Maximum Security

[SXRguyinMA]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/banner.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/B_DSC_1297jpg.jpg

I was asked if I'd be interested in modding Thermaltake's new Level 10 GT chassis. Of course I had to say yes. A case like that may be hard to mod, but I've got some crazy plans for this thing. It involves liquid cooling and LOTS of electronics.

First off, a HUGE THANKS to the current sponsors!!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/tt.pngThermaltake hooked me up with the Level 10 GT chassis, a Toughpower Grand 1050W PSU and some liquid cooling goodness.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/kingston.pngKingston hooked me up with a 96GB SSDNow V+100 96GB SSD (http://www.ec.kingston.com/ecom/configurator_new/PartsInfo.asp?root=us&LinkBack=http://www.kingston.com&ktcpartno=SVP100S2/96G) and a 6GB DDR3-2000 HyperX H2O Kit (http://www.kingston.com/hyperx/products/h2O.asp).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/gigabyte.pngGigabyte sent me a G1.Guerrilla motherboard (http://www.gigabyte.us/products/product-page.aspx?pid=3776).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/microchip.pngMicrochip sent me one of their new chipKIT Max32 development boards (http://www.digilentinc.com/Products/Detail.cfm?NavPath=2,719,895&Prod=CHIPKIT-MAX32).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/trossen.pngTrossen Robotics hooked me up with their RFID reader kit (http://www.trossenrobotics.com/p/RFID-experimenters-kit.aspx) and a discount on their Firgelli L12 Actuator (http://www.trossenrobotics.com/p/figelli-L12-50mm-100-1-Linear-Actuator.aspx).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/auto-air-color-logo.pngAuto Air Colors (http://www.autoaircolors.com/) sent me a few bottles of airbrush paint.

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/nzxt.pngNZXT hooked me up with a white LED light strip (http://www.nzxt.com/new/products/case_accessories/sleeved_led_kit_-_white).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/proto.pngProtostack sent 2 of their ATMega8A development kits (http://www.protostack.com/boards/microcontroller-boards/atmega8a-development-kit).

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Sponsors/pcbca.pngPCBoard.ca (http://www.pcboard.ca) sent me one of their new individually addressable RGB LED strips.

[Fuganater]

Need I say subed?

[TheMainMan]

Ooh! This looks to be exciting! ... (grabs bowl of popcorn and puts feet up) :)

[billygoat333]

Holy sponsors sir! lol I am looking forward to this! (and have been since you teased us. bastard. lol)

[SXRguyinMA]

Thanks :D

And here's those teaser vids for those who haven't seen them :whistler:


0Dom6xPrexg

GAjhfoJ-4b0

The issue I'm having now is porting everything from the Arduino (which doesn't have enough i/o for everything I need) to the chipKIT. The issue with that is the Arduino runs an AVR and the chipKIT runs a PIC, so they handle the code differently. I've been working closely with the guys who designed the board to get this sorted, and right now they're redoing the servo code (was never done originally to work with the PIC) and trying to figure out the addressable RGB LED strip issues.

[msmrx57]

Ooooooo Yeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhhh!!!!!! Definitely be watching this build. :up:

[BS Mods]

This will be awesome no doubt.

Nice job on the sponsors.:)

[TheGreatSatan]

Looks promising!

[SXRguyinMA]

Got this coming from Performance-PC's:


2 x *** HOT *** Koolance Tubing Splitter/Manifold, 5-Way Swiveling [no nozzles] (SPL-XFR3)
4 x Koolance Nozzle Single, G1/4 Barb [10mm, 3/8"] (NZL-V10B)
6 x Koolance Nozzle Single, G1/4 Barb [6mm, 1/4"] (NZL-V06B)
2 x mod/smart 24-Pin Female ATX Power Connector- Black (M-MB-24M-BK)
2 x Connectx™ ATX 24 pin Female Pins, GOLD-plated - 24 Pack (ACR-CB8133)
5 x Connectx™ Female 3-Pin Fan Housing Black (ACR-CB9031)
Molex Pins Add 3 Molex Pins
5 x Connectx™ Male 3-Pin Fan Housing Black (ACR-CB9079)
10 x Koolance Tubing, Silver PVC, 1ft/30.5cm [ID: 10mm (3/8"); OD: 13mm (1/2")] (HOS-10SL)
1 x IandH Silver KillCoils - Antimicrobial .999 Fine Silver Tubing / Reservoir Strip (IANDH-KILLCOIL)
1 x *** NEW *** EK-FC6870 for AMD/ATI Radeon HD 6870 Series - Nickel (EK-FC6870-NK)
Optional SLI Fitting No fitting
Fitting Size 3/8" Barb for 3/8" ID tube
1 x Black Ice® GTX Gen Two Xtreme 140 Highest Performance Radiator (GTX140)
Fitting Size 3/8" Barb for 3/8" ID tube
1 x Koolance INS-FM16 Coolant Flow Meter (INS-FM16)
1 x Koolance Coolant Temperature Sensor, Brass [no nozzles] (SEN-AP005PB)
Nozzles Add Nozzle Pair, G1/4 Barb [10mm, 3/8"] NZL-V10KGB
1 x A.C. Ryan AcrylPanel™ 3mm - 480x480mm Clear (ACR-AP3404)
8 x Solid Wall Polyethylene Grommet Edging with Adhesive - Black (GES-BK05)


And this coming from Sparkfun:


3x PRT-00115 Female Breakaway Headers
3x PRT-00116 Male Breakaway Headers
5x PRT-08095 Polarized Connectors - Housing (2-pin)
2x PRT-08100 Polarized Connectors - Crimp Pins
5x PRT-08233 Polarized Connectors - Header (2-pin)
2x PRT-09497 ATX Power Supply Connector - Straight
2x PRT-09498 ATX Power Supply Connector - Right Angle
2x PRT-10698 Light Pipe - Clear Core (3mm, 5' Long)


Deets when the goods arrive :D

[DynamoNED]

There's so much modding promise here already...Need I say it? Subbed.

[Richie123]

Watching this, looks very promising, like the security idea, would love to see finger print reader (like notebook ones) controlling a mechanical lock to open the side panel :P but defo worth keeping an eye on.

