Videosphere Computer Mod: Transforming a Vintage JVC TV into a Retro PC Build

I’m excited to share my latest videosphere computer mod project! I’ve been planning this retro tech transformation for a while now, having collected most of the parts but lacking motivation. By documenting this journey, I hope to stay committed to completing this unique build.

The Videosphere Computer Mod Concept

This project involves transforming a vintage JVC Videosphere television into a fully functional modern computer. The iconic spherical design of these 1970s TVs makes them perfect candidates for a retro-futuristic PC build. I’m calling my creation the “Computersphere” – blending vintage aesthetics with modern computing power.

Project Outline: Two-Phase Videosphere Computer Mod

The videosphere computer mod will progress through two distinct phases:

Phase 1: Restoration	Phase 2: Computer Integration
• Clean and buff plastic exterior • Replace B&W TV with 8.4″ color display • Preserve and restore original knobs/switches • Create custom circuitry to convert analog controls to digital	• Install VIA EPIA M motherboard • Mount DVD-ROM drive in the base • Add red neon lighting in base and top • Utilize existing ventilation holes for cooling

Original JVC Videosphere - a spherical television set from the 1970s designed to resemble a space helmet, with a distinctive round screen and base stand. — The classic JVC Videosphere design that inspired this computer mod project

Beginning the Videosphere Computer Mod

I’ve already started the disassembly process – perhaps a bit too eagerly as I dismantled it before taking “before” photos! Below are images of my videosphere in its current state.

Exterior Views of the Videosphere Case

Front view of the disassembled JVC Videosphere showing the empty spherical shell with the screen opening. — Front view of the Videosphere shell

Rear view of the Videosphere shell showing connection ports and ventilation holes. — Rear view showing existing ports and ventilation

Top-down view of the Videosphere showing the circular shape and control panel area. — Top view of the Videosphere shell

Interior Components and Spaces

The gutted interior provides plenty of space for modern components. I’ve preserved all the original parts except for the CRT tube, which will be replaced with a modern display.

Interior view of the back half of the Videosphere showing mounting points and internal structure. — Inside the back half – plenty of space for components

View of where the top of the CRT tube was positioned, showing mounting brackets. — Former CRT tube mounting area – will house new display

Front screen opening where the CRT tube face was positioned. — Front screen opening – perfect for the new LCD display

The base/stand component of the Videosphere that supports the spherical TV unit. — Base/stand component – will house DVD drive and additional hardware

Next Steps in the Videosphere Computer Mod

The interior is quite dirty and requires thorough cleaning. My immediate next steps include:

Sanding down any deep scratches in the plastic shell
Buffing the exterior to restore its original shine
Cleaning the interior thoroughly
Measuring for the new display and component placement

This videosphere computer mod represents the perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern technology – preserving a piece of design history while giving it new life as a functional computer.

For more information about vintage technology restoration and similar computer mod projects, check out resources like RetroComputing.org and Hackaday’s Retrotechtacular section.

/* Future component list for Videosphere Computer Mod */
- VIA EPIA M motherboard
- 8.4" LCD display
- Slim DVD-ROM drive
- Red neon lighting
- Custom control interface board
- Mini power supply
- SSD storage

Stay tuned for more updates as this videosphere computer mod progresses! I’ll be documenting each step of the restoration and modification process.