Project: Pawned!

[Wag]

Howdy folks

I'm far enough along on my latest project that I determined a worklog was the logical next step. So after resizing close to sixty images for the site I'll try to get some progress posted.
For those of you who are new to my work, you can check out my previous mods as follows:

Dewy: My First Mod
http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16825

Khaos: My Brothers Birthday Present
http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15571

Champloo: A short and Sweet mod for my Cousin
http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=15763

Ok, so now that the shameless plug is out of the way, On to the newest project: Pawned

They all start out so innocent. Just a good sturdy Antec tower case. Can't remember the model name but I'm sure we've all seen them before.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2155.jpg

and so.... Disassembly begins.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2173.jpg

The sides are removed with ease and then the feet come off. I may or may not use them again later. Haven’t yet decided.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2168.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2169.jpg

The top and bottom takes a little more care, requiring me to drill out the rivits.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2174.jpg

With no top

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2175.jpg

With no top or bottom

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2178.jpg

Leaving me with a stack of panels

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2180.jpg

Next its time to start drawing up the design on the case. Using a created image created in Photoshop then printing onto 3 separate pages, taping together, taping the corners to the panel, and finally using carbon paper to transfer the image.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2184.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2901.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2904.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2906.jpg

Then outlined with a sharpie to make things easier to see.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2910.jpg

The other panel was a little more difficult to design. With the Checkerboard design I went back and forth about cutting the entire deal out and them gluing the parts or bolting the parts back on to create the checkerboard pattern. Ultimately I decided that cutting out the individual squares would lend itself well to the design and give the pattern an interesting effect. Leaving me measuring and re-measuring my lines until I had a pattern that worked on the side.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2912.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2916.jpg

Then on to the cutting...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2921.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2928.jpg

Man that was thick metal. Each square used a full cutting wheel disc with the dremel. Sometimes closer to two.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2930.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2933.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2935.jpg

So about sixty cutting wheel discs later, we finally have the first result.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2943.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2944.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2947.jpg

Next time, we tackle the pawn.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2942.jpg

Until next time...

[Wag]

Ok, so the next step was cutting out the Pawn. A fairly easy task to do with the jigsaw and a couple of incisions with the dremel. There was a little cleanup afterward with the dremel as well, but considerably easier than the individual squares of the last post.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2956.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2958.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2959.jpg

I'll be cutting out the lettering later... I think... Still haven't decided.... anyway.

For the top, again, it was the same design in Photoshop, print, tape, carbon copy, rinse, repeat. The design will be asymmetrical due to some limitations on the case itself, plus it has the added benefit of looking good.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2965.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2985.jpg

I'll also be knocking a few squares out of the bottom to help lighten up the case. The thing is a friggan beast.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2991.jpg

Then its back to cutting. The angles and curves were all a little tighter on the top panel which made it a little trickier. Most of it was done using the jigsaw and cleaned up in some areas using the dremel.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2994.jpg

Leaving me with this mirror image design for the top.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_2996.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3003.jpg


http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3006.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3007.jpg

With the sides "mostly" cut i was able to get a taste of what the case may look like when reassembled.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3016.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3017.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3019.jpg

Aside from that I just wanted to loose a little more weight on the skeleton so a few incisions for some different fans and we've lost a few more ounces.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3022.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3023.jpg
http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3025.jpg

Lastly, I got my few extra squares and a few more ounces cut out of the bottom.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3027.jpg

That’s all for now, so, until next time.

Wag

[SXRguyinMA]

looking good, nice work so far! love that reverse image on the top :up: +rep

[TheGreatSatan]

Holy crap dude. What are your plans for the fugly bezel? +rep

[Luke122]

I love that reversed image on the top too! Very cool!

[ultraflip]

Awesome work on the cutouts, I once modded a chieftec myself and I know that steel is a bitch to cut but it turned out really great here!

Let me guess, you're going to paint it black and white? :D

[h3moglobe0]

My first thought - "u n00b itz notz like u wrotez pwn -_-" lol noob".
Then, "Oh, yeah it reminds me about something - I am dumb!".
This realy cool idea, I digg it!
Btw, what plexi you will use there? Red, black, white(semi transparent)?

[jdbnsn]

Excellent cut outs! I'm amazed at that chessboard design, very, very cool!

