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Making Your Computer Unique: An Introduction to Computer Modding
Joshua Driggs
What Is Modding?
Modding is the act of modifying the way your computer performs, looks, or functions. A mod, or modification, can be as simple as applying some paint or as complex as building-from-scratch the screamingly fast PC of your dreams.
The History of Modding
As multiplayer gaming caught on, gamers packed up their computers and headed to local area network (LAN) parties, where they linked them together in head-to-head competition. At first, some tweaked their PCs’ innards to gain a performance advantage – but soon, they started to tweak them graphically too, hoping to own the best-looking machine around. In no time, the science and art of modding became a competition in its own right.
Growing Competition
While modding remains a sideline or occasional hobby for most, others took it to new creative heights—for them it is an all-consuming attempt to build the highest spec, most eye-catching machines imaginable. Some even turned professional, working as half artists, half technicians who have built a sophisticated network of competitions and magazines, and build custom projects for others.
Types of Mods
Pre-Mods
Pre-mods are “custom-style,” mass-manufactured replacements or additions that add function and looks to a computer. They include lighted fans, stickers, and pre-painted parts, and are great for new modders. Although cookie-cutter pre-mods are perhaps too easily available, you can use them judiciously and artistically to create a unique look.
Lighting
Lighting is a simple way to show off your computer and create a look that is all your own. The most commonly used lighting products are cold cathodes, LEDs, and electro-luminescent wires—when you use them in the right combination, your computer will stand out from the crowd.
Physical Mods
Changing your PC’s case to enhance its appearance is a physical mod. For example, you might install a window to show off upgraded parts, cut holes into the case for better cooling, or design and implement an original paint job.
Electronic Mods
An electronic mod is an enhancement to your computer’s function, and may be as simple as replacing a plain switch with a customized alternative or reconfiguring your PC’s memory, or as complex as designing, building, and installing a motorized case door.
Total Customization
For many modders, the cases available at local computer stores or online will never suffice, no matter how much they might light, cut, and repaint them. Some turn to non-standard cases such as military-equipment boxes and even antique luggage, both of which make portable, durable shells. Others design and build from scratch their own cases using wood, metal, acrylic, or fiberglass. The possibilities are limitless.
Themes
Why Use a Theme?
Sometimes, even the most experience modders lose control of their projects unless they take time to think up a guiding theme to keep their mods on track and on time. An effective theme fits a modder’s personality, hobbies, and tastes. For example, many choose to theme their PCs around a favorite game, movie, or rock group logo. A well-considered theme can make the difference between a competition-winning mod and an ineffective, garish, and incomplete mess.
Planning and Implementing your Themed Mod
The best project is always a well planned one – simple. An effectively modded PC has little to do with its complexity, and everything to do with the effort you put into planning it, and the efficiency and consistency with which execute your plan.
Once you choose a theme:
- Sketch it out on paper
- Research the necessary parts, materials, and tools
- Plan your project’s tasks and the order in which to implement them
- Firm up and stick to a budget
- Set a timetable.
That done, get to work! It’s time to create your unique dream machine.
Cautionary Statement
Activities and projects described herein may involve the use of tools and materials that may present health and safety hazards. These must be handled carefully and all tools and products should be used strictly according to manufacturers’ precautions and instructions for the safe use of the respective tool or product. The techniques described herein may result in the voiding of manufacturers’ warranties. The user assumes all risks associated with the techniques described in this article/guide. THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITH NO WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. AMD ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ERRORS CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE/GUIDE AND HAS NO LIABILITY OR OBLIGATION FOR ANY DAMAGES ARISING FROM OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THIS ARTICLE/GUIDE.
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