Project: Charge!

[Frenkie]

New year, New mod.

This time I am building one of the largest mods after my C&C mod. Yet another one with a Half-Life 2 theme. A lot of mods in this theme-genre are allready made, so I needed to make something original and unique. In the game we see our main character Gordon Freeman loading up his powersuit on loading stations throughout the game. So I am building one of those loading stations as a mod, and I call it Charge!.

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_001-640.jpg

I did a lot of homework on this mod, also made a lot of screenshots in the game. After that I used my just finished CAD knowledge to make a scale drawing of the actual mod. This way I could use my newly obtained knowledge to a good purpose! :)

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_106.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_108.jpg

The unit in the game is pretty slim and tall. The first redundant case I got from one of my clanmates (Thanx Enigma) was not only very heavy, but also in the wrong proportions. :(

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_100.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_101.jpg

After extensive research I had to admit there was not one case that came close to my objective. But then Coolermaster came to the rescue: Why not use 2 (two) Coolermaster Elite 340 cases ? It was so close to the proportions I needed, it was uncanny :) Thanx Coolermaster !

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_102.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_103.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_104.jpg

Actually using two cases was another lucky strike: I need to mod the top case very extensively (read: tear it apart :P). Why? Because I got it in my head to make the centerpiece of the Half-Life 2 model also the centerpiece of the computer: The heart of the CPU will be the heart of the mod. And whats in my head, need to be done: Aut inveniam viam aut faciam.

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_110.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_114.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_115.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_116.jpg


to be continued....

[artoodeeto]

woo hoo! Another Frenkie mod! Looks like this one will be pretty sweet - I really like the HL2 machinery designs!

[Frenkie]

As you can see, the Elite case on top will be severely gutted. The 5,25" bays, the 3,5" bays and the PSU bay all had to go, to make room for the new mobo position. The I/O shield at the rear is now a lot higher and a lot deeper inside the case. That’s gonna be fun fixing that :P
First thing is to establish a solid point for the mobo to hang on. I drilled the rivets out of the original reinforcement bar, and reattached it again in the new position.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_146.jpg
The surrounding of the backshield also has to move quite a bit.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_147.jpg
Measurements have to be spot on.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_148.jpg
Transferring them to the rear.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_149.jpg
There, the first piece is out.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_150.jpg
This is how the rear looks now.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_151.jpg
Artist impression of the final read view.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_153.jpg

[Frenkie]

A very important part of this mod is the CPU cooler.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_123.jpg
And I found the ideal cooler at Thermaltake:
The ThermalTake SpinQT VT.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_124.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_145.jpg
It is HUGE !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_144.jpg
After I fastened the mobo tightly, I mounted the SpinQT.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_130.jpg
It is still inside the case, but not much :)
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_131.jpg
This plate of dark acrylic glass is the base from which I am working the mod, also gives me an ideal opportunity to “play” with light and dark where necessary.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_133.jpg
Marking the position of the center hole was easy…
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_134.jpg
But unfortunately I was rushing this a bit too much and made a boo-boo...... :(
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_135.jpg
:whistler:

[Frenkie]

In the bottom case I will store the HDD’s and so on, but First I need a connecting hole for cables and such.
Had to remove the bottom HDD and DVD bracket as well, because they were right in front of my new hole.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_136.jpg

This is the bottom of the top case
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_138.jpg

Let’s dremel the World ! :P
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_139.jpg

To keep enough sturdiness, I dremeled just beside the imbedded profile.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_140.jpg

When I placed the cases on each other….
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_141.jpg

I noticed that the plastic front was overlapping too much, so I dremeled that also nice and flat.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_137.jpg

After this I was able to duplicate the hole in the case below..
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_142.jpg

[Frenkie]

I mounted both cases on top of each other with construction kit.
Next step: the front of the base.
First I'm mounting the sidepanels to both Elite cases.
These will form the base for the new front.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_154.jpg

Here they are screwed on, and still untouched.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_155.jpg

Marking where the front will come.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_156.jpg

Just to give a glimpse with the Forex parts.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_157.jpg

