Created by Datamancer, the mod in question is based around a Hewlett-Packard ZT1000 laptop that dual boots Windows XP and Ubuntu Linux. Extra features include claw feet and leather wrist pads, as well as a customised wireless network card which also functions as a quill holder.

The most impressive features though are the screen and the power switch. The back of the screen is filled cogs which are protected by a glass screen, giving the whole machine an impressive and utterly awe-inspiring look when it’s closed. Datamancer himself describes the overall look as being similar to a “Victorian music box“.

Best of all though is how the machine is turned on – with a rusty old clock winding key. The key then drives a custom made racketing system which was made from pieces of old clocks. The system itself is thankfully quite modern inside though, so there’s no need to keep winding it once the machine is booted up.

Violin-style sound holes disguise cloth-covered speaker grilles and access to the original power switches is provided should a hard reboot be needed – those Victorian laptops aren’t well known for their reliability after all.

For all of you who are maybe wanting to create something similar, Datamancer has posted a how-to guide for crafting the brass faceplate. It seems like everything else is a trade secret.

via: Bit-tech.