Into the unknown I go... (with pictures!) [Archive]

MitaPi

09-03-2006, 08:03 AM

Well, I decided that there is more to being a modder than just buying computer parts and slapping them together. I have decided to BUILD my own case FROM SCRATCH. Sure you can buy pre-modded cases (= $$$:() but where is the fun in that? Where is the sense of ADVENTURE and EXPLORING INTO THE UNKNOWN!?

Now this is where you (My fellow modders) come in! You get to not only help me along the way and point out critical errors on my half but you also get to help me pick out things such as but certainly not limited to; Name!, Case Design!, Color!, Deminsions!, Window Color!, Paint Scheme!, and oh so much MUCH more! :D Sounds fun huh!? :eek: :eek: :eek: I know! I can barely believe it myself!

Okay, okay, sit down and stop bouncing around everywhere already! We got work to do! These are my current pictures (FYI, Pictures are more like guide lines for the finished product to help give you/myself a basic idea).

KEY
Top left box = PSU.
Top Right box = Optical Drives.
Bottom Left box = MoBo
Bottom Right Box = HDD's

EDIT: Updated pictures are further along in this thread. Try Post #78 ^_^

Back Shot
EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

Side Shot
EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

Front Shot
EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

Happy Modding,
MitaPi

dgrmkrp

09-03-2006, 08:38 AM

interesting design.. a hamster house case? ;)
airflow-wise.. will there be holes for air to enter? cause this design has some "bottle-necks" like you did it now.. but if u would place some holes/fans in some spots...hmm... potential!
also, i can't make out the mobo type from the back panel.. or the alignment :) altho i can guess..

progbuddy

09-03-2006, 09:19 AM

Thats kinda like one I did in sketchup, but mine had two long sections...
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m29/vashthstampede98/Untitled3.jpg
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m29/vashthstampede98/Untitled2.jpg
http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m29/vashthstampede98/Untitled1.jpg

EPYK

09-03-2006, 09:37 AM

use the pillars to transfer air flow, use intake fans near the cdroms, then push it back to the psu and down to the hd's, and finally exhaust it out of the mobo compartment

MitaPi

09-03-2006, 09:41 AM

Hey I was wondering what that was that you drew. lol It didnt strike me till now of what it was! Hope you dont think I am stealing your design! :(

Here you go dgrmkr and EPKY! Does this solve the problem of airflow? lol I cant believe I forgot about that! I am a temp freak too! Oh well :rolleyes: ...also I will EVENTUALLY have the Thermaltake Silent Water for my cpu, so that eliminates a pretty good chunk of the heat source.

Edit:
Keep in mind that it wont be that ugly. lol The fans will be barely visable. Ill probably make a mesh grid where the fans go in the metal.

Fans are 80mm at 50cfm and 30dba (Thank You Thermaltake!)
EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

Happy Modding,
MitaPi

EDIT!
Whoops, there is only one optical drive. I dont have enough room for a second unless I can really bend those wires in there.

progbuddy

09-03-2006, 11:39 AM

DESIGN STEALER!!! lol jk. Great job. I like the clear triangles.

MitaPi

09-03-2006, 12:55 PM

lol IM SORRY! :D Thanks ^_^

I am actually kind of liking the way it looks so far as far as color goes. Blue windows with white. lol Idk, I'll think of something. I actually have another design but I think it looks too much like yours lol. This is how I arrived at my current design.. I like the one I have now though. Its alot more original and creative looking.

Started with this...
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/IdeaNo.jpg

Then changed to this...
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/7b8f66c8.jpg

progbuddy

09-03-2006, 01:47 PM

That case would look neat with a teal cold cathodes. Im getting some off tigerdirect for 97 cents:D .

Slug Toy

09-03-2006, 01:54 PM

ok now i think you have too many fans in there.

send me your model. you got me on msn, so just email it there or something. ill help you out. i can see a few things that could/should be done.

but heres some other things in the mean time.

names: drugmogrift-sten, mactane, garcefia, tidaa, lambency, dough rodeo, dustman, abloveon, vendbag, cramdog, rangoto, or tumblewalter.

colour scheme: white or silver paint with blue windows, copper paint with green or orange windows, very light or very dark blue paint with frosted white windows, or my personal favourite... just take a bunch of paint and start throwing at the case.

maybe that helps a bit, or gets you laughing hard enough to give some inpiration to keep working.

randomz

09-03-2006, 02:31 PM

You could use some Acrylic Tubes (http://www.estreetplastics.com/Acrylic_Tube_s/45.htm) for the columns, but thats if you dont mind people seeing your wiring. Maybe some LEDs too

Indybird

09-03-2006, 02:40 PM

Ohh, paint it in silver with a light blue/blueish white lighting inside! That would be sweet!

progbuddy

09-03-2006, 02:46 PM

I've always found this looking awesome. I think a PC would look nice with a "brushed steel" look. I've even found a computer with real woodgrain for the case:eek: .

MitaPi

09-04-2006, 06:56 AM

Just a quick update...

Today I thought about what kind of material I should use to construct the over all case. I thought of alluminum or cold rolled steel at first but then I thought of something that would be WAY easier and WAY cheaper AND without making it seem like I half assed it because I didnt want to do all that work...

http://www.tapplastics.com/shop/product.php?pid=334&

I'll use Weld-On to attatch the pieces together and then I will paint the inside with "Insert Color". But what thickness should I get? 1/8th or 3/16ths?

I think I might just use black on the inside of the acrylic case. That way it will not only look nice but I will have a much broader range of window color to choose from as well.

Here's some slightly updated picture as well.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/aaa.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/bbb.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/ccc.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/GoofyDell.jpg

m4gnum

09-04-2006, 08:00 AM

This design is looking very good.

MitaPi

09-04-2006, 09:17 AM

This design is looking very good.

Thanks! :D

Well I think I finally found the name I want to use for this project/rig...

"Audeamus".

Did someone mention a hamster house? ROFL! I am so glad I decided to paint the inside... :P

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AMMI.jpg

DaveW

09-04-2006, 11:06 AM

It's an interesting design. Look forward to seeing what you do with it.

Scratchbuilding isn't easy though, what tools/materials have you at your disposal?

-Dave

MitaPi

09-04-2006, 11:36 AM

Thank's Dave. Yea, It's a pretty interesting design for sure. Probably one of those designs where you are kind of like eh and hmm as compared to some other designs that are like woah and wow. But finished products are always better looking than the sketchup versions. Which I am becoming pretty good at if I do say so myself! I remember my first attempt.. ah.. how frustrating that was! ^_^

Basically.... Whatever 200 bucks can buy me for right now. Of course I wont attempt this all at once and I will surely take my time and read up like mad on everything I need to know to do it right. I will also have all of you here at TBCS as well as a few friends I know that are into modding to help me out.

