tough as I thought it would be. The main thing is to make sure the tank is in an area where the fumes won't bother anyone while the silicon is curing. The cost of the glass, cut to order by a glass shop, was only about $8. (I leak-tested my tank for a week.) |
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Step Five: Putting it all Together
Now that you have waited for the tank to cure, all of the hours that you have put into this will pay off. Dry fit everything from the tank to the plants and toys that will go into the tank to get an idea on how things are to be placed. I also color matched the case and bought a small can of paint for the wood pieces. Use the old switch to power the light. |
Step Six: Sit Back and Enjoy
I used a Hagen Warm & Brite to provide the light and heat source. To keep the tank clean, I mounted a small filter to the side of the tank. The current tennant is a Betta. He seems to like his new home! |
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