Rogue

[craigbru]

Hello all! There are many mods out there that have inspired me to take on a few projects of my own. The following log, is my most recent project based on the NZXT Rogue. I started it a year ago last fall, but didn't finish until August of last year. Although this may be re-posted content, I like the thought of possibly inspiring others to take on projects of their own.

I'll post my progress from the beginning for the sake of continuity, and add the appropriate dates. I won't edit my comments much, so you'll see that a few things have changed since I started work. Anyway, please feel free to contribute, or ask if you have questions about anything!

So, it begins...

November 5, 2007

Well guys, the dust has barely begun to settle on project L.O.S.I.A.S (http://www.sudhian.com/index.php?/forums/viewthread/95399/) and I'm at it again. This time around of got a little help from NZXT, and lead designer Johnny Hou. As of three weeks ago, they supplied me with one of only two Rogues in the US, in hopes that I could create something pretty kick-ass. Well, who am I to turn down a challenge? I've got a thing for small form factor cases, and you can guarantee I'll use up every bit of room in this case when given the chance. Although I've got free reign with this project, there were specific goals that I set out to achieve. Let's see... for starters...

Watercooling - Oh, without a doubt. This thing must be watercooled. How does dual loops and dual 240.2 radiators sound? A loop for the CPU, and a loop for the GPU's.

LCD - I don't think I could build a case without one. How does a 10.2" widescreen sound?

ATX motherboard - Been there, done that? Well, there have no doubt been mods before this that incorporated an ATX motherboard in a mATX case. However, due to the size of the Rogue, it's possible to fit one in the case a little easier than in others. The biggest difference here, is that all connections will be routed to the rear of the case. That's one thing most other ATX -> mATX mods haven't been able to achieve.

Everything else - Well, this is a big category. Lots of little things that add up quickly. How about a hard drive rack that's removable without opening that case, integrated fan and lighting controls, custom plexi side panels, automotive digital gauges, and the list goes on.

Other hardware specs are still up in the air, but the design goal will remain, regardless of the components used. That being said, would quad Crossfire be overkill? Nah, didn't think so... I've got big plans here, so I'll do my best not to let all of you down!

Now that I've got the preliminaries out of the way, how about a few pics? Here is the case as it arrived to me.

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/6038/img3322rp5.jpg

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/2605/img3323ik0.jpg

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/927/img3324vb2.jpg

Like a kid on Christmas morning, let's rip this thing open!

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/290/img3325sp6.jpg

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/9269/img3412ra7.jpg

Most of you have probably seen the stock photos, but here are a few shots that you haven't seen before. I've started to disassemble the case. You can see shots with the face removed, followed by the hard drive and CD/DVD trays.

http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/5728/img3413oe0.jpg

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/5431/img3418fp0.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3858/img3416no8.jpg

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/5108/img3417dx4.jpg

http://img103.imageshack.us/img103/1237/img3419kl4.jpg

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/250/img3421fz8.jpg

http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/2789/img3422fs1.jpg


More coming shortly!

[craigbru]

November 6, 2007

Everyone that has seen this case, wants to know about watercooling. Is it possible? Of course! This case does have plenty of room for expansion if you're willing to get a little creative.

My little red beauties...

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/2156/img3399nn5.jpg

So, what do they look like in the case? Well, this is where we run into a minor clearance problem. As configured, one of the hard drive racks prevents the radiator from sitting any further forward than pictured. However, you could simply mount the radiator as is, or remove the rack on one side of the case for clearance. You would still have the rack on the other side of the case, and the 3.5" bay to utilize if so desired. Of course, with my plans, I could ditch both drive racks completely.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/5192/img3414nu8.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/2117/img3415zf5.jpg

Oh yeah, now that's a little better!

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/7664/img3423wp9.jpg

http://img20.imageshack.us/img20/681/img3424yc2.jpg

[craigbru]

November 6, 2007

Here comes the fun part... It's also the most work. I mentioned custom plexi side panels earlier. Well, let's get on with it!

The side panels are easily removable with two screws. These things are very solid, and are the perfect foundation for what's coming next.

http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/2738/img3425op6.jpg

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/3774/img3426sy7.jpg

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/2125/img3427vw4.jpg

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/6961/img3428vx0.jpg

What would we do without masking tape? I've marked out the pattern and everything looks ready for the dremel.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/8137/img3434er4.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3424/img3436yr8.jpg

Time to cut. Man, this stuff is thick!

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/9872/img3437vi9.jpg

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/4299/img3438nx8.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/7791/img3439qx5.jpg

http://img115.imageshack.us/img115/3892/img3440gu4.jpg

Okay, what now? The hole is cut, but I'm nowhere near finished. I've got to nix those ribs. The plexi panel will sit in a recess in the side panel. What I wouldn't do for a machine shop and some CAD/CAM equipment. For now it's just a dremel and a file. This might take a while...

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/2488/img3441gp6.jpg

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/2454/img3443dm2.jpg

Well, it's back to work for me guys. More updates coming soon...

[craigbru]

November 14, 2007

For all of you patiently waiting... I've got another update here.

I never seem to get as much done as I would like, but I'm always making progress. With this update, you can get an idea of how the radiators are going to be placed in the case. It may not be what you were expecting...

Let's start this off with one of my new toys. It's an 18" metal brake! I'll be using this for all of the fabrication work on the case. It's not huge, but then again, it doesn't need to be. The thickest material I need to bend, will be 1mm aluminum.

http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/4104/img3445gg8.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/7115/img3446aw4.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/4122/img3448cp7.jpg

Here I've got a picture of one side panel almost completed. There's a little filing to do, on a few rough edges, but it is 95% completed. It's enough for me to move on to the next step. I'll come back to the side panels later.

http://img105.imageshack.us/img105/6637/img3450kc7.jpg

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/9098/img3451px5.jpg

Here are a couple of shots with the side panel placed on the case. You should clearly be able to see the recess in the panel where an acrylic panel will be fitted.

http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/4455/img3452xw5.jpg

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/9923/img3454ww8.jpg

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/8540/img3456sc4.jpg

Finally, I've started test fitting cardboard inside the case. These are approximate representations of the aluminum radiator mounts. A hole will be cut in the mount to match the radiator, and the radiator will be mounted on the inside of this panel. Once the case is assembled, there should be about 1cm or so, between the mounts and the side panel. There is a certain look I'm going for here, and when finished, there will be CCFL's located on both the top and the bottom of the panel. This should add a nice glow to the acrylic and radiator, without being over the top.

http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/411/img3457oj2.jpg

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6263/img3458xp0.jpg

More coming soon...

[craigbru]

November 15, 2007

I should have a decent updated posted by tomorrow. In the meantime, I've been pulling in and finalizing a few more ideas. The more I plan, the more I realize, that I'm gonna have this case packed! It may have twice the volume of the Sugo in my previous project, but it's still a SFF case. The radiators and fans are taking up a fair chunk of space all by themselves. I've already had to do some behind-the-scenes re-envisioning to make sure I have room for all my components. In order to fit a full size ATX motherboard in this case, it's simply not feasible to have the fans mounted directly on the radiators. However, in order to achieve airflow through them, there will be six 120 mm fans exhausting air from the case. The case will be sealed, with the only air inlet being though the radiators. This will ensure that the coolest air possible, finds its way in to the case. In addition, I should now have room for 6 hard drives. As started earlier, these will be on a custom removable rack. The rack will sit forward of where the current rear 120mm fan sits. With the removal of a couple of screws, the entire hard drive assembly should slide right out the back of the case. I hope to give more details when I get a little closer to that part of the mod.

Other notes here...

The case will have a slightly automotive type theme. As such, the case is going to have a pair of these Dakota Digital gauges to measure the water temps for each loop.

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/3866/prdzm363ns2.jpg

I'm also going to incorporate one of these Griffin Powermates...

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/4179/powermate1zr9.jpg

I've got my LCD choices narrowed down. I'm going to be using one of the following. Which one, will be determined on available space left after gauge placement is decided.

10.2" 4:3 ratio 800x600

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/8568/lcd104svgatscp5.jpg

10.2" 16:9 ratio 800x480

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/5919/lcd102wjg2.jpg

9" 16:9 ratio 800x480

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/840/lcd9wvgazx4.jpg

[craigbru]

November 16, 2007

I needed a short break from modding while my drill charges, so I thought I'd upload a few pics of what I've been working on tonight. I decided to get one of the radiator mounts made. In order to do so, I needed a guide to make sure my bends were accurate.

http://img123.imageshack.us/img123/8905/img3460zc8.jpg

Here is the 1mm brushed black aluminum I'll be using for the mounts. This stuff looks great!

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/3812/img3463xg8.jpg

I've started to mark where I need to make the bends. Tape was used to prevent scratching.

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/7572/img3464ca3.jpg

All clamped in...

http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/5714/img3465hd3.jpg

2 bends down, 2 more to go.

http://img116.imageshack.us/img116/6169/img3466lw0.jpg

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/9936/img3468vf6.jpg

Perfect! I couldn't ask for better results. The brake performs as expected, and I couldn't be happier.

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/504/img3470zr8.jpg

Next up, I'll test fit the mount inside the case. Assuming all is well, I'll mark out, and cut the hole for the radiator.

[craigbru]

November 21, 2007

Another day, another update... It seems that no matter how hard I try to get away from it, all of my projects seem to involve insane amounts of filing. In fact, that's what I've been doing for the past couple of days. I guess I shouldn't complain too much though, as I've always been happy with the results. All of that filing, leads to the following update.

When I left off with the last update, I had just finished making the bends in the radiator mount. Next up, was the hole for the radiator. I used a template and careful measurements, to make sure everything was where I wanted it to be.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/7860/img3471yl7.jpg

I didn't get any pictures of the cutting process, but a dremel and a reinforced cutting wheel made pretty quick work of the aluminum. At that point, I had to file and straighten the cuts, followed by a light sanding of the edges. The work and patience paid off, and I was left with the results below.

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/6679/img3472ur6.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/3764/img3474wm6.jpg

A test fit with the radiator, and all looked well!

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/7835/img3475we2.jpg

The only thing to do at this point, was take a look and see how the mount and radiator fit into the case.

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/9743/img3476kk7.jpg

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8288/img3477cq3.jpg

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/8356/img3482af4.jpg

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/746/img3483zx0.jpg

Finally, with the side panel on.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/3717/img3484sq8.jpg

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/8019/img3485yn8.jpg

I've got get the mount fastened into the case yet, and before I do, all exposed edges will get a touch of black paint. I've also got to get low profile mounting screws for the radiator. These will be black as well. There is a little work to be done on the case side panel yet, but I'll try and get the other radiator mount finished first, then worry about finishing the panels. Stay tuned!

[craigbru]

December 4, 2007

I've got a small update here. I'm currently waiting for a few parts and the guages to arrive, but in the meantime, I'm close to finishing the second side panel. Unfortunately, until the missing parts arrive, they're won't be much in the way of huge progress. I can tell you this, Summit Racing sure isn't Newegg or FrozenCPU...

Who doesn't love new tools? I've been meaning to get taps for a while, this project was just the push I needed.

http://img457.imageshack.us/img457/1553/img3488em4.jpg

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/2447/img3493lz7.jpg

http://img464.imageshack.us/img464/4109/img3490rc4.jpg

A little panel prep...

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/8492/img3487cd0.jpg

http://img463.imageshack.us/img463/412/img3496ns8.jpg

Here you can see where one of the CCFL's will fit. There will be an identical one on the bottom.

http://img454.imageshack.us/img454/521/img3498ni9.jpg

http://img463.imageshack.us/img463/4411/img3500bs9.jpg

More to come...

[craigbru]

December 10, 2007

Sometimes I just can't help myself... I get these ideas in my head, and think I need to find a way to follow through. Just like my L.O.S.I.A.S. project, it seems I want to find room for one more component. Well, today I've found two more items that I want to cram into this case.

The first is a fairly new Matrix Orbital display. The GX Typhoon to be specific. The only problem I see at this point, is the very limited availability. It's currently backordered until the 31st of January...


Here (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v160/Dgephri/GX%20Typhoon/?action=view&current=b715d121.flv) is a video of the display in action.

The second item is a barebones Pico-ITX system courtesy of Via (http://aberrantech.com/?p=302). The sheer number of possibilities with this thing is a little crazy to think about. It could easily make use of the LCD that will be on the case. It would also be networked, and could allow 'offline' downloading of files even when the main machine is off. Just dump the data on a shared network drive, and you're good to go.

December 13, 2007

I've got a small update here. The past week has been pretty hectic for me, but I've managed to get some work done on the motherboard tray. I'm also still waiting on a few parts that have yet to ship. I'll blame it on the holiday season...

