Taking a reg case and making it ROCK!

[MKmods]

I have been modding for a while now (my first mod was here many moons ago). I have made quite a few origional cases and a few very advanced Lan boxes from Carbonfiber.
In meeting many people at LANs I have noticed that 95% use plain ol reg stamped steel cases.
In this log I am going to take one of those cases and turn it into a whole different monster..:rockout:

[Skrabrug]

I'm interested in seeing how this mod will turn out :P

[calvary1980]

last month I had a dream of an Acrylic ATX Cube with Chambers on the Side Panels with Distilled Water and Plastic Fish. when I woke up I started to jot it down then I remembered this Toy when I went to Australia to my Brother wedding it was a Acrylic Box with 2 Frogs and it was some kind of Mercury you shake it.

what are the benefits of Carbon Fiber?

- Christine

[Silverel]

Lightweight, hard, non-conductive, and black.

[calvary1980]

carbon fiber can't be cheaper? and wouldn't you have to construct the chassis out of carbon fiber plastic otherwise coating it over steel would be kinda pointless? what kind of mods are you going to do to the rosewill case?

- Christine

[MKmods]

last month I had a dream of an Acrylic ATX Cube with Chambers on the Side Panels with Distilled Water and Plastic Fish. when I woke up I started to jot it down then I remembered this Toy when I went to Australia to my Brother wedding it was a Acrylic Box with 2 Frogs and it was some kind of Mercury you shake it.

what are the benefits of Carbon Fiber?

- Christine

carbon fiber can't be cheaper? and wouldn't you have to construct the chassis out of carbon fiber plastic otherwise coating it over steel would be kinda pointless? what kind of mods are you going to do to the rosewill case?

- Christine
Carbonfiber is quite a bit MORE than other materials. As for the Rosewill case I plan on making a guide for others on how to improve the cooling of their similar cases.

[fitseries3]

oh, believe me... if you haven't seen this guy on OCN.... your in for a treat! wait till you see his fans!!!

[calvary1980]

oh cool are those air ducts or just rubber trim? how do you apply the carbon fiber with an epoxy or some other adhesive? I think I would be interested in applying that on Case Panels for Scratch Resistant?

- Christine

[MKmods]

EDIT:
oh cool are those air ducts or just rubber trim? how do you apply the carbon fiber with an epoxy or some other adhesive? I think I would be interested in applying that on Case Panels for Scratch Resistant?
- Christine
Sorry Christine I missed this post..I mod the fans round than use a piece of rubber trim around them, it allows the fans to be swiveled to adjust airflow(and eliminates the ugly screws) The Carbonfiber is applied with a 2 part epoxy than after curing I add a 2 part Polyurethane over it to give it more depth,gloss.


Ok now on to the Rosewill. As you can see its similar to many other cases, stamped steel and perforated holes for fan grills(VERY restrictive).
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture004-1.jpg

the exhaust is made for either a 80 or 90mm fan. I plan on using two 80s as there is not enough room for a 120mm fan
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture003-1.jpg
One thing I like is the holes in the mobo tray (good for aiding cooling of the back of the mobo)

Here it is with the hardware installed
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture007-1.jpg

The case is less deep than other cases so there is room for the 8600GTs but there is interference with the 8800GT with the Hdds
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture010-1.jpg

I ran it for 20 min playing CSS and TF2 and the temps were NUTTS, the FX62 was in the upper 70s and the GPUs were in the 50C range. A good reason for part of the CPU temp was the crummy alum cooler but it was obvious there was poor airflow in stock form

[calvary1980]

another idea, what about castors on the bottom with a shroud for air, it looks so bare!

- Christine

[fitseries3]

just wait and you'll see!!!! i know whats comming!

[MKmods]

one shroud coming right up...
I am not using H20 to cool this because it is designed for people who dont want the expense or bother of H20.

just wait and you'll see!!!! i know whats comming!
LOL, you cheater

[calvary1980]

*scratches her chin in suspicion* did you pencil in for a shroud or air filter looks like it.

- Christine

[fitseries3]

:laugh:this is just funny. it's going in fast forward. no one gets that he has this stuff done already. wait till you see the fan!

damn mark, you mod fast!

[MKmods]

Ok I disassemble the case removing the HDD rack. I cut out the back panel to fit the two 80mm fans.

For painting "metal" i like to use "self etching Primer" as it grabs the metal better. Now most cases are painted or plated with some coating to prevent rusting. The coating is MUCH better than what most of us could apply so I DONT sand it all off.
What I like to do is wash the parts with mild dish soap to remove surface grease (remember every time you touch the metal with your fingers it leaves a bit of grease)

try to not handle the parts too much, I like to barely touch the ends/corners.

After they dry I scuff them a bit with some 320grit (try to get the corners too) you dont need to work crazy hard here just scuff the surface to give the primer something to grip to. Now I put on a couple of coats of primer. There are different colors of primer (gray,red balck)too so if you are gonna paint your case white dont choose a black primer, lol

READ THE CAN DIRECTIONS, this is one of the most important things. If it says paint in 70 degrees F. try to paint in 70F(as close as you can) also do not use cold paint to paint a warm part. If the can feels cold set it in a bucket of warm water for 5 min to warm it up (sprays better) and if it says several light coats are better than use a few light coats (if the paint runs thats a VERY heavy coat)

A Very important Part is to let the paint dry first. I am always impatient and usually dont wait long enough, in the best case scenario will let the top coat scratch easy and worst case the top coat may dissolve the primer and make a mess.

After the primer dries I lightly sand it with about a 400grit (I use what I have laying around, 320,360 400,600) Than its time for the color coat.
There are basically 2 types of paint we use in cans Enamel and Lacquer. Enamel dries slower and is thicker but tends to be more glossy. Lacquer is duller but dries faster (much) and goes on thinner. If you spray lacquer over a Enamel Primer you need to MAKE SURE you let the enamel primer dry or the solvents in the Lacquer will eat up the enamel. Enamel uses a milder thinner and will not ruin lacquer primer as easy. So I like to use Lacquer for the Primer (read the can because a bunch of primers are Enamel) If you want a shiny top coat and you use a Lacquer for the color coat that you will probably need a clear top coat (again make sure the paint is dry before covering it with another paint)

Some people sand the top color coat (if using Lacquer for the color coat) before adding the clear, if you do make sure its dry and us a very fine sand paper (like 1000 or 1500grit) sand it lightly(just enough to get rid of the dust or roughness) This works with Lacquer as it dries in about a half hour or less.

I usually dont cover Enamel with a clear because it can take weeks for the enamel to dry.(it dries from the outside in)

[

[calvary1980]

what is that a delta fan? very nice finish, 2 week cure in 2 minutes! :P

- Christine

[MKmods]

what is that a delta fan? very nice finish, 2 week cure in 2 minutes! :P- Christine
Nope I make special Silenx fans for my mods

And good point Cavary, letting the paint and primer dry properly really helps to prevent easy scratches




:laugh:this is just funny. it's going in fast forward. no one gets that he has this stuff done already. wait till you see the fan!
damn mark, you mod fast!