[SXRguyinMA]

Well no fingerprint reader, but I will have an RFID card controlling the side panel lock and opening mechanism :D The Level 10 GT has a button to press to unlock the side panel, then you can pull it open. I plan on using a servo to control the latch mechanism, and I picked up a small (but effing expensive) Firgelli linear actuator to open and close the door.

Speaking of that, I got the actuator and my performance-pcs order in today, will post pics tonight :D

[Richie123]

Well no fingerprint reader, but I will have an RFID card controlling the side panel lock and opening mechanism :D The Level 10 GT has a button to press to unlock the side panel, then you can pull it open. I plan on using a servo to control the latch mechanism, and I picked up a small (but effing expensive) Firgelli linear actuator to open and close the door.

Speaking of that, I got the actuator and my performance-pcs order in today, will post pics tonight :D

He he, I have them moments, will update, then real life events creep up and bite your ass lol... it happens, twice in my last build I quoted pics later or tomorrow, then posted them a week later...

all us modders hate that, some real world **** comming in and delaying us :P

nice plan though, can not wait to see it progress

[SXRguyinMA]

yea, my father-in-law picked up an early 80's tri-keep 16' bowrider, so I had to go get it for him as he doesn't have a truck lol. will get pics after work tonight :D

[Richie123]

lol, my blind mate (was not always blind) just put his up for sale (here in the UK) he is still keeping his yamaha jet ski and planning to replace the boat with a jet boat... yes his blind, but still is a petrol head so you can imagine the fun shouting slow down turn left ect i have... lol..

His buggy is the funny thing sitting there with a megaphone shouting slow down rofl...

[Twigsoffury]

ignition key switch from a ATV or snowmobile would be pretty sweet as a power switch.

[SXRguyinMA]

I like that idea...I may have to find a way to work that in! +rep

[SXRguyinMA]

OK so I DID get pics taken tonight, just didn't have time to edit them and upload them, will be up tomorrow :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Update time!

First some pics of some of the goods:


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/proto.png

ATMega8A dev kit from Protostack



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ssd2.png

96GB SSD from Kingston



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ram2.png

6GB DDR3-2000 H2O RAM also from Kingston



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/psu.png

Toughpower 1050W PSU from Thermaltake



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/wb.png

PWB100 Waterblock also from Thermaltake



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/act2.png

Firgelli L12 Linear actuator (50mm stroke, 100:1 gearing) from Trossen Robotics



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/kl1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/kl2.png

Koolance 3-way splitters and flow meter



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fit2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fit1.png

Koolance 3/8" and 1/4" G1/4 fittings



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/kl3.png

Here you can see a 3/8" fitting and 3 1/4" fittings in each splitter. What this will do is allow me to hook the main 3/8" tubing to the splitter, and have 1/4" lines run to each stick of RAM, then back out into the second splitter, and back into the loop.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ts.png

Koolance Adapter block with temp sensor



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ek1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ek2.png

EK waterblock for my XFX 6870



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/tube.png

10' Koolance silver 3/8" PVC tubing



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/trim.png

U-Channel edge molding



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/24p.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pins.png

2 black 24-pin connectors and pins



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/3p.png

5 3-pin connector sets



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/kc.png

Silver Kill Coil

I also got a Black Ice 140mm Radiator, but I need to swap it for a 120mm one as it's too big to fit in the case in the rear 140mm fan spot. I may get creative and try to mount it elsewhere though, we'll see.

I'm still waiting on a 2x120mm radiator and a pump/res combo from Thermaltake as well.


I also got some work done on the case.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/test.png

I test-fit the motherboard into the case to get an idea of the layout for some of the various components. This is when I found out that the bit 140mm rad I got won't fit.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side2.png

I also got the lower intake cover, louvers and fan removed. The plan is to put a window in where the fan grill used to be.

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update. I got the case pretty much all disassembled. There was a ton of little screws and clips everywhere, and it was neat to see how they held everything together. Next will be finding placement for some of the components.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cas2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case4.png

[SXRguyinMA]

More pics :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rfid.png

The RFID reader from Trossen Robotics



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/paint.png

The 2 bottles of paint from Auto Air Colors.


I also figured out a mounting for the 140mm rad. It was too big for the inside of the case and I thought putting it on the outside wouldn't look good. However after some trial and error I found that I can use the outer shell from an old 140mm fan as a spacer. The only other issue is that the barbs don't line up with the holes in the case, but that's a small hurdle. So the fan will be on the inside of the case with the rad and spacer on the outside. Alternatively I could just mount the fan to the rad and have them both on the outside of the case. Thoughts?


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad2.png

[billygoat333]

where did you buy those atx plugs? just curious. :) awesome gear sir!

[SXRguyinMA]

http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=60_923_925_931&products_id=30802 :D

[Richie123]

More pics :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad2.png

If you decide to keep the rad there, you could get 2 of these

http://www.xtremecomputing.co.uk/images/mods/Level10_Mpower/Level10MpowerMod_update/level10mpowermod_update_07.jpg

and 2 of these

http://www.xtremecomputing.co.uk/images/mods/Level10_Mpower/Level10MpowerMod_update/level10mpowermod_update_10.jpg

to correct teh alignment. they come in all sizes (bitspower) or you could get just a couple of these.

http://www.xtremecomputing.co.uk/images/mods/Level10_Mpower/Level10MpowerMod_update/level10mpowermod_update_11.jpg

But personally I think the first option would be the best, but the second one is viable as well

[SXRguyinMA]

I was actually thinking about a pair of these :D

http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/images/bitspower/BP-MB90R2_03.jpg

[Richie123]

I was actually thinking about a pair of these :D

http://www.performance-pcs.com/catalog/images/bitspower/BP-MB90R2_03.jpg

hey great minds think alike :P after using bitspower barbs in my mod, it would be hard to use anything else.

[SXRguyinMA]

and thanks to x88x, I've got 4 of them on their way to me :D :banana:

[SXRguyinMA]

Update time :D

I got 2 of the 3 windows done. I started with the top mesh part on the side panel (where the headphones hang, above the hotswap bays)


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side1-1.png

I started by removing the steel mesh, then cutting out the plastic honeycomb mesh underneath with my scroll saw.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side2-1.png

Then I cut out a piece from the AC Ryan panel I got. It took a lot of sanding and filing to get the window and the cutout nice and smooth.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side3.png

MMMM nice fit :D



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/side4.png

And a shot of where it goes on the case. I'm going to have a few components and some lighting behind this window, but I'm keeping the details a secret for now :D



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/top1.png

Then I started on the top panel. I removed the steel mesh like on the side panel...



