modernized 1984 apple macintosh with 3D printed case runs the macOS using raspberry pi

Larger display for the modernized 1984 apple macintosh

Quinn Nelson, known as Snazzy Labs, modernizes the 1984 Apple Macintosh on his own using a 3D printed case and a Raspberry Pi that runs the MacOS. A DIY unit that users can build, the device faithfully follows the Mac design. It uses a Raspberry Pi 3B+ computer inside the 3D printed case, with the latter housing the 10.5-inch display with a 3:2 aspect ratio. It matches the original Macintosh screen shape but with more screen space.

The main body of the modernized 1984 Apple Macintosh prints horizontally on a 3D printer bed, since the case measures larger than most printer build areas. The creator used an H2D printer for the full-size construction, slightly tapering the case walls to match the computer’s shape. The display connects through a mini HDMI to a full-size HDMI adapter cable, and a 180-degree adapter bends the cable to fit inside the case. The display receives power from a USB-C cable, with the display mounting on a cantilever system instead of filling the entire internal space.

Buildable computer that runs macOS using raspberry pi

In a Youtube video, the creator Snazzy Labs documents the making of the modernized 1984 Apple Macintosh. He even prints the rainbow-styled Apple logo from that year, ironing its surface using the printer to add some finishing to it. Specs-wise, the Raspberry Pi 3B+ mounts on a custom tray inside the 3D printed case, and the tray prints with a dual-nozzle setup using PLA plastic for structure and TPU rubber for cushioning. The tray includes cutouts for USB ports and Ethernet connection. The system runs the System 7 operating system through Basilisk II emulator software, which recreates the original Macintosh user interface and functions. 

Then, the Pi processes the emulation and outputs to the display. Original Apple peripherals connect through adapter cables, allowing the use of vintage keyboards and mice with the modern Pi computer. Even the filament colors match the original Macintosh beige color scheme. Snazzy Labs has uploaded the files for all 3D printed components for those who want to produce and print their own modernized 1984 Apple Macintosh, including the main case body, Pi mounting tray, and Apple logo sections.

project info:

name: Modern Mac – a Raspberry Pi 1984 Macintosh Homage

channel: Snazzy Labs | @snazzyq

files: here