Normaly I dont mess with the top as I like air to enter the front and exit the rear. When you add side and top fans it interferes with the airflow. But in this comp I am using a NorthQ fanless PS with a mesh case (lol, liars there is a small 70mm fan inside)

So I am cutting a vent (no fan) to help cool the top of the ps and allow excess heat to escape if needed
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture003.jpg
I cut the hole with a pair of tin snips and lined it with molding I got from MNPCtech.com

Here is a shot of the 2 80mm exhausts
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture010.jpg

[i_am_mustang_man]

Hey MK
good to see you again
i think... ;-)

[MKmods]

Hey MK
good to see you again
i think... ;-)
You think?

Talk about a blast from the past... hows life going Sir Mustang?:toast:

[fitseries3]

damnit MK, my PM box on OCN keeps filling from people asking what happened!!!

[MKmods]

Ok I grabbed a scrap of perforated alum and bent myself a grill for the exhaust fans
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture012.jpg
I really like working with the perforated alum as it is easy to bend,cut and I can use the holes like a guide.

Here is what the front looks like
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture014-1.jpg

That just wont do, so out come the tin snips and now there are a pair of 120mm fans free to breath
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture004.jpg

[Cold Storm]

wow man, for 20 dollar case, you sure make it look good so far!

[MKmods]

thank you CS..
here is a shot of the exhaust fan grill and PS mounted
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture016.jpg

I will be using a AC Freezer for a cooler and I like to color them a bit, here is a shot with the base coat
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture018.jpg

Here it is with a bit of anodize blue finish
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture020.jpg
Im not worried about painting the top plate raising temps (1st because I have done it a bunch of times before and 2 its only the top plate)

Here is a shot of the modders mesh painted with the same blue
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture024.jpg
notice the PS below, its mesh as well and this vent will allow heat to escape

[Frogger]

I'm caught now I'll have to see the END shot LOL

[Cold Storm]

pretty nice there.. never thought about painting the top of my heatsink... and your welcome man

[panchoman]

very nice man! thats a crazy job on such a cheap case!

[MKmods]

Thanks Frogger
I just got my 80mm Blue Silenx fans to replace the Ultras used for mock up
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture027.jpg

Now on to the lower front fan. Usually i go nutts with the silenx fans but this time I wanted to keep it simple (more like what everyone else would use)
Here is what I do to the fans normally
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/100_2716.jpg

On this build I wanted to keep it simple but 3xtr3m3 suggested to add lights to the fan. So I picked up a few Blue LEDs and mounted them in the fan
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture042.jpg
I wired them in series (-+-+-+) and used a 200ohm resister. I soldered them to the circut board of the fan
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture045.jpg

[Skrabrug]

its all looking really good and is giving me a few ideas for a case alter on down the track :P

[MKmods]

Thanks Panchoman and Skrbrug..
A couple years ago while i was at my local plastics place I saw a piece of tubing and figured It would be good for something, turns out its a perfect fit inside the Silenx fans
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture035.jpg

I get out my Dremel and cut away what is in the way
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture039.jpg
it helps a bunch by directing the air at the GPU and chipset

[Frogger]

NICE great way to help with the passive cooling:rockout:
http://img.techpowerup.org/080226/Capture.jpg

[MKmods]

Its funny cause the passive coolers work really good compared to the stock GT coolers. I also REALLY like that the fins run from the front to back aiding airflow even more.

The temps with this card are gonna be really nice. Now I wish I had waited and got a pair of the 9600GTs...

Because of the size of the tube it also helps cool the X Fi.

[DanishDevil]

Looking very good man. What do you use to cut that plastic? The cuts look real smooth.

[MKmods]

its really rough in the pict...I cut with a Dremel and a reinforced blade, than I file it, sand it and when I think I am ready to finish I use a flame to polish the edge.

I just realized that pict is my 590 mobo and I am using the 570. So the GPU will rise a notch and I will have to cut off the top lip on the tube...

Now in the lower front there is an open space
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture058.jpg

I cut a piece of smoke plastic and mold it to cover the edge of the mobo where the wires plug in
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture059.jpg

voila
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture051.jpg

Here you can see the piece I made to mount the Hdds(they are a perfect fit sideways in the DVD bay)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture054.jpg

[JrRacinFan]

OMG MK. This has got to be one of the more in-depth work logs I have seen in a while. I congratulate you on the hard work. Looks great so far.

[MKmods]

Thanks Jr. Most was done (just the wiring left)so it was easy to post.

Il get to the wiring prob tomorrow and thurs, thats the part I am really good at.:rockout:

[ShadowFold]

Wow man thats some awsome case work. You gotta come over and do the same to my 20$ rosewill lol

[MKmods]

LOL, be happy to hook you up....
I am running a Scythe Fan controller for the front 120mm fans
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811998040
and as usual I cant leave it alone (the knobs stick out WAY too far)

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture065.jpg

I make a bracket out of a scrap piece of perforated alum
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture069.jpg

Its a nice display with 2 fan controllers, 2 temp sensors and a buzzer if the fan RPM gets to 0
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture063.jpg

Here is what it looks like in the front(knobs only stick out about 1/8" now)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture070.jpg

[fitseries3]

MK, your thread on OCN has been in the top 10 for the past 4 hours.

[Wile E]

Hmmm, subscribed. And I stopped over at OCN for the hell of it, but he already pulled the pics. lol. The pics are their property my ass. lol.

[fitseries3]

pics were pulled from OCN yesterday right before he got banned i believe.

[MKmods]

Hmmm, subscribed. And I stopped over at OCN for the hell of it, but he already pulled the pics. lol. The pics are their property my ass. lol.
My point exactly.

[calvary1980]

it's pretty good I guess, I think more people are interested in making side windows and air ducts. not liking the air duct though I think it's too long and the end is going to bite you in the ass one day. one thing I hate more than anything is mismatched colors if you ever revisit this case you should put some masking tape and newspaper over the scythe LCD and paint the face plate :)

- Christine

[MKmods]

it's pretty good I guess, I think more people are interested in making side windows and air ducts. not liking the air duct though I think it's too long and the end is going to bite you in the ass one day. one thing I hate more than anything is mismatched colors if you ever revisit this case you should put some masking tape and newspaper over the scythe LCD and paint the face plate :)

- Christine
Good point about the face plate, I love for peops to help out. :respect:

(how are comps ever gonna improve if we dont work together)

as to your baloney about the duct...ur wrong.:)

[fitseries3]

i like it. (the duct, that is).

MK, what's the best way to go about putting a window in my TJ07 side panel? i thought about getting it machined like i did my subfloor but the aluminum is pretty thin.

[MKmods]

i like it. (the duct, that is).