The tray will be cut out of 2mm brushed aluminum. Frankly, it's a shame this won't be visible to anyone. I really do love the look of this stuff. Below I've marked and cut the tray.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/2229/img3501wy3.jpg

http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/1372/img3502fr9.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/3206/img3503hw4.jpg

Pretty simple, huh? Now I need to find a way to secure the tray in the case. I'm basically making brackets that will slide in to the old motherboard tray's original position. This will allow for the tray to be easily removed from the rear of the case.

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7588/img3504ne4.jpg

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/1385/img3505dy0.jpg

Time to put the metal brake to work... The two brackets were taped together during the bending. This ensures matching bends on both pieces.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/6104/img3506cv2.jpg

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/8733/img3507sl3.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/2007/img3509dc5.jpg

Here we have the brackets sitting in their approximate positions on the upside down tray. The brackets will be bolted to the tray shortly...

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/8342/img3510mk2.jpg

[craigbru]

December 30, 2007

Who's ready for an update? Things have finally gotten a little slower for me. Most of the holiday season has passed, and I've finally been able to get a little work done. Actually, the work's never really stopped. It's just been awfully sporadic with everything else that has been going on. That being said, I've now got a self imposed deadline. My goal is to have the project completed by the next Netwar in Omaha. That gives me a little less than two months. Wish me luck!

One of the things I really needed to get done in order to move forward, was to finally finish the second radiator mount. Here we see the bending in progress. This looks kind of familiar...

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/5002/img3514xu6.jpg

It's a perfect match...

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/1269/img3515vx8.jpg

A test fit inside the case shows that everything lines up perfectly.

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/6213/img3520hu6.jpg

Due to the positioning of the front USB and sound ports, I need to notch the radiator mount.

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/3792/img3521rh8.jpg

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/3499/img3522ik6.jpg

A little help from the dremel and a file got the result I wanted.

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/316/img3596rl1.jpg

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/4907/img3597ha9.jpg

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/729/img3598uf3.jpg

[craigbru]

December 31, 2007

With the panel bent, and the notch cut, now I need to get the radiator hole cut.

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/6779/img3600ns1.jpg

After the dremel...

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/9122/img3601tf1.jpg

I couldn't ask for anything better.

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1000/img3602kq4.jpg

I used my radiator template to mark the mounting holes.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/9176/img3603vs3.jpg

Woohoo! Another one done! This is what it's all about!

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/4730/img3604yp0.jpg

[craigbru]

December 31, 2007

Just before Christmas, the UPS guy left me a little present.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8099/img3533md5.jpg

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/324/img3534nd6.jpg

A free hat...

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/1189/img3535bo1.jpg

Such a little box. Is this what I waited over a month to get?

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/507/img3536mr2.jpg

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/369/img3537zp6.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/6485/img3538eu5.jpg

Pictures can't do this thing justice. It's absolutely amazing to look at in person. This thing may not have been cheap, but it certainly doesn't look like it is either. I think it's really going to set this case off.

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/3189/img3609xb3.jpg

[craigbru]

December 31, 2007

Well, now that I've got the second radiator mount done, what does it look like on the case? I'll let the pictures do the talking.

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2350/img3605kr4.jpg

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8771/img3606ae3.jpg

Ah, the motherboard. Of the two possible orientations, both have their pros and cons. Check out the second pic though. If I'm willing to lose a bottom slot on a motherboard, I'll gain a ton of space and not have to deal with routing extension cables to the rear of the case. I'll also not be limited by the length of my video cards. So many possibilities...

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/9595/img3607hb1.jpg

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/3134/img3608ag6.jpg

Now, finally, I thought I'd throw up a couple shots of the CCFL's lighting the radiators. It looks amazing in person. Perfectly subtle. It's exactly what I wanted.

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/7677/img3614ch3.jpg

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/9961/img3615ky1.jpg

More coming soon!

[craigbru]

January 10, 2008

I've got a quick update here... I've got some cool little accessories for my dremel. I was walking through a hardware store the other day, when I spotted the box in the picture below. It's a quick-release mandrel kit for cut-off wheels. I seem to burn through quite a few wheels with all the cutting I do, and thought this would be a great way to make the changes easier. Not to mention, the wheels are a larger diameter than what I was using.

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/2990/img3617xh5.jpg

Closed...

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/1236/img3619ql0.jpg

Open...

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/8158/img3620nm7.jpg

Push on, twist, and release! It doesn't get any easier.

http://img46.imageshack.us/img46/9492/img3621dp2.jpg

As cool as the new cut-off wheels were, I also had something else show up on my doorstep today.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/1908/img3631rz5.jpg

That's a whole lot of air moving potential there. These are all 120mm x 35mm Sanyo Denki San Ace 1011's. According to this (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=170224) review at xtremesystems, they can kick some serious ass.


I'll spoil one result for all of you upfront: the Sanyo Denki San Ace 1011 is king of the hill. And by hill I mean universe. It's really, really good. In addition to its insane empirical results (see below), it makes NO extraneous noises and undervolts like a champ. I have five and they all perform like this and they all start at 4V or lower. They could kick Chuck Norris's ass....silently.

They're ball bearings as well, so you don't have to worry about the sleeve bearing inconvenience. They also perform past their listed specs--something that's exceedingly rare in these SilenX days. Good luck finding any though...and when you do, they're $25 a pop.

Don't let the quoted price scare you though, they are currently available at FrozenCPU for about $14 apiece.

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/746/img3632sr7.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/7617/img3633im6.jpg

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/5274/img3634zi9.jpg

These fans are freaking solid, as well as heavy. High quality stuff indeed. Once I throw a good fan controller on these, I'll have the best of both worlds. A fan that is inaudible, yet can move some serious CFM's when it's warranted.

So, you might be wondering where these things are going to find a home in the case. Well, they all will reside in a custom panel on top of the case. I may not have the specifics figured out yet, but they will tie in with the slightly automotive engine theme. In fact, I'd like them to look something like valve covers. Two rows of three fans, slightly angled to the left and the right...

[craigbru]

nuary 20, 2008

Oh, the irony... As I type this update, DFI has announced the possibility of SLI and Crossfire capable mATX motherboards. It's something that I've wanted for quite some time now. Especially since my current eVGA SLI board is showing it's age. At this point, it's come a little too late to change the course of this project. I've got the perfect case in the Rogue, and it's ATX or nothing at this point. So, that brings me to the following update.

Here I've got the motherboard tray finished. The mounting studs are in place, and it's almost ready to be placed in the case. There is very little room for error at this point. The clearances are very tight between the radiator mounts.

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/4898/img3643gb5.jpg

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/9931/img3644hk3.jpg

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/415/img3645tr3.jpg

As you can see from the above pics, I need to come up with the rear panel for the case. As luck would have it, I've got the perfect donor. (Yes, it is purple...) I happened to have an old case left over from a mod I had done for my daughter.

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/1558/img3639hn7.jpg

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/391/img3640bu1.jpg

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7072/img3641kl7.jpg

With the panel removed from it's donor, it's time to find it a new home. Here you can see it sitting inside the case. It actually fits quite well. You can see that I will need to do a little cutting on the rear of the case, but all in all, it shouldn't be so bad.

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7307/img3646ju5.jpg

http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/9448/img3647et5.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2690/img3648qh0.jpg

Next up, will be to get the panel fitted in place, and repainted of course...

[craigbru]

January 23, 2008

I briefly mentioned this earlier, but now I've got a few more specifics. This case is also going to have a Via Artigo pico-itx PC inside. It will be wirelessly networked to the Rogue, as well as my home network. It will run independently of the Rogue, and have access to it's own large capacity drive. It will be used for downloading files and data, and will dump that info on to a shared network drive. The Artigo will make primary use of the touchscreen on the front of the computer. Although it will be two separate systems, I will use Synergy (http://synergy2.sourceforge.net/) to allow seamless transition between the PC's. Sounds like fun, huh?

January 30, 2008

Well, I know you all are eagerly waiting, and this isn't all my progress to date, but I think now is great time to post a few pics.

I didn't get a picture before I made all of my cuts, but here I've taped out where I need to do a little finish filing.

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/8308/img3649zi9.jpg

I need to take care of the open gap at the bottom of the case. This piece of aluminum should take care of it...

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/990/img3650ek2.jpg

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/5166/img3651ly6.jpg

All clamped in, and cut for height.

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/3772/img3652ab4.jpg

Now finally, the back panel is riveted in to place. Just a little more detail work, and I'll have it!

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/4912/img3658fl9.jpg

[craigbru]

February 5, 2008

I was gone over the weekend, so I wasn't able to get any real modding done, but work still continued. I was able to get a few more miscellaneous parts ordered, including the elusive LCD screen. I had several sources fall through for different reasons, until I finally found this 10.2" wisdescreen LCD.

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/715/lcdm102wsmallsp7.jpg

I've also got the grill designed for the fans on top of the case. There will be two banks, of three fans each. The grill will be mounted on each of them, with the addition of a hex mesh beneath...

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/5129/02052008184855ab5.jpg

More coming shortly.

[craigbru]

February 7, 2008

I love days like today... Not only is it Friday, but I had a long awaited package on my doorstep when I got home. My new Matrix Orbital display has arrived, after a several month backorder. It is the GX Typhoon MCE (http://www.matrixorbital.com/index.php?cName=lcd-gx-typhoon-mce). Let's take a look at this thing...

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/7539/img3688bn0.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/2990/img3689oc3.jpg

Everything out of the box...

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/6151/img3690sy6.jpg

This thing is just begging to be modded...

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/3340/img3691cj9.jpg

http://img136.imageshack.us/img136/274/img3692xc7.jpg

Since this is the Media Center Edition, it comes with a remote. It can handle all MCE functions.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/490/img3693zl3.jpg

The model I received is the Tri-color unit. That basically means that I can change the display to any one of three colors, and any combination in between. I've taken a few shots to give you some idea of how cool that feature is.

Red

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/7162/02082008174001gw3.jpg

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/8741/img3695eh0.jpg

Green

http://img152.imageshack.us/img152/7937/02082008174025xl3.jpg

http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/4522/img3696hd9.jpg


Blue

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/4325/02082008174053ji6.jpg

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/790/img3697lv5.jpg

Purple

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/9895/02082008174217dd7.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/4031/img3698jk7.jpg

I could go on, but you get the idea...

The LCD uses LcdStudio for it's interface and display design. The software is pretty slick. It's basically drag and drop. You can add and resize display components on the fly. The software supports a ton of additional plugins for displaying information. ATITool, Fraps, RivaTuner, Speedfan, iTunes, etc.

http://img125.imageshack.us/img125/2101/02082008175514nb3.jpg

[craigbru]

February 9, 2008

Sometimes you just have to improvise... As (bad) luck would have it, the Via Artigo (http://www.logicsupply.com/products/artigo) that I wanted to put in this case, seems to be out of stock everywhere I look. Most eta's put it's arrival at the end of February. Well, I'm way to impatient to wait almost a month before it arrives. I don't want it to hold up any work on the case, and that's where the improvisation comes in. As it turns out, you can buy the Via PX10000G Pico-ITX motherboard separately (http://www.logicsupply.com/products/px10000g), so that's exactly what I did. So, I purchased that, along with a DC-DC power supply, hard drive, memory, and wireless adapter. The only thing I'm really missing is the small case to put all the parts in. Well, after thinking about it, I don't know if I really needed the case anyway. I can fab something of my own almost as easily. It's a little strange to think about the fact that I bought an entire 'computer' last night... just to put inside another computer... crazy!

February 9, 2008

Well, I just ordered some more parts. This time around, it was mostly for cooling. After much contemplation, I decided to go ahead and pull out the big guns here. If I truly want this case to be something amazing, plain old watercooling wasn’t going to be enough. That being said, I went ahead and ordered the Wintsch Labs Arctic Web TEC cooler, and a Meanwell auxiliary PSU. I also ordered the rest of the needed tubing, barbs, and fittings. At this point, I don’t know if I’m just really committed to being crazy, or crazy enough to be committed…

[craigbru]

February 10, 2008

Who doesn't love parts? I had another package arrive from FrozenCPU. I sometimes feel like I single-handedly keep them in business. :cheese:

A few LED switches, shrink wrap, wire sleeving, and a laser LED light...

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/633/img3682zo7.jpg

A little hex mesh...

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/9248/img3686sm9.jpg

Since the case is watercooled, I wanted a decent sized reservoir. This is designed to fill a 120mm fan hole.

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/5343/img3683dj6.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/4116/img3684hr1.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/2167/img3685xw3.jpg

You'll see here why I chose the reservoir that I did. I thought I'd take care of two issues at once. Not only did I need a reservoir, but I had a 120mm hole in the back of the case that I needed filled.

In order to fit the reservoir in place, I needed to do a little trimming.

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/1288/img3687le9.jpg

A little work with a dremel, file, and sandpaper got me the following results.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/819/img3702qz5.jpg

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/4135/img3700yg5.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/1753/img3701aq7.jpg

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/6448/img3707qs7.jpg

[craigbru]

February 10, 2008

Since I had the Matrix Orbital display arrive, I thought I'd jump to a little work on the front panel. The LCD will be situated on the lower center of the front face. The Dakota Digital gauges will flank it on the left and the right, with the widescreen LCD sitting above it.