Yep, I have 200 bucks though and I am really wanting to buy a new wireless adapter and speaker system first with half of that. The other half will go towards materials and what not. Right now I have about 150 bucks worth of stuff to buy from TapPlastics.com. I will just order the acrylic sheets for now though. Which comes to about 80 bucks for five 3/16ths thick sheets that are 2 feet by 2 feet.

Just on a side note... I think what I am going to do is this. Weld-on the entire case except for the window side. So now I have to figure out how I will make the window side of the case removable/detatchable. Maybe nuts and bolts? I want it to be clean looking so I dont know what I am going to do just as of yet.

EDIT:
Oh yea, that reminds me... What thickness would you or anyone else reccommend?? I'm starting to doubt very much that 3/16ths will be thick enough. The only problem is that 1/2'' and above cost alot...

dgrmkrp

09-04-2006, 11:46 AM

... i wonder (and ask the experts too, 'cause i'm interested too): will the case be strong enough if no bolts are used? no inside structure? something to add resistance? just weld-on... because i have some ideas that would strengthen this design and keep it "clear" while using 3/16".. which by the way, is very strong anyway.. 1/2" is good for waterblocks!.. and i bet a case made from 1/2" would weigh a lot too..

MitaPi

09-04-2006, 12:09 PM

That actually is a good question. Weld-On fuses the two pieces of acrylic together into one solid piece. Unlike glue. so I didnt even give that a thought. But that is def worth looking into! Thanks dgrmkr.

...well whats your idea? lol Dont leave me hanging! Thats why I have this posted in the "idea" thread ^_^. If I could use bolts and still have it clean looking (Meaning that it has to look nice, not as in they have to be un-seen.) I would. Remember I am painting the inside of the case as well. Most likely black. But that is still up for debate.

Here is a picture of the case in clear black as well as red windows.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/BlackandRedClear.jpg

progbuddy

09-04-2006, 12:23 PM

Dude, the red looks saweet lol. I have had this idea for a while. If you decide to use a liquid cooling system, you could run clear tubes between the sections with colored coolant in them. Then, just add a heart monitor. lol. But some UV lights would look nice in it. I just started to mod my Emachines. This will be my first project. I'll do a sketchup for it...

-Kevin <(who does this remind you of? lol):p

dgrmkrp

09-04-2006, 01:07 PM

ok.. you asked for it ;) but i was thinking this case as a clear one tho.. my idea is to use pieces of acrylic perpendicular to the sides, to strenghten the hell out of the structure.. kinda like ...mm... mashies "3"themed case.. the lighting is so nice there.. but instead of thinking about aesthetics and theme, study the resistance of the sctructure :D scrap work and myth buster testing are my suggestion ;)
if u are painting the case.. then my advice stands only for added strenght, but this could be achieved with metal, screws and other things that can be hidden in the plastic/paintjob.. so, back to you :)

CanaBalistic

09-04-2006, 06:18 PM

I think what he means is to make cross bracing to help support the case. They could be glued flat on the surface and when painted over would either look very cool or hide so you can hardly see em.

Translation ok dgrmkr?

MitaPi

09-04-2006, 09:32 PM

Okay, how bout this paint scheme? What do you guys think?

EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

Hmmm, Cant remember what it is called but the name will stick out about 3/16th's.
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/TitleShot.jpg

Oh duh, I almost forgot. I'll have lots of left over acrylic for support and strength and that kind of stuff. It's not to worry about right now so let your mind be at ease. ^_^

ShadowSniper

09-04-2006, 11:49 PM

The white/red is meh...okay, I personally really liked the Red/Black design a page back, but, whatever flies your plane.

Slug Toy

09-05-2006, 01:49 AM

i like that black and red as well. good combo.

as for strength... i dont think you need to do any sort of bracing. its a case... it will probably be an insignificant weight, and will only have to carry a few pounds of electronics. it will definitely stand up under its own weight and strength. i wouldnt worry about it.

oh, and i think ive got a good name for this. it is.... Terabuilt. sounds cool to me, and best of all... it was made up by my random word generating spree.

simon275

09-05-2006, 03:17 AM

+1 vote for Terabuilt

Nice case I have't been on in a few days. But boy was I supprised when I saw this. Good to see your gonna do a mod Mita. I'm starting mine when these bloody parts I have ordered arrive.

I like the design of it sperating out all the bits and having them conected with tunnels. That thing looks pretty big though.

What would be cool is if one of the boxes was full of water and it was the resviour for a water cooling setup. But eveything in the case seems to have its place.

The white and red with the balck in between looks good.

You are gonna have to make the pipes that hold it up sturdy.

What would be cool is if the top box for the two optical drives was on a swivel so you could turn it 180 degrees from left to centre to right.

dgrmkrp

09-05-2006, 04:56 AM

Not entirely sure what you are saying... not your fault its mine. It's way past my bed time ^_^

Could you give me a link or some pictures or something to explain what you mean?
http://www.mashie.org/casemods/301.html

I think what he means is to make cross bracing to help support the case. They could be glued flat on the surface and when painted over would either look very cool or hide so you can hardly see em.

Translation ok dgrmkr?
yeah, kinda what i was talking.. just think of the lighting possibilities:) and the effects you can get :) anyways, if the case is painted.. they would be hidden :)

i'll post a pic of virtual scraps :)
http://img212.imageshack.us/img212/2374/tempmk0.jpg.. a mobo holder?! i don know..

MitaPi

09-05-2006, 05:04 PM

Okay, so I was originally going to assemble the case using corner acrylic pieces and Weld-On them together. But then I slapped myself a few times and came up with this instead. This is the right way to do it right? For joining the acrylic together that is.

Small picture but its two sheets of acrylic cut at 90 degrees and fused together with weld-on.
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/CutAcrylic1.jpg

Also can someone link me to some good acrylic paint to use. I know you have to get a special kind but I dont know what brand is the best or what kind it is that I need to get.

Hmmm, what else... Can you buy acrylic mobo trays, 5.25 drive bays, and anything else I might need? Or am I going to have to make most of that myself? Can you give me a link to a tutorial or give me some advice at the very least?

Untill Next Post,
MitaPi

EDIT:

I think I might use Krylon Fusion... Is that the stuff you use with acrylic?

silverdemon

09-05-2006, 06:39 PM

why dont you put in clear plexi (no color) and light everything on the inside with leds of ccfls? that way you can even build in two or even more colors and switch them any time you want...

just an idea, if it sounds stupid , ignore me

[edit] if you do this, you can also choose to have half the case one color and the other parts an other color...

purdy

09-05-2006, 07:15 PM

MitaPi

09-05-2006, 07:40 PM

I think it's very original but my suggestion would be to find a theme to use for the windows rather than just an oddly shaped triangle. Then again that's just my opinion. Quite like the case design though.

Yea, I wouldnt mind a design for the windows at all... but for the life of me I cant squeeze out a drop of inspiration! So for now they are just going to be like that.