[Bopher]

That looks great. I think I'm with a lot of the others liking the mirror image on the top. I was looking going that would look cool mirrored then BAM! it was. +rep

[DonT-FeaR]

man... that is some really nice dremel work mate...

reppage 4 u

[Wag]

The front bezel will never be seen or heard from again. That thing is unsalvageable. I plan on finding some sort of material (probably plastic or "styrene"... same difference) to make a half inch space around the edge and provide proper standoffs and supports for the middle then a 1/4 in sheet of styrene which will cover the entire front and I can mount my fans and switches directly to.

I'll be using clear plexi for the top and left side. This clear plexi will be backed with an opaque sheet of black vinyl and will have red glow tape on its edges to provide some backlighting to the cutouts (unless that doesn’t provide enough light in which case I'll have to improvise and use LED's instead.)

The actual Pawn Cutout will probably be open air with some sort of round hole mesh (plastic or metal of some sort.)

The color scheme will be white and black. I plan on painting the internal chassis black and all the panels white. I plan on clear coating the panels and bezel with a pearlescent coat to make it shine. The front sheet of plastic will match the sides while the filled roughly half inch space between the front bezel and the front of the chassis will be a black highlight. I plan on using a wire fan grill on the front with a 120mm fan. The wire grill will be painted black. On the rear of the case the exhaust fans will also get wire fan grills painted white to contrast the black chassis. Also a secondary vent on the back will likely get covered with round hole mesh painted white to contrast the black.

Just to give you an idea.


My first thought - "u n00b itz notz like u wrotez pwn -_-" lol noob".
Then, "Oh, yeah it reminds me about something - I am dumb!".


Btw, this post made me LoL ;-)

[rendermandan]

Nice design! Keep up the good work. +rep

[NightrainSrt4]

Nice design! I really like it.

By the looks of it 8x8 wouldn't have fit with your size squares, but just wanted to let you know now that your chess board is off by one square in each direction. Just so you didn't see that later and freak or something in case it was something that was overlooked.

Great job though, and great patience with those cutouts.

[Wag]

Heheh good point. I actually did that on purpose for stylistic reasons. By making the board one square short per side, I was able to keep a symmetrical look to the side of the case. Also, I liked the way the solid corners of the board looked better than having the squares open in the corners. Just felt liked it added a certain something.

It wasn't an oversight; it was actually designed that way. I appreciate the concern though ;-)

Thanks

Wag

[Wag]

Happy new year everyone!

I know, I know... it's been a long time.... a really long time.

It's not that I haven't been thinking about it or anything. Actually I haven't been modding that much because work has been going quite well. Well to the point of two promotions in the past year. Of course with any promotions comes more time and commitment to the job while one settles in. It seems that more change at work is just around the bend, but this week I managed to catch up and clean up the garage. Part of it is because of the weather. Like most of the upper midwest we had some weather out our way. To top that off, today it never got above fifteen below. Most of the time staying closer to twenty below. Currently, weather.com says its 23 below. So... it's cold. (temps are in Fahrenheit for those of you outside the states, that makes it much MUCH colder!)

Can hardly keep the workshop warm enough to work in. I think I may have wrecked some batteries due to my baseboard heater not working back there and the ole Infared heater can barely keep up.

So how was the weather you ask? Well, here is a view from the shop...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3517.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3518.jpg

Ok... it's a little tough looking out the window. Here, let's open the door instead...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3521.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3526.jpg

and to round it off, a more unencumbered view...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_WidescreenWhite.jpg

So getting to the project at hand. Sadly I haven't made a lot of progress. I managed to make a small amount of progress as well as add a couple of tools to the shop.

New Table Saw!

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3494.jpg

New Drill Press!

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3496.jpg

New Drill Bits!

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3515.jpg


Finally, on to the small bit of progress. I'm planning on using a piece of plexiglass for the front of the case and I'm sick of the score and break method (after having a mixed bag of results with the method in the past.) Also, the piece is nearly 8 x 17 so it's a relatively large piece to have cut.