MK, what's the best way to go about putting a window in my TJ07 side panel? i thought about getting it machined like i did my subfloor but the aluminum is pretty thin.
I like to make side windows press fit, cut hole line with gasket and cut window exactly the ID of the gasket and press it in (no screws)

[calvary1980]

duct is too long what happens if you want to put an X2, GX2 or 2900XT in! by the way you know any paint artist that do cases? I was thinking of getting my Stacker 832 done in GI Green (can do) but I need this on the front http://www.amachron.com/ODDBALL_SAYS.jpg (artist)

- Christine

[MKmods]

LOL, Donald Sutherland Rules!!!

duct is too long what happens if you want to put an X2, GX2 or 2900XT in! by the way you know any paint artist that do cases? I was thinking of getting my Stacker 832 done in GI Green (can do) but I need this on the front http://www.amachron.com/ODDBALL_SAYS.jpg (artist)
- Christine

first, I forgot you dont know me... the chances of this case lasting a week are 1 in a million..(I LOVE to build, once done they mean nothing and usually get scrapped)

Sorry my style is a little plain and I havent hooked up with any artists. Your idea sounds really nice.

[calvary1980]

yeah, my new rig is called Oddball http://youtube.com/watch?v=5pMeb4ZSHh8 Woof Woof! wanted to paint the inside Light Green like a tank and the outside a Darker Green with cloth smudges and on the front bezel the Oddball Photo is there a way to transfer or recreate it on some kinda decal that I can stick on or do I have to get it painted?

here is my rig http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/7830/stackerzc9.jpg E8500, 8800GTS vMod, 2x2 Crucial Ballistix Tracer, Hard Drives and Mother Board unknown right now haven't ordered them yet.

- Christine

[MKmods]

if it was me I would paint the case olive drab and have a case wrap (big decal) of the pict you have and wrap it around the front.

Something like this
http://www.jab-tech.com/product.php?productid=2346

and woof woof woof woof...sounds like a nice comp

[calvary1980]

im a little woman with a big tank, not a comp :P I'll have to look into decals I guess that was what I was talking about just don't know where to go to get it printed on.

how are the LED on the fan can't imagine they look as nice as transparent fan housings.

- Christine

[MKmods]

im a little woman with a big tank, not a comp :P I'll have to look into decals I guess that was what I was talking about just don't know where to go to get it printed on.
how are the LED on the fan can't imagine they look as nice as transparent fan housings.
- Christine

the idea was for ambient light (to basically light the tube and GPU) and a faint glow in the front (im old and not really impressed with flashy)

Google is ur friend...
http://www.4decals.com/

[tkpenalty]

*tkpenalty dies from the awesomeness....


Going to use any acoustic dampening?

[MKmods]

the Silenx fans are very quiet (GPU is passive cooled and so is the PS) Comp is gonna be almost silent.
I do have a bunch of that case foam lining but I may save it for a different mod. And Thanks a lot.:toast:

[tkpenalty]

the Silenx fans are very quiet (GPU is passive cooled and so is the PS) Comp is gonna be almost silent.
I do have a bunch of that case foam lining but I may save it for a different mod. And Thanks a lot.:toast:

How about the HDD? Heard of HDD suspension? :)

[intel igent]

@ Mk : very nice! i like the originality of your mods and the quality is good as well :pimp:

@ calvary1980 : if you know of a good/custom autobody shop you can have the case done there. if you happened to find a custom shop that also does airbrushing you coud have it all completed in 1 place ;)

:toast:

[MKmods]

How about the HDD? Heard of HDD suspension? :)
Il post a pict later, but the Hdds are attached by rubber mounts.
I also use the WD 160gig Hdds (except for Laptop Hdds probably the quietest ones out there)

[fitseries3]

Il post a pict later, but the Hdds are attached by rubber mounts.
I also use the WD 160gig Hdds (except for Laptop Hdds probably the quietest ones out there)

yeah.... i've had this idea of raiding 4-6 laptop drives to make a silent, low power but fast desktop machine. striping to 4-6 drives would still be really fast if you used 7200rpm sata 2.5" drives.

[MKmods]

I havent benched a lot in the past because basically when i finish a case I tear it apart and start building another. I remember 2 Laptop Hdds in Raid0 being faster than 1 of my WD 160gigs.
A couple of things about the laptop hdds is they are very quiet, take up practically no space, and only need 5v to run.

[fitseries3]

so 4-6 7200rpm laptop drives in raid 0 would dominate 2 10k raptors and take less power, AND they wont be so damn loud! they might cost the same though.

[oli_ramsay]

Hey MKmods, I'm also wanting to paint the inside of my case black, is there any tips you can give a modding noob like myself?

THANKS :):respect:

PS your case rocks so far!

[Shinobi]

Damn mark thats a nice on the inside of the case can't wait to see it finished :)

[DanishDevil]

In addition to what he tells you, be sure to look at this (http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/showpost.php?p=677112&postcount=15) post (#15) in this thread. I'll most likely be picking up this same primer and paint from Autozone or something to paint the inside of my case.

[MKmods]

Damn mark thats a nice on the inside of the case can't wait to see it finished :)

Thanks for stopping by Shinobi and welcome to TPU..:toast:
Hey MKmods, I'm also wanting to paint the inside of my case black, is there any tips you can give a modding noob like myself?
THANKS :):respect:
PS your case rocks so far!
I will edit #15 to add more info...

so 4-6 7200rpm laptop drives in raid 0 would dominate 2 10k raptors and take less power, AND they wont be so damn loud! they might cost the same though.
when I was on here before I had 4 hitachi 80 gig in Raid0 and they kicked the Pair of Raptors in Raid0 in the ass. The raptor guys had to get 4 of them to beat me...(lol, $600 for Hdds)

[DanishDevil]

Sweet! Also oli_ramsay, I'll be painting my case next week (it should be arriving at my house in Newport today!) and I'll do my best to give you lots of details in my project log!

[Cold Storm]

I really got to say Mk, your making a lot of people want to buy low to get sweet looking cases! Nice mod, and love the work. :rockout:

[MKmods]

Big thanks Cold Storm. Most cant afford the Lian li or Silverstones, this log is for them.

Modding teaches you skills that you will use the rest of your life in MANY different fields.

I think its time for modding to be elevated to the next level.:rockout:

[Cold Storm]

Yeah, if you want to say mod then you have to change something. And this is a step like Slade, and a few others have done on here. A REAL MOD. I'm with you on all thoughts of modding.
Now to think of what I should do?

[mrw1986]

Very nice work on the case. I wish I had that sort of talent.

[intel igent]

could you share some details on how you modded the fans like that?

did you just grind the "ears" off and smooth sand the frames? also how did you manage to get the fan blades separated from the motor?

again great mod and great pix thnx for sharing

:toast:

[Oliver_FF]

This build kicks more ass than, you know, Chuck Norris!

[CyberDruid]

Hey M8 you do some fine work. Like the use of all the varied materials and the stylish detailing with the Duplicolor. You are a true Case Modder IMO. Keep it up.:toast:

[DanishDevil]

how did you manage to get the fan blades separated from the motor?

If you peel the sticker off of a fan, you will see a series of washers and o-rings and locks on the fan's axle. Use a small knife or screwdriver to pop off the metal locking ring, and slide it off :toast:

Try it out with an old fan you don't care about.

[MKmods]

What HE, /\ said....
Yes, I basically cut the ears off than grind them down on my belt sander
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/AntecGreen082.jpg

Than the hard part smoothing them..I use Bondo first than multiple coats of filler/primer and keep sanding till smooth.

