Project: AMGPC

[Indybird]

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/amgpc2.jpg
Project AMGPC (Auxiliary Mobile Gaming PC) SFF

Alright, heres my first real mod (as in, my own computer). This will be my Small Form Factor LAN machine for when I'm
A) playing older games and
B) when I don't feel like taking my main system.
I started off with a mildly cool dell server case (as seen in my rediculous case problem thread (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14996)), but when I went to cut the side panel, my fine metal cutting blade tore it up real bad. I dunno what metal they used but that blade could not cut it clean for the world.

So I went and got a new case from my friend. He had a few old computers that he wasnt using, and I took all of them back home. For this mod I chose the case from an E-Machines etower 600is. There are two big problems with it:
First, the floppy bay is in the way of the RAM on the micro ATX board that Im using.
Second, the power supply mount isn't standard, and is very small.

Sadly I didnt take any pictures of the untouched case, but here are some from google:
http://www.beststuff.com/images/articles/111400g.jpg
http://www.computerpoweruser.com/images/smartcomputing/fullsize/00687113.jpg
http://www.computerpoweruser.com/images/smartcomputing/fullsize/00687114.jpg

So I gutted it and prepared it for my system:
-Intel Pentium 4 3.2GHz with Hyperthreading, Socket 775
-2GB (2 x 1GB) Corsair DDR2 800
-Abit SG-95 Socket 775 Motherboard
-(Currently) ATI X700
-Western Digital 250GB SATA HDD
-LG 16X IDE DVD-ROM
-Dell 350W PSU

I started modding without taking pictures, but took some after the initial modding was done. The pictures were on my friends digital camera, so I won't be able to post them until Thursday.

Anyway, here are my plans:
[X] Remove 3.5" mount to make room for new mobo
[X] Adjust PSU Mount to fit standard PSUs
[X] Cut holes for dual 80mm Blue LED fans in the back
[X] Cut holes for dual 120mm Blue LED fans in the front
[X] Cut top/side panel piece in two, forming a door (on the left) and case covering on the right and top.
[/] Cut and Mount side panel Window
[X] Make a hard drive mounting rack that mounts on the bottom of the case
[ ] Install Case handle and fabricate indent
[/] Make a new front panel that mounts over the fans.
[ ] Buy a new power button and mount it on the back
[ ] Fill in the e-machines "e" on the right side panel
[ ] Fill in USB Port attempts on front panel
[ ] Make new back panel and motherboard tray
[ ] Paint Exterior/Interior gloss black
[ ] Paint back panel flat black


Update #1

I've already cut the 3.5" mount off so that I could install the mobo, and cut and drill the new opening and mounts for the standard PSU (I'll post the pictures of that tomorrow).

I should be able to update this tomorrow, but at the latest it'll be thursday.

-Indybird

[OvRiDe]

Looks like your off to a great start!

I gotta ask tho.. The title is Project AMGPC (Auxiliary Portable Gaming PC) but whats the M for? :P

[Indybird]

Looks like your off to a great start!

I gotta ask tho.. The title is Project AMGPC (Auxiliary Portable Gaming PC) but whats the M for? :P

I forgot to change that, thanks. The M stands for mobile.

-Indybird

[DonT-FeaR]

hmmm this shall be interesting good luck

[nevermind1534]

I've got qiute a few old computers and cases lying around. My HP Pavilion case had a PSU like that. I think newegg has a few of them.

[FuzzyPlushroom]

I had one of these cases. Tore out the motherboard tray; I don't know what I did with the rest of it. It didn't excite me.

Looking forward to seeing what could've been, though.

[Indybird]

Update #2

Sorry about no pictures still, but they are coming tomorrow 100% for sure.

First thing I did was cut the top and side panel into two pieces. Thanks to the lock loop and the screw, the top and right side panel stay in place, but I'm going to screw them down so that it is solid. I now have a standard side-door that opens and closes somewhat normal.

After that, I got the window opening shaped up and cut. I kept the perforated part on the bottom, and had the window go the rest of the length of the side. I also kept the handle-indent, because though I don't need it to slide the door off, it looks kinda cool.