Slug Toy

09-05-2006, 08:18 PM

go with some geometric etching. just trace out circles from a centerpoint somewhere, and throw in some tangents and squares... triangles... a couple dotted lines and speckles here and there. it could look good. its already pretty geometric.

.Maleficus.

09-05-2006, 08:32 PM

Yeah, I would do what silverdemon said. It would be like one of Defyants mods I saw...

HPRes 3 Mega I think...

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 12:48 AM

Okay, So I am currently just messing around with the colors and windows and stuff like that for fun... but I am actually liking where it is going! ...wierd how that works. Not even trying and BAM! It just kind of happens... lol

Anyway, here is a sneak preview. I call it... "Title Shot". rofl
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusSig.jpg

Still cant figure out which way I want to pronounce it though! Hmmm, well what about some of the other stuff I mentioned in post #29?

Slug Toy

09-06-2006, 01:18 AM

that 45 degree joint will provide the most surface area to fuse together, and the strongest bonds. thats a good way to go.

as for paint... krylon is the only thing i can think of right now. that stuff is supposed to stick to anything.

<EDIT> the only way i can think to pronounce that bloody name is "ah/uh-dih-muss"

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 02:42 AM

Good to know! Thanks slug toy, If it doesnt work.. I am hunting you down! jk :P

Okay, you guys dont like my newbish design? :(

...well take this! Muahahaha! :D
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/coolblue.jpg
The drives will be... how do you say it? Like you wont know that they are there... but they will be! lol
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/untitled-1.jpg

silverdemon

09-06-2006, 03:27 AM

I like this last (the black one that is...) design much better... one question though...

what is a "Audeamus" ??? :S

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 03:44 AM

Oh dont pretend like you are not impressed by the pink one! eh, Kind of reminds me of cotton candy or something... :p

"Audeamus - Let Us Dare."

It's a mix of american and latin I believe... I say that because I dont think its TRUE latin. It was invented by a bunch of college students as their motto. I decided to adopt it because I think it is a great motto.

OKay, What do you guys think... Ah-dee-ah-mus. If you say it slow it doesnt sound that cool, you gotta kind of roll the words together and make it fluent sounding. How you pronounce it might change in the future.... but that sounds pretty decent for now yah?

To Whome It May Concern...

Also I am thinking bout wrapping the windows all the way around the case... but I attempted it and failed lol. So if you think you can do it then send me a PM. Thanks! (This is all on Sketchup of course)

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 11:01 AM

Upadate (?)

OKay, So I was just playing around again and I developed something interesting. It's not done yet so this is just kind of like a preview... but I am not entirely sure on how I feel about it. So maybe if I know how you guys feel about it that will help.

If you see something you like then list it, if you see something you dont like list then that too.

Keep in mind this design is not finished... If I do finish then I will keep wrapping the widnows around. Should I even do a case window wrap around or should I just leave the windows on that one side of the case??
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/X-2.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/X-2Side.jpg

GT40_GearHead

09-06-2006, 11:18 AM

well i like the pattern (i mean in the last design)

but not the color

the only color combinations in my mind would be

black case red plexi

black case blue plexi
or even better

black case green plexi

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 12:21 PM

OKay, I thought pretty long and hard about it and I decided to do this... Black with clear windows with both Blue AND Red Lighting so I can alternate it. The best part is... It looks good either way! ....well that and it will be SO much easier! Gotta work smarter not harder! 8)

...I think someone actually mentioned doing that. lol But I just now realised what they meant.. so sorry to who ever that was that made that suggestion. You obviously know what you are talking about, just keep in mind I can be a lil slow to the draw sometimes ^_^.

silverdemon

09-06-2006, 12:24 PM

that was me (about the multiple colors) but never mind...

I do like the windows in the last design, you should do that, with the windows passing to the top of the case. looks nice

about the colors in the last design... black with any color (red, blue, green or yellow) will look sooo much better than white with any color...

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 01:11 PM

So true, Thats why I am going with black instead of white. Ah! lol I am getting so excited to start this project! I just need that hundred bucks from my dad and I can AT LEAST start ordering the materials! :D

I looked into things like HDD, MOBO, 5.25 mounting, etc etc. And it pretty much looks like I can do it all. The only thing I am buying and not making is like the I/O plate and the PCI slot plates and stuff like that. I also found a neato website for when you are building PC's with acrylic. They also offer a service to do it for you, plans and building, but it is like 400 bucks. I would rather do it myself anyways. ClearPC.com or something like that. Google ClearPC and you'll find it.

PM me if you want my current list for parts... I can send you the links via email or something.

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 04:40 PM

I think I might be on to something here... what do you guys think? If you want to see a certain angle then let me know and I'll either post one up or I can send you the Sketchup file so you can have a 360 look at it.

EDITED for all you dial up users ^_^ Your welcome!

silverdemon

09-06-2006, 04:43 PM

yeah, I'm happy ;)

progbuddy

09-06-2006, 05:10 PM

Thats hot... I hate Paris Hilton. The case is great. Check out mine in the Project worklogs...

EPYK

09-06-2006, 06:22 PM

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 06:50 PM

how do you plan on runnig the power between the compartments?
i have a trick into how im doing it all... i think it would be cool if you could make each compartment quick release.... just undo a clasp and take it away... or make more than one of each compartment for swapping...

Eh, Having the compartments being able to be seperated would be kind of pointless and it wouldn't be as sturdy or as clean looking in the end. But thanks anyways! It actually was a good idea, but it is just not for this mod:). Oh but the side panels will be like a quick release system. Havent quite figured it out yet, but they will be able to come off with ease.

Well those tubes aren't solid you know! :D lol. Everything will be wired through those tubes. The best part is that the tubes will be painted black too so you wont be able to see the wires.

UPDATE:

So I just found out today that my parents will be down at our lake home for about a month. Which pretty much means that things have come to a grinding stop for about two more weeks. But thats good in a way. Now I can take a break, read up on DIY stuff, plan some more, add more to my shopping list, and give the case a good run through with my brain to see if I have any critical errors or not.

Happy Modding!
MitaPi

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 06:57 PM

So I found this cool new wallpaper for my desktop and I just thought I would share it with you guys. ^_^

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Hammer.jpg

Slug Toy

09-06-2006, 08:29 PM

Oh but the side panels will be like a quick release system. Havent quite figured it out yet, but they will be able to come off with ease.

...strategically placed explosive charges should do the trick... once...

i think the swappable compartments would be an interesting idea, but not this particular case idea. you could just integrate a plug system into the joining walls so that when you have it lined up, everything just latches together and you can get instant power. of course... that means you need pre-existing and stationary wiring in each section. it would be cool though.

actually... i was just thinking about a cool way to turn everything on, besides a regular old switch. you could have a key or something to insert into the front or top of one of the section, and that could hit a switch or complete a circuit to turn everything on. that might be a really cool thing for a nuclear reactor mod... you push in the fuel rods and everything starts up.

progbuddy

09-06-2006, 08:48 PM

I know. You need to to a Metallic Black with a teal blue. I think it would be good to have an intake/exhaust for the HDD compartment. I am going to have mine on the side. Yeah, and I just hooked in 520 watts of speaker to my PC...

