eMac Mini Enclosure for M4 Mac mini

"eMac Mini" - a fully-functional “All-in-One” enclosure for M4 Mac mini

My latest Mac mini project has been a fully-functional all-in-one terminal that is a ~55-60% scale model of the Apple G4 eMac originally released in 2002. 

The case is custom-designed and printed in Bambu ABS-GF and clear PETG. The stand has working tilt and swivel. It is powered by an M4 Mac mini that sits underneath and is secured inside with the airflow to the vents unimpeded. All ports are accessible on the sides, just like the eMac.

The display is a 9.7" 2048x1536 IPS iPad panel w/ a VSDisplay HDMI control board. Use the app "BetterDisplay" to enable HiDPI 1024x768 UI @ 2x and other HiDPI scaling options.

The cover for the "CD slot” is attached with magnets and easily removable, hiding the buttons for the LCD panel's control menu.

The speakers are functional, powered with a little Class D amp. The whole kit feeds from one power cable only, all else is routed internally.

Materials

In addition to the Maker Supply parts listed below (heat-set inserts and fasteners), the following components were used in this build:

• 9.7" IPS LCD (2048x1536) - https://amzn.to/42nzTtM
• HDMI ribbon cable - https://amzn.to/4hwztFC
• Speakers - https://amzn.to/42rHCHa
• Class D Speaker Amp - https://amzn.to/40Y281b 
• C8 AC cable splitter (one side goes to to the 12V power supply, one to Mac mini) - https://amzn.to/4azR6ly
• 12V power supply for HDMI control board and speaker amp - https://amzn.to/3EaszHL
• 12V splitter - https://amzn.to/4h7LZvr

Printing Guidance

The provided print profile is for the small parts in the assembly and is fairly straightforward.

The larger parts (main case) are provided in a second 3MF file that must be separately downloaded (eMac Mini Large Components.3mf) due to incompatibility with Bambu Handy. Switch the green button above to “Download STL/CAD Files” to find it. This print profile has been modified to remove the “Safe Zone” for the filament cutter – you must follow these instructions and print the clip that secures the filament cutter out of the way.

Only very minimal custom supports are needed for these large parts – it prints fantastically well in ABS-GF otherwise without them.

Assembly Guidance

Insert all magnets and heat-set inserts.

The display secures in the recess inside the face and is held in with two printed tabs on the lower edge. The control board is secured to the main case underneath the CD slot cover. You may need to snap off the excess PCB at the perforation.

The M4 Mac mini is secured via the printed screw.

Route and connect all components – I can provide additional documentation if needed. Printed slots are provided inside the main case on the walls and ceiling that can be used with zip ties or velcro strips to secure the 12V power supply and excess cabling.

Background

Stephen Hackett of 512pixels.net gives a Complete History of the eMac here:

Related models for M4 Mac Mini:

• "Mac mini Pro" enclosure, (à la 2019+ Mac Pro)
• “Mac mini Pro Rack" modular system
• “Mac mini Trash Can” enclosure, (à la 2013-2019 Mac Pro)
• “Mac mini G5” enclosure, (à la 2003-2006 PowerMac G5 or 2006-2013 Mac Pro)
• "M4 Cube" enclosure, (à la PowerMac G4 Cube, modernized)
• "PowerMac G3 Mini" enclosure (Blue-and-white, Graphite, Quicksilver, and MDD PowerMacs G3)
• “Mac mini Pro Max” MagSafe and Apple Watch charging base
• Apple Icon Garden Bouquet for M4 Mac mini
• Nintendo NES enclosure
• Protective bumper case in TPU
• Mac App Icon and Logo “Hats”
• "Gridfinity Hats”
• 6-Color Rainbow Stage MagSafe Charger
• Santa Hat
• Gift Wrap: Ribbon and Bow

Related models for Mac Studio and M1-M2 Mac mini:

• “Mac Studio Pro” enclosure, (à la 2019+ Mac Pro)
• Gridfinity Hats"

Related models, other:

• “iPhone XDR” - for MagSafe and StandBy mode
• Mac Pro Desk Model - standalone 3D printable display model