My toolbox will never be the same
Hello all. This is technically my second project. Here is a little background. After completing my XBox mod, I wanted to do something unique with a PC. I built my last three computers, but I was tired of the standard PC case. My problem with the standard case is it's design. If you want to see the "guts" of your PC, you don't have direct access to your components (drives, ports, etc.). If you have access to your drives, you don't get a clear view of the "guts."
I was determined to use another toolbox. Obviously it needed to be bigger. I knew immediately which toolbox I needed. It was a four drawer box with built in handles. It is usually paired with a roll-away cart with additional drawers (I know use the cart to store excess PC parts). An issue I ran into with my XBox mod was keeping it cool...and quiet. Using a PC power supply in the confined space increased heat. I was worried that this new project would have stagnant air. To try and combat this issue, I used a 120mm heat sink fan, one inlet fan, three exhaust fans, and mounted the power supply so it's exhaust exits out the top of the case. Also, I had to figure out how I was going to mount the acrylic window. It just so happens that on the left and right side of the drawer space there is a thin vertical groove...the same width as my acrylic. I used the drive bays from an old case to mount the HDDs, DVD drive, and the media card reader. I mounted the motherboard so that it's ports were vertical. Most importantly to me, I have easy access to all my USB ports and LAN ports. I cut a groove in the back of the upper area of the top section to allow all cords to me routed to the rear of the system. The top section of the toolbox can also hold all accessories if I decide to pack-up and head to a LAN party.
I used UV reactive mesh and wires (all the wiring was supplied with the motherboard). I used black rubberized paint on the inside, top tray, and on the acrylic. It is similiar in concept to Rhino lining used in truck beds. This will hopefully reduce the chances of peeling and cracking. Also, it reduces the chances of getting scratched while working on the system. I used it on the outside acrylic to hide the drive mounts and it focuses your view on the motherboard and it's components. (The white floppy drive seen in the picture was there for design purposes. I currently have a bay insert installed while I await a black floppy drive).
The end result is a fuctional and visually appealing PC case. A little heavier because it is not made of aluminum. I am also looking at the feasibility of mounting a flat panel monitor in the lid. Deciding how to mount it is the biggest issue. However, considering that my speakers will be external, the monitor may be as well.
Enjoy the pictures. Also, does anyone know of any design contests I might be able to enter this in? Just curious. Thanks.
MM
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