MitaPi

09-06-2006, 10:26 PM

actually... i was just thinking about a cool way to turn everything on, besides a regular old switch. you could have a key or something to insert into the front or top of one of the section, and that could hit a switch or complete a circuit to turn everything on. that might be a really cool thing for a nuclear reactor mod... you push in the fuel rods and everything starts up.

I was thinking of a wireless key chain relay switch. It comes in a pack of two keychains so I can have one for blue and one for red. Or I can really get nasty with techy stuff and have it where I push it once and its blue and then I push it twice and its red and then I push it a third time and its ...purple? That or just keep it simple and have the two seperate key chain switches. I could also take them apart and mount them somewhere if I wanted to too.

That key idea... actually is a really good Idea! I might do that.... But how??

I just hooked in 520 watts of speaker to my PC...

Lol, you are completely insane! But that is possibly a good thing. So how is the system? Worth it? lol like I even have to ask! :p

progbuddy

09-07-2006, 06:45 AM

Its great. It has 8 surround sound effects, an amplifier, and its own huge heatsink w/fan to cool the components that only comes on after a bunch of loud music... lol

justleftlife

09-07-2006, 07:12 AM

ok now i think you have too many fans in there.

More fans the better i think it keeps air flow going... the trick to that fans though is placemet. a good flow system is key! since i run a prescot core i need alot of air flow. the only problem is noise and since my computer sits in my office i am good. sorry i am rambling.

MitaPi

09-07-2006, 10:01 AM

Its great. It has 8 surround sound effects, an amplifier, and its own huge heatsink w/fan to cool the components that only comes on after a bunch of loud music... lol

Very cool, pictures maybe?

More fans the better i think it keeps air flow going... the trick to that fans though is placemet. a good flow system is key! since i run a prescot core i need alot of air flow. the only problem is noise and since my computer sits in my office i am good. sorry i am rambling.

Airflow is a great thing to have for sure. But the only reason I even have fans other than for the HDD's and a slight bit for the PSU is mainly for the lighting effects. Eventually I will water cool, that is, as soon as I decide to stop being a lazy good for nothing and get a job so I can afford one. But when that time comes you can bet I will go all out little by little. Most likely a high end SLI or Crossfire board with all the nicest certafied SLI or Crossfire components along with the E6600 Conroe (Which I will be using in my "Black Rose" mod at the start of october next year also. Yea, far away I know.) and a few other neat things. I'll probably have this project finished around february of 2007 or sometime around May of 2007. But you can bet if it goes longer than May I will throw in everything I have to get it finished by the beginning of July.

Update (?)

What do you guys think of those Biometric USB Fingerprint Readers/Security devices? I am thinking about buying one and possibly mounting it somewhere on my computer in some hidden compartment so only people that know about it and that also have the accepted fingerprint can acess my computer? What do you think of that?

Also, Slug Toy I am really wanting to use that key design you thought up for the lighting. One turn blue, another turn red and then a third turn its both blue and red. But how I would I go about doing that? I havent even the slightest clue.

As for the side paneling. I am thinking I will do what Dell has done on the 4700. It's a lil latch you push down on and it basically pops off the side panel. I'll have locks on it of course to further prevent theft. But I was thinking I could also put those latches in some hidden compartment so no one would know how the side panels would come off. Might be kind of cool...

Also.. I am thinking about putting in a small LCD screen. Probably in the bottom left box, since there will be the most room to do so there.

MitaPi

09-07-2006, 06:56 PM

Update:

I figured out my case dimensions :eek: THIS THING IS A TOWER! I am going to run to the store sometime soon (hopefully) and pick up a bunch of model cardboard so I can start building a mock up.

Edit:
Ha, I found some file folders that I am going to cut up for my mock up later tonight. :D

Bottom Left Box
15" Tall
12" Long
8.5" Wide

Bottom Right Box
15" Tall
8" Long
8.5" Wide

Top left Box
5" Tall
12" Long
8.5" Wide

Top Right Box
5" Tall
8" Long
8.5" Wide

Tubes
3" OD
2" Tall

I am having a major brain fart right now! :mad: I cant figure out how much acrylic sheeting that is? Can someone help me please? The sheets I am buying are 12" x 12" but I am also getting a few pieces at 24" x 24" for the 15" tall pieces on my case. How many do I need to buy? :?

Happy Modding,
MitaPi

progbuddy

09-07-2006, 08:25 PM

Pics are under Project Trivium in the worklogs area.

Slug Toy

09-07-2006, 08:43 PM

Also, Slug Toy I am really wanting to use that key design you thought up for the lighting. One turn blue, another turn red and then a third turn its both blue and red. But how I would I go about doing that? I havent even the slightest clue.

ill see if i can sketchup something for you. ive got an idea in my head about how it could look really cool.

I am having a major brain fart right now! I cant figure out how much acrylic sheeting that is? Can someone help me please? The sheets I am buying are 12" x 12" but I am also getting a few pieces at 24" x 24" for the 15" tall pieces on my case. How many do I need to buy?

math problems!!! ill work on this as soon as im done dinner.

give me a few hours for both of those things.

MitaPi

09-07-2006, 09:59 PM

Sweet, thanks Slug Toy! I am working on my mock up right now, but I decided to take a break. Also.. I am running out of tape really fast! lol Not good :p

Catch ya guys in a few!
MitaPi

Oh and progbuddy.... It's official, you have the biggest computer speakers I have ever seen! lol

Update:

Sweet, I am almost out of tape but I have the bottom half mock up done. I am not taking my time and I am rushing things so it looks like crap. But it at least will give you/me a general idea of the size. That way I can plan things better.

Slug Toy

09-08-2006, 12:05 AM

ok i have a model for you. i modified it slightly since you want it to control lighting. my original intent was for a system on/off "key".

http://i44.photobucket.com/albums/f26/z1gg3rm4n/KeyIdea1.jpg

my head hurts now, so im going to take a little time to sit back, ive been on the go since about 6 this morning, and its just after 9 at night now. 4 hours of lecture makes you very bleh.

ill hopefully have an answer for the number of acrylic sheets tonight.

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 12:55 AM

OKay I got it! One turn of the key and the system turns on, another turn and it lights up, ANOTHER turn and it switch's colors! ...and then the final turn turns on both the blue AND red lights!