Here I've marked out where the display will sit.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/4473/img3703xc2.jpg

After the rough cut.

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8158/img3704cc9.jpg

After the final filing.

http://img108.imageshack.us/img108/6424/img3705wr9.jpg

The display will be recessed behind the panel. Although the door won't need to be used on a regular basis, it will be able to swing free and clear.

http://img248.imageshack.us/img248/3329/img3706ph4.jpg

[craigbru]

February 11, 2008

Another quick update here...

I decided to get a little work done on the top of the case. Due to the dual radiators, and the ATX motherboard, there simply isn't room to mount fans directly to the radiators themselves. This meant I had to take a different approach to airflow. The best option I had was to mount fans on the top of the case. By doing this, fresh, cool air will be drawn in to the sides of the case and through the radiators, then pulled out through the top. Since the rest of the case will be sealed, the only place the air can be drawn in, will be through the radiators. I may lose a little efficiency compared to having the fans directly on the radiators, but I doubt it will be that much. Not to mention the fact that I'll have six fans, for a pair of 240.2 radiators. Also, the Sanyo Denki fans are airflow monsters. They range anywhere from a soft breeze, to Hoover, all at surprisingly quiet noise levels.

Here you can get the basic idea for the top of the case. There will be a panel angled to the left and the right. This will be made using the original cover, in addition to some strategically bent 1mm aluminum. The whole assembly will be easily removed in one piece, just as the original version. I'm checking in to some sort of contact type of connection that will remove the need to unplug the fan wires when the top is removed.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/668/img3710vv8.jpg

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/9354/img3709om3.jpg

Only 4 of the 6 fans are sitting on here right now. I have to cut a little metal to make 6 fit, but I'll have that done shortly.

http://img110.imageshack.us/img110/6420/img3708ek0.jpg

With the above pictures, you should get an idea of where the fan grills come in to play. I'm not completely sold on using fans that are 38mm thick, however. I was hoping for something with a bit lower profile. Even though the Sanyo's are a stellar fan, should I ever want to swap fans at a later date, it should be pretty simple to do so.

More to come...

[craigbru]

February 14, 2008

I thought I'd get a quick update posted. I've got a little more work done on the face.

After the hole cut for the Matrix Orbital LCD, I thought I'd go ahead and get the holes cut for the Dakota Digital gauges. I used a hole saw for the initial cut, which you can see here.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/9072/img3711ju3.jpg

It didn't cut as cleanly as I had hoped, but a little dremel work and filing is getting it in pretty good shape. I've still got a ways to go though. Circular holes suck so much more than rectangles.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/2186/img3712ly1.jpg

I'll continue work on the face of course, but in the meantime, I thought I'd show you some of my new parts arrivals.

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6083/img3713yq4.jpg

This box right here contains the long awaited 10.2" LCD.

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/4089/img3715au8.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/981/img3716wk5.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/6940/img3717vg0.jpg

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/3070/img3718fu4.jpg

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/5436/img3719qd0.jpg

I also had my second digital gauge and sending units arrive. While the other measures water temp, this new one will measure the ambient air temp in the case.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/9730/img3720ne7.jpg

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/3018/img3721kg6.jpg

I have a few more parts arriving tomorrow. I'll post pics of what arrives, and I think you'll find it much 'cooler' than most of my other parts...

[craigbru]

February 15, 2008

Parts, parts, parts! That's what this update is all about. I can't wait to cram all these goodies in the case. So, where should we start?

How about with this monster of a power supply. It's a Meanwell SE-600. I'ts capable of putting out a solid 600 watts, at 24 volts. I must say, it's a little larger than I had hoped. No matter, it only makes the challenge of fitting it in the case, all that much more fun!

http://img264.imageshack.us/img264/3886/img3723rx1.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/8391/img3724sv0.jpg

Okay, so why do I need a power supply that massive? TEC baby! Not just your everyday TEC either, I've got 437 watts of cooling potential here. It's hard to believe that this little square is capable of cooling to subzero temps.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/7671/img3729jg8.jpg

How am I going to pull of that much heat? Enter the Wintsch Labs Arctic Web CPU cooler. I'm not sure exactly how much this thing weighs, but I can tell you that it is beyond solid...

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2477/img3725jt1.jpg

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/6538/img3727wc3.jpg

Here are the necessary foam gaskets, because this thing is guaranteed to cause condensation without them.

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/5179/img3728cy5.jpg

So, we've got the TEC and power supply covered. Here's something a little extra. It's a Swiftech relay for the PSU. No extra switches needed, just turn on the computer, and the relay does the rest.

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/1760/img3745gf1.jpg

[craigbru]

February 15, 2008

A little more here...

This is one of my favorite parts... Can you say pico-itx?

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/4488/img3733jk8.jpg

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/7540/img3736zs9.jpg

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/4049/img3737lc5.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/7696/img3738ad9.jpg

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/217/img3740nz4.jpg

Here's the centerpiece. It's so freaking small! It's completely fascinating to hold in your hand...

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/5521/img3741ow3.jpg

As cool as that is, I still need some way to power it. Here's where the DC-DC power converter comes in to play.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/5107/img3742vf9.jpg

Also, since the Via system will operate independently of the Rogue, I decided to make it wireless capable. Via makes a kit that is pretty small as well.

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/7691/img3743ll9.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/106/img3744ek6.jpg

More to come!

[craigbru]

February 22, 2008

I went and did it... Yes, I killed another Dremel. My own impatience got the best of me. One of the motor brushes actually melted in to it's plastic casing. It did feel a little warm... I guess I'm off to the hardware store to pick up another one tomorrow. Toasted Dremel or not, work must go on.

I might as well start with the hole for the 10.2" LCD. Here I've got a paper template measured out and centered on the front of the case.

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/2650/rogue001vd5.jpg

The hole all taped out and ready for cutting.

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/7501/rogue002yt6.jpg

Here the rough cuts are finished. Due to the dead Dremel, I had to finish with a jigsaw. While it works, it's definitely not my preferred method.

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/889/rogue015dg6.jpg

All filed and finished.

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/7038/rogue017xb3.jpg

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/6500/rogue016sr9.jpg

See this? It's a simple PVC pipe coupling.

http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/6299/rogue006bo6.jpg

So, what is it for? Well, follow along here... I've got a piece of card stock.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/2084/rogue003cg4.jpg

Cut in to a strip.

http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/3408/rogue004uh4.jpg

The paper is coiled and sitting inside the hole.

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/681/rogue005il8.jpg

Everything marked.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/3927/rogue007av1.jpg

The paper template was cut out and transfered to the PVC coupling. After the coupling was cut to match the template, I was left with the following.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/4681/rogue008zo5.jpg

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/338/rogue009kg9.jpg

Now for the other side... More to come!

[craigbru]

February 22, 2008

I know I've posted little bits of information here and there, but many people are still wondering how this is all going to be pulled together. If you were to look at the parts list, you would wonder how I can find the space for all of these parts. Well, I've got a few pictures here that give you some idea of the direction I'm headed. You should also see that there is more room in here than you think, as long as you use the space wisely.

One look at the front panel of the case, and it's pretty easy to see that traditional DVD drives simply aren't going to work. That's were slot load laptop drives come in to play. I've used these drives on L.O.S.I.A.S., and I absolutely love them. It was an easy decision to drop some in the Rogue. So, where are they going?

Take a look at this pic. The drives will sit on the floor of the case. The motherboard tray actually sits slightly above them. When finished, there will be a panel covering them as well.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/4186/rogue010qe9.jpg

http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/2416/rogue011hm3.jpg

Literally, one of the biggest additions to this case, is the Meanwell power supply. This thing is rather large, and finding room for it was a little tricky, to say the least. I did find the perfect spot for it though, and it fits there like a glove. Even though only one radiator is shown in place, you can see how it sits in the case. Airflow blockage shouldn't be a concern.

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/4853/rogue012hm7.jpg

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8392/rogue013gq9.jpg

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/5126/rogue014ng4.jpg

[craigbru]

February 25, 2008

Well, I've finally decided on a platform and chipset. As much as I wanted to go with ATI cards this time around, I just couldn't do it. They may have few decent cards out right now, but NVIDIA always seems to be one step ahead. I would have loved an X38 or X48 chipset, but then SLI wouldn't have been an option. So, that leaves me with the new 780i chipset. Granted it may be only marginally better than the 680i's, but I didn't want to pay the price premium for DDR3 on the upcoming 790i's.

So, what board did I get? I decided on the MSI P7N Diamond. There isn't a whole lot of information available out here on this board right now, but I like the fact that it uses a non-reference design.

http://www.msicomputer.com/product/p_spec.asp?model=P7N_Diamond&class=mb

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/4530/ms7510010ys8.jpg

The MSI board paired with the 9800 GX2's or GTX's, sounds like a killer combination to me! I'll post a few more pics of the board once I receive it later this week.

February 28, 2008

Time for another update! I'm still working on the face of the case. I'm really liking the way it's turning out, but it's definitely time consuming.

In order to continue on the face, I needed to get the DVD drive placement finalized. Here I've got the area I need to remove marked off.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/6749/rogue018un0.jpg

With the hole made, I checked for fit using on of my DVD drives.

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/8328/rogue019ro6.jpg

Now that I know the DVD drive position is finalized, I can work on getting the slots made in the front cover.

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/994/rogue028yl2.jpg

I've finished the rough cut here.

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/3295/rogue029wq9.jpg

Here are the slots all filed and finished with the exception of a little touch up sanding.

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/3024/rogue030pa4.jpg

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/1230/rogue031uo8.jpg

Now I've got a few smaller things that I've been working on. I've got the old power button holes filled. A little JB Weld took care of it...

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/9267/rogue027zl3.jpg

I also have the pocket almost made the second temperature gauge.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/1535/rogue021pn0.jpg

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/7729/rogue022pe0.jpg

More coming shortly!

[craigbru]

March 4, 2008

Time for another update! I've made some pretty good progress in the past few days. What have I been doing? Making holes... Big holes, little holes, rectangular holes, and round holes... I'm starting to dislike holes a little. I'd much rather be fabricating, but it all starts with those dang holes.

In my last update you saw the work I did on the DVD drive slots. So, I'm picking up right there. With the slots completed, I needed to make a hole for the eject button. You'll see that I made the hole larger than the button itself, but there's a very good reason for that. I'll go into detail on that a little later, but for now, you can see what I have so far.

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/4020/rogue039am7.jpg

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/3483/rogue040fj3.jpg

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/4978/rogue041yb7.jpg

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/5582/rogue042af0.jpg

Now I need to make the holes in the front of the case for the gauges. This whole process has been a little time consuming to say the least. There are technically 3 layers I need to make holes in. It starts with the door, then the front of the case, then there's another panel behind there yet...

One hole done, another one started.

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/123/rogue051jn3.jpg

It's a perfect fit!

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/9572/rogue053jw3.jpg

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4229/rogue054oz1.jpg

[craigbru]

March 4, 2008

Well, it's time to get the hole made in the face for the LCD screen. Here I've got it marked out and ready to cut.

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/3604/rogue055ij1.jpg

After the cutting is finished, a little filing and sanding gets things in to shape...

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/6596/rogue057ck3.jpg

The LCD drops right in place.

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/3381/rogue059on8.jpg

More holes you say? Of course! Here I've marked out the hole for the Matrix Orbital display.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/16/rogue060xi4.jpg

Another cut, file and sand completed.

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/1329/rogue063pm3.jpg

At last, I move my way to the inner most panel. Here it changes from aluminum to steel. It's thinner though, and the cutting should be easier. Instead of dust, I'm gonna make sparks. In this picture, I've already got the holes for the Dakota Digital gauges made.

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/599/rogue065ut3.jpg

Now finally, I do a little work on the Matrix Orbital display housing. Naturally, this thing isn't going to be sitting a bay as it was designed to. That's where a little modification comes in. Here I've got the mount marked, and ready for cutting. The left pencil line is where a bend will be, the right line is where the cut will be.

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/5627/rogue069wo8.jpg

After it's cut and bent, this is the end result.

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/5517/rogue070xb3.jpg

More coming soon...

[craigbru]

March 6, 2008

Man, I love updates! Updates mean progress is being made. It's a little bittersweet though. I can see the end in sight, yet building is so much fun. I don't want it to end, yet I have other projects (home related) I need to work on.

With my last update, I was still making holes. With this one, I'm still making holes, although they'll be a little smaller in the end. To start here, I needed to finish the hole in the frame for the widescreen LCD. Luckily, there really wasn't that much cutting involved.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3382/rogue071za9.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/6519/rogue072pj1.jpg

Now, here is a shot with the LCD's and gauges sitting in place.

