Unfortunately, the average laptop is practically disposable. Components are glued or heat-sealed, memory is soldered to the motherboard, expansion options are virtually nonexistent, and manufacturers refuse to sell spare parts. There is, however, an exception to these rules — Framework. This company builds laptops with a high degree of modularity, and its platform is so flexible that many users are repurposing their old motherboards into desktop systems or even into a FrameTablet, just like “whatthefilament” did on Instructables.
The message is clear: Smartphone, tablet, and laptop manufacturers don't want you to repair your devices. From missing spare parts and technical documentation to firmware locks and encrypted component links, the obstacles pile up quickly. Fortunately, many people out there fighting back, and there is also the occasional company that tries to do things differently.
One such company is Framework, and if you visit its official website, you'll find complete laptops, motherboards, expansion modules, memory, screens, antennas, flexible cables, and even hinges to repair their equipment. The entry point is a bit higher than usual, but some users didn't think twice, and Framework also encourages the reuse of components after they've been upgraded. With that in mind, we arrive at the Instructables portal, where user “whatthefilament” created the FrameTablet, based on a Framework motherboard with an Intel chip.
FrameTablet: A DIY Tablet from Laptop Parts
We must admit: this project is quite complex because of the number of parts it requires. Besides printing the six sections of the main case, you'll need 25 M3 screws of various lengths, the same number of metal inserts (which must be installed using the controlled heat of a soldering iron), a 12.3-inch portable display or monitor, and a USB-C cable that supports both data and power.
The rest is simply a matter of following the steps, each accompanied by an image. The WiFi antenna requires a bit of extra attention, but it's not too complicated. The expansion modules fit perfectly into the printed case and can be easily removed at any time. The screen mount has a wide range of adjustment, so nothing prevents you from using smaller screens and printing a thicker frame.
The final result is much cleaner than expected. There's no soldering needed (heat is only used for the inserts at the beginning), and you don't have to juggle with the battery, which is the original one from the laptop. The exact instructions and 3D printing files are in the links below.
FrameTablet on Instructables: Click here
Project on GitHub: Click here
