iqonoqlast
07-17-2004, 11:39 PM
This thread shall be a public record of my attempt to build (that's right, build) a case that will meet the FAA carry-on regulations of 22"x14"x9" while taking normal ATX parts (mobo, PSU) and not being customized to my current hardware so that I can upgrade in the future and still use the case.
Why?
I did a briefcase mod as a temporary solution. However, there are a number of problems which I hope to address with this new case:
1) Airflow sucks my balls
2) I can only fit 1 optical drive
3) I cannot run the case with the lid closed because the airflow sucks my balls.
4) The expansion cards are not properly secured
5) Did I mention the airflow sucks my balls?
I don't want to do an SFF setup because that requires specialized hardware. Also, no cases that take ATX will fit the requirements. So I said "Fuck it, I'll build my own."
The design
22"x14"x9" will give me something like a thick briefcase or mini tower. I intend to construct it as a box with lid, i.e. a mini tower laid flat, although I expect it to be able to run both as a desktop and tower.
Picking out parts for construction
I decided to go with wood instead of metal because, frankly, metal is going to be a bitch to work with. I went to Home Depot and they have these 2'x2' pieces of 1/4" thick tempered hardwood panels that should fit the bill. In order to join them along each edge, I figured I would screw-attach the panels to L-shaped aluminum braces that run the length of each edge like so:
http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~gtg397g/case/edgepanel.png
Input Solicitation Area
1) I have not decided whether I want a hinged lid or something that clasps down.
2) Should I make it look like wood i.e using wood finish that would make it look like an old-school stereo receiver...or should I give it a metallic/aluminum finish?
That's all for now. Feedback and suggestions appreciated.
Why?
I did a briefcase mod as a temporary solution. However, there are a number of problems which I hope to address with this new case:
1) Airflow sucks my balls
2) I can only fit 1 optical drive
3) I cannot run the case with the lid closed because the airflow sucks my balls.
4) The expansion cards are not properly secured
5) Did I mention the airflow sucks my balls?
I don't want to do an SFF setup because that requires specialized hardware. Also, no cases that take ATX will fit the requirements. So I said "Fuck it, I'll build my own."
The design
22"x14"x9" will give me something like a thick briefcase or mini tower. I intend to construct it as a box with lid, i.e. a mini tower laid flat, although I expect it to be able to run both as a desktop and tower.
Picking out parts for construction
I decided to go with wood instead of metal because, frankly, metal is going to be a bitch to work with. I went to Home Depot and they have these 2'x2' pieces of 1/4" thick tempered hardwood panels that should fit the bill. In order to join them along each edge, I figured I would screw-attach the panels to L-shaped aluminum braces that run the length of each edge like so:
http://www.prism.gatech.edu/~gtg397g/case/edgepanel.png
Input Solicitation Area
1) I have not decided whether I want a hinged lid or something that clasps down.
2) Should I make it look like wood i.e using wood finish that would make it look like an old-school stereo receiver...or should I give it a metallic/aluminum finish?
That's all for now. Feedback and suggestions appreciated.