Steam Machine Dot Matrix Face Plate From JSOX Takes Shape

Steam Machine's removable front face plate gives users room to customize the system beyond its standard design. Custom 3D-printed and replacement faceplates are already available, and Valve has also shown an e-ink display concept that adds system information to the front of the machine. JSOX is now developing purchasable versions of these display-based face plates.

JSOX, an accessory maker for Steam hardware, has announced progress on its dot-matrix faceplate for the Steam Machine. The company is also working on an e-ink variant. Both designs build on Valve's earlier concept of putting a display on the front of the Steam Machine. The Steam Machine faceplate is removable and switchable, allowing custom designs.

JSOX Develops Custom Steam Machine Face Plates

Custom face plates can also be 3D printed or purchased. Valve's own trailers showed an e-ink display on the front of the Steam Machine that could display CPU and GPU temperatures, fan speeds, and BIOS information. Custom wallpapers and other content could also be used.

JSOX decided to create its own versions for users who wanted a more user-friendly option they could purchase outright. The company is developing two variants: an e-ink version and a dot-matrix version. JSOX is also asking users what they would want the dot-matrix display to show on their Steam Machine.

Suggestions include game-themed animations, system status information, pixel art, a clock, and other content. The JSOX Discord page lets users share ideas for the types of applications and information that could appear on the front of the Steam Machine. An e-ink display alone would add another way to customize the system, while the dot matrix could support additional content.

Integrating the front display into the Steam Machine's gaming experience.

A disc reader would bring back some of the hardware designs associated with older computers and portable CD players. A transparent section could even make the spinning disc visible, although that design would increase complexity and cost.

The dot matrix could display game animations, pixel art, or other content rather than being limited to hardware information. JSOX is accepting email registrations via its official Steam Machine page for users interested in the e-ink or dot-matrix face plates. The company is moving forward with both designs rather than leaving them as prototypes.

The fact that the displays are being developed in the same general form factor as the standard plastic face plate is also important. The face plate needs to fit within the Steam Machine's existing structure without extending beyond the front or bottom section. That engineering behind these replacement panels is part of the appeal.