I use the Silenx fans because if you look close they dont have the bevel on the inside edges the other fans have so this mod works with them (they are good fans too)

than to mount them I cut a hole line it with the rubber edging from PetrasTech and they can be angled (very handy) and it eliminates the ugly screws.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Silenx80mm.jpg
This build kicks more ass than, you know, Chuck Norris!
Thanks Oliver, ChucK Norris kicks a LOT of ass...

[fitseries3]

@MK sweet! i wondered what you used to do that.

@CD i didn't know you were on TPU.

[MKmods]

Hey M8 you do some fine work. Like the use of all the varied materials and the stylish detailing with the Duplicolor. You are a true Case Modder IMO. Keep it up.:toast:

Thanks a LOT for stopping by:toast:

[tiys]

Dude...MK...that case is jaw dropping! I love it!

[Wakeo91]

Mk = Amazing :D

[Skrabrug]

this has got to be the most interesting mod thread I've seen before :P (i keep checking for updates to it xD)

[MKmods]

Thanks a bunch Guys, it means a lot, tomorrow the fun begins (wiring);)

[GREASEMONKEY]

Before you start with the fun,Could you maybe expand a little on how you molded the smoked plastic panel?
BTW....very nice work.

[MKmods]

LOL, I made the smoke panel for the wrong mobo (590 and I am using the 570) so I will make a new one tonight and show how I do it.

[fitseries3]

LOL, I made the smoke panel for the wrong mobo (590 and I am using the 570) so I will make a new one tonight and show how I do it.

sweet! now i will see how your gonna make my ram duct thingy.

[panchoman]

i proclaim MK as the case modding guru of tpu... who's with me?

[Skrabrug]

i proclaim MK as the case modding guru of tpu... who's with me?

+1

I agree, MK's work certainly is something which grabs your attention :P

[Silverel]

i proclaim MK as the case modding guru of tpu... who's with me?

+2 (fixt!)
...provided he takes up a more permanent residence here ;)

[Skrabrug]

+1

...provided he takes up a more permanent residence here ;)

*pokes* your +2 :P (i beat you to the post xD)

[MKmods]

+1

...provided he takes up a more permanent residence here ;)

as long a W1zzard can put up with me im thinking this is a win/win for all of us..:toast:

[fitseries3]

let MK get back to work so he can get some more pics to drool over!

[panchoman]

as long a W1zzard can put up with me im thinking this is a win/win for all of us..:toast:

lol, i think he hates me but im still here :P maybe you can get a custom title from a mod if enough people deem you the case mod guru of tpu :toast:

[Skrabrug]

let MK get back to work so he can get some more pics to drool over!

lol good point xD

[panchoman]

lol good point xD

true that..

[pt]

we want more pics!
:)

[MKmods]

Hello pt..
Ok here is a shot of the right mobo and parts
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture004-2.jpg

Here is the panel mounted
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture006-2.jpg
there was not enough difference in the mobos to need to make a new panel, just had to trim some parts

now some asked how to bend the plastic so Il grab a scrap and show you. Working Plastic is like painting it needs practice (and 2 hands, taking picts while bending hot plastic is dumb)

what I do to make a straight bend is clamp the plastic to the edge of my desk, make sure the edge of your surface is even (no holes and chips like mine) or the seam wont be straight
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture001.jpg

Than I get my heat gun(fancy hair dryer) and heat the corner I want to bend. Make sure you go back and forth or you will melt a hole in the plastic.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture003.jpg

Once the plastic gets soft (after a min or 2) than bend it while its soft (gloves help here)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture004.jpg

if you want to bend it again in a different spot wait for the first bend to cool. Than heat the second spot(keep the gun moving) and when its soft I use a piece of wood to help keep the bend straight
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture005.jpg

and Voila
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture006.jpg
now this looks like crap as i was holding the camera in one hand the stick in another and the heat gun with my 3rd hand...but you should get the idea.

Another thing if you cant get the color plastic you want(clear is cheaper too) you can paint the back side of the plastic and it will look like you have an 1/8" coat of clear over the paint (really nice)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture008.jpg
the paint was a reg black metalic(lol, it looks pretty nice)

[overclocker]

hey wanna mob my case? :P im gunna do something nice to my case some time soon :P

[Shinobi]

thats nice looking what Grahpics card is that?

[fitseries3]

MK... you should pull the sticker off of the accelero. it would give it a cleaner look.

[MKmods]

hey wanna mob my case? :P im gunna do something nice to my case some time soon :P
yes
thats nice looking what Grahpics card is that?
ECS 8800GT
MK... you should pull the sticker off of the accelero. it would give it a cleaner look.
will do, thank for the input.

[oli_ramsay]

MKmods=The Modfather :P

[MKmods]

MKmods=The Modfather :P
very NICE.. I am plenty old enough..:cool:

[DanishDevil]

now this looks like crap as i was holding the camera in one hand the stick in another and the heat gun with my 3rd hand...but you should get the idea.

Don't mess with the ModFather! He'll strangle you to death with his 3rd hand! :D

Looks great ModFather :) It's coming together nicely, and getting me more and more excited for that interior case paint!

[MKmods]

thanks DD.
OK now on to the FUN part... WIRING.
THIS IS THE KIDS DO NOT DO THIS AT HOME PART!
even unplugged the capacitors can hold a charge and zap you. (thanks DD)
(not to mention there goes the whole RMA possibility)

I am using a NorthQ 400 fanless PS (LOL, liars, there is a 70 mm fan on the inside)
(I would MUCH rather be using a Corsair 620 but this is the only PS I have)

First problem is where the wires exit the case, no grommet. They have rolled the edge but I just feel better knowing there is an extra layer of protection around the wires.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture001-3.jpg

I cut a piece of the molding from MNPCtech (thinner than the Petras moulding)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture005-3.jpg
One thing I notice about this PS is inside its BEAUTIFUL. I basically mod all my PSs and when I saw inside my Ultra (back before I knew better) there were multiple wires soldered to a single wire and parts looked messy, just junk compared to the NorthQ(nice job NorthQ :rockout:)

I think I will sleeve the wires a bit more (looks cheap not going all the way to the inside)

[fitseries3]

i had to take my enermax galaxy 1kw apart to retrieve a lost screw. it's INSANE in there. SO many wires!:eek:

[DanishDevil]

Should look good sleeved. IMO PSUs look cleaner if you can sleeve far back enough to ziptie and/or heatshrink inside the PSU, so there's nothing but sleeving coming out. That is a good looking PSU!

Note to other members: BE CAREFUL when opening your PSU. If you've used it within the last few MONTHS, you can KILL YOURSELF by touching a capacitor. Safest thing to do is only open PSUs that haven't been used in a LONG time, or to just NOT TOUCH ANYTHING inside other than screws and wires that you are messing with. If you want to open one for fun and poke around, make sure it hasn't been used in a year or so.

[MKmods]

I just have to show the difference between Quality and NOT
Here is the wiring of the NorthQ
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture006-3.jpg

Here is the Ultra Xfinity 500
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture007-2.jpg

[TechnicalFreak]

That Ultra Xfinity 500 PSU, I just wonder how the people who built it knows "what wire does what".

Very cool mod I have to say, and where to get fans like that? Looks like turbines from a jet engine (also very cool).