So with the new table saw I began to cut to size.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3500.jpg

It does a fair job of cutting. I have to be careful as I feed it through or else it is possible to catch in a few places and end up taking small chunks out of my nice clean edge. Luckily I had planned on this happening and will be able to file the edge down without problem.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3501.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3502.jpg

Across the other direction I used a little more care and took a little more time. It was much easier as it was only and 8 inch cut as opposed to a 24 inch cut.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3503.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3504.jpg

A much cleaner cut.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3509.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3511.jpg

Sizing it up to fit the front nicely.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3513.jpg

I finally found some time to clean up my edges on the bottom panel of the case as well. They are much cleaner and much more square than before. Just needed a little TLC.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3531.jpg

Wrapping up the small update I got most of my letters cut out of the bottom of the case as well. Need a little work on the "P" but otherwise coming along nicely.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3534.jpg

Aside from that there isn't much else to show. Hopefully, I'll get snowed in a few more times which should help me make a little more progress. In all honesty, there isn't a whole lot more to do with it. I'm really scrambling to find time to work on it so hopefully we'll see a little more action in the coming weeks.

Thanks for your interest folks, sorry to keep you waiting!

Wag

[FuzzyPlushroom]

Wow! A unique idea, and your attention to detail so far is admirable. Certainly keeping an eye on this'n.

[billygoat333]

cool to see this thing taking shape!

[Couch3ater]

I love the cuts on the side panel. Glad to see you're pressing forward!

Off Topic:

WHERE ON EARTH DO YOU LIVE IN THE U.S.?! I'd kill for that much snow up in ski country. We've been drilling gates (ski racing) into dirt all season. D=

[SXRguyinMA]

I'm in mass and we've gotten a good foot or so over the past 48hrs

[Wag]

Heh.. I know what that's like. We had 22 inches over Christmas weekend. Blowing and drifting and everything. Couldn't leave the house until that Sunday. Temperature was great though. A balmy twenty-six degrees. Didn't turn cold until mid week. We almost hit zero today... almost....

Guess I didn't realize that Ski Country was hard up for snow. I'm in northern Minnesota about ninety miles away from the Canadian boarder. Right in the Red River Valley. We don't often get that big of snow falls. 6 - 8 inches are pretty normal for us from time to time, but 22 inches in one storm is a bit of an anomaly. Not unheard of, but just a little more rare.

Anyway, I did make a small amount of progress today and I thought I'd share. Cleaned up my "P" (no pun intended) which should complete the cutting on the side panel.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3542.jpg

Which allowed me to concentrate on what is going to go behind the Pawn design. It may seem silly, but here is the material I'll be using.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3537.jpg

That's right, it's a perforated baking sheet. Picked it up for twenty dollars at my local restaurant supply store. The perforated part is plenty big to back the pawn design and I'll have a small amount left over to dress up the back of the case as well. Its lightweight aluminum so I'll have to be careful with the cut out pieces as to not bend them too terribly.

It has a fantastic look to it though.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3547.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3556.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3558.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3557.jpg

The raised edges may be good for baking, but for my purposes, they've gotta go. Four holes in the corners to allow my jigsaw blade in and away I went.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3564.jpg

The thin Aluminum cut quickly and cleanly.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3568.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3574.jpg

Finally, a quick fit to make absolutely sure that there was enough material to successfully back the Pawn.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3581.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3584.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3585.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3590.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3593.jpg

Looks good to me.

That's all I have for today. We'll see how the week goes and I'll keep you posted. For now... it's back to work bright and early tomorrow.

Thanks

Wag

[Couch3ater]

I love the perforated backing. It looks so sleek. I would never have thought of doing something like that.

Off Topic:

We got about a foot of snow over the weekend here in New Hampshire, but nothing substantial. I was looking forward to the huge Nor' Easter they predicted. No dice. =[

[Wag]

Got a little work done tonight on the case. Not a game changer but solved some measurement problems and got some holes drilled.

The fun part actually came earlier this week when I finally decided to pull the trigger on some parts I had been needing for the case. So after forty dollars came and went to performance-pcs.com I had a little postal service box waiting for me.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3595.jpg

Inside I would find some case feet that should work nicely.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3600.jpg

As well as the most expensive power and reset switches I've ever bought. I'm sure lots of people would scoff at a mere sixteen dollars a switch, but for me they felt pretty spendy. They sure are purdy though...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3602.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3611.jpg

I'm sure they will be worth it in the end. Even just the simplicity of installing these particular switches should be worth the cost.