Started cutting it up, never afraid of cutting too little :)
These parts wil support the new frontpanel, but on some place I need to get deeper inside the case.
Everything in between is nice, smooth and semi-transparant.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_158.jpg

Mounted them again, deburred and ready for a layer of construction kit.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_159.jpg

In the top right corner I used a little piece of the original sidepanel and stuck it to the back of the new frontpanel.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_160.jpg

All is now mounted with heavyduty construction kit. Now it needs to dry thoroughly.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_161.jpg

[Munty]

This thing is going to be monumentally huge! You must have a big place for all of these projects to live :D

About that CPU cooler, is there any additional structure for it's mounting? It looks incredibly top heavy and I'm just going to be gobsmacked if it's only attached at the base!

[Frenkie]

This thing is going to be monumentally huge! You must have a big place for all of these projects to live :D

About that CPU cooler, is there any additional structure for it's mounting? It looks incredibly top heavy and I'm just going to be gobsmacked if it's only attached at the base!

Well, it IS only mounted to the mobo, but I modified the base a bit. It is now bolted with 4 extremely sturdy bolts and nuts. The base itzelf I made from 2,5 mm stainless steel. Not the flimsy standard chinese crap you get with the cooler.
But I agree with you: in any other circumstances I would defenitly use a horizontal mount with these huge babies. :)

[Frenkie]

After is settled, the panel now looks like this: Front.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_162.jpg

And the back. Oh and that little cut I made, after I finished you wont see anything of it anymore. Trust me.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_163.jpg

Mounted on the cases.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_164.jpg

There you go, now use the 'blueprint' again for the markings.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_165.jpg

To give the case much clearer 3D dimensions, I am using this foamplate to enhance the frontpanels.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_166.jpg

This foamplate is almost 20 mm thick. (about 5/6 inch ?)
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_167.jpg

Let me show you a specific piece why I use this foam: by using it I can now bend the Forex plates much further back then otherwise.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_168.jpg

These three pieces make up the most protruding parts of the front
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_169.jpg

Now it need to dry thouroughly again before the next step.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_170.jpg

(seems like most of my modding time is waiting for kit to dry :) )

[TheMainMan]

Nice! I can't wait to see what you're going to fill the two cases with in terms of hardware!

[Frenkie]

Nice! I can't wait to see what you're going to fill the two cases with in terms of hardware!

Well, dont hold your breath. I'm not into internal PC hardware mods. Any fool with a bundle of money can fill his case with a gazillion mega fantastic shizzle. Catch my drift ?

-


This was where the I/O shield used to be.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_177.jpg

Now its quite a bit up and inwards.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_178.jpg

Mounted it back on with aluminium rivets.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_179.jpg

Its solid again. Now where did i put that I/O shield.... :S
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_180.jpg

Well, obviously it doesnt fit very nice anymore now.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_181.jpg

Looks like a piece of Swiss cheese.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_182.jpg

Lets get that fixed now, shall we ?
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_183.jpg

[Frenkie]

First one is the largest piece.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_184.jpg

Mounted with constructionkit.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_185.jpg

Round the corner passed the PCI slots.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_186.jpg

This aluminium ACRyan plate has protective layers on both sides. It is also very easy cut with metal scissors.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_187.jpg

Matt black when removed.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_188.jpg

Getting back to the front, these three pieces have cured enough.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_170.jpg

On several sides there will come bevelled edges towards the front.
First measure it all and cut to size.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_191.jpg

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_192.jpg

Cut to fit for all three pieces.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_193.jpg

Made all sides nicely bevelled.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_189.jpg

This is how they are attached
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_190.jpg

[TheMainMan]

Well, dont hold your breath. I'm not into internal PC hardware mods. Any fool with a bundle of money can fill his case with a gazillion mega fantastic shizzle. Catch my drift ?


I hear you there. I assumed due to the size that you were building it around the hardware. I think it's actually really cool to build a case that is art and the hardware is secondary.

Will you be unplugging cables from the back often? I ask because it looks like a tight fit back there. I love the relocation into the case though, I think you'll have less cable clutter as a result. Great work, can't wait to see more!

[Frenkie]

Thanx TMM!