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/top2.png

Then cut out the plastic honeycomb with the scroll saw. I had to do a lot more sanding and filing here than on the side panel. The reason for this is due to how Tt made the plastic parts. On the side I was able to install the window from underneath, so it didn't have to be 100%. Here I need to install the window on the top, and it will rest against a few small parts sticking out, so it needed to be perfect.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/top3.png

I used the steel mesh to trace out a rough line for the window panel.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/top4.png

And the window cut roughly.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/top5.png

And a nice fit :D This took a LOT of time as the window had to be a lot closer to perfect than the side one did. This window will also have components underneath, and both windows may have some etchings...we'll see on that later on.

[SXRguyinMA]

Time for another update!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/e-case.png

I finally got the case entirely stripped down, minus drilling out the rivets (that's later).



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/box.png

Here's all the hardware I had to remove to get all the plastic off this thing!



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut1.png

I did some measuring and marking on the side panel in preparation for cutting.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut2.png

Then I tackled the plastic casing that covers that side intake hole. This will also have a window, making for 4 total windows in the case.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut3.png

Here it is all trimmed out. This took several hours of cutting and sanding with the Dremel and final finish sanding. There were a lot of small tabs and whatnot that needed to be removed. What I'm left with is 2 small ledges on which to mount the window.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut4.png

I went about making the window the same way as the others. I used the mesh I removed for an outline/guideline. Then I cut it out with the scroll saw and did the finish sanding with the Dremel and belt sander. Here it is in for a test-fit.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidecut6.png

Here is the plastic and window sitting on the side panel.

The main thing left to do now is cut out the steel side door and work on component placement and electronics. The tough part is going to be finding the right mounting location for the linear actuator that will open and close the door.

[p0Pe]

very interesting build mate! Keep it going:D

[SXRguyinMA]

I did some work with SketchUp tonight. I want to dress up the radiator since it will now be hanging off the back of the case rather than be inside it. I used my Black Ice 140 radiator to make one in SketchUp. Then I used the following picture of an industrial rooftop A/C unit to design a shroud that will screw to the backside of the radiator and fit in with the overall theme of the project. I plan to make this shroud out of white styrene sheet just like I made the louver assembly for my Tempest SXR (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?p=289709) mod a while back. Enjoy the pics :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/industrial-cooler.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/Black_Ice_GTX_Gen_II_Extreme_140.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad_w_shroud1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad_w_shroud2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rad_w_shroud3.png

[CorsePerVita]

The amount of awesome in this build is pleasing.

[SXRguyinMA]

The amount of awesome in this build is pleasing.

thanks :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update.

I decided on a location for the Koolance flow meter. Theres this spot where the cables pass through and it fits nicely with a pair of 90º Bitspower fittings I got from x88x. The only problem is that pesky piece of the frame in the way. Only one thing to do...cut it out!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/flow.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/flow2.png

That's better :D This will be visible behind the window I put into the side panel, along with one of the protoboards from ProtoStack. I've got an idea of what to use the board for, now I just need to make it happen :D



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sentry1.png

I also decided to mount my Sentry 2 fan controller in this side panel rather than the front 5.25" bays. I already have experience mounting it without it's housing from my Tempest SXR mod, so this should be cake.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sentry2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sentry3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sentry4.png

I measured and marked the hole, cut it out with my Dremel and filed it down nice and smooth.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sentry5.png

Here's an idea of how it will look. All I need to do is make up some mounts for it on the inside, which should be rather easy.

[LazyMan]

Very nice....subbed

[Frenkie]

Looking Good.

[SXRguyinMA]

OK so I had a minor setback tonight. I was cutting out the window in the side panel with my Dremel. I managed to get it about 1/2 done, and all of a sudden my Dremel started popping and crackling and shooting smoke everywhere. Damn. Now I need to pick up some steel blades for my jigsaw and try that instead. Yay :D

[BruteClaw]

Ah, another Dremel sacrificed to the modding gods. Great work. Subbed

[SXRguyinMA]

Update time!

I got the actuator mounted! I used a hole that was already in the case as the rear mount, and used double-sided tape for the front to get the positioning correct. I set the actuator to full close, closed the door and stuck it on. It doesn't open 90º, but it's like 88º :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/actuator1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/actuator2.png


Once I got the position correct and verified, I drilled the side panel to mount the bracket for the actuator. This nut and bolt will not be the final parts, they're just there for temporary mounting.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/actuator3.png


I also used a jigsaw to finish cutting out the rest of the side panel, then filed it down nice and smooth. I still need to do some finish grinding and filing to get the edges nice and straight, but it's a start.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/door1.png


Then I mounted the plastic covers back to the side panel to stiffen it, and retried the actuator to make sure everything was 100%


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/door2.png


And a video, of course :D I set the code to run the actuator full open, wait 9 seconds, then full close, repeat. The reason for 9 seconds is that it takes ~4 seconds for the actuator to fully extend or retract.


0C1yT-QBBr4

[Collinstheclown]

That's what I was going with, work and house stuff prevented me from getting it finished in SketchUp.

That looks awesome! You might be able to put a block of something under the door side mount and have it extend the full 90°.