Tonight I managed to cut up some aluminum track which I will be using for a spacer between the main case and the Plexiglas front. Nothing fancy, just needed them cut to size and angles cut to fit together.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3616.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3620.jpg

Then fitted to the top to make sure everything fit just right. Since these parts will be painted and exposed it is crucial to have no gap on the ends.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3624.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3626.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3630.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3633.jpg

Then laying the plexi over the top to double check measurements

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3644.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3642.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3641.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3637.jpg

The Plexiglas front will be attached thru the spacers and then to the case with some small stove bolts. There will be six each per side and two each on top and bottom. Before I could cut those I had to carefully measure out the dimensions onto the plexi. To do this I wrapped my edge with painters tape so I could mark my measurements more easily.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3645.jpg

Then after marking and measuring I finally was able to drill my holes using the new drill press.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3650.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3655.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3656.jpg

Sadly that's all the farther I got tonight. Won't have any chance tomorrow or Friday to work on it and this weekend is already looking pretty full. Depending on the weather I should have a chance to work on it Sunday and possibly Saturday. As always, I'll post more when i have more.

Thanks for your interest everyone.

Wag

[DonT-FeaR]

wow wag. u have done heaps since last time i saw.. looking great man

[SXRguyinMA]

I've got that same power switch on Rockin case - it looks sweet :up:

[slaveofconvention]

Heh - I know exactly what you're talking about re: the thickness of the metal - I'm using a very similar case in my current project Lobo and I've gone through more disks than I care to count with my cuts. Roll on the better weather then I can get back to work - nowhere inside to work so it's garden duty for me lol

Looking nice and clean though - keep it up :)

[Oneslowz28]

http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/slaveofconvention/banners/features/theweeklyspotlight/worklog.png (http://thebestcasescenario.com)

[Mark_Hardware]

congrats!

[slaveofconvention]

Very well earned !

[DonT-FeaR]

congrats

[Mach]

Love the clean panel cuts and the mesh baking pan idea is brilliant. :)

[Crimson Sky]

Really nice metal work, Wag!

Dang, I need to come here more often....

So great to see people still modding. :p

[Wag]

Wow! I'm honored to be featured on the front page! Thanks everyone for their interest and I'll try to deliver the goods. Hopefully I won't disappoint!

I did manage to squeeze some time in today to work on the case so I've got something of an update to share. It probably won't seem like much, but it was rather tedious work of measuring, drilling, assembling, disassembling, more measuring, drilling, assembling, disassembling, measuring... well.... you get the idea...

I has finished cutting holes in my Plexiglas front but needed to match those holes up with my aluminum spacers to accommodate the front of the case. As I said, some measuring and drilling was in order which finally yielded this result.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3661.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3662.jpg

Then I proceeded to assemble the front to verify that everythign was cut correctly and ready to fit. I'll be using stove bolts around the front.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3673.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3674.jpg

Then pieced together the aluminum bracket behind it. This will basically be the front of the case. It will need some more holes for fans, switches, and drives. It will also be sanded, primed, and painted white. That will come later.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3680.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3683.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3684.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3688.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3693.jpg

To attach the Front of the case to the front of the chassis meant a quick disassemble as well as drilling out the rivets of the front chassis panel.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3710.jpg

This was required so I would be able to fit the piece under the drill press. I had hoped to avoid it but was left with no choice as the entire case simply would not fit. To attache the front to the chassis I would need to drill 16 holes in the panel. Accuracy was paramount as the holes in the sides would be tapped so the screws may tighten directly into the panel itself. The top and bottom will allow for bolts to tighten from the back.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3713.jpg

Afterward, I was finally able to assemble to the point where I could get a hint of what the case may look like. Sorry I have no pictures of the drilling. Rest assured it was just as tedious as it sounds.

The exciting part is now I have some pictures of the case mocked-up. It is finally starting to come together.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3723.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3724.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3727.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3728.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3721.jpg

That was a big hurdle. Hopefully the rest goes smoothly.

Alas, that's all I have today. Thanks again to TBCS for their recognition, and thanks to everyone for their interest. It is truly and honor and I am humbled.

Until next time

Wag

[SXRguyinMA]

lookin awesome!