PSU
This old PSU is the designated victim to give this mod some power.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_194.jpg

Here it sits in the case below.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_195.jpg

Where it shows through the big hole, I marked the outerlid to be dremeled away.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_196.jpg

Looks like this.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_197.jpg

Lets do something fun with it.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_205.jpg

These fluorescent gel-pens I also used in my R2-D2 casemod.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_206.jpg

Under a blacklight, you see the first 5 pens light up dramatically.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_207.jpg

Under normal lightning.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_211.jpg

And with a UV blacklight.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_212.jpg

These are so called "cordsets" that I 'saved' from the scraphead at my work. Allready runs 5 wires through them !
Attach a molex and were good to go !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_202.jpg

I have been 'collecting' lots more during my buildup time..... o.a. cordset kabels, shower hoses, hydraulic hoses en fiber cables.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_203.jpg

Marking the old PSU where the holes would sit best.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_208.jpg

Drilling the holes in various sizes.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_209.jpg

Example of what it going to look like.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_210.jpg

Now attach them sturdy to the frame and run the wires through.

[Munty]

Nice stash dude! Don't suppose you can spare a short length of say 10mm diameter cord could you?! I've been looking to use a plastic equivalent but that would make all the difference :p

Coming on nicely though, very funky PSU and I totally agree, anyone can fill a case with pretty and expensive components. It's all about the attention that goes into making it look awesome on the outside for me :)

[AmEv]

SCHWEET!!!!

+r

[Frenkie]

Nice stash dude! Don't suppose you can spare a short length of say 10mm diameter cord could you?! I've been looking to use a plastic equivalent but that would make all the difference :p

Coming on nicely though, very funky PSU and I totally agree, anyone can fill a case with pretty and expensive components. It's all about the attention that goes into making it look awesome on the outside for me :)

Sure man, PM me.

[Frenkie]

This is how the PSU looks like from below...
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_218.jpg

and on the side...
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_219.jpg

This is how it mounts in the case.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_220.jpg

Oh a fellow modder called Snowmiss of the site BouwEenPC.nl gave me this I/O shield, thanx man !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_221.jpg

Inside the game, this charge appears in several colorschemes. I chose the blue one.
After some long searching, I found the ideal combination; Anthracite Grey and Sapphire Blue.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_222.jpg

Because the unit has to look a bit worn, I completed them with 7 other support colors.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_223.jpg

I gave the bottom case a layer, so the PSU cables will stand out more.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_224.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_225.jpg

I added much more cables to the PSU then needed, I am going to use several for spot-lightning inside.
Lucky I have a lot of LED's in stock.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_226.jpg

This is how that looks like.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_227.jpg

[Frenkie]

Lets shake and bake some LEDs together...
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_228.jpg

I hate making this infomercial (when I dont get paid for it) but this DREMEL soldering iron is great.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_229.jpg

These LEDs make a nice narrow spot light.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_230.jpg

Enough light for now, dont you agree ?
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_231.jpg

[Frenkie]

Used the stainless steel tubing coming from the PSU to guide wires through them, Attached several high power blue LEDs to them and routed the lot through a industrial on/off switch.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Is09kxrSD7A

[BS Mods]

I love this mod!

I like to see people be creative with their mods. This is definitely creative.:twisted:

This will be awesome.

[Frenkie]

Thanx !

Thanks to my good friend Peter Brinkhuis (nick Brinkdingus on BouwEenPc.nl) I got this very cool waterreservoir with a HL2 Lambda logo inside !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_199.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_200.jpg

Dismantled the watercooling from the Machine casemod.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_213.jpg

But first I need to tweak it some more, added two angled connectors to the top.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_232.jpg

This dull-white teflon hose fits perfectly in those connectors, and a LED inside that hose !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_233.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_234.jpg

Looking good from the top.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_236.jpg

And from the bottom, the LED shines perfectly straight down! Will do just fine !
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_237.jpg

[SXRguyinMA]

that's going to look sweet :D

[msmrx57]

That res is absolutely KILLER!!! And the lighting effect in the tube makes it so much better. Typical Frenkie = over the top.