[SXRguyinMA]

it's close enough to 90º for me, doesn't need to be exact. I just need to come up with a permanent mount for the rear end of it, that single screw with nuts isn't going to cut it lol

[SXRguyinMA]

And another update :D

I cut out a piece of black acrylic to use as a fill panel to hide all the slots and holes on the side of the 5.25" bays.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ps1.png

Next I marked and drilled 10 holes. 4 for the flow meter and 6 for the ProtoStack board. Each is held in by a 4-40 stainless allen head screw with a nut to act as a spacer. The acrylic itself is mounted in the same fashion to the side of the 5.25" drive bays.



http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ps2.png


And here's how it will look through the window in the side. The window is not installed here, but I put the panel on to get an idea. I'm going to use the ProtoStack board to run some interior lighting, wait till you see what I've got planned :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ps3.png


Next I marked and drilled 4 holes in the top panel for the RFID reader.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rfid1.png


Now the reader has pin headers and a barrel jack on it that won't allow it to fit under the window that will be there, so I had to break out the jigsaw again :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rfid2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rfid3.png


I mounted the RFID reader in the same fashion as the ProtoStack board and flow meter, with 4-40 SS screws with nuts for spacers to keep the contacts off the metal of the case. It now fits perfectly under the window :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rfid4.png

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update. Got some goodies in :D

3 120mm Cooler Master Turbine Master 1800RPM fans

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fans1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fans2.png


A Phobya Radiator Gasket


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/gasket.png


A Phobya 20x140mm radiator spacer


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/radspac1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/radspac2.png


Black Ice Pro II 240mm low profile radiator


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/240rad1.png


Fans mounted to top rad


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/240rad2.png


And how it looks installed in the case. The rear 120mm fan will be as shown, with the rad spacer and 140mm rad behind the case. The spacer is necessary so that the fittings from the top of the rad will be able to go through the LC holes in the case.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fans3.png

[Twigsoffury]

think you could use a larger gauge bolt, with a bolt sleeve and some washers for the actuator arm?

http://i55.tinypic.com/3136ntg.png

then join the actuator arm with the bolt sleeve (maybe with epoxy), use two washers between the bolts and larger diameter washers between the mating surface of the chassis? maybe with some skateboard/bicycle bearing grease between the washers and inside the bolt sleeve.


and some bolts to extend that couple on the door would let it extend out the full 90 degrees or better.

http://i54.tinypic.com/2lkagd2.png


just a idea though.

[SXRguyinMA]

Thanks for the ideas :D +rep

I'm not all too worried about it getting to a full 90º, it's the limitations of the actuator. If the actuator extended another 5mm or so it'd do it lol. I'll skip spacing out the door mount, as I want to try to keep it clean. I'm still working on a clean mount for the back rather than that single bolt, as it needs support on the top. If you see the vid the wobbles a little due to the flex of the bolt in the chassis. If I make an arm of some sort for the top of that bolt it'll be more steady

[Twigsoffury]

If you see the vid the wobbles a little due to the flex of the bolt in the chassis. If I make an arm of some sort for the top of that bolt it'll be more steady

thats what that bottom nut and two large diameter washers were for on my MSpaintCAD drawing.

tighten the bottom nut against the head of the bolt with the two larger spacers to spread out the force put on it. then the two upper nuts tighten the slack on the sleeve so that part doesn't wobble.

maybe i'm just over engineering lol.

oh well just a idea and at either rate the auto open door is the s#@t.

[Vertigo]

Very clean work, I'm especially fond of the arm.

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update. I got bored while waiting for UPS to arrive this Friday with the rest of my goods so I decided to lap my processor. I looked pretty well flat, but I was surprised just how much it was off. These pics go from 400 grit through 1500 grit, and all I've got left to do is polish it :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu01.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu02.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu03.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu04.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu05.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu06.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu07.png

Expect an update this weekend after UPS drops off my drool-inducing goods :D

[L3p]

Nice work with the lapping job :)

[Twigsoffury]

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpu07.png

:D

http://www.mtv.com/news/photos/b/bling_081705/bling_21.jpg

[SXRguyinMA]

http://www.mtv.com/news/photos/b/bling_081705/bling_21.jpg

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Smilies/spit.gif

[SXRguyinMA]

Parts are in. Enjoy :D

EK-Supreme HF CPU block


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuwb.png


Laing DDC pump with Phobya Black Nickel pump top


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pump.png


Phobya Balancer 150mm Black Nickel res


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/res.png


And a nice pile of Bitspower Black Sparkle fittings


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fittings1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fittings2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fittings3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fittings4.png

[SXRguyinMA]

Big update this time, I got a lot done this weekend!

I got the top 3-way splitter's mounting holes drilled.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/3way1.png


I also got the Phobya pump top mounted. Damn is that thing heavy!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pumpa.png


Then I got the res and pump temporarily installed to check fitment.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pumpa1.png


Then I made up a pump mount plate from black acrylic. I used the 4 120mm fan mounts in the bottom of the chassis to mount it, along with 4 rubber dampers.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pumpa2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pumpa3.png


Then I ran into an issue with the rear radiator. I thought just the single Phobya rad spacer would be enough, but it wasn't The fittings still wouldn't fit in the holes. I found that if I used a 140mm fan on the outside of the case then put the rad spacer and rad on that they fit perfectly. So I decided to not use the 120mm turbine fan and use the 140mm fan that came with the case because it's still got that look I want. I decided to cut out the rear of the case so you'd be able to see the fan.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan4.png


Now the fittings line up nicely! I had to run to the hardware store and get some 10-28 x 3" SS screws to hold everything together. I drilled and tapped the rad to accept the larger screws (for strength) and cut the screws down to about 2.25".


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rearfan6.png


I also picked up this cheap momentary key switch off eBay for $3.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/switch1.png


I drilled out the stock power button mount and installed the key switch. It fits in there perfectly.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/switch2.png


I had to cut the stock button mount in half to clear the key switch. I'll still need to either modify the steel part of the case or bend the tabs on the switch to make it fit 100%


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/switch3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/switch4.png

That's it for now! Once my motherboard comes back from Gigabyte I can get the bottom 3-way splitter mounts done, then it'll be time to drill out a TON of rivets and paint the case! Stay tuned :D

[AmEv]

You know, you should make a sneaky slot on your keyboard to hide those....... :P

[SXRguyinMA]

You know, you should make a sneaky slot on your keyboard to hide those....... :P

that is a good idea :D

[AmEv]

Yeah, because, you know, KEYboard??????

[Twigsoffury]

Put it inside one of them Slider USB thumb drive cases.

Like some 007.

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update.

I got the case disassembled (mostly). I plan on leaving the drive bays as a single piece like they are for ease of assembly later.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/caseparts.png


I also got the EK waterblock mounted to my 6870.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga2.png


Bye bye warranty!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga3.png


All cleaned up and ready to go.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga4.png


MMMmmmm shiny :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga5.png


All ready to install!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/vga6.png


I should have the case painted this weekend. I've got to steal the garage for a few days to paint. Scuff, primer, sand, primer, paint!