[MKmods]

Very cool mod I have to say, and where to get fans like that? Looks like turbines from a jet engine (also very cool).
Thanks, got to make em..

Ok on to measuring lengths, I hate all the extra wire wrapped up and stuffed inside all the corners, so I make all the wires the length needed.
usually I solder the wires to the back of the mobo
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/24pinWires-1.jpg

but this time I wanted the mod to represent more a "Normal" style of wire management.

So to now to separate the wires I need
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture009-2.jpg

Now install the PS in the case and cut all the wiring to length
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture010-2.jpg
Im running the 24 pin and extra molex for SLI under the front of the cooler and under as they wont block the air to the mosfets.

Looks like this time the back of the case is gonna be pretty clean
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture011-2.jpg

[Shinobi]

The Famous MK Wiring .. are u going to be sodering the power connection to the Mother board this time?

[MKmods]

I want this mod to represent more of a normal mod so no, and besides I have been going nutts not being able to play CSS and TF2...Tonight!, sweet, no more waiting.

[DanishDevil]

Wow. Soldering wires to the back of the mobo...never thought about that before. Perfect if you're not going to upgrade anything and want a super-clean look. Better be careful with the solder though, if you bridge one of the connections on the back, you're fried! :D

Please feel free to show off some direct soldering another time though! I'm going to be doing a normal sleeve like this myself, so maybe I'll learn a few tricks from you before I do it :toast:

[Frogger]

very NICE.. I am plenty old enough..:cool:

:roll: the WELL used hands atest to that
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/plastic%20bending/Picture005.jpg

[MKmods]

stupid camera, when I want it to take clear close ups of my comps its blurry but get my hand in the way and clear as a bell :laugh:
Wow. Soldering wires to the back of the mobo...never thought about that before. Perfect if you're not going to upgrade anything and want a super-clean look.

But AWESOME for superior airflow...

[CyberDruid]

Nice guide on the acrylic.

[MKmods]

I get busy on modding (I suck on guides) but one day I want to make a proper one. One that shows cutting , drilling, polishing and bending.

Plastic is really easy to work with.

[panchoman]

mk, just set up a camera and record you doing your work.. thats the best type of guide you can make for stuff like this

[CyberDruid]

Have you seen Tribal OverKill's work at Apex? The bar keeps being raised...the Art is growing.

Love this build man...embodies the spirit of Mod.

[i_am_mustang_man]

this stuff is really sweet :)

[mikey8684]

why did it end :cry:

[MKmods]

why did it end :cry:
not ended, Im soldering...:laugh: Il post some wiring picts in a couple hours.

[DanishDevil]

mk, just set up a camera and record you doing your work.. thats the best type of guide you can make for stuff like this

*hint: think of the 3dGameMan reviews*
"Hello and welcome to TechPowerUp.com I'm The ModFather and today we are going to be looking at how to solder a power sooply's cables to the mothaboard."
:roll:

[MKmods]

you guys make me smile. Thanks

[JrRacinFan]

C'mon MK, post some pics, my DSL is down right now at home so I can only check your thread while at work!

[MKmods]

C'mon MK, post some pics, my DSL is down right now at home so I can only check your thread while at work!
LOL here is one
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture001-4.jpg
Im just finishing up the 24 pin cable

[CyberDruid]

It think you need to set up a live feed ModFather

[MKmods]

It think you need to set up a live feed ModFather
than I would have to brush my teeth and comb my hair:eek:

Before
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture002-2.jpg

here is the after shot of the shortened wires and sleeving carried into the PS
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture001-5.jpg

[DanishDevil]

Did you end up trimming the wires and re-soldering or not? And how long did that take you? I honestly haven't sleeved an entire PSU in less than like 4 hours, but then again I've only done 2 or 3.

[MKmods]

Did you end up trimming the wires and re-soldering or not? And how long did that take you? I honestly haven't sleeved an entire PSU in less than like 4 hours, but then again I've only done 2 or 3.

I cut ALL the wires and made the exactly the length needed to get to where they needed to go. Il post more picts but I am trimming the mobo tray to run the front panel wiring now.

It takes me a couple of hours but I keep changing stuff so that adds a bit.;)

[Shinobi]

I demand moar pics!!!!:respect:oh mighty Modfather

[MKmods]

Soon Grasshopper, soon....

[MKmods]

Ok here is what I got so far..
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture013-2.jpg

I need to order some better Sata cables but at least I can get back to getting my clock cleaned in TF2.

PS:to Fitseries3, ur right looks cleaner without the sticker..

Oh, yea.. you know how the back of the mobo tray is always messy with the extra wiring.....
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture010-3.jpg
Pretty sweet for a $19 case.

[ShadowFold]

Dude thats amazing! Nice work, one question tho doesnt painting the heatsink on the cpu make it run not as cool cause the fins cant dispense heat as fast?

[intel igent]

Ok here is what I got so far..
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture013-2.jpg

I need to order some better Sata cables but at least I can get back to getting my clock cleaned in TF2.

PS:to Fitseries3, ur right looks cleaner without the sticker..

man what a transformation! i love it! excellent craftsmanship and originality, my hats off :rockout:

thanx for posting the process and sharing with the community.

i know i was inspired

[technicks]

It's only the top fin. No difference.;)

Yes very nice mod if i may say so.:respect:

[MKmods]

Dude thats amazing! Nice work, one question tho doesnt painting the heatsink on the cpu make it run not as cool cause the fins cant dispense heat as fast?
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/100_1728.jpg
This is one I did a couple years ago for a SFF case.
(DO NOT USE THE WHEEL PAINT ON THE CPU COOLER)

Nope measurable difference, the color coat(several layers of paint) is only the top plate and I have checked the temps every time and there is no difference.

You cant see but I also painted the fins and the fins of the AC Accelero black(very light coat of a black Lacquer). The trick is a light coat and there is no performance lost.
Remember if you use Enamel and a thick coat ur gonna mess it up.

I still have a bunch to do, Sata cables, Side panel window, front panel (gonna use modders mesh for the face) also I need another PS so I can pop in the other 8800GT(Corsair 620 wait for me, Il be with you soon;))

Another thing, I dont know if you noticed but I sure did. usually I wait to paint the inside till the end because I always scratch it. This time I painted it first and I must say the paint used held up 1000% better than any other Spray Can paint I ever used.
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture001.jpg

[tkpenalty]

This is one of the most beautiful PCs i've seen

Makes my one look revolting....

[fitseries3]

i'd have you do mine but the shipping cost would KILL me. this TJ07 with everything in it is over 100pounds easily.

looks amazing! every little detail has been though out and looks great.

[pt]

This is one of the most beautiful PCs i've seen

Makes my one look revolting....

haha
got to agree there :p

[ShadowFold]

haha
got to agree there :p

:roll::roll:

I love you :laugh:
(in a non-gay way :p)

[Cold Storm]

You know MK? Thats one of the best mods I've seen in a LONG time! really great work and it deserves a 25/10! :rockout:

[intel igent]

+1 on the duplicolor excellent paint.

its the only spray paint i use

[Frogger]

Ok here is what I got so far..Pretty sweet for a $19 case.
:respect::respect::respect:one of the best case reworks I'v seen this year :toast:
You should be well paid by anyone who contracts for you skills:rockout::respect:

[Shinobi]

wow mark that is some awesome work ur work gets better and better every time i see it :)

[panchoman]

You know MK? Thats one of the best mods I've seen in a LONG time! really great work and it deserves a 25/10! :rockout:

I absolutely agree!

