Blueprint

LinuxWood: Reviving an Old Laptop into a Modern Workstation

I’m transforming an old, broken laptop into a modern, flexible workstation powered by Xubuntu Linux. The goal is to recycle its components — screen, motherboard, and storage — into a new, slim all-in-one body that’s both functional and beautiful. I’ll design a custom CAD enclosure to hold the screen and motherboard together, upgrade the HDD to SSD, and create a flexible stand so the setup can act as a portable second monitor or main Linux workstation. It will connect to a wireless keyboard and mouse, giving it a clean, cable-free setup perfect for my workbench or desk. This project is all about upcycling old tech, learning CAD and hardware design, and building something practical and sustainable.

Created by RoboHub RoboHub

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Timeline

CAN CAN ⚡🚀 approved LinuxWood: Reviving an Old Laptop into a Modern Workstation ago

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Tier: 2

RoboHub RoboHub submitted LinuxWood: Reviving an Old Laptop into a Modern Workstation for review ago

RoboHub RoboHub added to the journal ago

Building the V3 Model and Final Fixes

After finishing the 3D model of V2 in the last devpost, I finally had time after my exams to go to the fablab and laser cut the pieces.
I assembled the V2 model, but during the process I faced several problems with alignment and fitting, and I even broke some parts.
These issues helped me understand what needed to be improved, so I decided to rebuild everything from zero and create V3.

For V3, I redesigned the CAD model with better measurements and stronger connections, then did another laser cut and assembly.
This version turned out almost perfect, with all the components fitting correctly and a more stable structure.

I also fixed a long-time problem with the charging port. It used to be unstable, so I removed the jack connectors and soldered the charger directly to the motherboard for a strong and reliable connection.

Now the project is almost complete and fully functional. The only thing left is to add the final support stand to finish the workstation.1
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RoboHub RoboHub added to the journal ago

Improved CAD Model and New Screen Holder

Today I focused on improving the CAD model after learning a lot from the first prototype.
I found several design issues during assembly, so I fixed them and added new features, including a custom screen holder for better stability and alignment.

I couldn’t go to the fablab this time because of my busy high school schedule, so I haven’t laser cut or assembled the new version yet.
Still, the CAD work is progressing well, and the next prototype should be more precise and easier to build.{226F43C5-9046-47A3-8302-0E2EF6F4A202}.png
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RoboHub RoboHub added to the journal ago

First Prototype and Laser Cut Assembly

I designed the 3D CAD model of the new laptop body in Fusion 360 and brought it to life at the fablab using 5 mm MDF on the laser cutter.
After cutting all the parts, I assembled the monitor and motherboard inside — the first prototype worked great for understanding dimensions and structure!

I also customized Xubuntu by installing a new theme and backgrounds, making the setup look more modern.
Finally, I uploaded the DXF files to GitHub so anyone can download, modify, or build their own version.

This was a big step toward making LinuxWood a real, working workstation!
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RoboHub RoboHub added to the journal ago

Day 1 — Giving New Life to the Laptop

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V1.mp4

Today I started the LinuxWood project by disassembling the old laptop, cleaning every component carefully, and replacing the HDD with an SSD.

Then I created a bootable Xubuntu USB using BalenaEtcher and installed the system successfully.
It’s my first time installing Linux, and seeing Xubuntu run smoothly on old hardware felt amazing!

Now the laptop is ready for the next steps — designing the new body and planning the flexible stand.

RoboHub RoboHub started LinuxWood: Reviving an Old Laptop into a Modern Workstation ago