...does anyone know how I would even go about doing that? lol

Slug Toy

09-08-2006, 01:51 AM

ah buggery!!! i cant get my head working right now. ive got math class tomorrow, so ill work out how much acrylic you need then. its just review, so i can afford to screw around for a while.

as for controls... i say this:

-push the key down once to turn everything on
-turn the key to first position (farthest left or right) to turn the red on
-turn the key to the middle to turn both red and blue on
-turn the key to the other farthest position to turn blue on
-push the key down again to turn everything off

again... my head is out of gear right now. ive got an idea to make it work... kind of like brushes on a motor and how they make contact. another sketchup model is in order, but that is for tomorrow.

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 04:04 AM

Just a small update...

I have no idea how to wire up a PSP LCD to a computer... so I decided to use this instead!

http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=G8270&cat=CON

And here are some pictures...

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusLCD1.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusLCD2.jpg

progbuddy

09-08-2006, 06:55 AM

The case is awesome. Just etch out some curves in that glass.

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 03:49 PM

Well I am re-drawing my case in actual size on sketchup... and I think I am going ot have to re-design it a bit because my original drawing and my dimensions are way off. I'll get back to you guys when I have my actual size drawing finished. Till then...

Happy Modding!
MitaPi

Update:

Okay, so holy cows of flaming doom. This case is officially a (slightly bigger) Full Tower, which in the previous drawings it was a slightly bigger than a standard mid-tower. This means a few things... namely more supplies to buy and a altered design. The color scheme is going to stay the same, but I dont know if the previous design will still work for me, we'll see though. It looks really good so far... much much more space than I had originally planned out. To give you and idea of how big this thing is... It has 6 5.25 Bays and a 120mm fan to cool down the Hard Drives and it's 8.5 inches wide. Well actually... here, I'll just give you the new dimensions.

Bottom Left Box
15 inches tall
13 inches long
8.5 inches wide

Bottom Right Box
15 inches tall
10 inches long
8.5 inches wide

Top left Box
7 inches tall
13 inches long
8.5 inches wide

Top Right Box
7 inches tall
10 inches long
8.5 inches wide

Tubes
3 inch OD
1 inches tall

So yeah, this thing is massive! But it is very cool looking and I dont mind massive things so much. I like having attention drawn to me. ^_^ Kind of good, Kind of bad... but when modding, its mostly good.

I'll have pictures posted hopefully by the end of the day. Not final, but sort of a accurate rough draft version of the final.

Happy Modding!
MitaPi

silverdemon

09-08-2006, 05:28 PM

don't mind about the size, mind about making it look good ;)

I'm actually planning / designing a case which will be about 20x22x8 inch in size... that's not much different than you're planning... I don't see a problem

(unless you don't have the space to put it somewhere in your room :S )

Slug Toy

09-08-2006, 06:13 PM

and then remember my idea... that thing is probably going to be at least 20x20x10.

are those dimensions fairly final then? i dont want to try to estimate how much acrylic you need until you're happy with the dimensions.

Redundant

09-08-2006, 06:30 PM

Slug Toy,

That Key/switch thing looks a lot like the "MagLock" from "Star Trek: First Contact" (No, I'm not a trekkie)

As for the different "modes", maybe try a rotary switch? And possibly glue it to a button switch for the pressing function...

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 07:44 PM

don't mind about the size, mind about making it look good
Oh dont worry, I could care less about size. Thats why I let it get so big when originally it was supposed to be a small slim case. It's all about what I like visually for me.

are those dimensions fairly final then? i dont want to try to estimate how much acrylic you need until you're happy with the dimensions.
I wont allow it to get any bigger. lol I dont think it really can without being just rediculous. So yeah, that is about as final as it is ever going to be. It might get smaller, but I doubt it. I dont want to re draw and alter stuff again. It's a pain. But in any case... just go off of those dimensions.

As for the different "modes", maybe try a rotary switch? And possibly glue it to a button switch for the pressing function...

IF I can figure it out, I am going to have a basic key hole that you turn to do everything. It will go in this order... system on, blue, red, blue/red. I want to keep it fairly simple as you can see. I am actualy thinking of using a really old style key/hole. The kind where the key has a lil handle and it has a bar with like a tooth at the end. Super old school but I want it to look new and nice. Which I can do by chemical cleaning or just by buying one that looks nice. But yeah, I think it would be cool to carry around a nice and shiney gold key that turns my computer on. :D

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 07:51 PM

Ooh, also I found an LCD screen that I am going to use instead of my PSP. I think I already mentioned this... but oh well. Its good in case someone missed it I guess.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16874104009

Seems small right? lol wrong! I drew up the actual size of it onto my sketchup drawing that is actual size as well.... and its almost too big. It actually might be.. but I over drew it for safety so I think it should fit nicely. In your hands.. it looks small.. on my computer.. it looks big. I am happy :)

Oh and it also has like all the hook ups to work easily without doing a whole lot of wireing. I can also buy a adapter to I can hook it up to my computer via VGA.

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 08:31 PM

Triple post! HA! :p

So I forgot to save my work... and now it's gone. :eek: So I have to RE DO THE ENTIRE FREAKING THING! Pretty much sucks like a monkey, but I have had worse things happen to me. Luckily I wasnt that far into the design anyways. Well, time to start crackin! Wish me luck! I'll be sure to remember to save it this time.

Slug Toy

09-08-2006, 09:41 PM

good practice. you should have seen how many times i designed some things... i can still whip up one particular case model in about 10 minutes.

go for details this time. include the key idea, even if it isnt finalized. it helps you visualise everything, and can help make design choices.

MitaPi

09-08-2006, 09:51 PM

Will do Slug Toy. This time I am going to do everything how it is going to be in real life. Although the color and texture will never look real.. it will still help give the best Idea possible. I have to admit.. I am quite excited! I've always wanted a Tower PC. ...and now I got one! The thought of renaming it as "Nephilim" crossed my mind last night when I started my mock up. Huge hardly describes it, But it will be a nice eye catcher thats for sure. I hope it at least gets 3rd place in one of our local lan's. That would be cool! :)

MitaPi

09-09-2006, 12:46 PM

Well, I am having a huge creative block right now. I have basic shape of the case... and thats about it. Maybe you guys can help me think up some idea's?

If you want my sketchup you can PM me for it and I'll send it to you. You pick how it is transfered. (Email, Messenger, etc.)

Everything is exact size. 120mm fan, optical bays, case, space in between sections, so on and so forth.
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/ATOWER.jpg

Slug Toy

09-09-2006, 01:52 PM

ok, send it on over then. i might as well have a shot at it. im going out in a few minutes, dont know how long ill be, but you better send by email just in case this takes a few hours.

oh, by the way... i got an email from tigerdirect regarding you and some entry. did you enter some sort of contest? i hope you did because i just did too by responding to that email.