Once again, I'll be uploading the pics tomorrow.

-Indybird

[Indybird]

Update #3 - Hard Drive Mount and Front Fans

Alright I finally have pics! One sad piece of news though, all of the pictures I had taken before this somehow got erased. So I only have pictures from this point on. I updated the main post with a picture of all of my components.

So lets get started.

I've removed the I/O Panel/Expansion slot piece so that I could trim something on it and so that it would be easier to paint.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1595.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1596.jpg

Now onto the hard drive mount. I'm going to cut it out of the side window cut-out piece. Here it is all drawn up.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1597.jpg

I cut them out and proceeded to bend the tab and drill the mounting holes.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1598.jpg

Finished that all up and mounted the hard drives to check and see if everything fits. It fits and looks great! I made sure to leave about a quarter inch between the drives for airflow and whatnot.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1599.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1600.jpg

Here is a picture w/ the mobo and gfx card in to give you a general idea of the layout.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1601.jpg

I decided to file the sharp corners on the mount to make it smoother and cleaner.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1602.jpg

My friend decided to take a picture of me laying out the front panel cuts.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1609.jpg

I drilled the front fan holes and mounted the fans just to see how it looked.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1617.jpg

I proceeded to cut out the opening for the fans, but didn't finish the right side (left in this view) because the case was too weak in the front. I'm going to put some support bars in, then finish cutting the opening.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1618.jpg

I did a rough non-final cut to see how its going to look with the plastic part of the front panel mounted.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1619.jpg

I cleaned up everything and decided this would be a good chance to show you guys my new workshop table. I designed it and then me and my friend built it. Its 11' 6" long (I forgot how deep, I don't have my plans w/ me). Believe it or not all of the materials for this table cost only $150.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1620.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1621.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1622.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1623.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1624.jpg
And yes, that is a mini-fridge 8):up:

Next updates will be comin tomorrow.

-Indybird

[Indybird]

Since I don't want to pay $20 + Shipping for case handles from modding websites, I checked cabinet handles out Lowes.com. After a bit of searching I found this:
http://images.lowes.com/product/078555/078555788513.jpg
Heres a link (http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=89226-00214-P2925-MB&detail=&lpage=none).

In addition to it looking pretty sweet and being really cheap, I can just go pick it up instead of waiting and paying for shipping. I think I'm going to pick one up tomorrow.

-Indybird

[DonT-FeaR]

loving the bench man that huge.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Awesome bench mate. The PC is coming along nicely.

[Tavarin]

Nice work shop, and good progress so far.

[nevermind1534]

And Thomas Hardware on Mack Ave. (http://detroit.citysearch.com/profile/5247795/grosse_pointe_farms_mi/thomas_hardware_co.html) might have something that you can use. They're really a boat hardware store, but they have a ton of stuff.

[Indybird]

And Thomas Hardware on Mack Ave. (http://detroit.citysearch.com/profile/5247795/grosse_pointe_farms_mi/thomas_hardware_co.html) might have something that you can use. They're really a boat hardware store, but they have a ton of stuff.

How you know where I live? :P Thats right near here, I might check it out today.

Thanks,
Indybird

[Indybird]

I've got a question for you guys:

What is faster a ATI 9600XT 256MB or nvidia FX5900 128MB?

I couldnt find a review that compared the two, so I thought someone here would know...

-Indybird

EDIT: I asked my friend who was into graphics cards during those generations. He says that the FX5900XT should be much faster.

[nevermind1534]

After reading up on them, I'm thinking that the 9600 might be better. What about a 9800xt?

[Indybird]

After reading up on them, I'm thinking that the 9600 might be better.
Hrm, my friend said the FX5900 and you say the 9600XT...I need a third opinion.

What about a 9800xt?
I wish I had one, but sadly all I've got to chose from are these.


-Indybird

[nevermind1534]

The nvidia one is newer.

[FuzzyPlushroom]

The 5900's newer, but also runs hotter - that might be a consideration in that machine.

