Building My Own Laptop

Published on June 12, 2024

By B.E. Alejandro

Project Overview

This project aims to replicate the anyon_e laptop, an open-source design created by Byran Huang.

It is a modular laptop, highly integrated and fully customizable, with a strong focus on repairability, hardware control, and self-learning about modern components.

Documentation & Resources

GitHub Repository: github.com/Hello9999901/laptop
Creator’s Website: byran.ee/posts/creation
Explainer Video: YouTube – How I Made A Laptop From Scratch

Required Components

1. SoC Module (RK3588)

Specification	Details
Model	CM3588
Description	The laptop’s brain, runs the full OS
Vendors	FriendlyElec, eBay (Search)
Price	$300 USD

2. AMOLED Display 13.3“

Suggested Model	Wisecoco 2880x1920 AMOLED
Vendor	Amazon
Price	$120–150 USD

3. Auxiliary Microcontroller (ESP32-S3)

Function	Peripheral, fan, and sensor control
Vendor	Amazon Mexico
Price	$10–20 USD

4. Mechanical Keyboard

Type	Hot-swappable, custom design
Vendors	Keychron, Amazon, AliExpress
Price	$80–150 USD

5. Trackpad

Recommended	Apple Magic Trackpad 2 (Bluetooth)
Vendors	Apple Mexico, eBay
Price	$90–130 USD

6. Battery

Model	Dell F3YGT (60Wh Li-Po)
Vendor	MercadoLibre (Search)
Note	Requires BMS module
Price	$50–80 USD

7. Custom Motherboard

Files	Available on GitHub
Fabrication	PCBWay, JLCPCB
Design	KiCad
Price	$50–100 USD

8. Cooling System

Components	Heatsink, heatpipes, fan
Vendors	Amazon, AliExpress
Price	$20–40 USD

9. Chassis

Material	Anodized aluminum (ideal), 3D printing (prototype)
CNC Fab	PCBWay CNC
Price	$150–300 USD (CNC), $20–50 USD (3D)

Extra Parts & Accessories

Component	Vendor	Price
M2/M3 Screws	Amazon, hardware stores	$5–10 USD
Flex cables (eDP/USB)	AliExpress	$15–30 USD
BMS Module	Amazon, AliExpress	$10–20 USD
USB/HDMI Connectors	Amazon, local shops	$10–15 USD
GPIO pins, dupont cables	SparkFun, AliExpress	$5–10 USD

Required Tools

Precision soldering iron
Digital multimeter
Screwdriver set
3D printer (optional)
CNC access (recommended)
Skills:
- Basic electronics
- CAD design
- Soldering
- Linux

Implementation Plan

Phase 1: Design

Review original schematics
Adapt design to local components
Bill of Materials and vendors

Phase 2: Acquisition

Buy SoC, display, and battery
Order PCB fabrication
Acquire tools

Phase 3: Prototyping

3D print prototype model
Assemble electronics
Run functionality tests

Phase 4: Final Assembly

CNC manufacture chassis
Assemble final version
Install operating system

Project To-Do

PCB adjustments
CNC chassis quotation
OS preparation for RK3588
ESP32-S3 compatibility tests

This project will serve as a personal challenge to deepen my knowledge in hardware and electronic design and to build a 100% personalized laptop.

Estimated Budget

Category	Cost
Main components	$700–830 USD
Accessories & parts	$45–85 USD
PCB	$50–100 USD
Chassis	$150–300 USD
TOTAL	$945–1,315 USD