Mk, you think you could give us a full 360 on the case?

[Jimmy 2004]

This looks like a brilliant build. Make sure you put it in the TPU case gallery.

[MKmods]

Thanks a bunch guys.. This is kind of a simple mod that I used to show just the basics.
Originally the cooling was terrible, now with the addition of a few simple ideas its MUCH better.

A few points..
The exhaust, Before
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture003-1.jpg
The perforations are better than most here but still restrictive

After
You dont need the fancy fans or cover, but 2 beats 1(and removing the perforations helps a lot to aid airflow and reduce noise)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture011.jpg

Air Intake
Before
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture014-1.jpg

After
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture004.jpg

Hdds
Before(in the way of GPUs and wiring also restricted airflow)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture008-1.jpg

After
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture.jpg

[cdawall]

this is amazing :eek:

[MKmods]

Thanks cdawall,
usually this is where I start tearing it apart and making the next, but with this case/comp I am going to refine it. I will keep posting as I make improvements down the line so stay tuned....:toast:

[cdawall]

you have turned case modding into an art ;) i am definitely keeping up with this thread!

[Cold Storm]

Oh, I will be! one of the best! and can't wait to get it in the case gally! I'll try and force that 25! :toast:

[Shinobi]

man i love the HDD mount!!!

[wtf8269]

MK didn't you used to be on here a couple years ago as a different screen name?

[pt]

:respect: mark

[intel igent]

MK didn't you used to be on here a couple years ago as a different screen name?

i think so but i wont say for shure ill let him answer ;)

:toast:

[wtf8269]

:respect: mark

OH YEAH! It was like marklebb or something.

[MKmods]

MK didn't you used to be on here a couple years ago as a different screen name?
Yes I have been markkleb on all the forums. I figured this year its about time to stop goofing off.
I have had mkmods .com for a long time and never did anything with it.

EDIT:
When I started this mod I checked the temps here they were after I played TF2 for about 20 min (with a junk stock type alum CPU cooler)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/stocktemps2.jpg

I just finished 30min in TF2 and look at the diff (using the painted AC Freezer)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/RosewillMod1.jpg

One thing to notice is in the first temps I was using my 8600GTs in SLI and my second one is the 8800GT..what a difference.
I will be swapping the FX62 for my X2 6400 and lapping it to see if it gets better.

[fitseries3]

damn, you got some mad airflow now!!! that's a huge difference!

[MKmods]

damn, you got some mad airflow now!!! that's a huge difference!
Its gonna get a LOT better. I will tune the airflow, Lap the CPU and coolers. Definately gonna put a Thermalright on the Chipset and experiment with some different TIMs...

Oh yea look at the front
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture001-7.jpg
Definitely gonna have to be modded for better flow.

And just a note for you Intel guys, this is a 125watt AMD..I bet the 65watt Intels would run even cooler.

[fitseries3]

overclock it and join the comp...
http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=25995

[MKmods]

this weekend I am gonna make ur cooler, next week I will mess with this...

I just goof off with OCing so those of you who know what is better? I have a FX 62 and a X2 6400, which should I use? And Lap the surface or remove the IHS?

And for TIM (paste), AS 5 or?

I want to throw on the Thermalright Hr 05 as well.

[Wile E]

this weekend I am gonna make ur cooler, next week I will mess with this...

I just goof off with OCing so those of you who know what is better? I have a FX 62 and a X2 6400, which should I use? And Lap the surface or remove the IHS?

And for TIM (paste), AS 5 or?

I want to throw on the Thermalright Hr 05 as well.Don't try to delid a 6400 or 6000+, trust me. lol http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=41746

Anyway, use the 6400. Generally clocks higher. Even the bad ones usually hit 3.4Ghz at around 1.5V. That's what mine did, and it ran nice and cool on a lapped AC F64Pro. 55C max load, and 24/7 stable.

As far as TIM, you can't go wrong with the tried and true as5, there's also MX-2 and Ceramique which perform great.

[MKmods]

Don't try to delid a 6400 or 6000+, trust me. lol http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=41746

Anyway, use the 6400. Generally clocks higher. Even the bad ones usually hit 3.4Ghz at around 1.5V. That's what mine did, and it ran nice and cool on a lapped AC F64Pro. 55C max load, and 24/7 stable.

As far as TIM, you can't go wrong with the tried and true as5, there's also MX-2 and Ceramique which perform great.

Thanks for the heads up..:toast:
wow mark that is some awesome work ur work gets better and better every time i see it :)
Thanks Shinobi, you should see it in person, bring ur case over and il hook you up.

[DUNC4N]

Had to register to post and say sorry to hear about what ever happend over at OCN. I can't see the worklog yet because I'm at work and its blocked, but I can't wait to get home and check out the latest pics.

I'll edit when I get home, and keep up the good work:nutkick:

[MKmods]

Thanks for stopping by Dunc4n. I am lapping the X2 6400 and will be popping it in in a few.

[DUNC4N]

Wow, man makes me want to tear apart, and start over. Amazing work:toast:

[MKmods]

Thanks Dunc4n..and welcome to TPU, keep tuned as there will be quite a few upgrades soon...
[like a corsair 520(thanks to spacegoast), another 8800GT and the TForce 590mobo, some side window action, lighting and maybe a face done like my UltraBlue mod with a touch of Carbonfiber thrown in]

(and dont tell anyone but there will be a bit of soldering wires to the mobo too)

[beyond_amusia]

AMAZING mod! :D If wish my tower looked just half as good as this one will turn out to be. :ohwell: I was going to atleast paint my case, but I hate removing all the components and stuff... I'll have to upload pix of my tower sometime so it can get a 1/10 vote, lmao.

[MKmods]

AMAZING mod! :D If wish my tower looked just half as good as this one will turn out to be. :ohwell: I was going to atleast paint my case, but I hate removing all the components and stuff... I'll have to upload pix of my tower sometime so it can get a 1/10 vote, lmao.

while you have it empty before you paint it, mod the fan mounts for better breathing...

I was posting a spam in wtf8269's case thread and it came to me. For the rebuild of this mod I will use my PC power & Cooling 510 (I bought a Corsair 520, oh well).
My 510 has been modded a bunch of times in my SFF cases so its pretty butchered up.
I think what I will do is make a new CarbonFiber case for the PS with the wiring sticking out the back of the mobo side and instead of 1 80mm exhaust fan I will put a pair of AC8s blowing through it.

Il post up some picts this week when I get some time.

[JrRacinFan]

Heya MK, Just got back from a "vacation". DSL was down.

After looking at everything you really have done a great job and hopefully will see some more work from you.

Keep up the awesome work!

[Necrofire]

This is the greatest mod I have ever seen.

I came.

[MKmods]

My case love you long time...

[Wile E]

My case love you long time...

Sucky, sucky, five dolla?