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/7264/rogue073fm2.jpg

Okay, now that's out of the way. So, what's next? Well, I need a fan controller. Not just any fan controller, I have a Zalman ZM-MFC1 Plus.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/3091/rogue023ul6.jpg

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/593/rogue024ob4.jpg

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/1349/rogue025za5.jpg

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9823/rogue026wg5.jpg

Okay, that's a fine controller you say, but where the heck am I going to put it? If you've been paying attention, space on the front of the case is at a premium. That doesn't mean I'm out of room though. In fact, far from it. However, it's not exactly a 'drop in' procedure. As with everything else so far, a lot of cutting and modding will make it fit.

Well, let's get on with it! Here you can see where the controller will sit.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/8956/rogue074kt4.jpg

That brushed aluminum face sure looks nice, but it's gotta go.

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/4256/rogue075bx3.jpg

Here I've got the holes for the knobs marked out and ready to drill.

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/686/rogue076di6.jpg

The holes have all been drilled, and the fan controller is test fit in place. Everything seems look good. You can see how the LED's in the fan controller will show though the hole in the case.

http://img238.imageshack.us/img238/5223/rogue077lp9.jpg

To be continued...

[craigbru]

March 6, 2008

I'm going to get sidetracked for a quick moment here. While working on the face of the case, I thought I'd take a little time to make the holes for the Bulgin switches that will find a home there.

All marked out...

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/6592/rogue078go3.jpg

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/8706/rogue079cl9.jpg

Here's the secret to getting great large holes. Only a nice step drill bit will do. They're not exactly cheap, but they're worth every penny spent.

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/1849/rogue080cj9.jpg

Moving back to the fan controller, this picture shows you a little bit of the problem I've got to work out. The inside frame on the case is in the way. Well, not for long... A few holes and filing will take care of the problem!

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/3429/rogue081fh4.jpg

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/5561/rogue082bk6.jpg

More coming soon.

[craigbru]

March 7, 2008

Although not directly modding related, my new motherboard has arrived... I'm not sure on the processor yet, but I do have two new sticks of 2x2GB Mushkin DDR2 Redline that I'm going to drop in here.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/5066/rogue032sq8.jpg

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/9613/rogue033gm8.jpg

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/972/rogue034gf1.jpg

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/2204/rogue035gu5.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/4664/rogue036ye8.jpg

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/9787/rogue038qv3.jpg


I can't wait to get this thing up and running. The fact that I've now got almost every component I need, only makes me realize that I'm very close to pulling this whole project together. From here on out, I shouldn't have to spend my time picking out parts, and wondering what I yet need or want. I've got to take what I already have, and a find a home for all of it. Only a little over a month to go!

[craigbru]

March 10, 2008

I've got just a quick update here. Although I have work to do on the front of the case, I decided to mix it up a little. I started working on the top of the case, and it's associated fan assembly. It's the largest cutting project I have left, and I am anxious to get it out of the way. If you've been following along, you should have seen a mock up earlier in the log. This should have given you some idea of the direction I'm headed.

The first thing I had to do, was get the layout marked on the case's top panel. You can see that there is a small strip missing where the original acrylic window was. I'll fill that in a little later.

http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/6994/rogue089za1.jpg

The final cut is done, and I'm working on cleaning up the edges.

http://img379.imageshack.us/img379/4397/rogue090at6.jpg

All done except for the filler strip.

http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/156/rogue091kj8.jpg

Okay, so now what? Well, the fans won't actually be sitting in top of the case. They will be sitting in recessed and angled pockets. The next step is to get the pockets made. Here I've marked out a panel, and it's ready to hit the metal brake.

http://img379.imageshack.us/img379/6606/rogue092js3.jpg

All bent!

http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/1422/rogue093jb4.jpg

I can't use the panels as they are, I need to cut the excess aluminum off. Here's one side done.

http://img387.imageshack.us/img387/4240/rogue094cc6.jpg

Now the other side.

http://img365.imageshack.us/img365/6260/rogue095cu4.jpg

That's it for now, but I'll have another updated for you all tomorrow. Stay tuned!

[craigbru]

March 11, 2008

I've got a micro-update here. I'm currently still working on the top panel, but I've got a couple more shots of the work in progress.

Here you can see the top panel sitting on top of the fan tray. The missing strip will be added once I join the two pieces together.

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/9157/rogue096jz7.jpg

Then finally, you can see the fans sitting in position. Don't worry about the wires right now. They will all be sleeved and presented nicely. They will drop into the center of the cover behind each fan.

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/2333/rogue097ck6.jpg

Well, I'm going back to work. I've got 6 big holes to make!

[craigbru]

March 14, 2008

I've got a little more work done on the top panel, so I thought I'd get a few pictures up.

The first thing I had to do, was cut about 12mm off the top rear of the case. I needed this material removed to resolve a fan clearance issue. Who knew that six 120mm fans could take up so much room? ;-)

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/2607/rogue098dx2.jpg

Next, I used one of my grill templates to mark out where all the holes needed to be.

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/9733/rogue099fk3.jpg

A little time with a hole saw made quick work of the aluminum.

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/6895/rogue100gb9.jpg

With the help of a little JB Weld, the two top pieces were joined together. Here you can see the top panel sitting on the case.

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/8749/rogue101vc4.jpg

Here is another pic with the fans in place. Now I've got to get the missing strip in place, and tomorrow I can get it sanded, cleaned up, and get the wiring for the fans figured out.

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/3365/rogue102mj0.jpg

Speaking of the wiring... I mentioned something about not needing to unhook wires when I removed the top of the case. Well, these little things are going to help me achieve that. I've got male and female spring contacts.

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/3351/rogue104ke8.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5787/rogue103lf3.jpg

I'm off to bed for the night, but work will continue tomorrow!

[craigbru]

March 18, 2008

Update time! I've been a busy guy, so I thought I'd share the fun with all of you. There's no sense in waiting, so I'll jump right in...

Last night I was too tired to dremel, but I still wanted to make progress. That left me with a few different things I could do to pass the time. I ended up choosing the one that seemed the most fun. So, enter the Via Epia Pico-ITX integrated motherboard... Just to recap the purpose of this board, it will be a dedicated download and storage box. It will reside inside the Rogue, and be networked both by wired and wireless. The 10.2" widescreen belongs to the Epia, and the whole thing will be controlled by a program called Synergy. This will allow full control of the box, without the need for a dedicated keyboard and mouse. The Epia system is something that can be left on at all times regardless of whether or not the Rogue is on. There's really not much sense in leaving the Rogue on to suck down power while I download stuff overnight...

So, let's get on with the pics. Some of these may look familiar, but for the sake of continuity, I am reposting them here. Putting the Via system together couldn't have been any easier. I only encountered one problem, which I will cover below.

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/7343/rogue109nz4.jpg

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/5353/rogue114kx3.jpg

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/6418/rogue115sk4.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/3038/rogue116ww2.jpg

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/553/rogue117sa7.jpg

The Epia will have 2 hard drives attached. There is a 40 GB laptop drive for the OS, and a 750 GB drive for storage.

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/7779/rogue110nm5.jpg

In this picture, you can get an idea of how small a Pico-ITX board really is. It's not much bigger than a laptop drive.

http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/4333/rogue118ja7.jpg

It's getting 1 GB of memory...

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/34/rogue111rl1.jpg

And a 90 watt power supply...

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/5639/rogue113fx2.jpg

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/2562/rogue112cb2.jpg

[craigbru]

March 18, 2008

Man, I love updates! Updates mean progress is being made. It's a little bittersweet though. I can see the end in sight, yet building is so much fun. I don't want it to end, yet I have other projects (home related) I need to work on.

With my last update, I was still making holes. With this one, I'm still making holes, although they'll be a little smaller in the end. To start here, I needed to finish the hole in the frame for the widescreen LCD. Luckily, there really wasn't that much cutting involved.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3382/rogue071za9.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/6519/rogue072pj1.jpg

Now, here is a shot with the LCD's and gauges sitting in place.

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/7264/rogue073fm2.jpg

Okay, now that's out of the way. So, what's next? Well, I need a fan controller. Not just any fan controller, I have a Zalman ZM-MFC1 Plus.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/3091/rogue023ul6.jpg

http://img352.imageshack.us/img352/593/rogue024ob4.jpg

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/1349/rogue025za5.jpg

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9823/rogue026wg5.jpg

Okay, that's a fine controller you say, but where the heck am I going to put it? If you've been paying attention, space on the front of the case is at a premium. That doesn't mean I'm out of room though. In fact, far from it. However, it's not exactly a 'drop in' procedure. As with everything else so far, a lot of cutting and modding will make it fit.

Well, let's get on with it! Here you can see where the controller will sit.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/8956/rogue074kt4.jpg

That brushed aluminum face sure looks nice, but it's gotta go.

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/4256/rogue075bx3.jpg

Here I've got the holes for the knobs marked out and ready to drill.

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/686/rogue076di6.jpg

The holes have all been drilled, and the fan controller is test fit in place. Everything seems look good. You can see how the LED's in the fan controller will show though the hole in the case.

http://img238.imageshack.us/img238/5223/rogue077lp9.jpg

To be continued...

[craigbru]

March 18, 2008

Tonight I got a little more work done on the top panel, in addition to playing with the Via system.

Here is the completed top. All the edges are filed and sanded clean. It's also got the holes drilled for the fan wires. It's almost ready for paint, but I've got a few more things I want to do first.

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/3416/rogue121ji8.jpg

I want to keep everything neat and organized, and this little piece is going to help me do that.

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/2815/rogue124wf8.jpg

A few minutes later, I pull this out of the metal brake.

http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/9167/rogue125ys1.jpg

A little dremel work.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/3192/rogue126uj6.jpg

Finally! This is a cover for the fan wires. All wires will be hidden and routed to the front through this.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/4034/rogue127oz1.jpg

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/9500/rogue128ug5.jpg

More to come!

[craigbru]

March 20, 2008

Another day, another update! I've got a few different things I've been working on, so I'll get right to it.

Of all the things I need to get done, I decided to work a little more on the motherboard tray. Since the laptop DVD drives are IDE, I thought I'd take a little time to work on hiding the IDE cable.

Here I've marked out the motherboard tray for the slot I need to make.

http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/3/rogue105db3.jpg

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/861/rogue106op5.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/9568/rogue107do1.jpg

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/8767/rogue108qk2.jpg

With the slot cut in the motherboard, I thought I'd work on getting those DVD drives covered up. So, I've marked out a piece of aluminum, and it's ready for cutting.

http://img361.imageshack.us/img361/868/rogue086wy2.jpg

The piece is cut and ready for the brake.

http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/7054/rogue087wq6.jpg

http://img354.imageshack.us/img354/9804/rogue088vo5.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/8577/rogue129as1.jpg

The cover fits like a glove...

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/8158/rogue130ku9.jpg

[craigbru]

March 20, 2008

Now that the DVD drives have a cover, I need to make a mount for the Meanwell PSU. The Meanwell unit will sit right above the DVD drives in the front of the case.

As with everything else, I've marked out where I need to cut, and make my bends.

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/4239/rogue132te0.jpg

A little dremel work, and it's all cut out.

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/6908/rogue131co7.jpg

Time for the brake!

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/6528/rogue133zq7.jpg

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/5259/rogue134pg6.jpg

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/9929/rogue135cy6.jpg

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/7241/rogue136ux7.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/2238/rogue137qx3.jpg

Looking good!

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/2592/rogue138md0.jpg

[craigbru]

March 20, 2008

I've been playing around a little tonight... I haven't ordered the fan grills yet, so I've been trying to finalize my thoughts, and get exactly the look I wanted. While I was fairly happy with my original design, I've been feeling like it might be missing a little 'something'. That being said, here is one of my revised designs. What do you all think?

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/361/27533101xf1.png

[craigbru]

March 20, 2008


I like the design. As an alternative take on it, I just whipped up a really quick slight different setup based on yours.

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff202/eelambiense/Graphic1-1.jpg

Wow, I really like that! I'm kind of glad I haven't ordered anything yet... It definitely adds a whole lot more character and uniqueness to the panel. Man, I can't wait to get home and give that a shot in Front Panel Designer.

[craigbru]

March 25, 2008

Update time!

Well, I survived the Easter holiday with the family. Of course that meant no time for modding over the weekend. I was finally able to get back on it last night. It seems that there are a hundred different things that need to be done, and half of them require something else to be finished first. Hopefully you will see some big progress over the next two weeks, and get some idea of where I'm actually headed with this. This case is like a giant puzzle. Every piece has it's place, and there is indeed a method to my madness. Spare room is measured in millimeters. Even so, I've tried to keep compromises to a minimum. You've seen me work on quite a few things up to this point, and most of those things are still a step or two away from being finished. I assure you, that will be changing shortly! I'm my harshest critic, and tend to be a bit of a perfectionist. My work is by no means perfect, but I want it to be. Sometimes I can fabricate a piece that is just slightly off. Sometimes by less than a mm. I constantly weigh the pros an cons of making a new piece. Sometimes I move on simply because the difference is invisible to the naked eye, but I never forget it's there... It drives me crazy sometimes... So, is there a point to this rambling? Of course! For all of you following this log, your patience will be rewarded. I can see the end in sight! So, let's get on with it!