[BS Mods]

Looking good.

That case is such a beast.

The key idea is awesome. Any chance they had the same switch with a refrigerator key style? That would look even beefier.

:)

[SXRguyinMA]

They had the barrel style ones but they weren't cheap lol. The one I got only has one key style, so anyone who orders it will get the same key. Not so secure, but I'm not too worried about someone taking their key and breaking into my house to use my computer lol :D

Case is painted and mostly assembled. Expect a BIG update tonight :D

[SXRguyinMA]

HUUUUGE update today :D

I got all the parts hung in the garage ready for primer and paint.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts01.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts02.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts03.png


Here is the paint I used. It's from Arctic Cat. I saw a 4-wheeler come into my dealership in this color and immediately thought it'd be perfect for this mod! 3 cans of primer and 5 cans of paint later, it's all done!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/paint-1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts04.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts05.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts06.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts07.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts08.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts09.png


And I was left with a whole lot of overspray dust to clean up as well.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/dust.png


Here are the front and top panels with the masking tape removed.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts10.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/parts11.png


Next it was off with a box of rivets and my rivet gun to reassemble the case. I think it looks pretty damn good, no?


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/p_case1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/p_case2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/p_case5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/p_case3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/p_case4.png


Then there was a point in time in the basement when I was just running through putting stuff together without snapping a whole lot of pics, but I did get some taken :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a01.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a02.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a03.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a04.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a05.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a09.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a10.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a08.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a07.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a06.png


Kingston 96GB SSD mounted to one of the hotswap trays.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ssd1.png


And more assembly pics :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a13.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a12.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a11.png


Here you can see the side panel and it's windows and frames mounted. I also mounted the NZXT Sentry 2 fan controller into its place on the front side panel.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/case_a14.png


I also designed, etched and assembled a circuit board to hold the two RGB LCDs. The spacing is perfect so they fit centered into 2 5.25" bay covers.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/d_lcd1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/d_lcd2.png


I also got the plastic frames for the bay covers fit to the LCDs. Next I need to cut the foam filters and the outer mesh to fit the LCDs as well.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/d_lcd3.png


That's it for now!

[Fuganater]

That color is awesome. That deff was a big post because it took me 30 minutes to load all the pics :P

[SgtM]

Sick dude!!

[SXRguyinMA]

That color is awesome. That deff was a big post because it took me 30 minutes to load all the pics :P

Thanks :D


Sick dude!!

Thanks Rick! Wait till I (attempt to) rustify it, that'll make it look even better (I hope) :D

[NightrainSrt4]

Looks awesome!

[SXRguyinMA]

Thanks Rick :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Got some airbrushing done today with the help of an airbrush and compressor from a friend and SgtM's Airbrushing rust tutorial...pics tomorrow :D

[Notyab]

That thing is amazing.

[SXRguyinMA]

Thanks :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Got some airbrushing done :D Thanks again to Auto Air Colors for providing the paint and to SgtM for providing the tutorial!!

Still have more to do on the smaller bits. Enjoy :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust4.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust6.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust7.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust8.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust9.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust10.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust11.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rust12.png

[xr4man]

looks good.

[Fuganater]

Dude that looks pro!

[SXRguyinMA]

Thanks Shane, glad you like it :D

[alternativesurfer]

Love the paint

[Twigsoffury]

I could of just smoked a couple packs of ciggs around that computer and gotten similar results.

but i guess it would smell then :\

:P (good job with the paint)

[modscases.com]

good job on the airbrush looks goooood

[SXRguyinMA]

Love the paint

Thanks :D


I could of just smoked a couple packs of ciggs around that computer and gotten similar results.

but i guess it would smell then :\

:P (good job with the paint)

lol thanks Twigs :)


good job on the airbrush looks goooood

Thanks man! Yours came out awesome!

[Aldersan]

More updates! I'm interested in this case, and I wanna see how this great mod turns out! :D

[SXRguyinMA]

soon enough, I'm working little by little here and there. I've got a paper due for one of my courses so I've been focusing on that though lol :D

[Twigsoffury]

man you know what would be sweet and pretty simple?


If it had some sort of blinking status light when its off like a car alarm?

and if you used the chassis intrusion switch ( i seen the slot for it in the case) to set off a alarm if the computer is opened while its off and something hasn't been done like a key turned, or a code entered. or a secret switch flipped.

[BS Mods]

Looking great!

The air brushing really tops it off.

[SXRguyinMA]

man you know what would be sweet and pretty simple?


If it had some sort of blinking status light when its off like a car alarm?

and if you used the chassis intrusion switch ( i seen the slot for it in the case) to set off a alarm if the computer is opened while its off and something hasn't been done like a key turned, or a code entered. or a secret switch flipped.

Not a bad idea lol. I'm going for a high-security nuclear building type of thing. Kayin is sending me some of his special UV green coolant that will just be the icing on the cake to this thing :D


Looking great!

The air brushing really tops it off.

Thanks! I've got more to do on the interior as well still :D

I've got some of this (http://en.mdpc-x.com/mdpc-sleeve/sleeve/sleeve-small-copper-brown.htm) and some of this (http://en.mdpc-x.com/mdpc-sleeve/sleeve/sleeve-small-titanium-grey.htm) on it's way for the PSU and all it's associated cables. I swore after I uni-sleeved the PSU cables in my Red Comet mod that I'd never do it again lol. Well once I saw those colors from MDPC for the sleeving I HAD to do it. The PSU's wires are all de-connectored and stripped of their stock sleeving awaiting my shipment :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Ok so in regards to the sleeving, how should I sleeve it while integrating both colors? I've got more copper than gray. Should I do mostly copper and a random gray here and there or would I do copper with gray on the corners or what? Any ideas?

[Aldersan]

I think you "whould" work on your spelling :P Other than that, I would say either do the random gray or maybe use certain colors for certain kinds of cables? Like gray for 6/8 pins and copper for 24 pin?

[SXRguyinMA]

I don't see any spelling errors :whistler:

I was thinking of something like that. I was originally planning on doing the 24-pin in all copper, but I think it'd be too much. Maybe alternate copper and gray (like I did with the red and black on Red Comet)?