[InnocentCriminal]

I'm impatient and love worklogs... how's the progress going?

[MKmods]

I'm impatient and love worklogs... how's the progress going?

I am just finishing up a new memory cooler for fitseries3 and once its done il break out the PS and the Carbon fiber..

[fitseries3]

feel free to post some pics of my cooler if you want. it looks great BTW!

[MKmods]

I think it would look better on your mobo, on my mobo it looks out of place (my memory is in different location)
LOL, it does look kind of different...
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture130.jpg
(I love looking at this pict)

[Frogger]

^^ SWEET^^ What's the plan to mount it on the Formula

[fitseries3]

that little tab on the right mounts it to the board.

[MKmods]

Magic.....
(if that fails the little tab screws into the mobo mount)

[Frogger]

?? how long is it ....looking at the board the 24pin is in the way

[fitseries3]

no... the fan goes at the top of the case.... it's upside down in the pic. the open side is where the 24pin will be.

[intel igent]

LOL, it does look kind of different...
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture130.jpg
(I love looking at this pict)

excellent mod there MK ;)

:toast:

[MKmods]

Ok need to make a few decisions here and could use ur help..

I am planning to switch mobos to the 590 (need the PCI X16 X 2 for the 8800GTs)
Adding another 8800GT for SLI
I bought a Corsair 520 but I think I will go with my PC 510 PS
X2 6400 (since everyone seems to be getting around 3.5Ghz)
Building a new free flowing face to the comp
And like tkpenalty mentioned some insulation as well

so here are the questions...

Do I refine the air cooling or water cool it? and why?

[fitseries3]

air cool it. it would be cool to see a air cooled computer that runs as cool as one cooled by water. its a challenge!

[DanishDevil]

Haha I agree! You'd have to put it in front of a window on a chilly night to get watercooling temps though!

With the X2 6400+ BE, air should be fine. I don't see too many people getting WAY higher clocks with water than with air, as long as it's good air cooling. And besides, it'll make me feel better for still being on air :D

[Cold Storm]

Man. does that mod look sweet! making me jealous and envy! May I ask the profession you have?

[MKmods]

Man. does that mod look sweet! making me jealous and envy! May I ask the profession you have?
first thanks...
I have had many...
I started (a long long time ago) as a machinist, than a mechanic, than on to custom cars (painting,modding,stereo) than building boats, houses, businesses and a handful more..

I just loved working with my hands. Lately my big thing is trying to figure a way to share that knowledge.

[Cold Storm]

first thanks...
I have had many...
I started (a long long time ago) as a machinist, than a mechanic, than on to custom cars (painting,modding,stereo) than building boats, houses, businesses and a handful more..

I just loved working with my hands. Lately my big thing is trying to figure a way to share that knowledge.

Its a great thing that you have there. And I thank you for wanting to share that knowledge. It does seem that computer modding for people like you come as a "second nature" to it.


I'm just glad that your showing it to us now!

[imperialreign]

first thanks...
I have had many...
I started (a long long time ago) as a machinist, than a mechanic, than on to custom cars (painting,modding,stereo) than building boats, houses, businesses and a handful more..

I just loved working with my hands. Lately my big thing is trying to figure a way to share that knowledge.

Personally, I've found the skills I've learned and honed working as a mechanic go a long way lots of the time - especially in the performance market, many upgrades require some extensive modification for fit and function. I've always been one of those where I want the component to look as if it came that way on the car right out of the factory - forget all the crhome, know what I mean? :laugh:


Beautiful case and very professionally done! Many of us here will be most appreciative of the process from start to finish.

Question, though, do you typically have a "look" or theme before you get to modding . . . or do you tend to address stuff independantly and bring it together as a whole?

[MKmods]

Question, though, do you typically have a "look" or theme before you get to modding . . . or do you tend to address stuff independantly and bring it together as a whole?

Its funny you ask because I have been trying to explain to many its hard for me to work with plans..
I just get metal, plastic and hardware and sit down at my table and work.
what I try to do is take the mobo and build around it, improving its basic design and cooling as I go, it just seems to work out.

I was at another forum(for a VERY short time) a couple years ago when I started this modding stuff and everytime I had an idea and mentioned it someone would say that it wouldnt work..One of the good things is I have no negativity when I work so everything is possible to me.

[oli_ramsay]

I think you should go with air cooling, it's a lot simpler to set up, less risks (leaking etc), and you can make some kick-ass fans and get a hurricane blowing through there!

[Cold Storm]

Its funny you ask because I have been trying to explain to many its hard for me to work with plans..
I just get metal, plastic and hardware and sit down at my table and work.
what I try to do is take the mobo and build around it, improving its basic design and cooling as I go, it just seems to work out.

I was at another forum(for a VERY short time) a couple years ago when I started this modding stuff and everytime I had an idea and mentioned it someone would say that it wouldnt work..One of the good things is I have no negativity when I work so everything is possible to me.

See, here's the thing, you can't say that a mod is going to be bad, or negative in any respect. If you look at stuff like that, then whats the point in even making your own computer? Yeah, you can do it cheaper, and get parts that are going to last. But, thats the good in that when you can't even think of the "better" things you can do with that video card if you change out this or put a ram sink here? I say, if your going to buy something, and know that you can make it better, go with it! You learn from your mistakes, and gain the knowledge from it. And if they think a case wouldn't be good to mod or anything else, then they have so bad of ep3n1sits that its not really worth it to put your points across. IMO that is.
But, you have sites like this, where is so open minded that its a great place do dwell, and learn from. Don't know of a better place where you can show off the "littlest mods" and get so much great positive replys from.

[MKmods]

See, here's the thing, you can't say that a mod is going to be bad, or negative in any respect. If you look at stuff like that, then whats the point in even making your own computer? Yeah, you can do it cheaper, and get parts that are going to last. But, thats the good in that when you can't even think of the "better" things you can do with that video card if you change out this or put a ram sink here? I say, if your going to buy something, and know that you can make it better, go with it! You learn from your mistakes, and gain the knowledge from it. And if they think a case wouldn't be good to mod or anything else, then they have so bad of ep3n1sits that its not really worth it to put your points across. IMO that is.
But, you have sites like this, where is so open minded that its a great place do dwell, and learn from. Don't know of a better place where you can show off the "littlest mods" and get so much great positive replys from.
well said:toast:

[imperialreign]

Its funny you ask because I have been trying to explain to many its hard for me to work with plans..
I just get metal, plastic and hardware and sit down at my table and work.
what I try to do is take the mobo and build around it, improving its basic design and cooling as I go, it just seems to work out.

I was at another forum(for a VERY short time) a couple years ago when I started this modding stuff and everytime I had an idea and mentioned it someone would say that it wouldnt work..One of the good things is I have no negativity when I work so everything is possible to me.

I know exactly what you're talking about when it comes to putting things togethersometimes having no plan is the best plan of all - if something doesn't turn out just right, it could very well lend itself quite well to another task. Kinda hard to describe that process, though, cause to others it just seems like it's brought together out of thin air. I usually have a theme in mind, some blend of colors or something, and go from there.