Here is an example of what I mentioned above. Even though I've got other things not quite finished, those things are waiting on the following piece. I've got to mount the hard drives somewhere, don't I? Well, in order to get some idea of placement, I had to drop a few components in to the case. Here you will get a pretty good idea of how tight things are going to be. This is where my planning, and a little good luck have payed off!

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/9905/rogue139gm7.jpg

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/3954/rogue140ms3.jpg

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/1121/rogue141pg8.jpg

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/2407/rogue142cm5.jpg

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/1092/rogue143tu9.jpg

So, here is the piece I've marked out. This will hold all the hard drives, as well as be a mounting point for the Via Epia system.

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/4766/rogue144bz8.jpg

After the cut...

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/8758/rogue145gs0.jpg

Holes? Yes, lots of holes... This was something I needed to do in order to bend the aluminum cleanly. This piece is 2 mm aluminum, and really hates being bent in the brake. Especially wide pieces. I suppose I may have been able to get it bent correctly, but this was a much easier way to ensure that it happened. By drilling a hole every millimeter, I was able to make the aluminum much more receptive to bending in the brake. It really didn't have a significant impact on the materials strength, so the trade-off was worth it.

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/4775/rogue146qk8.jpg

Finally, here is the piece with the final bends done.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/5453/rogue147hb2.jpg

It isn't completed yet though, and finishing this piece is where I'll pick up tonight.

As a side note, I have something pretty cool arriving today. Expect more pics tonight!

[craigbru]

March 25, 2008

Well, I came home to a long awaited package on my doorstep. Might as well get right in to it!

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/706/rogue148bb0.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/5868/rogue149qj3.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/783/rogue150bm5.jpg

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/9174/rogue151ae4.jpg

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/2300/rogue152ei9.jpg

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/2972/rogue153tc7.jpg

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5797/rogue154we8.jpg

Wow, the panels look great. Kudos to Front Panel Express. I'm more anxious than ever to get this thing put together and get it lit up. A little red CCFL lighting is really going to make these things stand out!

I've also ordered the fan grills... expect to see those in about 10 days. Woohoo!

[craigbru]

March 26, 2008

From here on out, it's my goal to have an update almost every day. I'm under a deadline I'm probably not going to meet, but I need to have a running rig in less than two weeks just the same! The pressure!

Work continued last night on the hard drive tray assembly. Here you can see the tray sitting in it's approximate position. I need to get some holes cut in it for ventilation and hose routing, and that will be finished tonight.

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/7259/rogue155jh6.jpg

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/1039/rogue156hn9.jpg

So, that's all well and good you say... but how am I going to mount the hard drives? Well, I'm actually going to modify the Rogue's original mounts. Here I've got one taped out, and ready to cut.

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/7161/rogue157ea0.jpg

After the cuts and filing...

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/8937/rogue159et0.jpg

Here is where the drives will sit in the tray.

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/8048/rogue160js9.jpg

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/2838/rogue161og6.jpg

I've started to mark out some holes for ventilation, and that's where I'll pick up tonight...

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/4945/rogue162gx2.jpg

More to come!

[craigbru]

March 27, 2008

Bah, I think the forum ate my post last night... either that, or I was too tired to remember to hit the 'Post' button. :duh: Anyway, here is what should have been posted last night...

I've got a small update here. Family obligations kept me from getting any more done, but I'll settle for any forward progress at all. Work is still continuing on the hard drive tray, and that's where I'm picking up tonight.

In the last update I had some ventilation holes marked out. Here I've got the holes cut, and filed.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/841/rogue163ms4.jpg

I'm not done with the holes yet... I've marked out where the water tubing will need to access the CPU block.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/2878/rogue164yj9.jpg

Once again, all cut!

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/7514/rogue165ao4.jpg

Now finally, here is the tray sitting in the case. Everything seems to line up well. Now I need to get the tray mounting figured out, as well as finding a home for the Via system.

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/1880/rogue166te7.jpg

Now I'm off to bed... work will continue tomorrow!

[craigbru]

March 27, 2008

I've been a slacker tonight, I'll admit it. I haven't done any modding. My CPU came in, and so I decided to fire up the system. It's a very crude setup right now, as you'll see. It's not in the case yet, but I wanted to get Windows installed on it, and all my programs in place. I'm still under a deadline here, and anything I can get done before hand, is going to save me trouble in the end. If I know the system is running when I drop it in the case, then that's going to save me a whole lot of time. Also, if there's problems, I have a little time to figure them out.

So, here are a few pics. I'll apologize in advance for the poor quality.

4 GB of Mushkin sweetness!

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9415/rogue167kp7.jpg

My high dollar testbed (my counter) :thumb:

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/271/rogue168ax6.jpg

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/3671/rogue169nd3.jpg

Now, of course it would have been a little hard to run the TEC without the case, and since I didn't have a socket 775 CPU cooler, I had to improvise. Here you'll see an old OEM socket 939 cooler. Being the modder that I am, I attached it with zip ties. :rock: Believe it or not, it's keeping the CPU right around 29 degrees (at idle)...

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/1025/rogue170wl1.jpg

[craigbru]

April 1, 2008

Once again, thanks for all the votes everyone!

Well, as promised, it's update time! I'm up way later than I should be, so if I write anything that looks like gibberish, I'll edit it tomorrow... :D

I've got so many little things to work on, so it's always a challenge to prioritize what I'm going to work on next. However, I've been working on the hard drive tray, and that's where I decided to pick up tonight. Earlier you saw the modified original hard drive mounts. Those mounts will hold 4 drives, but I needed room for one more. I think I do a decent job of using my limited space wisely, but some things just take up a certain amount of space no matter what. A hard drive is a good example of that. There were a lot of places that a fifth hard drive simply wouldn't fit. I did manage to find a spot though.

Here you see where I've got room to mount a drive. Clearance is less than 1 cm on the top and bottom. That's still plenty of room!

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/6338/rogue174fx3.jpg

Well, now that I've got the placement figured out, I need to mount it somehow. Time to pull out the jigsaw and Dremel!

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/6458/rogue175by9.jpg

Two quick bends in the brake...

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/2632/rogue176mz2.jpg

Here you can see where the bracket will sit.

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/3037/rogue177he2.jpg

Although I've got to drill holes in the bracket yet, you can see approximately how the drive will be mounted.

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/1530/rogue178fv4.jpg

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/8646/rogue179ks7.jpg

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/3882/rogue180dd6.jpg

[craigbru]

April 1, 2008

One thing I need to take care of, is to cut the hard drive tray for length. Here I've got it marked out and ready for cutting.

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/382/rogue181ta3.jpg

I couldn't ask for a better fit.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/3087/rogue182fe8.jpg

Now I need to figure out a way to hold the rear of the tray in place. It's time to make a small bracket!

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/7254/rogue183sv1.jpg

I need to cut the bolts for length, but it otherwise fits well.

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/1410/rogue184ch0.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/852/rogue185xe1.jpg

One thing I began to realize as I built the hard drive tray, is the fact that 5 hard drives weigh a lot! Although the 2mm aluminum is pretty rigid, I decided to take a precautionary measure. I'm going to add an angled support for added strength.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/1592/rogue186gg6.jpg

With one bend done, here's where we run in to a potential problem. There simply isn't anyway to fit the support in the brake. The part that is already bent, makes that impossible.

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/668/rogue187lh1.jpg

http://img201.imageshack.us/img201/4430/rogue188iu7.jpg

So, what do you do? You improvise! Here I've clamped the support between a square and aluminum bar.

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/7394/rogue189nr0.jpg

Then with a steady, even pressure, you simply bend by hand.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/8213/rogue190yd4.jpg

http://img396.imageshack.us/img396/2466/rogue191ug9.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/46/rogue192rr6.jpg

With the piece bent, I wanted to make one more addition. Airflow is key in this case, and the support bracket will sit awfully close the the circu-pipe on the MSI motherboard. So, I decided to add a few holes to the support. These shouldn't affect strength in any way, but still allow a little more flow where it's needed.

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/7642/rogue193dn8.jpg

Now finally, you can see the mount and support bolted to the hard drive tray.

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/6191/rogue194wr8.jpg

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/779/rogue195es9.jpg

And once again, sitting in the case...

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/4391/rogue196hi1.jpg

One last minor thing while I'm at it... Due to the way the PCI slots sit in the case, the power supply mount doesn't allow screws to be used very easily. This was an easy fix though. Just mark and drill!

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/6715/rogue172et7.jpg

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/1394/rogue173qu3.jpg

Well, I'm off to bed for the night, but work will continue tomorrow. Until then!

[craigbru]

April 2, 2008

Well, I've got another update here. Unfortunately, it's not very exciting tonight. That's okay though, I've got a bunch of small details to wrap up, and they've got to be done sooner or later. Tonight just happened to be sooner. :)

The first thing that had to be done, was to mark and drill the holes for mounting the Meanwell power supply.

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/3455/rogue204yj6.jpg

Two quick holes later, and one job is done...

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/8247/rogue205tq1.jpg

Next up, I'll take these little pieces of metal...

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/3384/rogue202yy7.jpg

And turn them in to this. What I've got here, is simply a metal tab that will slide under a lip on the front of the case. It is attached to the channel for the fan wiring. This piece will be responsible for holding the front of the fan assembly in place.

http://img392.imageshack.us/img392/4331/rogue203op7.jpg

Now, I've got to make a home for this. It's part of a wireless antenna assembly. Both the Rogue, and the Epia will be wireless capable.

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/462/rogue200yw2.jpg

There will be an antenna on each side of the case. Here the holes are marked and ready for drilling.

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/1336/rogue201gv6.jpg

Next job... Here I've cut a small piece of metal to fill up part of this hole. Once it was cut to size, it was JB Welded in to place.

http://img178.imageshack.us/img178/6311/rogue206mb5.jpg

Last up for the night... Since the case will have two power supplies, I need to find a home for the Meanwell power connection... Um, where am I going to put this?

http://img366.imageshack.us/img366/4939/rogue197rc7.jpg

Well, there really weren't many options, but I found a home just the same. The bottom two slots on the motherboard are inaccessible because of the radiator placement, so I decided to make a modification to the I/O panel. I'll make a panel to fill the hole, and the connection will be placed in it. That's something I'll have to finish tomorrow.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/9003/rogue198df8.jpg

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/9591/rogue199pl4.jpg

With a few things that I finished up tonight, it means I'm only a day away from painting a few things. The main part of the case will be ready for paint, as well as the top panel and fan assembly. I can't wait to get the hardware dropped in there! :rock:

[craigbru]

April 4, 2008

Well, tonight I finished painting the main part of the case. As I mentioned earlier, the flat black I originally painted the case, was a little too flat. However, I am keeping that color on the inside of the case. That means I had to mask off the interior before I could repaint the exterior. In my eagerness, I didn't get many pics of that process, but maybe it wasn't that exciting anyway. However, I do have a pic of the case primed...

http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/9829/rogue207rc0.jpg

Now I'll jump right to a few pics of the case already painted. For the exterior, I picked up a black metal flake paint. As I took these pics, I realized how hard it is to photograph a metallic paint. The camera simply can't do it justice. I'm hoping that the effect is more visible on the sides and the front, where there happens to be more surface area.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/1412/rogue209kl2.jpg

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/259/rogue211xv4.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/7628/rogue210fp9.jpg

The case will be ready for hardware this weekend. In the meantime, I've got some more painting to do!

[craigbru]

April 5, 2008

Well, kid issues aside, I've got an update!

So, let's get on with a little more painting. I've got the top piece of the case all prepped and ready for paint. I used 4" bolts to allow me to paint both sides easily.

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/3479/rogue212lm7.jpg

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/1293/rogue213kq9.jpg

I painted both sides flat black, then once the paint was dry, I masked off the bottom.

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/3705/rogue215ct5.jpg

Here is the piece after painting and baking... Ooh, shiny...

http://img354.imageshack.us/img354/6826/rogue218hl6.jpg

Now I've got a few miscellaneous things to take care of. Feet, this thing needs feet... I just happen to have 4 of them about to find a home on the case.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/2898/rogue219bj5.jpg

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/4823/rogue220nc6.jpg

I wanted to get the front panel mounted. In order to do that, I need to mount a few components first. I'll start with the Matrix Orbital display.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/1575/rogue221wx4.jpg

Next up is the fan controller...

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/5177/rogue222ei8.jpg

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/659/rogue223it4.jpg

I thought I'd test fit the front panel before I went any further... It fits!

http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/581/rogue224kr6.jpg

Now, let's get those gauges in place...

