Children's Navi (Serial Experiments Lain)

"Present day, present time..."

A 1998 Retro Terminal for Your Modern Hardware

What happens when old-school cyberpunk design meets modern computing? It gets connected to the Wired.

Inspired by the contest prompt to build a "little funny computer that looks like from 1998," I recreated the iconic Children's Navi (Chibi Navi) from the 1998 cyberpunk anime Serial Experiments Lain.

This 3D-printable case brings that unmistakable late-90s aesthetic to your desk, transforming your hardware into a standalone retro terminal. Designed with modularity in mind, the Navi can be adapted to house a Raspberry Pi 4 or 5, a compact thin client, or a Framework Laptop 12 mainboard. Give your hardware a unique new home that looks like it came straight out of the Wired.

"No matter where you are, everyone is always connected."

Modular Design & Hardware Compatibility

The Navi is designed around a flexible internal layout, allowing the same retro-inspired enclosure to serve as a home for different generations and types of hardware.

• Multiple Hardware Configurations: Adapt the internal mounting system for a Raspberry Pi 4/5, a compatible thin client, or a Framework Laptop 12 mainboard using the appropriate mounting plate.

• Secure Mounting: Modular mounting plates allow each hardware configuration to be secured inside the chassis without compromising stability.

• Accessible Ports: The internal layout can be tailored to the selected board, keeping USB, networking, video, and power connections accessible wherever the hardware allows.

• Power Button Access: The design allows for an accessible front-facing control, with the option to adapt it to the power button or switch of your chosen hardware.

• Cooling & Ventilation: Integrated ventilation in the CRT-style rear panel helps maintain airflow. Ventilation and cooling requirements depend on the hardware installed.

"If you're not remembered, then you never existed."

Optimized for 3D Printing & Easy Assembly

Designed from the ground up for FDM printing, the Navi is divided into modular components that make printing, assembly, and customization straightforward.

• Print-Friendly Components: Individual parts can be printed in their optimal orientations to reduce support material and simplify printing.

• Modular Color Scheme: The red body, black panels, and yellow accents are printed separately, so you can recreate the classic anime-inspired color scheme without requiring an AMS or MMU.

• Simple Assembly: Structural components are designed to fit together, while decorative accents can be secured in their designated slots.

• Hardware-Specific Mounting: Swap or modify the internal mounting plate to accommodate different hardware, making future upgrades and conversions easier.

• Assembly Instructions: Step-by-step instructions can guide you through assembling the chassis and installing the relevant hardware, screen, and mounting components.

Hardware Requirements

The exact requirements depend on your chosen configuration.

• 1× Compatible computing platform:

  • Raspberry Pi 4 or Raspberry Pi 5

  • Compatible compact thin client

  • Framework Laptop 12 mainboard

• 1× Compatible 7-inch display

• M3 heat-set inserts and matching screws

• Appropriate mounting plate and hardware-specific cables

• Suitable power supply for your chosen computer and display

Note: Each platform has different dimensions, port locations, cooling requirements, and power needs. Some configurations may require a customized mounting plate, cable routing, or other internal modifications. Check compatibility before printing or assembling your build.

"People only have substance within the memories of other people."

To-Do / Future Updates

The modular nature of this design leaves plenty of room for future improvements and community-made modifications.

• Thin Client Compatibility: Adaptable mounting solutions for compact x86 systems, opening up possibilities for a more powerful standalone machine.

• Functional Toggle Switch: Replace the front yellow decorative toggle with a functional mechanical switch or power control.

• Speaker Modules: Replace the blank black side panels with customizable speaker modules tailored to your preferred drivers and electronics.

These are opportunities for further customization; individual mounting plates and modules may require separate design work.

"Let's all love Lain."

Join the Wired!

Whether you're building a tiny Raspberry Pi terminal, repurposing a thin client, or giving a Framework mainboard a second life, the Navi is a tribute to the strange and fascinating world of 90s cyberpunk computing.

If you like the combination of anime nostalgia, modular hardware, and 3D printing, leave a Like and share the project with fellow makers.

And if you build your own Navi, I'd love to see it. Upload your photos as a Make and show the world your own corner of the Wired.

Close the door. Boot the machine. Connect to the Wired.