[Aldersan]

You could do that, or maybe, if you're planning on sticking to single colors for the other cables, do a block of 4 or 6 in the middle of the 24 pin gray and the rest copper, or vice versa? Make it look like its 3 cables instead of 1 big one?

Then, when you're done, you could do my psu too :D

[SXRguyinMA]

that' not a bad idea, I may have to give it a shot :D

[Aldersan]

Let me know how it turns out. Or better yet, post lots of pictures! People love pictures! :D

[SXRguyinMA]

oh there will be pics, don't worry :D

[SXRguyinMA]

I've got some work done the past few days, but not enough for a full update. I'm awaiting some parts today and waiting for my MDPC-X sleeving to show up :D

Hopefully I'll have an update after the weekend!

[Twigsoffury]

You know they make mettalic sleeving in all sorts of colors and s@#t

lemme try and dig that website up that i sent the other guy making that all aluminum/copper sail looking case.

http://cableorganizer.com/chrome-sleeving/chrome-xc-braided-sleeving.html

(gold)

http://cableorganizer.com/mylar/

Look around and there are tons of finish options, i guess the above link (1st) is paintable as well.

[SXRguyinMA]

thanks for the links, but I've got the copper and titanium colored stuff coming from MDPC-X already :D

[Twigsoffury]

thanks for the links, but I've got the copper and titanium colored stuff coming from MDPC-X already :D

oh cool!!

[SXRguyinMA]

Ok so I said I'd post an update LAST weekend. Well I got a ton of modding done, but no time for an update :facepalm: I'll be modding most of the day today, so expect something later tonight :D

[Aldersan]

You better update!

[msmrx57]

How late is later??? :D

[SXRguyinMA]

not going to be today lol. I was busy getting a review done and buttoning up part 3 of my integrating electronics series. I was planning for tomorrow....but BF3 opens tomorrow...so I might be playing that after work instead, we'll see lol :whistler:

[Kayin]

Whenever I get to a mailbox, you have incoming mail.

[SXRguyinMA]

Whenever I get to a mailbox, you have incoming mail.

you rock :banana:

[SXRguyinMA]

Update time!!

I cut a piece of mesh to cover the holes left in the side panel and put some trim on it to dress it up a bit then hot-glued it into place.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/doorscreen.png


I also got a bunch of random parts soldered to the ProtoStack dev board to make it look more industrial-ish. All I need to do is wire up the LEDs that this board will be controlling.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lightboard.png


Thanks again to NZXT for sending me a 2M red LED strip!! I removed the module from it's PCI slot bracket and mounted it to a spare standoff hole on the backside of the motherboard.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ledstrip1.png


Then I removed the motherboard and hot-glued the LED strip to the case under it.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ledstrip2.png


Looks pretty sweet :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ledstrip3.png


I also tested the fans and my fan controller and found that for some reason the Sentry 2 wouldn't even get the Turbine Master fans to even start spinning. :? If you tapped the blades by hand they'd spin right up, but not from a dead stop. So I replaced them with a pair of Gentle Typhoons and a sweet ACRyan radgrill


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fans.png


I also got my Indigo Extreme TIM installed on the CPU


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/indigo.png


Next up I got all the UV LEDs sleeved. I started with the 2 3mm ones that go into the CPU block, then did the 5mm one in the res and also swapped out the 2 3mm blue ones in the flow meter with 2 3mm UV ones. The camera makes the UV look super bright, but with the coolant I'll be running it should look perfect. :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuled1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuled2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuled3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/flowled.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/resled.png


I also got 3 more WD Caviar Black 500GB drives to go with the one in my current rig. I plan to put the OS onto the 96GB SSD then do a RAID 1+0 with the 4 500GB drives.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/hdds.png


I got the SATA cables sleeved with the copper sleeving from MDPC-X. I must say, their sleeve is THE BEST! Dirt cheap and looks great!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/satac.png


Speaking of sleeving, I did the PSU. I wasn't going to, but I had to. I did it with a mix of the copper brown and tungsten gray from MDPC-X. I did ALL the wires. I ended up cutting and extending the 8-pin CPU wires so they'd reach without needing the adapter that Tt included with the case. I also cut off the un-needed cables and heatshrunk the ends inside the PSU to keep things clean. Enjoy :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/psu1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/psu2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/psu3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cables3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cables4.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cables1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cables2.png

That's all for now!

[billygoat333]

That sleeving looks smexy. :)

[Fuganater]

Looks great! I'm uber jelous for the WC RAM XP

[Twigsoffury]

man its all coming together!!

think some black velco straps around some of those sleeved cables would look nice? (like on the video card)


Really like the red led's around the mainboard and the UV lights in the blocks and such.


them UV lights actually ought to help kill off microbes in your water system lol!

[SXRguyinMA]

I actually put some small black zip ties on the VGA cables to clean them up a tad, they look much better now lol. As far as microbes I don't think I'll have that problem with the fluid Kayin is sending me :D

[TheMainMan]

Love the shot of the PSU with the warranty sticker broken! :twisted: Do you get a deal with MDPC-X or something? It seems pretty pricey to me to do a whole system in single sleeve with shipping from Europe. Granted it does look better than anything else out there.
Build is coming together nicely, should look awesome when it is finished!

[Fuganater]

@TheMainMan - Its only $0.22 per foot + about 9euro for shipping. Whole system sleeved for around $80. Where other sleeving is $0.59 or more per foot making sleeving a whole system well over $150.