MitaPi

09-09-2006, 02:08 PM

Yup, I enter in Tigerdirect.com contests every now and then. This one is for a conroe! And by you filling it out you just gave me an extra entry for this week. So thanks! :) This also means you have a chance too of course. ^_^

Okay, I'll send it now. Remember to use accurate measurements. lol I hate re-sizing things :p

MitaPi

09-09-2006, 08:16 PM

HA! Today I got my new toys in! I got a second LCD monitor, a USB wireless adapter and some new temporary replacement *cough* dell *cough* speakers. So yeah, I am pretty excited right now! I am thinking about mounting the two monitors into a acrylic case so its easier to transport and I can minmize the space inbetween as well. That way I can also mount my webcam into the center of the dual screen case instead of just one monitor. Which would look odd.

Just 2 weeks left untill I get my acrylic sheets in! :D

MitaPi

09-10-2006, 03:54 PM

Well I havent given you guys pictures lately, So it is about due time for another batch yes? These next pictures I worked with one of our fellow modders and TBCS Forum follower to come up with. I think he did a FANTASTIC job dont you? How about a round of applause for "Slug Toy"?!

Still a work in progress, But I think I am getting pretty close to the final product!
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusNephilim1.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusNephilim2.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusNephilim3.jpg

Slug Toy

09-10-2006, 05:35 PM

i see you got rid of the big central window there. i personally liked that bit... but it looks pretty much as good without it. now it looks like some sort of really expensive computer grid thing.

i think the black and turquoise go good for this thing. if you're using clear acrylic for everything, just get some green and blue led's and it should work.

progbuddy

09-10-2006, 06:27 PM

How's about this for size?

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m29/vashthstampede98/newcasemitapi.jpg

MitaPi

09-10-2006, 06:28 PM

Yeah, I love the color scheme. That big window thing you had I liked but at the same time I didnt... I tried altering it a bit, but no matter what I did I just couldnt put my finger on what it was that I didnt like about it. So I just got rid of it lol. I actually like it alot how it is right now.. but I will mess around a bit more and see if I can come up with something. I was thinking about signing it with both our screen names or something. Like...

"Audeamus" - Designed by MitaPi & Slug Toy of Thebestcasescenario.com

Or something like that? What do you think? It wouldnt be exactly like that... I just whipped that up real fast to give you an idea of what I meant by a signature or whatever. I would also have to run it by dave or rankenphile to see if I could put the sites address in there like that. But let me know if that is something you would be ok with. If you dont want any of the credit then thats fine too.

EDIT:
Not that I dont want you to take credit because I do. I wouldnt have this design if it wasnt for you. lol just wanted to clear that up.. cuz it kind of sounded like I wanted to take ALL the credit there in that last bit. ^_^

MitaPi

09-10-2006, 06:34 PM

How's about this for size?

http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m29/vashthstampede98/newcasemitapi.jpg

Well I have all the measurements down and how I want them. But I like your window design. Its kind of tribal looking. Maybe I'll try that...

lol A thought just came to my mind while looking at your sketchup... That thing would be GINORMOUS! It would be like three feet long and three feet high! Hmmm... a server case maybe? lol

progbuddy

09-10-2006, 07:23 PM

lol I didnt make it to scale... You could try 28 in. x 18 in. x 24 in.

Slug Toy

09-10-2006, 07:28 PM

I would also have to run it by dave or rankenphile to see if I could put the sites address in there like that. But let me know if that is something you would be ok with. If you dont want any of the credit then thats fine too.

you probably wouldnt need to ask to do that... its free advertising for them. as for me getting credit... sure why not. honestly, i dont care too much because ill know i helped and thats good enough.

that tribal design is interesting... in its own way. the archs and points and all that form a good pattern, but not one that works for a square cases. especially a case that consists of four squares. you need something like one of defyant's mod to make a tribal design work.

MitaPi

09-10-2006, 09:24 PM

Well, lets vote! Leave the case without windows or put windows in the case?

If anyone has any other idea's feel free to drop them by! ^_^

EPYK

09-10-2006, 09:33 PM

i think this is the best design yet.......
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/AudeamusNephilim1.jpg

Slug Toy

09-10-2006, 10:20 PM

i say that a window done right is a good idea. the question is how long will it take to design one that looks good.

MitaPi

09-11-2006, 12:37 AM

Well I have over 2 weeks to design one, so time isnt too much of an issue lol. Actually I am working on an idea I had right now. Its going to look like... hmm... well like a microchip I guess?? Here, I barely started it, but I'll show you what I got so far...

EDITED

Silenced_Coyote

09-11-2006, 01:28 AM

So are you going to be airbrushing that microchip onto your case?

MitaPi

09-11-2006, 02:24 AM

I dont know as of yet... but I will decide what I will do when I have it finished. I think it would be pretty cool to have such small details as a window. It would be like airbrushing but with back lighting instead of paint.

That is an enlarged image as well just to let you know. It is actually quite small in size. But that is only a small piece of the over all design I have planned. I might cover the entire case with these small details or I might make them minute and/or here and there.

EDITED

Slug Toy

09-11-2006, 03:18 AM

EPYK

09-11-2006, 08:47 AM

ok you know what would be pretty cool, and really time consuming...
paint your case black. and you know that paint that is almost clear, and uv reactive paint... do your case with a circuit board design

MitaPi

09-11-2006, 02:27 PM

you know what you can do? paint everything except what you KNOW is going to be a window. then, you can scratch off the paint and form a pattern. this should give awesome precision.

now if i were you, id spend some time and look at your video card or motherboard and try to copy come circuits off those for an idea. or maybe find some pictures of a processor die, and try to copy the patterns from that.

heres another idea. make the circuits lead into the screen on the side. so it looks like they're feeding it. and if you can get someone to make up an led circuit, you could have some sort of fast flash sequence to make it looks like optical signals travelling along. neat idea or what?

That is pretty much what I had in mind to do already. Since it would be easiest and it would give me some sweet accurate lines.

That is what I am doing. I know what I want, but trying to find pictures of what I want is somewhat hard. But I found a few good pictures and I have a few cards and what not laying around my house.

Again, That is what I am doing. Thats why I designed the LCD screen in the way I did. So it better fits the design.

It seems that we are basically on the same wave length with this case! :D

ok you know what would be pretty cool, and really time consuming...
paint your case black. and you know that paint that is almost clear, and uv reactive paint... do your case with a circuit board design

That is what I am doing... I am going to paint the outside black and then I am going to paint the inside an almost clear UV blue. Hopefully I can find some bright blue like in that sketchup. Whatever color that is.. im still not sure. I dont know my colors that well.

EDIT:
Or I can frost the glass and get LED's. The frosting would help pick up the light and spread it more evenly and the LED's would be cheap and easy to use so I can put them anywhere I want. That might work better than uv paint and uv cathodes/LED. Hmmm....

Slug Toy

09-11-2006, 02:50 PM

It seems that we are basically on the same wave length with this case!

in this case, and FOR this case.

sounds good so far. id say more, but im frantically shoving lunch in my face right now, and trying to get ready for school. ill say more later.