[el_magnifico]

Sweet mod so far, man! I think my favorite part of this mod is the mesh. Any plans on painting it? (the mesh)...Maybe a funky green metal flake could make this "pop", unless you are looking more towards a sleek design....But awesome job so far! Far better than anything I am capable of...

[msmrx57]

Great progress. Really loooking good. :up:

[DonT-FeaR]

love it!.. that pic with the drill and all the red lines made me laugh.. looks great man good work

[Wag]

Any plans on painting it? (the mesh)

The paint plan is going to be very simple. Black and white like a chessboard. It will include some red lighting as well for accent. The case itself will be white where the acrylic sides and top will be backed with black vinyl. The space between the plexiglass front and rest of the chassis will be painted black. The plexiglass front will be painted white. The Chassis will be painted black.

So... lots of black and white. Hopefully it will be an attractive contrast. We shall see.

[DonT-FeaR]

sounds like my type of colour plan :)

[Waynio]

Awesome work so far Wag, I really like mods where an old generic case gets a big make over into something great, these kind of mods always tempt me to get on the lookout for a cheap old case on ebay but always find the shipping to be far more than the case making it not such a good deal lol :D.

Steel is a git to cut with dremel, nasty dust, sparks and using many many discs lol, nice relief when done thou :), great dremel work too :), dremel work always impresses me more than effortless laser, it just has a more human touch about it which I like.

The switches are worth every penny, I always go for those type, yes they're a bit expensive but they do feel like great quality when pressed and look great too :)

Snow half way up your door, wow :D.

+ rep :) and subscribed, missed this one until I went to the front page :).

[Couch3ater]

Love it. Still. Been awhile since I been able to check the progress on my favorite mods. Comp's been outta commission for awhile whilst I injected her full of water. ^_^ First time water cooling a system... Must say... I need a bigger case. >_<

On topic:

Grats on the front page! Might be a little late, but still. =D Love the top of the case. And the plexi on the front is something I was toying with. Many kudos. ^_^

[Wag]

Well, I managed a little progress this weekend. It always amazes me how long it takes to do something as simple as drilling holes in a pattern. At any rate, here is the progress.

The round hole mesh will need to be drilled and the excess cut.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3730.jpg

Then deciding where the bolts will be drilled to be aesthetically pleasing.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3731.jpg

Then to start, using small pilot holes for accuracy and speed of cutting.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3732.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3733.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3734.jpg

Then drilled out to accommodate the correct size bolts.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3740.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3742.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3739.jpg

Next the mesh sheet was fitted and holes drilled.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3754.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3746.jpg

Then Cleaned and bolts lined up and assembled.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3758.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3762.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3756.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3764.jpg

Just to give you an idea of what has been cut...

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3773.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3777.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3776.jpg

Finally a few shots of the panel on the case. Its starting to come together.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3780.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3787.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3799.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3803.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3804.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3811.jpg

That's all for today. Coming up, more work on the Plexiglas front.

Stay tuned!

Wag

[blueonblack]

The side panel looks excellent! I like the fact that you used a lot of bolts, it really sets it off. Are those the bolts you plan to use in the finished product?

[Waynio]

Nice progress Wag, looking better every update, looks like you did a great job on the front bezel too, it all just looks so right :).

[billygoat333]

looking good. I think you should use black bolts instead of the shiny ones. would look better IMO. unless you are painting that panel black, then the shiny is nice. dont remember if you are painting it white or not (I have it white in my head)

[Wag]

Actually those are the bolts I'll be using for both the front and the side. I will be painting all of those bolts black to contrast the bright white of the case. Wouldn't have it any other way.

[p0Pe]

that mesh side looks wicked! :D

[billygoat333]

Actually those are the bolts I'll be using for both the front and the side. I will be painting all of those bolts black to contrast the bright white of the case. Wouldn't have it any other way.


excellent. :)

[Wag]

Got another small update for everyone tonight. Nothing groundbreaking but thought I'd share. In preparations for painting the panels I decided it was time to remove the.... whatever these things are called from the Pawn side of the case.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3819.jpg

Fairly easy to remove. Just needed a little squeeze and they popped right out.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3821.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3822.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3824.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3823.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3825.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3830.jpg

I'm not sure what they are called, but I didn't need them messing up any paint as I'm sure they would have. They will be replaced after the paint has dried and set.