To be honest, I'd probably put in the 9600XT (assuming the stock heatsink is sufficient - not a Sapphire, is it?) for just that reason. It's not quite as fast, though, and I'm not 100% sure whether it has full (it has at least partial) DX9 support.

[Acey]

:D Pure fugly beige that deserve to be "beautified"!!! Lol... But wouldn't the HDD be a problem if you need to remove the mobo?

Meh, people have big nice work bench.. I only have my floor :(

[DonT-FeaR]

acey look at it this way.. you have a bigger work area :)

[dfigravity]

this is a cool looking project...The cool thing about small form factor cases is the challenge they offer in finding a place to fit everything. Good luck bro, keep up the good work!!

[Indybird]

The 5900's newer, but also runs hotter - that might be a consideration in that machine.
I don't think it will be a problem with my dual 120mm fans in the front blowing straight on it.

To be honest, I'd probably put in the 9600XT (assuming the stock heatsink is sufficient - not a Sapphire, is it?) for just that reason. It's not quite as fast, though, and I'm not 100% sure whether it has full (it has at least partial) DX9 support.
Yes, its a Sapphire, and yes, it has an aluminum pad with fan for cooling.

I'm pretty sure I'm going to go with the FX5900; thanks for all of the info.


:D Pure fugly beige that deserve to be "beautified"!!! Lol... But wouldn't the HDD be a problem if you need to remove the mobo?
Yeah it is, but I'm going to mount the HDDs onto the bottom of the case using screws instead of something more permanent. So each time I'd take out the mobo I'd have to unscrew that first. It sounds like a hassle but I'm really not going to be disassembling this machine too much.

Thanks for all of the workbench comments, its nice to hear you guys like it.

I'll have an update coming in an hour or so, so dun worry.

-Indybird

[Indybird]

Update #4 - Window Acrylic & Front Panel Cont'd

I headed over to my local Lowes and got that handle special ordered, bought some gloss-black spray paint and got a 18"x24" piece of clear acrylic.

I got the acrylic taped and marked up.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4425.jpg

I proceeded to cut it out and check the fit. I forgot to take pictures after I drilled the mounting holes, but I don't think you'll mind ;)
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4426.jpg

I then turned my attention to this guy. Got him all marked up. I marked it up and found out that once I cut this out and click it back into place it will rest flush with the fans!
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4427.jpg

I can't use the jigsaw to cut this because the blade just melts the plastic. Since I am severely lacking in a dremel I had to use a fine hand saw: that took for ever. I didn't hollow out the bottom for the fan yet, but I couldn't wait to see how it looked so I took the bottom fan out and popped the front panel back on.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4428.jpg

Sure enough, it is flush. This will make it really easy to attach the new front panel piece.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4429.jpg

I finally finished hollowing out the bottom area and now the bottom fan fits also:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4430.jpg

Also flush:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4431.jpg

Lastly, heres a picture with the side panel (minus window), top panel and front panel on.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/PICT4432.jpg

Tomorrow I need to cut out the 80mm fan holes for the back. I really don't feel like doing it because that will require several hours on my not-so-favorite tool the jigsaw. Other than that I might get started on finishing the front panel, or even mounting the USB ports, power button and LEDs.

I'm also going to The Woodward Dream Cruise. (http://www.woodwarddreamcruise.com/) (That's the site but it's down @ time of posting) Anyone else here going?

Anyway, I should be able to work on this tomorrow and give you guys an update.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

A nice update. Good progress.

[FuzzyPlushroom]

Nice work! Like the 'improvised' shape of that window.

Yeah, I forgot about the 120s somehow... even though I saw them 30 seconds before... The 5900'll be fine, and the 9600's probably not gonna run any cooler anyway with the stock aluminum bit there.

Gonna shoehorn in an exhaust fan? You could stick an 80 there, anyway.

[Indybird]

Nice work! Like the 'improvised' shape of that window.
Whaddya mean by improvised?

Yeah, I forgot about the 120s somehow... even though I saw them 30 seconds before... The 5900'll be fine, and the 9600's probably not gonna run any cooler anyway with the stock aluminum bit there.