[TheMainMan]

Ahh, thanks for the explanation. I hadn't priced out other sources beyond the cheapo kits at a local store (I use them for builds for people who don't care about interior looks). I've been looking at the MDPC-X stuff for a long time but haven't been able to justify that kind of cost while still being a student, so I just get to drool over the pictures of those of you who can:)

[SXRguyinMA]

the MDPC-X stuff is only like $0.20USD/foot lol it's CHEAP

[SXRguyinMA]

I put some zip ties on the PCI-e cables to clean them up a bit


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cables.png


I also picked up these sweet aluminum hose clamps for all the 3/8" tubing. I wanted the same ones for the 1/4" but they were all out, so I got the standard plastic clamps


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/hoseclamps1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/hoseclamps2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/hoseclamps3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/hoseclamps4.png


I picked up this Bitspower radgrill for the rear fan


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/radgrill1.png


But the green wasn't cutting it so I painted it to match the rest


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/radgrill2.png


I also got a pair of Lian Li blank 5.25" drive covers and some military switches.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate1.png


I taped, marked, drilled and mounted everything :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate3.png


The other holds a 16x2 LCD and a Bulgin button.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate4.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate5.png


I decided to go with a single LCD versus the 2 for simplicity's sake, and the fact that I only really needed one anyways. I also painted both panels to match as well.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/splate6.png


Now I figured I'd do something different with the 1/4" clear tubing for the RAM. I wanted them to do something rather than just be there. So I tried some different routing setups and settled on this one. I cut up some spare plexi I had laying around, sanded, drilled and painted, and here is the end result. This will look sick once the fluid is in there :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/tubing1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/tubing2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/tubing3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/tubing4.png

That's all for now. I've been working a lot with the coding for everything lately. All that's left to do really is finish the switch wiring, finish the airbrushing and integrate the flow meter into the coding one the system is up and running!

[SXRguyinMA]

Another update :D

I designed, etched and assembled the 2 circuit boards I'll be needing now that I'm only using 1 LCD. One board will house the ATMega328 and all it's associated components as well as have all the I/O pins for the accessories. The second board will mount to the LCD directly and allow me to use a 2x5 ribbon cable instead of the breadboard-friendly layout as the LCDs come.

I used Fritzing (http://www.fritzing.org) to create the layouts and the PCBs.

I started off by laying out everything in the breadboard view.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ftz_bb.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ftz_lcd_bb.png


I used that to create the PCB layouts as seen here. From the breadboard point to the ready-to-print PCB point was about 2 hours. This consisted of moving parts around the boards to get the best possible layout.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ftz_pcb.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/ftz_lcd_pcb.png


Next I created etchable .pdf's (done with Fritzing) so I can print out the boards. You'll notice one side is mirrored. This is because when you transfer the image it'll come out oriented correctly.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/etch_top.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/etch_bottom.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lcd_etch_bottom.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lcd_etch_top.png


Here the boards are printed out and cut out. They are printed with a laser printer onto inkjet photo paper. The reason for this is that the toner, which is plastic, will not adhere to the inkjet photo paper. This will allow it to be transferred to the copper clad with an iron.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs1.png


Here are the top sides all transferred.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs2.png


Here I've drilled a set of holes and inserted pins through them. I use these pins to line up the back side traces for transferring.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs3.png


Fast forward a few steps and you've got a pair of freshly-etched and drilled boards ready for assembly! The blobby-ness on the traces is from a sharpie. If you get mostly good transfer but have a few little patches where it didn't stick you simply use a sharpie to draw it in. It works as an etch resist almost as good as the toner itself.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs4.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs6.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs7.png


And here we have the pair of completed boards. I still need to test these to make sure they're working 100%


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs8.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/pcbs9.png

That's all for now!

[billygoat333]

so you use solder for the traces? thats pretty cool.

[AmEv]

No, to cover up the copper traces to prevent rusting/oxidiation.


I do wonder, is it possible to control the contrast with the microcontroller?

[SXRguyinMA]

no the traces are copper as you can see in the pre-assembled pics. I put solder on the traces to keep the copper from oxidizing :D I'll have a nice in-depth tutorial in my Integrating Electronics series in part 4 :D

[SXRguyinMA]

No, to cover up the copper traces to prevent rusting/oxidiation.


I do wonder, is it possible to control the contrast with the microcontroller?

we posted at the same time lol. I do suppose it would be possible. All the pot does is send between 0-5V to the contrast pin, PWM may achieve the same result, but I'm not sure if the LCD will enjoy PWM on it's contrast pin. I'll have to play with it and find out. I've always just set the contrast and put a dab of hot glue on the pot to keep it where I want it.

[AmEv]

Touche.

+rep for being on the same wavelength 500 miles away lol.

[SXRguyinMA]

Now you've got me wanting to play around with pwm on the contrast pin lol. I'll do it and let you know :D

[OvRiDe]

No, to cover up the copper traces to prevent rusting/oxidiation.


I do wonder, is it possible to control the contrast with the microcontroller?


no the traces are copper as you can see in the pre-assembled pics. I put solder on the traces to keep the copper from oxidizing :D I'll have a nice in-depth tutorial in my Integrating Electronics series in part 4 :D

Could you do the same thing with some clear coat or clear nail polish after you have soldered on your components? I honestly don't know, but it seems like it would be easier in the long run.

[billygoat333]

Thanks for the knowledge. :D

[xr4man]

Could you do the same thing with some clear coat or clear nail polish after you have soldered on your components? I honestly don't know, but it seems like it would be easier in the long run.

i don't see why not. it would be similar to using non-conformal coating.

[SXRguyinMA]

A lot of people actually use an airbrush or something similar :D

[Twigsoffury]

A lot of people actually use an airbrush or something similar :D

I'd use 429 S.T.U.F but i dunno if that would hurt it as far as electrical conduction.

http://www.seal-it.ca/metal_sealant.php

[SXRguyinMA]

It's aliiiiiive!!!!! :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/running.png

After doing the reflow procedure for the Indigo Extreme TIM Temps are VERY nice :D I'm getting ~34ºC idle and topping out at ~48ºC under Hyper Pi, OCCT and Prime95.

All that's left to do is finish the coding and the wiring! Also, my coolant will be here this week, stay tuned :D

[OvRiDe]

Nice!! So how does BF3 look on it? :P

[SXRguyinMA]

dunno, haven't gotten that far yet lol

[Aldersan]

Those are pretty similar temps for what I'm getting, even without the indigo :P

[billygoat333]

I get around ~30 C reg usage, about 40 C when I fold on my i7 with the Vantage ALC I have :D I love it. I think I can get lower with better TIM and a Push/Pull setup.

BTW, I love this mod. :)

[SXRguyinMA]

yea but my system is doing the i7, 6870 AND 3 sticks of RAM too lol :D

[Aldersan]

x6, gtx 580 here, still pretty high heat output

[billygoat333]

yea but my system is doing the i7, 6870 AND 3 sticks of RAM too lol :D

Very True :)

[Fuganater]

I want to see Kaylin's fluid in this.