[Frenkie]

Quick check to see where the cilinder is to be placed.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_238.jpg

Dremeling a slot to place it.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_239.jpg

Yup, thats the spot.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_240.jpg

[Frenkie]

After some extensive brain-draining I found a solution to secure the reservoir.
Two threaded studs and an aluminium strip.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_241.jpg

This way to mount it to the chassis.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_242.jpg

First a solid connection connection with the threaded studs.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_243.jpg

Some nice cap nuts.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_244.jpg

Two pieces of that stainless steel tubing.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_245.jpg

To finish it off like this.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_246.jpg

[Frenkie]

Next problem ( I mean ofc challenge) :P the flowmeter. I want to use this in combination with the reservoir. I had great difficulty placing it where I wanted too, with the standard existing in- and out let. So i mounted two 90 degrees
connectors.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_247.jpg

This way, the total height of the flow meter stays within a reasonable size.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_248.jpg

Now I first need to make a solid point from the case. (attempts to mount it to the reservoir all failed)
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_249.jpg

This is the way to mount it just above the reservoir.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_250.jpg

Mounted the Forex front.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_251.jpg

Sideview.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_252.jpg

[blueonblack]

Excellent work!

+Rep for the creative use of that flowmeter. I have the same one and its shape has turned me off of using it in any visual way, nicely overcome. :up:

[Mysteriphys]

pretty cool stuff, love how it's turning out so far, I always thought half-life was pretty cool so this is epic

[Fuganater]

This looks awesome! I can't wait to see more.

[Frenkie]

I have cut two large pieces of Forex for both cirkels.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_253.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_254.jpg

This connector of the waterpump is coming in one of the slotplates.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_255.jpg

There you go.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_256.jpg

Strated working with the giant on/off switch. Later on this will be covered with Forex.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_257.jpg

These two wires for the pump: no way man!
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_258.jpg

There, that looks so much better.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_259.jpg

to be continueed....

[BS Mods]

Dude this is going to be an EPIC build.:up:

Sometimes I feel like I need one of these in real life. :D

[Frenkie]

All waterhoses are connected and the on/off switch mounted solid.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_260.jpg

'Genuine' Combine technology :-)
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_261.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_262.jpg

Peeled all stickers of a Western Digital harddrive and mounted it to a Combine Transmigrator. :P
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_263.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_264.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_265.jpg

When I modified the Transmigrator to fit the flux-deflector some nice sparks emitted!
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_266.jpg

Mounted the modified HDD to the chassis.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_267.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_270.jpg

With swing-arm for easy access.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_268.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_269.jpg

There, thats ok for now.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_271.jpg

[xr4man]

what's a transmigrator?

it looks really cool though, just like it belongs in there.

[Frenkie]

what's a transmigrator?

it looks really cool though, just like it belongs in there.

Thats secret Combine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Combine_(Half-Life)) technology :) hehe...


I disassembled an old connector to get this rubber housing.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_272.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_273.jpg

One HDD flatcable, one piece of tubing and that rubber housing.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_274.jpg

Ofc I had to split that flatcable :P
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_275.jpg

Now it needs a little shrinking tube and a bit of paint.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_276.jpg

Also gave the molex power a tubing and an old cable guide.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_277.jpg

There it is.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_278.jpg

So then I thought, lets test the power connections and the LEDs......
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_284.jpg
OUCH! major shortcut in one of the LEDs :-( Completely fried !

But after I replaced it, everything worked fine.
That SpinQT emits a nice red glow.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_279.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_280.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_281.jpg

Rest of the case is lit up in (steel)blue....
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_282.jpg

One LED behind the flowmeter gives a lot of light.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_283.jpg

[Fuganater]

This is a sick mod. If you don't win CM2011 then the winner must have mad a PC that can fly.

[Frenkie]

Cmon, did you see the entry of the Chinese Kitson Chan ? I believe that is one that really flies :) No way i'm winning, but I would like to end up in the first 10.