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/5718/rogue226hd2.jpg

More coming soon!

[craigbru]

April 7, 2008

I'm on a roll tonight! I've got lots to do yet, including some more fabrication, but I thought I'd get a few assembly shots posted.

Since the side panels will be illuminated, I had to drop CCFL's in the lower sides of the case. These things fit like a glove...

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/4181/fremontrodeo4508024ag1.jpg

Next up, I attached the radiator mounts in place.

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/7449/fremontrodeo4508025bu7.jpg

Mounting the reservoir...

http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/2215/fremontrodeo4508026nr4.jpg

The LCD mounted...

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/4876/fremontrodeo4508027sm8.jpg

Front panel back on, and gauges in place...

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/2056/fremontrodeo4508028jr6.jpg

Bulgin switches mounted...

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6871/fremontrodeo4508029zg8.jpg

The work continues...

[craigbru]

April 8, 2008

Just a quick update here before I get to work tonight... The fan grills have arrived! I don't care how wrong it is... These things turn me on! :rock:

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/9933/001pg9.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/9381/002uh6.jpg

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/5491/003mo8.jpg

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6192/005zf9.jpg

[craigbru]

April 8, 2008

I'm on to mounting the grills, and just had to show you guys what it looked like. I think I should have done these last... 'cause I keep getting lost in the red anodized dreamy sweetness...

These stickers gotta go...

http://img374.imageshack.us/img374/9207/006lr9.jpg

A little sleeving...

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/3241/007cq9.jpg

The six-pack...

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/9801/008re9.jpg

This picture needs no explanation...

http://img150.imageshack.us/img150/2498/009re2.jpg

[craigbru]

April 10, 2008

Um, is it Thursday already? I'm only slightly panicked at this point. Netwar is tomorrow, and the rig's gotta be running tonight. If I don't make it, surely it's not for lack of trying. I've been getting to bed around 3am every morning. Heck, I think I've got more time working on the Rogue, than I have at my regular job this week. So, that brings me to this update...

To start things off, I'll show a shot of the completed top panel.

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/4728/001wt0.jpg

Next up, I've got a little more fabrication to do on the interior of the case. I need to make a bracket for mounting the Via Epia system.

All drawn out...

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/8119/004kz8.jpg

All cut out...

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3686/005sk7.jpg

Let's get some bending done. This is a piece with some fairly complex bends for it size. I start by bending on both sides...

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/4197/006mu6.jpg

Then bending again, to form mounting tabs.

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/6271/007vr0.jpg

We are left with this.

http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/6281/008zz8.jpg

Okay, now we have two more bends to make. Because of our prior bends, the piece will no longer fit in the brake. Here I've clamped the piece between an aluminum bar, and a square.

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/5536/009qo4.jpg

After bending...

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/5400/010fj5.jpg

Repeat on the other side, and we are left with this piece.

http://img359.imageshack.us/img359/3311/011gs1.jpg

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/5809/012zp5.jpg

I had to cut a hole in the center to clear the back of the pico board.

http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/5052/013rt3.jpg

The board fits on one side...

http://img182.imageshack.us/img182/6990/014eq6.jpg

The hard drive on the other...

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/9081/015lx1.jpg

[craigbru]

April 10, 2008

I'm on a roll tonight! I've got lots to do yet, including some more fabrication, but I thought I'd get a few assembly shots posted.

Since the side panels will be illuminated, I had to drop CCFL's in the lower sides of the case. These things fit like a glove...

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/4181/fremontrodeo4508024ag1.jpg

Next up, I attached the radiator mounts in place.

http://img356.imageshack.us/img356/7449/fremontrodeo4508025bu7.jpg

Mounting the reservoir...

http://img385.imageshack.us/img385/2215/fremontrodeo4508026nr4.jpg

The LCD mounted...

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/4876/fremontrodeo4508027sm8.jpg

Front panel back on, and gauges in place...

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/2056/fremontrodeo4508028jr6.jpg

Bulgin switches mounted...

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6871/fremontrodeo4508029zg8.jpg

The work continues...

[craigbru]

April 10, 2008

Next up, I've got to make a bracket for mounting the pump.

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/6549/016oj8.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/7977/017ik5.jpg

Here is where it will be mounted on the internal tray.

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/2710/018pf1.jpg

The Via, and pump mounts in their final locations...

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/602/019ab0.jpg

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/3469/022cn7.jpg

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/8310/023gm3.jpg

With the internals completely fabbed, it's time to do a little assembly.

http://img209.imageshack.us/img209/51/021tz9.jpg

Tonight, I will paint the side panels, and drop all the hardware in the case. About the biggest thing to finish, will be the front door. Right now it's not as critical as having the rig running. So, I'll see what I have for time tonight, and maybe I'll get it done too...

[craigbru]

April 15, 2008

Time for another update! If you've been following along, you all know that last week was a mad rush trying to get the Rogue ready for Netwar. Ultimately, I didn't get it done, but I still had fun trying to make it. I think I'm finally catching up on my sleep, but I've still got some catching up to do around the house. I ate cereal out of a measuring cup this morning... Also, starting next week, I've got to start finishing my basement. My fiance and her son, are moving in to my house, in a little over a month's time. I need to get an extra bedroom down there... So, this all means that although the work on Rogue will continue daily, updates are going to come a little slower than in the past. I hope all of you can hang in there... :D

So, on with the update. Here I've got one of the side panels painted...

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3685/rogue001gq1.jpg

Acrylic insert in place...

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8517/rogue002fo1.jpg

Next up, I've got to assemble the TEC and CPU block. A little Arctic Silver on the block...

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/4814/rogue003gh7.jpg

Peltier in place...

http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/1559/rogue004da8.jpg

The cold plate was installed, and the whole assembly was mounted on the motherboard.

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/9053/rogue005dr9.jpg

Now, I've got to make a custom assembly for the Dakota Digital water temperature sender. The sender is designed for automotive applications, so I've had to get creative to adapt it to work in my loop.

Here is the bare sender.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/5858/rogue006ly2.jpg

This right here, is an G 1/4 to G 1/8 adapter. It's actually designed to be used in automotive nitrous oxide systems.

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/5316/rogue007oh6.jpg

The sender has been fitted in to the adapter.

http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/7222/rogue008kv4.jpg

The sender and adapter have been fitted in to a delrin t-block.

http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/5304/rogue009oh2.jpg

Finally, the wiring has been attached, and finished off with some heat shrink tubing.

http://img224.imageshack.us/img224/1241/rogue010oq6.jpg

Tonight, I'll cover a little of the hard drive tray modification, and the start of some detail wiring. I'm also going to be fabricating a new i/o panel for under the reservoir. The one I've got, has a slight alignment issue, and I'm not happy with it. It sits just a little higher than I'd like...

[craigbru]

April 16, 2008

Okay guys, I've teased you all enough. So, I'm going to give in and give you all a little peek...

**Disclaimer** The shots you are about to see represent a still incomplete case... However, I think you'll like what you see. The biggest exterior change, will be the addition of the front door. At that point, the exterior will be complete. Woohoo!

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/337/rogue011sr1.jpg

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/8421/rogue015ll5.jpg

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/1461/rogue013ar9.jpg

http://img208.imageshack.us/img208/8162/rogue014nv6.jpg

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/2742/rogue017vm7.jpg

[craigbru]

April 22, 2008

I'm sure many of you were like me when you were younger? You loved taking things apart... To see how they worked, and to see what was inside. Well, who says that's something you outgrow? I surely haven't!

So, I've decided to tear apart my little Griffin Powermate...

http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/2521/img3625xq1.jpg

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/1957/img3624hz3.jpg

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/3696/img3626nl8.jpg

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/1138/rogue018ph6.jpg

There's really very little surface area left on the front of the case. That means my options for placement are pretty slim. I've decided to put it front and center on the case door. This is why finding the perfect knob is critical. Anything to large, or anything that doesn't match the aesthetics, will certainly look out of place. The knob hunt continues...

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/9004/rogue019xp6.jpg

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/695/rogue020ne5.jpg

I'm currently waiting for a few parts to arrive... they should be here today actually. I needed a few minor things like wire sleeving, and some spade connectors, but I couldn't continue without them. It seems that there are so many little details that have to be taken care of. All cabling will be cut to length, sleeved, and pre-routed. Even wiring that will never be seen, must be in order. If it's not, it will really bother me... So, that's one of the things I'm going to be working on over the next few days.

In the meantime, I had a few details to wrap up on the case face. As shipped, there are acrylic strips that sit to the left and right of the door. These light up red when the case is on. Although they happen to match my theme perfectly, the strip on the right needed to be modified. The LED's from the Zalman fan controller actually reside in the area where the strip is supposed to sit. The fan controller can't be moved, so that meant the strip needed to be modified. This required me perfectly aligning and drilling 6 blind holes in the rear of the acrylic strip.

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/8905/rogue021gq1.jpg

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/8214/rogue022vo3.jpg

I'll show you the rest of details tonight...

[craigbru]

April 29, 2008

Sorry for the lack of updates guys! I've been pretty busy lately...

I've been getting ready to put this pile of 2x4's...

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/9206/rogue036jq2.jpg

In to this basement...

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/6954/rogue035tu8.jpg

I've only got around 3 weeks before my fiance and her son move in. I've got two bedrooms, and a family room to finish down there! Obviously this has taken away from my computer modding time a little. I guess I've been house modding too!

As far as the Rogue goes, work is still continuing, albeit a little slower than before.

So, how about a little front door work? Here, I've just finished drilling the hole for the Griffin Powermate.

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/1955/rogue024fw5.jpg

All cleaned up.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/4008/rogue025ht8.jpg

Now for the knob. As luck would have it, part of the original Powermate's internals, happen to be perfect for the job. I just had to fill the pocket with a little JB Weld, and sand it down.

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/4075/rogue028rz8.jpg

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3846/rogue029jj6.jpg

A fresh coat of the black metallic, and it's ready to go.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/8517/rogue033mp2.jpg

Now, I've got to switch directions momentarily. In order for me to finish wiring, I need to finish my new I/O panel. It consists of 3 switches for lighting, and I need to add a pair of USB ports for the Via system, and a cat5 port. I've got it all marked out.

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/4011/rogue026se2.jpg

Now cut.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/1135/rogue027if1.jpg

Just like I wanted...

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/7848/rogue030sr0.jpg

At this point, I could have been finished, but then I thought of something. How many times have you fumbled around behind your computer attempting to plug something in to a darkened crevice? I've done it plenty of times, and decided to remedy that little issue with the help of a few LED's...

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/4328/rogue038yt5.jpg

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/60/rogue037ow7.jpg

Okay, now what? it's a lot of small details and wiring. I need to get all of that done so I can drop hardware in the case. Although things are very tight, most of the wiring should be hidden, and placed out of sight. I want a very clean interior. What little wiring is visible, will be sleeved, and tucked away nicely. So, lets start getting some of that out of the way.

The home for the Meanwell PSU relay...

http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/1550/rogue034tg6.jpg

A CCFL inverter tucked nicely away...

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/5973/rogue031zo2.jpg

Some sleeved switch wiring...

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/4286/rogue032yk4.jpg

Um, more wiring... Trust me, this will be clean by the time I'm done with it!

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/9637/rogue039yx7.jpg

And the work continues!

[craigbru]

May 3, 2008

Well, fan issues aside, I've got a micro-update to post here. I've been working on wiring up the fans. Here you can see me soldering the fan wires to the contacts.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/9706/rogue044lt9.jpg

After the wires were soldered, the contact assembly just fit inside the wire channel. A few bolts were put in place, and she's good to go!

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/4397/rogue045jr7.jpg

With any luck, tomorrow I'll get the contact strip done inside the case. Stay tuned!

[craigbru]

May, 3 2008

It's been quite a while since I first mentioned them, so I probably should have given a quick recap. Basically, you have male and female contacts. The male's are spring loaded. So, you have the female contacts attached to the fan assembly, and the male contacts will be attached inside the upper part of the case. When the top of the case is put on, all contacts will touch, and power will be supplied to the fans. There's no need to disconnect and connect wiring when removing the fan assembly. It's clean and neat, and should allow for greater airflow with the reduced wiring.

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/5787/rogue103lf3.jpg

[craigbru]

May 4, 2008

No computer modding done today, but we did get a little work done in the basement.

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/8169/rogue048rv9.jpg

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/9607/rogue049gy8.jpg

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/3036/rogue050tt0.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/1039/rogue051ij2.jpg

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/5164/rogue052mo9.jpg

The work continues!

[craigbru]

May 26, 2008

Finally, an update! Thanks for being so patient guys! Things have been crazy around here lately, but progress was made all the way around. So, let's get on with it!

First up, I'll show you all a few pics of the basement progress.

Here, all the electrical work has been done.

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/1456/rogue259ae6.jpg

Drywall started! Most of the ceiling has been done in this shot. We should get the wall insulated, and some rock on the walls starting tomorrow.