Gonna shoehorn in an exhaust fan? You could stick an 80 there, anyway.
Actually it is perfectly big enough to fit two 80mm fans in the back, and thats what I'll be doing.


-Indybird

[nevermind1534]

I'm also going to The Woodward Dream Cruise. (http://www.woodwarddreamcruise.com/) (That's the site but it's down @ time of posting) Anyone else here going?

I might have gone if I wasn't at the boat all day. We even got an offer to go with my aunt, in my dad's old Mustang.

[Indybird]

I've got some questions about painting everything.

I've got Gloss Black Plastic Ready and Gloss Black Metal Ready spray paint. I've cleaned out the bare metal on the inside and will have sanded the exterior metal and the exterior Plastic.

I've got two questions:
1) Does the interior have to be sanded?
2) Assuming I use the plastic paint on the plastic and the metal on the metal, do I need to use primer?

Thanks,
Indybird

[nevermind1534]

It might turn out a little better, but since you're using the plastic paint for plastic, and the metal paint for the metal, I'd imagine tht it would be ok.

[The boy 4rm oz]

I would still use primer.

[Indybird]

I would still use primer.

2 questions:
1) Would it make the glossy black glossier?
2) Would it make the paint scratch/damage resistant to a small degree?

Thanks,
Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

1) The only thing that would make the glossy black glossier would be the application of a gloss varnish to seal the paint when you are done.
2) The primer may fill very faint scratches on the surface it is being applied to. The primer will help prevent the paint chipping off because it has something to grip, that is the main idea of primer; to give a suitable surface for the paint to adhere to.

[Indybird]

Since I couldn't mod tonight, I decided to make a graphic header for this worklog. Though its not as fancy as most of the TBCS-made headers, its simplicity reflects the mod.

Enjoy,
Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Nice header mate. Looks good.

[DonT-FeaR]

thats a really nice header

[Indybird]

I did a bunch of work yesterday but I left the camera at the workshop, so I can't post any pictures but I've got one last paint question for you guys.

What does gloss paint look like on a brushed surface?

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Do you mean brushed as Lian Li brushed? I am pretty sure you would need to sand the surface down and prime it before hand for the paint to even stick.

[Indybird]

Do you mean brushed as Lian Li brushed? I am pretty sure you would need to sand the surface down and prime it before hand for the paint to even stick.

I know you can paint on brushed surfaces, I've done that before without a problem. However, I've only ever used flat paint on brushed surfaces. I was just wondering how glossy paint would look.

-Indybird

[Indybird]

Update #5 - Rear fans, Mounting the Window, Mounting the Hard Drives

Sadly there's a lot of bad news in this thread. First is bad news #1, remember I said I left the camera at the workshop? Well when I came back today, all of the pictures were gone. I retook the pictures of the rear fans but forgot the hard drive mount and windows.

So anyway, I went to the hardware store and picked myself up $10 worth of hex-head screws for the Window, Hard Drive and Front Panel.

First thing I do is take the painters tape off of the window. (Heres bad news #2) All around all of the screw holes the acrylic was crumbled and/or cracked. So, I don't let that stop me, and I trace out a new window. This time I drill it with a newer drill at lower speeds. This time it was ok.

I proceeded to mount the window on to the side panel. Now I'll have pictures tomorrow, but I can tell you right now that it looks pretty damn good.

Next thing to do was drill the holes for the hard drive mount. This was pretty straight forward and simple, but none-the-less here comes bad news #3. The sound card I decided to put in this system is too long; it hits the hard drives. I haven't started on a new mount yet because I've ran out of metal.

Next up I cut out the fan holes for the dual 80mm fans in the back. Thankfully this turned out pretty good. I believe I have become the master of detail-work on a jig saw.

But since this update was universally destined to be bad, something went wrong. Bad news #4 While I was marking the drill holes for the fan, the clamp I was using slipped (without me noticing). I proceed to drill all 8 of the holes, mounted the fans and guess what? They didnt fit.

