The Callisto 2 Is a 3D-Printable Computer with a Hilarious Backstory
The Callisto 2 is a new 3D-printable computer that continues the ongoing saga of Solar Hardware Computers.
In the cyberdeck community, hardware is only half of the fun. When someone builds a custom computer, they also get the opportunity to invent a fictional backstory for their design. Often, those backstories lean towards the dystopic as a nod towards the cyberpunk origins of the community. Pigeonaut, AKA LowBudgetTech, AKA Solar Hardware Computers, AKA Kevin, has quite the imagination and has developed a hilarious history for their computers, which include the previously-released Callisto J-29 and Europa 3D-printable computers. Now they're back with a new 3D-printable computer, the Callisto 2, and it continues the ongoing saga of Solar Hardware Computers.
The year is 2021 and Solar Hardware Computers has finally decided to join in on the excitement offered by the World Wide Web. To announce their online presence, they have built a modern, cutting-edge website to showcase their products. The newest of those is, of course, the highly-anticipated Callisto 2, which is the follow-up to the disaster that was the Europa. Don't worry, Solar Hardware Computers has fired the employee responsible for the Europa and the Callisto 2 is a fresh new start. The Future of Tomorrow Is Back!
Even without the satirical backstory, the Callisto 2 is very cool. It is a fully 3D-printable case for single-board computers (SBCs). The example build uses Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, but most other SBCs should work, too. The screen is a Pimoroni 8" IPS LCD screen with a 1024x768 resolution. You have a couple of different mechanical keyboard options, both of which are 60 percent models that slide right into the case. The aesthetic is clearly inspired by a handful of vintage computer and terminals, which leaves plenty of space inside the case for components.
That case is 3D-printed in several pieces, which are small enough to fit in the relatively compact print volume of the Prusa Mini 3D printer. Approximately 1.5kg of filament is needed to print all of the pieces. Interesting, assembly doesn't require any screws or even glue. Special 3D-printed pegs, similar to woodworking dowels, hold the pieces firmly together. This build is perfect for people who want a modern SBC in a cool retro-style case. Just keep in mind that the Callisto 2 does not come with an internal floppy drive. Why? One word: courage.