MitaPi

09-11-2006, 03:24 PM

lmao, Dont choke! If you do.. Be sure to record it, So we can all laugh at you. :D

Well I give up on that design. Sketchup is dumb and it wont let me do fine enough details. So I am just going to wait to get all the pieces together and then I'll cut out the design using poster board and I'll tape it on. If I like the way it looks, then I'll start painting. Otherwise, for now at least, you are looking at something very close to the final design.

Oh and sorry for calling sketchup dumb. Its not, It just doesnt always work the way I want to. -Hugs Sketchup- :p

Edit/Update:

More pictures soon! These next ones will be of the inside and how everything will be layed out. ^_^

OKay, I have the power supply bracket, 5.25 brackets, 3.5 brackets and HDD bracket finished. Now I just need to place in the mobo, pci brackets, case fans, I/O plate, ....and I think that about covers it for now. Pictures coming soon! :)

MitaPi

09-12-2006, 07:07 PM

Bleh, I took a break from the computer design and started to design my dual screen in one case. I think I just spent 2 hours straight trying to design the stupid stand for it. And what do I have to show for it? Notta. How very... exhausting. I'm bout tempted to get duct tape and tape the two monitors together as is! :D

I'll have pictures up soon... just be patient. I guess I am just having another one of those brain farts. In any case... I'll post what I have so far by the end of the night. Unless of course I get dragged away or I forget. Which in that case I will post them tomarrow morning.

Happy Modding,
MitaPi

Update:

Well here, you can at least have some exterior pictures for now. The monitor is still in rough draft form...
Check Images Below...

EPYK

09-12-2006, 08:43 PM

ok for the window behind your lcd's frost it on the outside and etch your circuitry on the inside, then stuff EL wire in the etching

MitaPi

09-12-2006, 08:54 PM

I could do that. I might just frost it and then put LED's in there instead. It might be easier. Since you know... you wont even be able to see the back most of the time lol. But I still might do your idea. Because it is a good one for sure!

OKay, Here are some updated pictures of Audeamus's Dual Monitor Enclosure. I think that is about good. Or at least as good as I can get it on sketchup. We'll all just have to wait to see it lit up!

It looks huge but in fact it isnt much bigger than my computer. The stand is a length of 9" and the entire height with the stand included is 1' 10". The width is 2' 3.5". Other than the height, the entire thing is smaller than what I have right now. So I happy.

*Undergoing Maintinence*

Slug Toy

09-12-2006, 09:47 PM

ok... that screen setup looks horrible. the stand in particular.

i can see why it was frustrating. that just doesnt fit with the rest of your project.

give me some time to think on this one.

DaveW

09-12-2006, 09:57 PM

ok... that screen setup looks horrible. the stand in particular.

I second that.

-Dave

MitaPi

09-12-2006, 10:19 PM

lol yes, it is very very frusterating. PLEASE HELP! :p The screens are 17" LCD's

Silenced_Coyote

09-12-2006, 11:09 PM

Maybe a tube somewhere, like the ones you got on your case that connects the different compartments? So maybe have a cylinder shape connect the base to the screens. Just a small suggestion to help you guys think (if it even helps any).

MitaPi

09-13-2006, 01:05 AM

Well in the mean time... here is the inside of my case. Its alot different than how manufacturers do it. But that is because I am doing all of this from scratch other than a few parts and pieces such as I/O plate and PCI slots.

The 5.25's and 3.5's are pretty basic. But the dual hard drive bracket you might notice is alot different. It actually does serve a purpose though.

Purpose 1.
I only need two hard drive slots because I will be running dual 320GB hard drives. Which gives me 640GB all together. If you think an average person will ever need more than 640GB, you are completely insane. lol

Purpose 2.
As you can see, it is open on both sides of either hard drive. That is so the 120mm fan in the front of my case isnt just for looks. I think this is a much more effective way of cooling hard drives. Feel free to voice your opinions though, whether good or bad.

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/5.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/HDDEnclosure.jpg

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Guts.jpg

Omega

09-13-2006, 02:15 AM

Ooooh, maybe have the chambers have their own cooling systems? i saw you talking about the HD cooling, but think about it...

I'll elaborate later. MSPainted, of course.

Slug Toy

09-13-2006, 02:21 AM

i think the fans for that need to be changed up a bit. some are in the wrong places in my opinion.

i say you need one on the front grill of course. one on the tube going up from the front bottom section. one on the tube going back from the front bottom section, and one going out the back bottom section. the power supply should have its own fan, and you dont really need lots of ait moving through that area.

now, as for the screens... im still thinking and looking and testing. im trying to use the same shapes as the case.

MitaPi

09-13-2006, 07:11 PM

Just a quick update...

Slug Toy and I have decided to use 5" OD tubes instead of the original 3" OD's. I have to say, I like it!

The new monitor setup is also underway and is going to be alot better than my previous design. Stay tuned in for more updates! Pictures coming soon

MitaPi

09-14-2006, 01:02 AM

Y'all ready for some new pictures? Well here yah go!

http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Screen1.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Screen3.jpg
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Screen2.jpg

Audeamus is still undergoing the special treatment so you will have to wait a bit longer to see some more updated pictures of that... but hopefully that will keep you entertained for a while! :D

MitaPi

09-14-2006, 01:59 AM

Okay, well here are some intake vents that will be placed onto audeamus... Just a small update, but I think they are pretty cool looking. I got the idea from something that Slug Toy did up for me. I just altered them a bit... :p

Top Vent
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Intake2.jpg

Front Vent
http://i65.photobucket.com/albums/h237/MitaPi/Intake1.jpg

MitaPi

09-14-2006, 04:38 PM

So what do you guys think. Good, bad, eh? Suggestions, comments, advice?

silverdemon

09-14-2006, 04:45 PM

are you going to use the screens as one wide desktop and for ultra-widescreen gaming? or are you gonna use it as two seperate monitors??

I once tried to play raven shield (FPS) on a dual screen setup, I changed it back after 5 minutes... the edge in the middle of the screen is a killer... literally...

however, if you use the screens as two seperate monitors (one for gaming, one for something else) I see no problem...

the stand looks nice

Redundant

09-14-2006, 05:26 PM

Are you sure that stand will stop those monitors from tipping over? It is a nice design but it doesn't look very stable.
Maybe make it deeper and lower the monitors some?

MitaPi

09-14-2006, 05:29 PM

I dont do gaming really. But in anycase, I can switch back and forth as I see fit. The edge inbetween the two screens is half an inch. Right now I have 2 inches inbetween and that doesnt even bother me. So it wont be too much of a killer. But like I said, I dont game that often.

Now I just need to figure up how much acrylic or lexan to buy to make it. I was thinking 12 pieces of 1/8th thick lexan that measure 18" x 24"? What do you guys think?