[Twigsoffury]

err im yanking 88F idle 112F load on my X4 955 @ 3.7Ghz

(on a small air cooled heatsink with a very very mean fan)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_Zp70eC670

I can get it down into the 50's during the winter though with some "assistance"

[SXRguyinMA]

And it's done!!! Yet again, a HUUUUUUUGE thanks to crenn for working so diligently with me on the coding!! I'm posting from it now and I'll have the full update tomorrow :D

[SXRguyinMA]

Minor update!

I painted the CPU retention bracket to match the rest of the case


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuplate.png


I also got a pair of 12" UV cathodes installed the the side door. I ended up reusing the touch connector that came with the case for this. it simplifies the wiring a lot :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/door.png


Next up I wired up 4 LEDs and hot-glued them into the top part of the front side window. The LEDs are all warm white colored.


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/windowleds1.png


And it's now finished! But you'll have to wait until tomorrow for the good pics. In the meantime here's a few teaser shots :D


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpulit.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lights1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lights2.png

[Richie123]

I also got a pair of 12" UV cathodes installed the the side door. I ended up reusing the touch connector that came with the case for this. it simplifies the wiring a lot :D

Snap, great modders think alike :P, thats exactly what I have planned for BF3.3, using the connector in the door to make the power for the side window etches lights... Just hope the double rad is going to be good enough for cooling a 580GTX and SB-E i7

I loved this build and will continue to do so, infact Thermaltake should feel honored that so many good modders have hacked up a level 10 GT.

[crenn]

I'll be curious to see the LCD start procedure that I've been helping with.

[L3p]

Love the purple/green :)

[SXRguyinMA]

Snap, great modders think alike :P, thats exactly what I have planned for BF3.3, using the connector in the door to make the power for the side window etches lights... Just hope the double rad is going to be good enough for cooling a 580GTX and SB-E i7

I loved this build and will continue to do so, infact Thermaltake should feel honored that so many good modders have hacked up a level 10 GT.

Thanks for following :D Yea I wasn't using the fan and then decided on the cathodes and I remembered that connector, it worked perfectly :)



I'll be curious to see the LCD start procedure that I've been helping with.

It looks mint...editing the video now :)



Love the purple/green :)

Thanks man! :D

[Twigsoffury]

*grabs bowl of popcorn and pulls up chair*


Hope you can post up a cool Youtube Video.


Love the purple/green :)

Me to. i bet it looks wicked in person seeing it cycle the fluid.

[SXRguyinMA]

Here's the final pics and video! Enjoy!


http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside3.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside2.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside5.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside4.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside7.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside8.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/outside6.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/sidetop.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/frontup.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/fronttop.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/rear.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/display.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/cpuuv1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/gpuuv.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/resuv1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/lights1-1.png

http://i92.photobucket.com/albums/l11/sportrider12584/Maximum%20Security/inneruv1.png

X5BsbkBxIk4

[blueonblack]

Excellent!! :up: +rep

[Twigsoffury]

man that all came together great!

have to +rep whats his face for helping you with the software because that really set it apart.

[crenn]

Whats his face? T_T

Well, most of the code was written by SXRguyinMA himself, I just came in and made it work better and added the last bit of code for the flow meter to work.

[Fuganater]

Looks great!

[Aldersan]

Time to defeat the purpose of the mod! Maximum security my butt, I figured out its easy to get around the "lock" on the hot-swappable hdd bays.. :P

[SXRguyinMA]

Yea it is lol. I'm not worried as I won't be using the hot swap anyways. I've got the 96GB SSD in the top bay with the OS and programs, and the bottom 4 each have a 500GB WD Black in a RAID 1+0 array :D

[Twigsoffury]

Time to defeat the purpose of the mod! Maximum security my butt, I figured out its easy to get around the "lock" on the hot-swappable hdd bays.. :P

well i mean how maximum security can you be with something you can just pick up and walk away with that also has plastic windows you could pretty much super hadouken punch through while drunk.


and sorry whats his face.. i mean crenn.

: P

[SXRguyinMA]

lol yea it's not too secure if they included a carrying handle instead of bolt-through feet lol

[AmEv]

No, if he'd gone MAXIMUM security, it'd be inside a vault, inside 10 other vaults, inside a federal prizon.

[diluzio91]

Looks good Will. + Rep

[d_stilgar]

This is a very cool and tidy build. I love the simple paint job and especially like the functioning switches, microcontroller and the water cooling. It's all very well done.

[msmrx57]

Looks Great!!!! There is one thing that could use a little attention, the rad could use a little aging. :whistler:

[Twigsoffury]

Looks Great!!!! There is one thing that could use a little attention, the rad could use a little aging. :whistler:

I was thinking the same thing.

like tape off the inside radiator part and spray the outside shroud silver, then add the rust and especially towards the bottom and around the fittings like it's been leaking rusty water for some time now.

[billygoat333]

Very cool sir Will! :D

[SXRguyinMA]

It's final round time!! Go give a vote for me!! And while you're tehre give Fuganater a vote too :)

http://showdown.newmodcity.com/final-round/#comment-59

[Fuganater]

I got you :D

[SXRguyinMA]

I gave my 5 points to you Shane!!

[Fuganater]

Same to you!

[blackphoenix]

Nice mod came across the forums while looking for inspiration on my first case mod :)

just had a little suggestion the three military switches could you possible incorparate a boot up sequence ?

for example switch 2, switch 1, switch 3 if not done in this order refuses to accept card or something on those lines just another layer of "security"

[SXRguyinMA]

It would definitely be possible to do. There was actually a project over on Hack-A-Day where I guy did just that for a rocket launch controller. I tried looking for the article but couldn't find it. But it was just as you describe. If you don't flip the switches in the correct order it will not operate :D

[blackphoenix]

It would definitely be possible to do. There was actually a project over on Hack-A-Day where I guy did just that for a rocket launch controller. I tried looking for the article but couldn't find it. But it was just as you describe. If you don't flip the switches in the correct order it will not operate :D

Had a quick look over at hack-a-day and found

http://hackaday.com/2008/10/14/microcontroller-powered-missile-launch-controller/

this looks like it could be the article in question :)

[SXRguyinMA]

that's the one! his is where I got the idea for the little moving arrows on the display :D