Heres a picture of the half decent fan holes job:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1681.jpg

And heres a blurry closeup of the terrible screw holes alignment.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF16802.jpg

That can be salvaged though: for the final build I will be using standard bolts with nuts. The bolts will be much thinner so I'll have some room to align the fans properly.

Oh and heres the last bad news (#5). My plans were to put USB ports on the front of the computer. So I began that process today. I drilled the holes, mounted it and traced the opening for the USB ports. Well lets just say that after I traced it and cut it out, it wasn't pretty. This really my fault but it is still bad news. I actually took a picture of this hack-job, but I'm not posting them on here; its that bad.

So I'm gonna pick myself up some bondo, cover that up and completely forget about front mounting USB ports. I actually like the idea of the front panel being 100% clean; no buttons, no ports. So I've changed my plans and moved the power button location to the back and completely nixed the USB ports.

Sorry about the depressing update, but I'm not done. I'll end it on a positive note. One of my 120mm fans was missing molex connectors and one of my 80mm fans were shorting because the LED contacts were exposed. So I fixed those and took some pictures of the lovely blue LEDs.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1683.jpg

Lastly, Remember my Scythe KAMA-Meter fan controller review? Well if you don't, heres a link (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=9907). Anyways, I decided to remove it from my main computer and put it in this computer. The reason I did is because I use digital audio on my main PC and I thought it was kinda cheesy to have the analog audio decibel meter on the fan controller when it does nothing.

Heres a picture of the screen:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/PICT3412.jpg

So anyway, I should be updating tomorrow. Since I'm flat broke I wont be able to start working on the front panel or start a new hard drive mount. So we'll just have to see what happens tomorrow.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Just fill the un wanted holes with Bondo or some other body filler.

[Acey]

Sorry to hear the bad news. Btw love the purplish fans (tho its blue LED). Can use one or two for my mod hahaha. Hope everything goes smoothly for you.

[DonT-FeaR]

looks sweet nice work

[Indybird]

Update #6 - Sanding and Preparing the handle for Mounting

I've made some changes to my plans. I will for sure be stealthing the DVD-Drive, and I will also be adding metal panels over the bare case areas inside the computer. In the front it will add support, and in the rest of the case it will clean up all of the strange holes E-Machines put in the metal.

I figured since I got nothing better to do and I don't have enough money for Bondo or more screws, I'd sand the side panels.

I got started on the side door.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1689.jpg

Moved onto the top and right side panel piece. I didn't bother sanding the "e" because I will just be bondo-ing over that later.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1686.jpg

Checked how it looked back on the computer:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1690.jpg

And the window panel also. Thats my poor friend that I've bored to death from several hours of modding.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1691.jpg

Began marking the cuts for the handle opening
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1685.jpg

Since I'll be reinforcing the front panel real soon, I thought I'd finally finish cutting the opening.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1687.jpg

And lastly before I go, I got some good news. My new kitchen drawer pull came in the mail! It is absolutely perfect in appearance and size. Since theres no reason to wait, I drilled the holes on the perfectly sized case supports and did a test mount.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1692.jpg

This handle isn't just for looks. I will be carrying this case around a lot, and this handle and mount (which will be further reinforced later) can take the weight no problem.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1693.jpg

I dunno when the next update will be, but I'm planning on making the handle indent, which will be pretty sweet. I get paid on Tuesday, and will go out and get myself some bondo, and possibly some more bolts.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looking good mate. Keep it up.

[nevermind1534]

The handle looks nice. It's amazing how it fits so perfectly on there. I can't imagine that all of those holes that emachines puts in their cases actually help much with airflow.

[Indybird]

The handle looks nice. It's amazing how it fits so perfectly on there.
I couldn't believe it either. I've got a million and one reasons I'm glad I didn't buy a "modder" handle for $20 + shipping
I can't imagine that all of those holes that emachines puts in their cases actually help much with airflow.
Some of them are just in the middle of nowhere, where air doesnt even flow: I dont get it.


-Indybird

[nevermind1534]

I guess the holes can give it a "distinct look" not really much else.

[Acey]

That "e" is certainly 100% fugly-certified. Good thing you'll cover it xD. Is the case originally small sized? Looked small in the final pic where you were molesting the handle.