It was also time to start taking off the sharp edges from some of the dremel work. Again, nothing groundbreaking. Took out the mouse sander and just cleaned it up.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3833.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3836.jpg

The panels are nearly ready for paint. Finishing the Plexiglas front is the next real big step. It is also the final step before the sides and front can be painted.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3837.jpg

Their is a small amount of designing that still needs to be done in regards to the front of the case. I plan on adding in a four-fan controller.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3845.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3847.jpg

However, I don't plan on adding in the drive bay. Instead the controls will be added directly thru the front Plexi. Some disassembly was required.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3848.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3851.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3852.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3856.jpg

The black knobs will be kept and added back in afterward.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3863.jpg

I also hope to integrate two USB ports to the front of the case. I'm unsure at this point how exactly or where exactly they will end up as to not impede upon the design. Hopefully I can find a way.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3871.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3876.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3878.jpg

Lastly, I will need to integrate an optical drive somehow. I have not yet decided whether it would be a slot loading drive or standard drive. For now, I'll be using a old PATA drive for measurements.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3879.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3885.jpg

It almost looks like it was planned to fit thru the front ;-)

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3884.jpg

In the top bay, the tray will end up very near the top of the case. Not necessarily a bad thing, but something to consider.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3886.jpg

Taking off the drive's bezel and replacing it with something custom would be very easy. However, it would require modding the drive that will permanently reside in the space.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3891.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3893.jpg

This drive will certainly not be the one that ends up there.

Anyone have any recommendations as far as slot loading vs tray? I've been planning on a standard tray loading drive I guess, but something keeps me coming back to the slot idea. As i understand it, a slim slot loading drive works just fine with a desktop PC even though they are generally found in laptops.

I have also considered omitting an optical drive altogether. In this day and age, optical discs are just not as useful as they once were. Not to mention there is always the external option. It would lend to a cleaner look to the front of the case, of that there is no doubt. I can't help but think that as my main computer, leaving off the optical drive might be a mistake. Even if it gets extremely limited use.

I'd be interested in hearing anyone elses thoughts on that matter. I'm fairly certain that I'll be omitting a Blu-ray drive even if I do put in an optical drive. I just can't justify that one.

Until next time.

Wag

[billygoat333]

I love my slot-loading drive on my laptop. much more slick. I believe you need to get an adapter to IDE to be able to use it in your desktop.

sidenote: how do you like that black & decker sander? wally world has em on clearance is why I ask. :P

[Wag]

The sandpaper is a little on spendy side, but the tool itself is great. It is small and versatile, easy to handle and relatively quiet. The one I got came with a plethora of attachments some of which are incredibly useful and others that are not. For the price of the unit itself, I can deal with a little higher sandpaper costs. I'm sure it’s only expensive because its Velcro backed.

[Couch3ater]

This mod is screaming "FINISH ME!"

I suppose it's only screaming finish me in my head though. And I suppose it's only saying that cause I can't wait to see the finished product. Seriously though, I love watching this mod. It just makes me wanna mod more. >_<

[DonT-FeaR]

this is looking insane! i love this project mate!

[Wag]

Hey Everyone

Just a small update today. Most of the updates going forward will likely be incremental. There are just too many small weird things on this case to finish it up with a big update.

After much consideration I decided to go with a traditional tray Loading Optical drive after all. So twenty-six bucks and three days later I was the proud owner of a new LG drive.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3900.jpg

Fitting it into the front wasn't really all the difficult from a "put it together" kind of way. Mostly just measure, mark, cut. I have a very basic dremel/routing table and an cutting bit for the dremel that cut nice straight lines.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3911.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3915.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3916.jpg

It is by no means state of the art, and is actually a bit of a pain to use. But the setup was cheap enough and the use is light enough that it doesn't bother me too much.

