Hulo, I want to set up two CCFL kits outside my computer case, probably behind my LCD or on the desk(depending on how it goes) with a Sunbeam Sound Module.

Since I prefer closing my ATX casing, is there any way for me to have both(the Lighting and Sound Module) outside the casing?
Since if I can put the sound module near my speakers, it'll increase the sensitivity and I don't have to turn the volume up since when the sound module is in my case the reaction to sound isn't as good.

I understand that there are several IDE/SATA to USB converters that have AC/DC to Molex 4-pin, but does it work if we want to connect it to CCFLs and also the sound module?

Hopefully all the sifu here can give me ideas.

cheers

maybe u can use this:


this 1 is included with gigabyte's mobo

I think just wire 1 of the molew to the outside, then i should be the same as using it inside the case.

Hmm that is for External SATA right? I also contemplated on using that...but I dun know where u can get that thing 2nd hand lol....

@zzzz52
Yeah, I understand, thats also one of the possible solution, removing the PCI plate/cover thingy and routing the wires outside the case. Or just drill a hole thru my casing sidepanel for the molex wire to go through it.

But is there any way we can get it to work without it depending on the PC's PSU? like how the external 3.5inch Hard drives work.

CCFL->Inverter->Sound Module-> Molex->AC Adapter??

hey where can i buy that without buying a gigabyte mobo...

try looking in garage sales

u can DIY the cable urself, by the way, wat brand of CCFL u bought?

agreed, you can buy those cheap fan, then cut thier cable only, and use thier socket to extend it to outside... this is what i have done

yupe..its kinda easy, u just have to make sure the connection is correct no need complex tool to do it, just gunting and black tape is enough d..haha

u can get this at LYP...i think the price is around 15-30...if im not mistaken

thx for the response all.

Btw, by DIYing the fan cable do u mean to extend the wires outside the case?
So the power is still reliant on the PSU then?
But I'm interested in DIY stuff, can u explain in more detail?

But my question is can u use the CCFL and not rely on the PC's power but rather use a Molex->AC Adapter? example, via using those Molex-> AC adapter cables found in SATA/IDE to USB Converters.

This post has been edited by Zakov: May 13 2009, 10:58 AM

It works, I sometimes use a AC>Molex adaptor with a CCFL for a portable worklight. However, depending on the AC>molex adaptor you may need to swap the ground pins, often the adaptor's output is only to one of the 2 ground pins (like mine). The CCFL normally only uses one of the two molex grounds (black cable), and if the adaptor only outputs to one of the two, you may need to check if it connects, otherwise swapping pins is necessary.

Ahh just the answer I was looking for. Because I tried doing it with an IDE to USB cable molex connector, and it probably connected to the unused molex ground pins, because it seemed like there was no power going thru the cables.
cheers bro

This post has been edited by Zakov: May 15 2009, 06:59 PM

u can just attach the molex pins and atach it with a long wire. DIY. easy easy job, need more info PM me.

alright thanks bro.

Here's how I spend 25 minutes ago making the below.

Basically nowadays illuminating keyboards are convenient to use under dark environment. However price for each KB doesn't come cheap. Moreover, mobility is an issue as i love to work around wireless. Esp watching my favourite shows from far apart. Thus, an intuitive approach is needed to ensure I get a good vision of my KB during total darkness sitting near to my computer desk.

As I fiddle through my years of computer junk. I've found a pair of CM White CCFL and Sunbeam UV CCFL. UV's are great to bring the white contrast out of the KB wording, But White CCFLs are proven to be reliable other than lighting up the KB.Hence, my pick was on the white CCFL. Grabbed and old 6 years old psu to power the whole light. Basically the 24pin have been short circuit.



A quick look on my KB and its drawer. Its hard to find the key when its totally dark.



Bought some adhesive from our local store.



Place the PSU on the bottom of the computer's shelf rack. Just nice and partially hidden from view.



Sticking the CCFL module on the KB drawer. Wires to both CCFL weren't long enough thus, this was the best location to place it.



Sticking on top of the drawer. This CCFL will light up the Keyboard during dark hours.



Another at the bottom conveniently allowing me to take stuffs and browse along items stored on the shelfs.



Switch placed at the most accessible area.



Final Look on my KB under pitch black darkness. Ample light eh?



Overall look. satisfying Cheap and good.


Basically I've only used the doublesided tapes only. The elephant glue comes handy in the event the tape looses its adhesiveness. So far its still glued to the wood. Nice, cheap and satisfying.

wow nice i was planning to do that but it would make it messy all the cables and stuff

Just tidy up some minor cabling. Its not that messy actually. My PSU serve as a power station to a DVD burner too. Its connected via USB to my PC. Instead of relying on the lousy adapter to Molex converter ( I have nightmare where 1 unit busted the house fuse), Using a PSU is much feasible and stable.

nice mod,but the light seem cant cover whole the keyboard.

It can be done with some adjustment but glare is an issue. It might not look bright but in pitch darkness its visible, just minus the wow factor compared to an EL KB. Besides, my KB is wireless, I wouldn't want it sitting on the drawer all the time. Idea is cheap so don't expect a cheap idea can flourish a rewarding return