[The boy 4rm oz]

The case is for Mini-ATX use by the look of the space provided for the expansion slots so yes it is originally small.

[DonT-FeaR]

lol 100% fugly-certified lol

looking good

[Indybird]

Does anyone know where to buy standard PC momentary switches? I'd get those vandal resistant switches if they weren't like $20 + Shipping. Also I already checked Radio Shack, but all of their switches are ugly.

Thanks,
Indybird

[b4i7]

are you looking for just the switch part, or are you needing a button as well?

[Indybird]

are you looking for just the switch part, or are you needing a button as well?

The whole thing; switch and button.

Thanks,
Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Local electrical stores will probably have them, cable and all. Otherwise see if you can get one from an old PC case. Check out your local PC repair store, they should be able to hoop you up.

[Indybird]

Do you know of any online stores that sell them?

Thanks,
Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Sorry mate, I can't help you out there.

[Indybird]

Alright I should be finally picking up sheet metal and bondo tomorrow, so I should be updating then.

-Indybird

[Drum Thumper]

Ebay might be a possibility for switches.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Damn, I never thought of that DT, not a big Ebay buyer.

[DonT-FeaR]

lol me either have never thought of that but yea ur right doesnt seem like the kinda guy who would ebay

[Indybird]

Update #7 - Separating the side panel, adding the handle recess

After a long while I'm finally updating again. I went to the auto parts store and picked myself up some bondo, but I won't be using it until the next update. Today, I will be getting started on the handle recess.

I already had everything marked up, so I got to cutting and bending it:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1694.jpg

I then proceeded to shape, cut then bend the piece of metal that is going in the recessed area.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1695.jpg

When I break out the bondo I will be filling those cracks and it will be part of the top panel.

Speaking of the top panel, before I cleaned up for the night I decided to cut the right side panel off, and make it a piece of its own.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCF1698.jpg

Next update is coming Sunday or Monday I think. I will be bondo-ing everything and will possibly get started on adding the sheet metal parts.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks much better with that piece of metal in that recess. You can use some Bondo to fix up the edges.

[DonT-FeaR]

looks much better nice work

[Indybird]

I went to the local sheet-metal store and asked about their scrap pile. They took me out back and showed us a short-dumpster full of scrap metal we could have for free. I managed to find a near-perfect condition electrical box (of some sort). Each side panel (theres only 3 of the sides) is about 1.5' by 3', and the whole thing is powder-coated grey. The inside had insulation on it, but after a few hours with a putty knife and some steel wool, I got all of the insulation and adhesive off.

I'll probably have pictures tomorrow. I don't know when I'll start using it using in my mod, because I just started school again :(. I'm hoping to get some work in during the week, but I can't make any guarantees.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Free is always good my friend, can't wait for those pics.

[DonT-FeaR]

woo free stuff always good...

cant wait for the photos either

[Indybird]

Sorry not getting the pics yet, but I've been really busy with school. I have however had enough time to talk to my friend about parts from his desktop that he's not planning on using very much. I'm going to swap my current mobo, cpu, RAM and graphics card (as seen in the first post) for his:
Abit SG-95 (LGA 775), Pentium 4 3.0GHz, 1GB DDR2 522(?) RAM, and I'd use my Radeon X600 PCI Express.

The only reason I want that over mine is that I can upgrade each component to the latest parts one at a time, instead of having to build a new system.

From there I'd upgrade to this $300 system in this order (I'll use my 120GB IDE HDD):
1) Foxconn G9657MA-8EKRS2H (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813186110) - $50
2) OCZ Platinum Revision 2 2GB (2 x 1GB) DDR2 800 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820227139) - $49
3) Intel Pentium E2180 Allendale 2.0GHz (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116052)- $70
4) COOLER MASTER eXtreme Power Plus 500W PSU (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817171031) - $45
5) KFA2 by Galaxy 96GFF6HUUEXV 9600 GT OC 512MB (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814162007) - $120-$40 Rebate=$80

I am absolutely loving that motherboard:
http://c1.neweggimages.com/NeweggImage/productimage/13-186-110-02.jpg

I have no clue when I'll be able to get all of that, but for now it looks like the plan. I'd like to think that some of the stores and companies I've e-mailed about sponsorships would help me out here, but not a single one has replied yet :(.