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/135/rogue260mp6.jpg

Well, let's move on to the Rogue.

I mentioned all the goodies that will find their way under the motherboard tray. Of all those things, one of them is a 4 port USB hub.

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/8493/rogue232qj0.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/213/rogue235bk1.jpg

There are also a pair of USB wireless adapters. One for the Rogue, and one for the Via.

http://img365.imageshack.us/img365/7550/rogue233cx6.jpg

http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/1439/rogue234ij0.jpg

One of the additional features I'm adding to this case, is integrated bluetooth.

http://img296.imageshack.us/img296/9465/rogue238nq5.jpg

I've had to modify and sleeve a USB cable.

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/4484/rogue239jb1.jpg

http://img144.imageshack.us/img144/4195/rogue253km5.jpg

http://img412.imageshack.us/img412/571/rogue254zz2.jpg

Here I've stripped the cover off the bluetooth adapter.

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/6144/rogue237of8.jpg

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/9061/rogue240uz4.jpg

Finally, the adapter sitting in place on the front of the case.

http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/1831/rogue241ri1.jpg

This may look a little messy, but I had to test all my modified cables before I went any further. Once the motherboard is in place, things are going to be a little difficult to troubleshoot.

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/1536/rogue255dn7.jpg

All seems to work fine. I've got video, and all USB connections work as they should.

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/9724/rogue256od6.jpg

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/4724/rogue257rz5.jpg

With everything else take care of, I dropped the motherboard tray in place.

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/3235/rogue258wj3.jpg

Next up, I'll get the front of the case in place and start some assembly. Woohoo!

[craigbru]

June 1, 2008

What a busy weekend! I've made a little progress on the Rogue, but even more on the basement...

http://img68.imageshack.us/img68/27/rogue261go9.jpg

http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/4374/rogue263ny2.jpg

http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/1544/rogue262tk7.jpg

Each bedroom has a recessed pocket for a desk...

http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/6688/rogue265nm4.jpg

http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/849/rogue264ns5.jpg

http://img78.imageshack.us/img78/4378/rogue266ro4.jpg

Taping and finishing started!

http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/9967/rogue275eb4.jpg

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/8025/rogue276yu8.jpg

So, how about the Rogue? Here I've got the front of the case installed. Maybe someday I'll actually get started on that door...

http://img77.imageshack.us/img77/4984/rogue267ck6.jpg

The motherboard sitting in place. I've not screwed it down yet. I may need to move it a little to get the second radiator in place...

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/4610/rogue269th0.jpg

Okay, so what now? I've got a little wiring to finish. I need to make a custom cable for the LCD screen and the Via. Due to the way that the Via is situated, I need more clearance above it, than I currently have. There's no way a normal VGA connector would work... not if I wanted to clear the fans on the top of the case anyway. So, a little bit of old-fashioned hackery was in order.

Here I've got the stock VGA cable.

http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/2186/rogue271qv7.jpg

A few minutes later...

http://img133.imageshack.us/img133/135/rogue272yd2.jpg

That should about do it... almost... I still need a little more clearance.

http://img71.imageshack.us/img71/645/rogue273tm3.jpg

About 45 seconds with a heat gun, and I was left with this... Up next, I'll clean it up a little more, and sleeve it...

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/4692/rogue274bo9.jpg

[craigbru]

June 11, 2008

Update time baby!

I'll start off with a little basement recap. As I mentioned earlier, I needed to put an egress window in one of the bedrooms. To do that, I needed a hole... A shovel and concrete saw, got me this far...

http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/9849/pic029ye5.jpg

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/2866/pic028vp0.jpg

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/628/pic009wp3.jpg

I've got no pics with the window installed yet, but they are coming. With the window installed, we've been busy hanging a little more rock, and doing some finishing work. Since I've been neglecting progress on the Rogue while working on the basement, the fiance said she was willing to help me out. She can put screws in like a pro. I told her it wasn't bad for a girl. :D Actually, I told her I was going to put pictures of her 'screwing' on the internet...

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/2845/pic024du5.jpg

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/4405/pic025hy9.jpg

Well, enough basement work, let's get on to the Rogue! Assembly, assembly, assembly... that's where we are at. I've got just a small amount of fabrication left, but I need to get some things put together first. What you are about to see, represents hours worth of work, but I'm not sure a few pictures represent that. I may be pretty good at packing things in small spaces, but there is one downside, assembly is a pain!

The second radiator has rejoined the case!

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/3994/rogue277rw0.jpg

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/1724/rogue278ge9.jpg

See the wiring for the switches? Um, yeah, I need to get some 3/4" tubing through there. I knew it would be tight, but damn...

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/7013/rogue279se9.jpg

Finally, the tubing is in place. Sure, it's tight, but it's still clean. Yeah!

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/9827/rogue280wa9.jpg

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/7459/rogue282qu3.jpg

Up next, more tubes!

[craigbru]

June 19, 2008

How about some more assembly? I've got several small things that I've been working on. Not a single one of them are very large (well, with one exception), but they all are needed just the same. So, let's get on with it!

A few posts back, I mentioned needing to make a new mount for the Via system. The following pics will show you exactly why.

The fan assembly on the case...

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/737/rogue287eo3.jpg

Here you can see the problem. The VGA output on the Via, is directly below where the contacts for the fans need to be. There was no way to modify things to fit, so a new mount was needed.

http://img372.imageshack.us/img372/5095/rogue288ol0.jpg

Here I've got the new mount marked out, and ready for cutting.

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/74/rogue290lx5.jpg

Cutting done, and ready for bending. (I'll get the finished pics up tonight hopefully)

http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/2532/rogue291zw3.jpg

After the bracket was bent and painted, I decided to move on to a few other things while paint dried. One of the things I did, was to drop the auxiliary PSU in to place and double check fitment. Fits like a glove!

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4086/rogue283py5.jpg

There is minimal clearance on both sides, but it's pretty much what I expected.

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/567/rogue285br5.jpg

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/3928/rogue286on2.jpg

Another small project... Due to the numerous wires surrounding the motherboard's 8 pin connector, it was virtually impossible to connect the PSU cables after assembly. Obviously, I wanted the PSU to be relatively easy to remove. So, to fix that little problem, I bought a pair of 8 pin connectors...

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/5427/rogue294oj9.jpg

I found a suitable location on the PSU cable...

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/2733/rogue295gr5.jpg

I painted the connectors black, and installed them inline... I can now plug in the PSU cable, in a much more convenient location.

http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/463/rogue297yi5.jpg

More coming soon...

[craigbru]

June 24, 2008

Update time! I'm so close to having this thing running, it's a little scary. This has taken up so much of my time since last November, I'm really going to miss working on it when I'm done... :(

First thing up... a small update on the basement progress. Remember the egress window? Here's a couple shots from inside one of the bedrooms.

http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/8114/rogue298qk0.jpg

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/9586/rogue299tc4.jpg

Now on to the Rogue...

A few posts back, I mentioned needing a new mount for the Via system. Here are the finished results. Everything now fits perfectly.

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/4092/rogue300py5.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/9831/rogue301sr5.jpg

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/525/rogue302mp6.jpg

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/1801/rogue303ds8.jpg

Next up is the lower mount for the fan assembly contact strips. Here I've got the mount all marked out.

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/6751/rogue305hx7.jpg

All cut out...

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/1703/rogue306pi3.jpg

A pair of braces...

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/3111/rogue307ip3.jpg

Here the mount is bent, and assembled.

http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/7452/rogue309zs8.jpg

Let's see if it fits... Perfect!

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/8581/rogue308ai2.jpg

Moving on to the contacts... I've mounted them on a strip of square metal.

http://img386.imageshack.us/img386/7758/rogue304cl4.jpg

This jumble of wires represent all the fan wiring. I've got to attach it to the contacts, and sleeve it.

http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/4439/rogue311vz3.jpg

Soldering in progress.

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/6075/rogue312xx2.jpg

All sleeved! If you look closely, you might see an additional lone wire. That attaches to the motherboard for RPM monitoring.

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/8237/rogue313fi0.jpg

Finished!

http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/2175/rogue314uf8.jpg

With the fan wiring done, I've moved on to a little more plumbing.

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/1477/rogue310ep0.jpg

It's pretty much all assembly from this point on. Wish me luck guys!

[craigbru]

June 26, 2008

So, is it running? Not quite, but I've only got about 15 minutes of work until I can add coolant. I was up until about 2 AM last night, and decided to stop for myself... and the Rogue's safety. I was just too tired to continue. No worries though. I'll be off work a little early today to work on it!

Well, how about a few pictures then? Here is the inline temperature sensor...

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7606/rogue315nz5.jpg

I revised the tubing layout slightly...

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/2785/rogue316kk0.jpg

Almost ready to drop the tray in...

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/3212/rogue317ym0.jpg

Video cards in place...

http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/9674/rogue318bq8.jpg

Testing Paladin (the Via system)...

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/900/rogue319gi6.jpg

The tray is in place!

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/6131/rogue320wb7.jpg

From here, I've got to route two more tubes, and I can add coolant. Expect updates tonight!

[craigbru]

June 27, 2008

Just a few pics here guys, as I've obviously had other concerns...

This case is getting custom length cables throughout. I don't have room to stash any extra length, so it's cut, splice, and connect time! This is the start of one of the new SATA power cables.

http://img183.imageshack.us/img183/5343/rogue321sp2.jpg

More pics of assembly (sans pump).

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/2443/rogue322kv4.jpg

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/4638/rogue323nj2.jpg

[craigbru]

June 30, 2008

Okay guys, pic time... What I'd like you to keep in mind, is that the following pics are a little messy. This represents me trying to get the machine running in time for a LAN. I've still got quite a bit of detail work to finish. I'm waiting on a few parts to arrive, then I'm making custom length cables for the video cards. I literally need to take about 18" off of each of them. Luckily the modular NZXT PSU makes the job pretty easy. I'll also recap a few of the problems I had after installation, following the pics...

SO, here I'm trying to stuff all the excess cable in the rig. I managed to do it, and still get airflow! You can see here why I need the shorter cables. This thing is a mess! I've also got to shorten and sleeve the pump power cable...

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/8202/rogue333zr8.jpg

A work in progress pic from the back...

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/87/rogue329gk6.jpg

A side shot...

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/4859/rogue338ab6.jpg

From the front. (I still need to make that dang door!)

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/126/rogue341wt6.jpg

Let's light it up!

http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/7509/rogue339xk7.jpg

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/2050/rogue340ko3.jpg

http://img56.imageshack.us/img56/5519/rogue342nh3.jpg

Now let's take a look at those temps. The reading varies on both Speedfan, and Everest, but it doesn't matter... they are well below 0! Also note the reasonable (considering the case) GPU temps...

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/7703/rogue343zb5.jpg

http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/6885/rogue345gm5.jpg

Okay, now I mentioned a few problems. For some reason, I couldn't get the front panel power button to work. No matter how I tried, the machine simply wouldn't start with it plugged in. Believe me, I tried quite a few different possibilities, but my time was short, so testing will continue later. Also, for some reason, anything plugged in to the USB hub under the motherboard tray, isn't working. All tested fine before assembly, but nothing is working now. That includes the Matrix Orbital display, bluetooth, wireless, and a thumbdrive for ReadyBoost. I may need to disassemble to investigate. I've also noticed a hairline crack in the reservoir. Nothing leaks, but I may replace it as a precaution. Lastly, the lower LED on the fan controller doesn't seem to be functioning. Not sure why, but I'll get it straightened out as well. All in all, I'm more than happy with it's performance and function. I'll gather the parts I need to fix, and take the time in a week or two to fix what needs fixed. In the meantime, I'll try and finish the long neglected front door. I'll also need to finish my basement above all else. One last thing, I'm going to get some gaming in!

[craigbru]

July 12, 2008

I've got just a small update for everyone... but it's not on the Rogue. My priority has been getting the basement livable, and this last week, I accomplished just that. The carpet has finally been put down, and the kids have already moved some things in to their rooms. I've got to put in the electrical outlets, finish the lighting, and install doors and trim yet, but that's pretty minor compared to what I've got done so far. So, how about a few pics?

First of all, I'll show you what the walls look like. All walls were hand textured, and then painted with a ragroll technique. It's not a true ragroll because of the way I applied it, but it's the exact effect I wanted. The combination of the wall texture, and the paint, give it a warm and slightly rustic look.

http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/4138/basement012jm6.jpg

Here is the family room, and a view down the hall.

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/8748/basement001li0.jpg

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/8572/basement007cj6.jpg

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/5176/basement008vq1.jpg

Moving on down the hall, I have a shot of my soon-to-be stepson's room. Like a typical boy, he wanted something that looked like camouflage. This was about as close as i wanted to get him. The thought of repainting a few years down the road wasn't very appealing...