The result was a little rough around the edges.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3919.jpg

But with some work in the corners with the file, it shaped up nicely.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3921.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3924.jpg

The next step was getting my fan hole made. I'll be cutting a simple hole and the fan will have a simple, yet elegant, wire fan grill which will be painted black over the chrome.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3930.jpg

Cutting the hole however, was a little dicey. I used a 4.5 inch round-hole saw in my drill press.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3932.jpg

Starting with a pilot hole in the middle.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3937.jpg

Then moving on to the main event.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3942.jpg

Lets just say that acrylic does not cut all the well. It had a tendency to catch and seize. I had been prepared for this and had clamped it down to the press well. That didn't prevent it from seizing completely and it took quite a while to get a nice cut. My patience and perseverance paid off.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3951.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3957.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3959.jpg

Which allowed me to match up my grill and cut my holes for the fan mounts.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3966.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3963.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3971.jpg

Finally a test fit on the chassis.

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3978.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3984.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3975.jpg

Still need holes for power and reset switches as well as fan controller. The Disc drive still needs a hole for the eject button as well. All relatively minor ordeals.

A friend of mind runs an auto collision center and is an experienced painter. As luck would have it he will be painting some pearlescent white auto parts next week and I am hoping to have my panels and front ready so he can use the leftover paint on my panels. The panels themselves are mostly ready.

The Chassis will simply be painted by myself with my own black spray paint. It is less important than the outer panels and front. I will also be doing the mesh side and bolts myself.

It may not seem like cutting those holes was a big deal, but honestly, I'm just happy I didn't crack my acrylic. I find it a real pain to work with that stuff. I just couldn't come up with any other options for my application.

Thanks everyone for your interest.

Wag

[Trace]

Dude, this is looking amazing

[billygoat333]

thats looking good. and isnt that a tray loading optical? you said slot load :P

[Wag]

thats looking good. and isnt that a tray loading optical? you said slot load :P

Whoops! You are right. Fixed. Thanks!

[Wag]

Just a short update again today. Really short in fact. Just finished drilling some holes for my power and reset switches as well as the fan controller. Still considering front USB ports under the optical drive. Haven't decided for certain yet.

For the power switches:

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3989.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_3997.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_4002.jpg

For the fan controller:

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_4005.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_4008.jpg

http://www.ghostobservance.com/uploads/Images/PawnCase/IMG_4012.jpg

I'm hoping to have the remaining holes drilled (what is there even left to drill??) and decide on front USB. I'm really hoping to get to paint by the end of the week. We'll see I guess.

On a side note, I did get a chance to play all the way thru Mass Effect 2 last week. The first Mass Effect was one of the better games in recent memory in my opinion. The second one did not disappoint. Just like anything, I liked some parts better and other parts not as well. Overall the game was a lot of fun and a great second installment of the overall "Mass Effect" narrative.

Just had to lay that out there. If you liked the first one, you should get the second. If you are thinking about getting the second and haven't played the first, don't. Go spend twenty dollars on the first one and play that for the next couple of weeks. It's well worth it. There is simply too much "Mass Effect Universe" you will miss out on if you skip the first game.

Also the first game was shorter, so you can get right to the second in as little as ten to twelve hours depending on how many side quests you do in the first. I think my first run of the first game was just under twelve hours where my first run of the second was just under nineteen.

Well, enough of my recommending. Hope you enjoyed the small update. With a little luck, the case will really start to come together over the course of this week and the next.

Thanks everyone

Wag

[BerticusPryme]

looks good man. one thing I learned is that when cutting any type of plastic or acrylic like that with a hole saw run it in reverse and melt through it works alot easier.

[billygoat333]

I love the fan controller. very cool!

[Waynio]

The front panel is coming along very nicely Wag some nice perfection going into this :) :up:.

Not finished playing through mass effect 1 yet, got it in the steam sale and preordered the 2nd so it's good to know it'll be good :).

BerticusPryme, I'll remember that tip if or when I use acrylic in the future thanks :).

[Wag]

Yeah, it shouldn't disappoint. If you've been enjoying the first I gaurantee you'll like the second. Like I said it has its ups and downs as far as interface and other small changes go. But for the most part its just another great game.



looks good man. one thing I learned is that when cutting any type of plastic or acrylic like that with a hole saw run it in reverse and melt through it works alot easier.

I guess I'm not sure how to reverse the direction on the drill press I've got. I will say that drilling that thing out was a pain in the arse. I suppose I could use a power drill and reverse direction, but for a hole that size I'm not sure that would be very fun either.

I'm just glad its cut and I don't have to do it again...

[Couch3ater]

Front panel is coming along very nicely. ^_^