Whaddya guys think of the trade and the new system?

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

I would start with the new mobo and build up using your older parts, they should all be compatible. Having to replace a mobo on a build is always a pain, need to format HDD.

[Indybird]

I would start with the new mobo and build up using your older parts, they should all be compatible.
Yeah thats what I was planning on doing.
Having to replace a mobo on a build is always a pain, need to format HDD.
Why would I need to do that?


-Indybird

[nevermind1534]

-Indybird

I think he's referring to the fact that you usually have to re-install, or at least repair windows if you get a new motherboard.

[Indybird]

I think he's referring to the fact that you usually have to re-install, or at least repair windows if you get a new motherboard.

Can't you just re-activate?

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

I dunno about that. Microsoft classifies a new mobo as a new PC which usually means buying a new license or a whole new OS.

[Indybird]

Well I'm not gonna worry too much, I can get a brand-new copy of windows from my friend for free (or near free).

-Indybird

[NightrainSrt4]

I didn't look at what the older board was, but you can reinstall XP on the system with the new board. You just have to call them to activate it. Explain to them that the pc needed a new motherboard, and that its now asking for reactivation, and that this pc is the ONLY pc with that specific XP license on it.

I've had to do it plenty of times, and its worked every time. They are pretty understanding about that kinda stuff, once you get through the language barrier that often exists.

[Spidermeld]

When I have to reactivate Windows, I just tell them that my hard drive crashed. Its also a bonus they on keep a record of serial #s for 6 months.

[FuzzyPlushroom]

I have replaced motherboards without reinstalling before - but I did have to reactivate and redo drivers. Worked well for over a year before it corrupted itself (VIA KM266A to nForce2).

That particular Rosewill is built by Solytech. They're not a well-known name, and for good reason...

http://www.soly-tech.com/images/company1_07-new.gif

If that logo doesn't scream "DANGER, WILL ROBINSON!" you haven't been a hardware guy long enough. Deer/L&C power supplies are second only to Powmax as far as Dangerous Power Supplies go, and their "higher-level" Solytech and Allied PSUs aren't much better... We have a bunch of cases with these Allieds (http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story&reid=65) at my school; the cheapo sleeve-bearing fans die and the power supply expires and gives off smoke and a rank smell (not even necessarily in that order).

In short, the day that one puts out 500w is the day bats fly out of my rectum.

You can do (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371006) far (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817171031) better (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817703014) for the money. (Any of those three will put out just as much, if not more, power and last longer.)

[The boy 4rm oz]

In short, the day that one puts out 500w is the day bats fly out of my rectum.



ROLF touche.

[Indybird]

I have replaced motherboards without reinstalling before - but I did have to reactivate and redo drivers. Worked well for over a year before it corrupted itself (VIA KM266A to nForce2).

That particular Rosewill is built by Solytech. They're not a well-known name, and for good reason...

http://www.soly-tech.com/images/company1_07-new.gif

If that logo doesn't scream "DANGER, WILL ROBINSON!" you haven't been a hardware guy long enough. Deer/L&C power supplies are second only to Powmax as far as Dangerous Power Supplies go, and their "higher-level" Solytech and Allied PSUs aren't much better... We have a bunch of cases with these Allieds (http://www.jonnyguru.com/modules.php?name=NDReviews&op=Story&reid=65) at my school; the cheapo sleeve-bearing fans die and the power supply expires and gives off smoke and a rank smell (not even necessarily in that order).

In short, the day that one puts out 500w is the day bats fly out of my rectum.

You can do (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817371006) far (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817171031) better (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817703014) for the money. (Any of those three will put out just as much, if not more, power and last longer.)

Thanks for the heads-up. I've bought from rosewill several times before and had no problem, but those were their higher-end PSUs and not a single one of them has given me any trouble.

