We are transforming an old LCD monitor into a private monitoring device.9 photos

You can finally do something with that old LCD monitor that’s sitting unused in your garage. Turn it into a spy monitoring device! To everyone around you, it will just look like a blank white screen, but not to you—because you’ll be wearing special “magic” glasses.

All you need is:

- of course, an LCD monitor;

- disposable 3D glasses from the cinema (old sunglasses will work too);

- a solvent or similar substance;

a paper knife;

a screwdriver;

paper towels;

superglue.

1. Remove the plastic frame by unscrewing all the screws on the back.

2. Most LCD monitors have a double-layer coating on their screens: one polarizing film to filter out light you don’t need to see, and another matte anti-reflection layer. We don’t need the anti-reflection layer, but we can use the polarizing film in our glasses.

Now’s the time to use the paper knife to carefully cut off the polarizing film along the edge of the screen. Don’t worry about pressing too hard—the metal on the knife won’t scratch the glass, as long as there’s no dirt or debris on it.

Tip: Not all monitors have this double-layer coating. On some models, the films are just placed on top of each other, so you can remove them without cutting.

Then carefully peel off the remaining film from the screen.

Be sure to save the polarizing film and remember its orientation.

3. After removing the film, there might still be some glue left on the screen. Use a solvent and paper towels to clean it up.

You can also soak a piece of cloth in the solvent and use it to wipe the screen.

4. Once all the glue is gone, you can start assembling the monitor. You can even test it out before making the glasses by using the remaining polarizing film.

5. If possible, remove the lenses from the glasses. Using the same paper knife, cut out replacement lenses from the polarizing film. Then assemble the glasses and get ready to have some fun!

People might think you’re crazy watching a blank screen through those sunglasses...