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/205/basement003mm8.jpg

Finally, at the end of the hall, is my daughter's room. She is moving down, from her room upstairs. That means we'll have an extra room upstairs. Since I'm already getting an office downstairs, the extra room will be turned into an exercise room for the moment.

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/9879/basement005pn2.jpg

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/5024/basement009jh7.jpg

With that out of the way, work will continue at a much faster rate on the Rogue. Granted, the basement still needs some work, including the addition of a new bathroom, but the rush is over, and the space can be used.

Speaking of the Rogue, I may have myself another deadline... this one is much bigger though... I'm talking about Nvision 2008 in San Jose. I'm currently trying to work some things out, so that I'll be able to attend. Time is an issue though. I leave for my wedding and honeymoon in about a month. Nvision would start literally 2 days after I get back. I'd be gone most of the week, and then have my wedding reception a few days after I get back. It's not impossible, but it's certainly less than ideal if I don't have everything planned beforehand. Wish me luck!

[craigbru]

July 14, 2008

Finally, I've got time to work on the Rogue! Tonight's update involves PCI-E cables... They're way to long, and in dire need of shortening. So, that's where we pick up...

The stock cables...

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3269/rogue346ha1.jpg

I've marked the desired cable length.

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/9602/rogue347uz2.jpg

The first cut has been made. I cut around 40 cm off each cable.

http://img295.imageshack.us/img295/731/rogue349rc7.jpg

The new connectors and pins...

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/5323/rogue348is5.jpg

The first cable completed.

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/4520/rogue350ev7.jpg

All 4 done!

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/3638/rogue351fh2.jpg

The last project for the night, involved reversing the PSU fan. Why you ask? Well, a single 120 mm fan blowing air out of the case, stood little chance against the vacuum of the six San Ace's on top of the case. As you can see, the PSU was equipped with a San Ace of it's own. Instead of fighting against the other fans, the reversal will allow the fans to work together, while still keeping the PSU cool. Some may argue that I'm now blowing warm air from the PSU into the case, and it could have a negative effect on case and video card temps. I'm guessing that the sheer volume of air moving through this case will negate that. If the temps are seriously affected, I'll flip the PSU, so the fan is on top (thanks for the suggestion Ash).

http://img501.imageshack.us/img501/9485/rogue353lx6.jpg

[craigbru]

July 16, 2008

Well, work continued on the Rogue last night, but if I were to take pictures of my 'progress', you would think I was crazy. The case now sits completely naked on my counter. Yep, the case is completely disassembled right now. In order to fix the problem with the USB hub, I had to get back under the motherboard tray. That pretty much meant everything had to come out anyway. I also needed to remove the front of the case to fix the non-working LED on the fan controller. While apart, I've decided to make a modification to the area above the PCI slots. Right now, getting video cards in and out, is a convoluted affair. A little dremel work can simplify the whole process. I know things are tight in this case, but I want it to be relatively easy to work on. I don't want to pull apart the entire case, just to swap a video card. After the dremel work, the case will get another shiny new coat of paint baked on.

After the paint, I'll start the reassembly. I've got a few changes in store there as well. The case wiring is getting modified and streamlined. I am doing away with almost all the spade connectors under the motherboard tray, and will be switching to terminal strips. This should clean up the clutter significantly. I am also switching to a 'flag' style spade connector for the switches on the rear of the case. This will take care of a few clearance problems, and make future maintenance much easier.

Other small changes include; adding a small fan to the chipset 'Circu-pipe' for better cooling while overclocked, adding aluminum spacer tubing to cover the fan bolts on top of the case, and wiring the front LCD in to the VIA's power.

So, why is the above completely crazy? Well, I'm now officially heading to Nvision 2008 in San Jose, CA, at the end of August. It should be the premier of the completely finished Rogue. I'm leaving for Mexico on the 15th of August, so that leaves me less than a month to finish up every last detail on this case, and ship it to Johnny at NZXT before I leave. Oh, and in the meantime, I have to finalize all the wedding reception plans... Things are gonna get crazy around here!

[craigbru]

July 29, 2008

Okay, who wants an update! Yeah, I know it's a small one, but at least I'm making progress! I've only got two weeks to get this think completely finished for Nvision, and there's no way I can miss this deadline! The rig will be running again tonight, and then I'm going to allow myself about a week to get the front door done. That will leave me a week to figure out how to pack this thing up for shipping...

So, I mentioned some rewiring...

It may not be a close up shot, but here you can see the previous switch/etc. wiring in the upper right hand corner.

http://img49.imageshack.us/img49/4610/rogue269th0.jpg

Here is the revised wiring.

http://img74.imageshack.us/img74/4098/rogue356vi5.jpg

Much cleaner, isn't it? Well, it's all due to the switch to these little flag style spade connectors.

http://img61.imageshack.us/img61/1088/rogue354qd6.jpg

Now, I'll let you in on a dirty little secret... this has to be my least favorite picture of the whole build. This is the revised wiring under the motherboard tray. It's still not as clean as I'd like, but I had to draw the line somewhere. Especially since this will never be seen, even during a hardware change.

http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/1749/rogue355po9.jpg

Finally, the last little update involves extra chipset cooling. The Circu-pipe does a decent job of cooling at stock speeds, but active cooling is always better for overclocking. So, where to put a fan? Other owners have added fans, but I've not seen this kind of placement on any of the MSI boards yet. A 40mm fan fits perfectly as shown in the pics below.

http://img294.imageshack.us/img294/4646/rogue357vt3.jpg

http://img65.imageshack.us/img65/4167/rogue358zy2.jpg

More coming soon!

[craigbru]

July 29, 2008

Progress every day, that's my goal! I managed to get some more work done last night, and I'm committed to having the rig running tonight! I probably could have made it last night, but I needed my sleep...

So, in addition to dropping more components in the case, (you'll see that progress in a slideshow), I put a new top on my DDC pump. I did this for several reasons. The first, was to save a little room around the pump itself. The new Koolance top has a much smaller footprint. The second reason, was due to the much better barb placement. The Alphacool top I was using, didn't accommodate 3/4" tubing all that well. Basically, there was no room for a proper clamp, so a zip tie was needed. I wasn't happy with this solution, so the change was made.

Here is the original Alphacool top.

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/192/rogue359ar5.jpg

The new Koolance top.

[craigbru]

July 31, 2008

Another night gone, and more modding done!

So, about that PSU extension cable... It will indeed connect the motherboard to the PSU (obviously), but exactly why it's needed may not be as obvious. It goes without saying that things are very tight in this case. One of the problems with that, is the fact that it's pretty much impossible to attach the PSU cable to the motherboard with the hard drive tray in place. That also means that I can't remove the PSU without pulling the tray out as well. That simply won't do. I want to be able to remove things individually whenever possible. Things may be tight, but I still want easy maintenance. So, the extension leaves me with plenty of extra cable, and the excess has to go...

Cable stripping...

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/2905/rogue366fb3.jpg

New 24 pin connector...

[craigbru]

August 1, 2008

Just a microscopic update here... Coolant is now circulating, although I haven't powered the rig on yet. Getting air out of this loop requires some tricky maneuvering. All seems to look good, and everything is leak free so far...

With the liquid flowing, I thought I'd work on a small detail or two. Aluminum tubing! I decided that I didn't want to look at exposed bolt threads. Well, there's only one way to fix it! (The fan assembly will get the same treatment).

I cut and lightly polished some tubing...

http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/5198/rogue369pu8.jpg

Much better than before! It's all in the details!

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/9529/rogue370ir2.jpg

[craigbru]

August 6, 2008

It's time for the front door! Yes! I've been wanting to say that for months now! Everything else was so much more important, while the door was mostly cosmetic. I say mostly, because it will hold a modified Griffin Powermate for controlling the Pico system. So, what am I waiting for?

I'll start off with a few shots of the PSU in place. My last update involved the modification of it's cables. With that done, it was time to drop it in to place, and fire it up. Everything worked as it should! As you can see here, things are still very tight, but very much improved thanks to the shorter cables.

http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/5273/rogue371rg8.jpg

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/782/rogue372hu3.jpg

Now, on to the door. I need to put 'filler' strips around all the openings in the case. The easiest way to do this, was by cutting acrylic to size.

Marked...

http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/5926/rogue373gl8.jpg

Cut... (It's almost invisible!)

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/8696/rogue374ka7.jpg

The first few pieces in place.

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/6242/rogue375oz9.jpg

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/3900/rogue376ku8.jpg

Finally, a test fit on the door.

http://img93.imageshack.us/img93/9889/rogue377de9.jpg

I got a lot done last night, but still have more to cut. I'm hoping to make huge progress tonight. Stay tuned!

[craigbru]

August 9, 2008

Okay... so I got a little busy... I'm going to put up a few pics of my progress though, just to show you where I'm headed. I'll have the door ready for paint tomorrow.

I forgot to take few shots, but here is an updated shot of the back of the door. You can see the work I did below with the DVD drive slots. The slots will be lit by LED's and they have pushbuttons through them for activating the drive eject.

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/7854/rogue382mp3.jpg

A shot from the front.

http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/3087/rogue383qp3.jpg

The centerpiece of the front door, is a modified Griffen Powermate. This will act as a mouse emulator for quick and easy adjustments on the pico system. I'll still be using a VPN client, and Synergy, but the Powermate is just another method of control, should I need it.

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/1382/rogue378pd8.jpg

The Powermate originally had a blue LED on the bottom, and a change was in order. I've now got a pair of red LED's in place.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/3168/rogue379gb5.jpg

Finally, here are a pair of shots of the Powermate's mounting. This will be attached to the back of the door. In fact, you should see it in the first shot up above.

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/617/rogue380nw3.jpg

http://img378.imageshack.us/img378/6998/rogue381ne1.jpg

That's it for now, but I should have another update by tomorrow morning!

[craigbru]

August 11, 2008

Update time! Work has been continuing on the door, and last night I got it painted and ready for assembly. I had a few details to take care of before painting, and I'll cover those things right now.

There were a few areas on the back of the door that I decided to fill with bondo for a better look. The areas on either side of the LCD, and the area above the LED's all got filled. Although I didn't take a pic of it, the LED's sit in a covered pocket. The bondo is just there to smooth out the surface.

http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/9647/rogue384xy2.jpg

Okay, so I've got a couple of slots in the front door for the DVD drives. What I need is a method of pressing the buttons on the drives. That's where these come in to play. They are the new acrylic buttons for the door.

http://img128.imageshack.us/img128/4087/rogue385dd4.jpg

Buttons in place

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/3776/rogue386sj8.jpg

A test fit on the case. I did have another shot, but I can't locate it now... but the button was made wide enough to cover the status LED on the DVD drive. The button lights up when there is activity on the drive.

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/7118/rogue388uz2.jpg

Now we head to the back of the door again. I've test fit the Powermate in the door again, and it fits just as it should. One problem though, I don't want to see the back of it when the door is open. Only one way to fix that. It needs a cover!

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/9439/rogue389ja0.jpg

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/3435/rogue390rj9.jpg

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/4589/rogue391se9.jpg

That's it for now, but tonight I should have the door on the case, and will have progress shots all the way up to that point.

[craigbru]

August 12, 2008

I'm so close... the rig will be finished tonight! It's a little bittersweet, but it been one hell of a journey...

I'll start off with a picture that I was missing in my last post. Here you can see how the acrylic button lights up with DVD drive activity.

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/9337/rogue387jw2.jpg

Now, here's a shot of the area underneath the Powermate knob. I fitted an acrylic ring under there. It will be illuminated by red LED's.

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/7489/rogue394cu8.jpg

A shot of the door...

http://img124.imageshack.us/img124/4479/rogue395zc1.jpg

To finish off the door, here is the freshly painted cover for the back of the Powermate.

http://img124.imageshack.us/img124/9097/rogue403xz6.jpg

Cover in place...

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/378/rogue404tw6.jpg

Now, I'll head in a different direction for a moment. I decided to cover up the exposed screw threads on the fan assembly.

A bunch of spacers...

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/2650/rogue396za5.jpg

I need to polish them up, so I attached them to a drill.

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/2459/rogue398kq7.jpg

Spin and polish!

http://img124.imageshack.us/img124/5359/rogue399hv5.jpg

Shiny!

http://img125.imageshack.us/img125/4677/rogue400sg5.jpg

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/815/rogue401cc1.jpg

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/2950/rogue402fl8.jpg

More coming tonight!

[craigbru]

August 13, 2008

I know I have a ton of comments to respond to.. and I will... but I'm pressed for time at the moment. I owe you guys some pictures though!

It lives!!!

The completely finished interior!

http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/9659/rogue405cr5.jpg

The outside while off.

http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/3879/rogue406rs3.jpg

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/4631/rogue407uw9.jpg

All it up baby!!

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/9233/rogue409xp3.jpg

http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/2225/rogue408yb5.jpg

I'll have comments and observations in a little while! Now I need some caffeine, it was a terribly late night...



Link To Original Worklog (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17346)