The Antec is a little too expensive, the PC Power and Cooling is a little low wattage, but I'm definitely liking that $50 500W Cooler Master. With the $10 shipping it really is out of my price range, but since its such a good brand, I'll probably go with it anyway.
+rep

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

The cooler masters are very good, quite solid. I put a 500W Xtreme in my brothers PC, not a problem at all.

[FuzzyPlushroom]

That one's made by AcBel, who are responsible for quite a few server-level and some OEM supplies. I'd feel confident about it (and should probably put my money where my mouth is and get either that or the PCP&C [which would be my #1 choice under $60 for a mission-critical application] for my Netburst system, but don't really need to - my Enermax 420w is fine).

My Cooler Master's been good to me, but it's a Seventeam-built unit, so it doesn't really directly compare, other than to show that Cooler Master pulls the right levers with the right companies.

[Indybird]

Update 8 - Cutting the back panel/preparing materials

So, after lots of laziness, forgetfulness, and business I am finally getting back to this project again. But boy is it a slow start. I am now working in my third workshop (first one was at one of my friends house, then the last one was my basement). So anyway...

A while ago I got a huge piece of scrap steel that was part of some kind of ducting (or something like that), but it wasn't in any kind of form I could work with. So the first objective was to get that cut into manageable pieces:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCN0775.jpg

That's my friend (who just joined the forums: djbartos93), and I'll be using his work shop for now.

So the next part requires a little bit of explaining before I can get into the actual work. So as you might have noticed I messed up the whole back of the case (though it won't work for the modifications I'm planning anyway), so I'm redoing the whole back and motherboard tray. So my plan is to cut out the whole middle of the back, leaving a frame in which I will rivet a whole new back panel onto. But first we have to get it cut out. Since I didn't have a lot of time to work today, I only got half of it cut:

http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/DSCN0773.jpg

That's all for today, but next time I'll be finishing up cutting the back and I am going to make a new mobo tray piece.

Neeways, expect 1 to 2 updates every week on this.

-Indybird

[DonT-FeaR]

good to know ur getting back to this :)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Glad to see you are making some progress.

[Indybird]

Update 9 - Fabricating and preparing the case assembly Pt. 1

OK, so in my last update I sounded as if I was really going to be working on the mod on a regular basis. I honestly planned to, but school really started getting in the way around that time, so I was unable to work on it.

Now, it is the summer and I have alot of free time. On July 7th I'll be hosting a LAN party, and I would really like to be able to present this mod completed. So that is my current objective: to get Project: AMGPC done by July 7th.

Progress is still slow, but it will pick up in the next few days. Right now I'm just making the final cuts on the original case, and will be fabricating the new panels soon.

The first order of business was to finish cutting out the back panel.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6298.jpg

I finally got that done after 10 minutes of Dremeling. It's kinda hard to describe what I'm doing with the back so I'll just let you see in the updates.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6299.jpg

I've began laying out the back panel on my steel sheet.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6304.jpg

I then proceeded to cut off the old motherboard panel from the top piece. I will be using the original top panel in the final case.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6305.jpg

Look at that fine dremeled curve...
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6306.jpg

Unfortunately that's all for this update, I'm hoping to get together with my friend tomorrow to finish designing the new panels and begin cutting them out.

-Indybird

[The boy 4rm oz]

Nice progress, coming together nicely.

[Eclecticos]

Looks like the same case I used for my first project, +Rep
Except yours is way cooler. Also really like your modding areas.
Would like to take a look inside those little drawers for misc parts. :)

[Indybird]

Update 9 - Fabricating and preparing the case assembly Pt. 2

Ok so, as I promised I got some more stuff to post today.

I started by cutting out the outside of the new back panel.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6311.jpg

I also got the front panel pieces panel pieces done. Here's where they will be going.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6313.jpg

When I'm done these should be flush with the surface of the front panel.
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a29/Indybird/AMGPC/IMG_6314.jpg

I'm hoping I can work on this tomorrow; if I can then I will be working on the final details of the back panel, and I will start designing the new mobo tray.

-Indybird

[madd0ct0r]

We're watching.

good luck