How to Wire Lights to Your Computer
Computer case modifications, or "case mods," are a fun way to personalize your desktop computer. Many case mods, like "running lights," are relatively easy to accomplish with a little planning and basic mechanical skills. Some computer cases are designed with side panel windows and other cut-outs so case lights can be shown off to their best advantage. However, it's also possible to modify a standard desktop case to display interior running lights.
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Things You'll Need
- Power supply device connection "molly" adapters and extenders
- Computer case lights (interior types)
- Rotary cutting tool
- Power drill
- Small computer screws
- Velcro straps
- Plastic cable straps
- Cable covers
Instructions
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1
Unplug your computer. Remove the cover. Examine the case for spaces where a new light can be installed without interfering with the motherboard and other devices. Plan for the closing of the case cover. If the light comes with a manual on/off switch, plan where you will safely mount this switch on the outside of the case.
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2
Determine how any interior light will be experienced once the case is closed. If you have a computer case without openings, you can cut openings into your case using a rotary cutting tool. Perform this surgery only on case covers and bezels that can be completely removed from the computer. Determine how you will cover any new openings with a sturdy material like transparent acrylic.
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3
Connect the new light to a free "molly" or power connector head. If you don't have any free mollies use a molly adapter or extender to create additional connector heads. Don't use the molly attached to your hard drive to create an extension: use a molly attached to a "lesser" device, like a CD drive.
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Test the new light. If there is a switch on the light, turn it off. Unplug your hard drive power connector to protect it from accidental harm during testing. Turn on your computer. Turn on the power switch to the light after a few seconds. If the power supply pops or resets, or the new light won't illuminate, turn off the computer. Troubleshoot until the new light will successfully come on when the computer is started. Turn off the machine and reconnect the hard drive. Reboot. Turn on the light after Windows boots. Troubleshoot if necessary.
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5
Turn off the computer. Make whatever modifications desired to create new openings or windows in your case.
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Attach the light fixture to the case chassis. Many light fixtures come with a mounting bracket to attach the fixture. If not, create a means to mount the fixture: you may have to create new screw holes with a drill. Velcro or plastic cable straps will often work too. The light fixture must not rattle around loose inside the computer.
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Tie up any stray cables with a plastic cable strap or "cable covers" and close up the case. Turn off the light switch. Restore the case covers and any bezels. Turn on your computer. Turn on the light switch. Troubleshoot if necessary.
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Tips & Warnings
If you've never used a rotary tool before, practice on scrap material before cutting into your case.
Cases lights employ lamps that don't emit heat. Do not use lights not manufactured specifically for use inside a computer! Be cautious working around the motherboard and with electrical wiring in general.
