Over the weekend, I undertook a fun DIY project that combined my love for technology and sustainability. I stumbled upon a discarded Lenovo 500E Chromebook, which, despite its physical flaws like a busted screen and missing keys, still had some life left in it. The device boasted a passively cooled Intel Celeron N3450 processor, 4GB of RAM, and a 32GB eMMC storage, making it a perfect candidate for a modest Home Assistant (HA) server.The first step was to breathe new life into this old device. I installed a proper BIOS, which allowed me to set up HAOS as a generic x86-64 installation. Following the guidelines from MrChromebox.tech, I ensured the Chromebook was fully optimized for this new purpose. The next challenge was giving this project a polished look, so I decided to 3D print a custom enclosure.The enclosure design was a labor of love, requiring several iterations and tweaks to fit perfectly. I used SketchUp to draft the design, ensuring it was compatible with my Bambu A1 Mini printer. The final design consisted of two main parts, along with additional components like IO plates, spacers, and clips to hold everything in place. I also added a small HA logo to the top cover, a nice touch that adds a personal flair to the project.Assembly was a meticulous process. I carefully routed the Wi-Fi antennas and secured them in place using double-sided tape. The motherboard and battery were mounted using screws salvaged from an old iMac, ensuring a snug fit. The final touch was attaching the HA logo, which gave the project a professional finish.One of the most satisfying aspects of this build was integrating the Chromebook’s battery, providing a built-in UPS solution. This means the HA server can continue running even if the power goes out, a crucial feature for a reliable home automation setup.This project was a great way to repurpose old technology, reduce e-waste, and create a functional piece of hardware that enhances my smart home ecosystem. I’m proud of how it turned out and look forward to sharing more DIY projects in the future!