How to Make Your Own LCD Picture Frame
LCD picture frames are small screens that display a picture slideshow stored on an external memory card. This makes it possible to display hundreds of pictures with a single picture frame. Ready-to-use LCD picture frames are often limited by their size and resolution capabilities. To solve this problem, some people convert computers and LCD video monitors for the task. Modern LCD TVs often come with built-in card readers and DVD players. This makes the conversion process much easier. It also creates a completely portable LCD picture frame that only requires a power outlet to work. This type of project can be completed in a single afternoon.
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- Router or mill
- Tape measure
- 15.4-inch LCD TV with memory card reader
- 9 inches by 12 inches picture frame
- 4 L-brackets
- 8 wood screws
- Memory foam
- Hot glue gun
- SD memory card
Instructions
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1
Remove the LCD screen and interior components from the TV housing. Most models use screws or adhesives to hold the back of the TV case to the front. Unscrew the frame or gently pry the front frame off without damaging the LCD screen. Most instruction manuals explain how to remove the frame for troubleshooting purposes. Lift the LCD and the internal components out of the housing. The remote control IR receiver will hang free on most units.
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2
Remove the picture frame glass and discard it. Use a router or a mill to expand the interior of the picture frame. The LCD must sit flush with the outer edge of the frame to look proper. The inset portion of the frame is slightly too narrow to allow this and must be expanded. Use a tape measure to calculate how much needs to be removed from each side of the frame.
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3
Fit the LCD screen and components into the frame. Position two L-brackets evenly spaced from either edge along the bottom side of the frame. Repeat this process with two more brackets on top. Place memory foam between the brackets and the LCD components to avoid damaging them. Use wood screws to fasten the brackets in place.
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4
Attach the remote control IR receiver to a convenient spot. The exact positioning of the receiver depends on how you plan to display the LCD picture frame. Attach the receiver to part of the wooden frame or hard plastic area of the component housing with hot glue. Position the receiver so that it is exposed enough for a direct line of sight with the remote control. For example, if the LCD picture frame is displayed near a corner, the receiver must be placed on the opposite side or underneath the unit for easy access.
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5
Insert an SD memory card with pictures from your camera or computer into the memory card reader. The memory card is where the pictures are stored. The amount of pictures you can store on a single card is determined by the size of the card. For example, a 1 gigabyte card can store approximately 570 photos from a 5 megapixel camera. Most models have enough clearance to insert and remove component cables and memory cards without the need to remove the LCD from the frame. Plug in the LCD picture frame and turn it on. Use the remote control to select the slideshow settings for the images on the SD card. Consult the instruction manual for model specific directions.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a standard TV wall mount to hang the unit or set the unit on a fireplace mantel for display purposes.