[Frenkie]

I have to hurry, the deadline is in 3 days :(
Started the 'crown' of the case.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_285.jpg

This will give a good impression of what the end result will be.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_286.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_289.jpg
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_290.jpg

But as you can see, this is very flat, so i need to give it some 'body'.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_287.jpg

But first I have to finish the front panel with these little bits and pieces.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_288.jpg

Measuring and cutting the parts.
http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_291.jpg

[Frenkie]

Overview while assembling the various pieces of Forex.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_292.jpg

Building up the 'crown' with construction kit.
The duct tape is there to hold the pieces in the correct positions untill the kit hardens enough.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_293.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_294.jpg

Fast forward: The crown is ready sofar, all parts are there where they supposed to be,
and it is time for the first base coat. Like before i'm using dull black, blue and darkgrey.
Support colors are two shades of metallic paint, some sort of structure paint and antique brown.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_296.jpg

Because I was pushing for time, I started with the bottom half, the crown wasnt dry enough yet.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_297.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_298.jpg

Quickly add a 'handfull' of details.... ;)
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_299.jpg

The original text on the case in the game is; "POWER".
I toke the liberty to change that to "CHARGE!".
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_300.jpg
oh and 1304 is my birthday...... and 13:37.... ah well... :)

Crown has hardened enough, basecoat is dry, so on with the mask.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_301.jpg

Added antique brown.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_302.jpg

Still needs some extra work, but you get the picture.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_303.jpg

Overview 1a.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_310.jpg

Combine Multi-interdirectional ViewScreen
Added a little sub-project for this mod;
In this game we see a lot of these Combine terminals:
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_101.jpg

I really dig those blue multi-monitors.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_102.jpg

Just by accident (really!) my friends of Space Promotion, handed me this 24" 3D Zalman monitor
which they got back from a warranty claim for -one- dead pixel.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_102C.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_105.jpg

With some stretching and forming I got this nice rectangle out of it..
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_102B.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_103.jpg


If you imagine the monitors away, you'll be left with this frame.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_104.jpg

Made a nice blue-print.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_106.jpg

Then cutted Forex strips untill my fingers turned blue themselves.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_107.jpg

Bevelled all strips with a nice edge.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_108.jpg

which gives you really dirty hands :)
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_109.jpg

Started building the frame with construction kit, and clamps.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_110.jpg

Two side frames done.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_111.jpg

Made two aluminium supports for the side-handles.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_112.jpg

And mounted to the the frame.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_113.jpg

Once more the original frame in the game.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_114.jpg

And my Forex creation.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_Monitor_115.jpg

There you have it, these are the final pictures for the Coolermaster competitie.
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_316.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_318.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_319.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_321.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_322.jpg
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_323.jpg

Ingame;
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_308-ingame.jpg
Frenkie's version;
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_308.jpg

I wish all the other participants a lot of luck, and dont forget:
Dont make casemods because you must, but because you like it !
Let’s mod the world !
http://tinyurl.com/32pnetf/Charge/Charge_326.jpg

[BS Mods]

That really turned out awesome. Great job and nice attention to detail. It's very close to the in-game version.

Good luck on the contest.

[Frenkie]

Thanks man ! On the voting pagina, you can vote for your favorite mod......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kYJJvbgFtXo

[licenseless]

ok... you had me at

http://clan-rag.gameparty.net/bitchie/case/Charge/Charge_106.jpg


from one HL fan to the next... thank you for this mod...

but... i have one question... why did you choose two cases instead of one... and just build extensions to hold the extra pieces on... i might have missed it were you explained it... sorry if i did...

it doesnt really matter... because this case it awesome... i love it... rep given

[Oneslowz28]

http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/jdbnsn/Front%20Page%20files/tbcs%20times.png (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/frontpage/?q=charge-by-frenkie)Congrats! (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/frontpage/?q=charge-by-frenkie)

[slaveofconvention]

Congrats on the Front Page Frenkie !

[Waynio]

Congrats Frenkie :)

Wow, I followed this keenly but I must have missed where this was at when there was 3 days left for the deadline, so little time to get it completed :D, you did an awesome job with this mate :):up:.

Also I just checked out 1 of your older projects Sting :D, now I have a good idea of what to do with knackered tech, use them as a material :D, that was a truly awesome bit of recycling :up: I've seen it around but just looked through the log & it was excellent 8).