Are you sure that stand will stop those monitors from tipping over? It is a nice design but it doesn't look very stable.
Maybe make it deeper and lower the monitors some?

Oh dont worry, It's plenty stable. Just bad picture taking on my half.

MitaPi

09-14-2006, 11:03 PM

Two question I need awnsers to if you guys can...

1. Is that enough Lexan (polycarbonate) to make the monitor enclosure out of?

2. Should I leave those vents on or off? I cant decide whether I like them or not.

Ooh and a third question actually....

What is the best solvent to use with LEXAN (Polycarbonate)? I was thinking Weld-On #16??

Edit:
I took the vents off.. I didnt like them.

GT40_GearHead

09-15-2006, 05:22 PM

NO vents, the mess up the lines, its much more cleaner with out the, as for the rest of the Qs i have no clue
O_o

MitaPi

09-15-2006, 06:30 PM

I decided to take off the vents after looking it over a few times. You are right, they dont go very well with the lines.

I think what I have decided to do, is have the two back 80mm's as intakes and have 120mm's circulate the air throughout the case and then finally out the back through the 120mm exhaust. This isnt confirmed as of yet, but I am still playing around with the idea. I still might have the front 120mm intake...

Does anyone have experience with using Lexan (Polycarbonate) and adhesives? Advice, tips, tricks, etc? Like I said before, I am thinking about using Weld-On #16?

MitaPi

09-16-2006, 01:42 AM

Well it looks like this project is going to have to wait for quite some time. I unfortunately busted my specs in two and my replacements are going to run me 300(+) big ones. If only I could use a video card to see better.... :D

As soon as my friend gathers up enough time from his "fiance" and two jobs I can start using his account to ebay stuff off. That will bring in about 200. AT LEAST. It will bring in a max of 600 if the buyers are there. My main hope that it will bring in the triple digits is the fact that you cant find the stuff I am ridding myself of for the price anywhere else on the net. ...only problem is that it isnt desireble stuff lol. Oh well, we'll see how that goes.

GT40_GearHead

09-16-2006, 07:31 AM

sorry to hear that about your specs, and the build on that mater,

I was lucky with my eyes, a few years back i got clohdric acid in my eyes, and all over me, was trying to get some hidrogen:rolleyes:, and the thing went boom on me, now i got almost perfect vision

how did you bust them

Slug Toy

09-16-2006, 02:50 PM

clohdric acid

haha... what? are you trying to say hydrochloric acid? if thats what it is then you were VERY lucky. that can cause some big time damage. not as bad as nitric acid, or hydrofluoric, but bad.what were you mixing it with? most times you wont get hydrogen gas... you get carbon dioxide or something like that. the hydrogen usually goes in to forming water.

try hydrochloric acid and bleach. that gets you chlorine gas. youll know because it smells like a pool and it burns. for that matter i think you can do that with vinegar and bleach.... you can do a lot of cool things with acetone too. im leaving that alone now though... you'll blow yourself up if you arent careful... actually you will eventually even if you ARE careful.

so ya, breaking glasses. shame on you. what did you do to them? you must have thrown them at a wall, yelled at them, and then danced on them all night or something. thats the only thing i can think of that would break glasses. the trick is the yelling part, because it hurts the glasses' feelings and makes it easier to break them.

MitaPi

09-16-2006, 04:32 PM

DaveW

09-17-2006, 07:05 AM

Eh, my ex was over and I was showing off how cool my glasses were because they were built out of flexon. So yeah.... I barely twisted them like I have many times before and the nose piece instantly snapped into two. Very embarassing to say the least! I was like.. wha? Am I being punk'd or something?? Thats not supposed to happen at all! Well, not untill you REALLY flex them that is. Thats how I broke my first pair, by over flexing them. But these I BARELY twisted them and they just snapped. Worse part is that I am no longer on a warranty or insurance or anything like that with them. WHICH means I have to pay the full price of a new pair. ....I am getting a different pair this time lol.

Heh, this sort of thing happened to a friend of mine. He got flexi glasses and a week after buying them, they snapped when he put them on. When he took them back, the guy in the shop tried to refuse him a replacement because he thought "He's been showing them off to his mates and broke them".

He got a replacement after verbally beating the guy to a pulp.

-Dave

MitaPi

09-19-2006, 01:10 AM

Yeah, I dont recommend these at all! I think I am going to get my very first pair. They were cool looking and they had snap on shades!

This bums me out alot though, I hope I can get enough money to start this project soon. I hate waiting!

DaveW

09-19-2006, 06:15 AM

You're going to need some REALLY long cables to hook all of that up in there...

-Dave

MitaPi

09-19-2006, 06:40 AM

a.Bird

09-19-2006, 06:42 PM

How does sketchup work? Is it pretty simple to learn? Is it just for designing computer hardware, cases, etc? I'm interested in your project and have a bit of 3d modeling experience.

MitaPi

09-21-2006, 09:56 AM

Sketchup couldn't be easier. I learned it in a weeks time ...Keep in mind I am a very slow learner as well. You can use it for anything you want just short of recreating a visually stunning dream. Of course you can still attempt it though! I find that sketchup basic free edition doesnt have the best... hmm... graphics? But it gets the job done well enough in the end. The only wish I have of it, would be, that it had smoother lines, more texture, and of course more options. Maybe it does and I have yet to discover it all... but I doubt it ...somewhat.

MitaPi

EPYK

09-21-2006, 03:07 PM

i recantly found out i could make bends in pipes and a bunch of other cool stuff

dgrmkrp

09-21-2006, 03:21 PM

Ah, this has also occured to me! My main concern is the HDD's since they are the farthest away from the PSU. I am sure I can find some extenders somewhere on the web though. Anyone know of any?

For everything else, I will be sure to read as many reviews as humanly possible on PSU's to see if anyone mentions extra long cable length. Which I believe I have a few times looking through computer components. Hopefully the PSU that I want to get has these extra bit of cable length cables. I believe it is called... Truepower II? Something like that, I dont have to worry too much now though, I doubt I will be able to afford anything other than case material any time soon. Hmm.. maybe I can telepathically pursuade my parents to buy me some of the more exspensive stuff?

So, if you want extenders, there is a nice way of getting them.. making them :) In the most noobish case, just buy a few meters/yards/3xfoot of black, red, yellow and black wire (makes it easier to follow the rules and avoid shorts and other accidents). they are very inexpensive, as there isn't a standard for "computer wire" (so no premium is payed for specialty merchendise ;) ). also, u need some tools and patience to make/solder the connections. then you're set. you need 10foot cables, u make 'em... and u don't depend on anyone else for this... also, u can properly sleeve + heatshrink them :) Just remember to make the connections as best as you can: u want the voltage u need only where u need it! ;) so, a multimeter is nice.. so is an external power source (battery?) for testing pourposes :)
good luck... as doing the power cicuitry is easier than finding realy long data cables ;)