Raspberry Pi Runs RetroPie Inside an Old iMac

(Image credit: nx_2112)

When most of our readers think about pie, it's probably Raspberry Pi or RetroPie. This maker, known as nx_2112, had ApplePie on the mind and decided to make it a reality! This project features a full RetroPie setup housed inside of an old iMac machine.

Don't worry, no working iMacs were sacrificed for this build. Nx_2112 managed to buy this broken model for just $60 USD. When adding additional hardware costs, the whole project ran a total of around $350.

ApplePie

(Image credit: nx_2112)

 

The ApplePie project is designed to use the original screen and to connect it to the Raspberry Pi 4, he found a compatible controller on Amazon that enables it to connect using HDMI. There is a 30 pin connector on the back of the screen that connects to the controller.

Nx_2112 also chose to use the original speakers but needed to supplement power with a 3W amplifier board due to the low audio output of the Raspberry Pi 4. There was also a need for a couple of 12V to 5V converters to make the amp and Raspberry Pi 4 board operate.

ApplePie

(Image credit: nx_2112)

The project is topped off with a custom splash screen on RetroPie featuring custom artwork for the ApplePie project. If you want to explore this project, take a look at the full post shared on Reddit earlier this week.

Ash Hill
Contributing Writer

Ash Hill is a contributing writer for Tom's Hardware with a wealth of experience in the hobby electronics, 3D printing and PCs. She manages the Pi projects of the month and much of our daily Raspberry Pi reporting while also finding the best coupons and deals on all tech.