The Glowing Logo Laptop Mod: Windows, Apples, and Penguins, Oh My!
- Peeling Back the Mac
- Adding More Logos
- Filling in the Holes
- Applying Some Color
- The Results
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When a Mac user walks into a room and opens a laptop, you can’t help but admire the machine. The sleek design and glowing apple icon all but scream, "I AM AN OS X USER!" However, given the latest move by Apple to the Intel chip and the subsequent release of Boot Camp, a Mac could be loaded with Windows and/or Linux. Ironically, although the Mac is becoming more versatile, with regard to the software it can run, the body of the Mac is still tied directly to Apple.
Personally, I am a user of all operating systems—the current selection depends on the function at hand. Right now I am using Windows, but when I need to do some troubleshooting or software testing, I will jump to Linux. When on the road I prefer OS X because it is a great entertainment operating system, it is simple to use, and it still has the tools I need to get connected and keep in touch.
The point is this: I shouldn’t be forced to have only one logo on my computer. So, like all curious tinkers, I considered the idea of adding a couple more logos to the back of my Mac—and this article is the result.
Peeling Back the Mac
This walkthrough applies to my iBook. However, because the general design of laptop LCDs are similar, you should be able to adjust the instructions as needed to perform your own lid modification.
Removing the back side of the LCD screen is fairly simple. You simply locate four hex screws holding the plastic cover on, remove them, and then carefully disconnect the cover from the body of the LCD lid. The lid is connected rather firmly via plastic catches. It is easiest to pry one side off using a small screwdriver and then just lift the lid out and away from the laptop.
Once the top is off, the next step is to remove the tin metal shield that separates the back of the LCD from the plastic lid. To do this, you need to remove several screws that hold this piece in place. All but one of the screws are horizontal (if the LCD is shut) and are hidden under a wire that travels around the LCD screen. The final screw, which is located on the bottom of the LCD lid, keeps a grounding strip in place. Once the screws are removed, pry the top left or right edge of the tin protector back up; then slowly work the delicate tin case up off the LCD. Be careful with this piece as it bends easily. You will want to be able to put the piece back onto the Mac when done, and any damage to the lid will make this difficult.
Now set aside the Mac and focus on the plastic lid.