Although, after a discussion on another thread here, I had mentioned fabricating a case out of a working mini-refrigerator or freezer . . . and I've been entertaining that thought more and more over the last week . . . I'm seriously starting to consider doing this as I have more free time into the summer . . . should prove rather interesting . . .

[Cold Storm]

I know exactly what you're talking about when it comes to putting things togethersometimes having no plan is the best plan of all - if something doesn't turn out just right, it could very well lend itself quite well to another task. Kinda hard to describe that process, though, cause to others it just seems like it's brought together out of thin air. I usually have a theme in mind, some blend of colors or something, and go from there.

Although, after a discussion on another thread here, I had mentioned fabricating a case out of a working mini-refrigerator or freezer . . . and I've been entertaining that thought more and more over the last week . . . I'm seriously starting to consider doing this as I have more free time into the summer . . . should prove rather interesting . . .



I think you should Imperial! It would make for one hell of a cooler and so forth! I think it would work quite well also! Just need to go and find that thread!
Great thought Imperial!

[Ravenas]

I have to say, that's some amazing work there MK. I'm not a modder myself, I just don't care enough about it for my OWN use. The thing is though, I love to see it. When I first came to TPU I just browsed though the custom mod gallery for about an hour and a half lol.

This is by far the best mod I've yet to see on this forum, not the most creative, but it is defiantly the most resourceful, practical, and well thought out mod I've seen.

I'm sure you get this a lot, but good job. :toast:

[MKmods]

This is by far the best mod I've yet to see on this forum, not the most creative, but it is defiantly the most resourceful, practical, and well thought out mod I've seen.

I'm sure you get this a lot, but good job. :toast:

First, thanks for stopping by and the kind words.

"Practical" is what I shoot for, Im sure we all wish we could go out and get 4 3870 X2s, a 2000 watt PS and dual Quads. But lets be honest that is less than 1% of computing and I would rather help the others like myself to make better use of what we have.

And can we ever get told "good job" enough (I think not):laugh:
I had mentioned fabricating a case out of a working mini-refrigerator or freezer . . .
You wont have far to go to get a "cool one";)

[fitseries3]

MK... you should take donations for your future work. as much as people like your projects, im sure some may feel compelled to donate to future projects. also, are you gonna start making stuff for other people?

[MKmods]

MK... you should take donations for your future work. as much as people like your projects, im sure some may feel compelled to donate to future projects. also, are you gonna start making stuff for other people?

Definitely no to donations (I am no church:laugh:)

I am happy to make or help with things that need to be made though.

[Ravenas]

MK... you should take donations for your future work. as much as people like your projects, im sure some may feel compelled to donate to future projects. also, are you gonna start making stuff for other people?

Just because I like his work doesn't mean I'll donate lol...I mean I like Intel's processors, but that doesn't mean I'm going to donate money to them.

NO OFFENSE MK!

[fitseries3]

ok, ok.. it was just an idea guys. MK likes to work for his money and thats a good thing.

so what's your next project gonna be?

[MKmods]

I am making 2 of these cases for others, and while I do that I will be re-designing this one for Phase 2.

now back to the question at hand, everyone please chime in on this as all of your opinions matter
so here are the questions...
Do I refine the air cooling or water cool it? and why?

[aspire]

Hey mark, Would you be able to make something like this

http://www.mnpctech.com/MnpctechBilletFanGrill.html

But thinner and anodized black?

Just curious if you have access to the machinery needed.

[oily_17]

First off let me say what a great build you are producing here Mk,it's superb!!

It has given me the push I need to spruce up my old case which is near the same design,it's in need of some attention and seeing what you are accomplishing with yours,the modded fans are fantastic, makes me want to start modding mine.





so here are the questions...

Do I refine the air cooling or water cool it? and why?

I say give water a try...the reason for this is although it's not everyone's cup of tea,it will show people just what is possible to make out of a cheap case and that they don't have to buy a top end full tower case to install their water cooling products.
Also I might get some hints along the way.;)

Even a water cooling system that is quick and simple to remove as some set-ups tend to be buried inside the case and can be hard to remove or you have to take other components out to service them.

Just my thoughts anyway.....but keep up the good work,I'm sure it will be inspiring what ever you decide.

[pt]

air cool it! :)

[intel igent]

id stay with air on this build and give water a go on the next one ;)

:toast:

[MKmods]

Hey mark, Would you be able to make something like this

http://www.mnpctech.com/MnpctechBilletFanGrill.html

But thinner and anodized black?

Just curious if you have access to the machinery needed.

thats pretty easy Aspire. Instead of the mash being flat I would probably make it flush with the surface.

[imperialreign]

well - if you're building the rig for someone else . . . I'd have to recommend a great air setup. Water cooling is great and all, but unless you're sure of someone else's tech knowledge, and depending on how much you trust them, you don't want to be taking the blame if something happens to leak a month or two out and destroys their hardware - being the last one who "messed" with it puts the blame on you in their eyes.

Even if you did everything within your power to make sure nothing would leak, there is still that chance something will fail or whatnot - y'know what I mean? Unless they're willing to sign a notorized waiver releasing you from responsibility in the event of a component failure . . .


It'd be better to keep the acquaintances and run on air - at least this way you know it's safe.

Just my thinking . . . same reasoning as to why I refuse to fix my friends cars.

[MKmods]

thanks for the replies guys..So far its looking like Air FTW!

[cdawall]

air. that simple

[infrared]

Wow. Just read through the thread.. What you can do is incredible! Now just to start a TV show! "pimp my 'putah pc" :D

Seriously though, i'm inspired. Thanks!

[pt]

just hope that doesn't show up in portugal :p
puta = hooker :P
pimp my hooker

[infrared]

LOL, oh dear. I'd better fix that then! :laugh:

[fitseries3]

MK must have gotten lost in the casino!!! hope his luck is better than mine.

[panchoman]

i would like to see how you trick out both things man!

i love your mods man.. you're about the best and craziest modder i've ever seen man!

[erocker]

I can't believe this is the first time I looked at this thread?! Mk you're the champ!:toast:

[fitseries3]

i've always been a fan of putting a computer in something futuristic looking.

I can't believe this is the first time I looked at this thread?! Mk you're the champ!

LOL!!! where have you been? it's been over a week now hasn't it?

[erocker]

i've always been a fan of putting a computer in something futuristic looking.



LOL!!! where have you been? it's been over a week now hasn't it?

I... uh.. um... ran into an ex-girlfriend. It's been pr0n night alot at the erocker household.:pimp: She's back off on her merry way now...

[fitseries3]

LOL!!! was she just playing the "attention" card?

[JrRacinFan]

I... uh.. um... ran into an ex-girlfriend. It's been pr0n night alot at the erocker household.:pimp: She's back off on her merry way now...

BOOM CHICKA WHAA WHAW! LOL

Anyways on-topic:

Where's the final pics MK?

[erocker]

LOL!!! was she just playing the "attention" card?

No, here on business, even though she was pleasured very much.;) We better not dirty up Mk's thread anymore.:cool:

[tkpenalty]

moar photos.

[MKmods]

just hope that doesn't show up in portugal :p
puta = hooker :P
pimp my hooker
hey PT, we have plenty of hookers here in Nevada (free booze too):toast:

I can't believe this is the first time I looked at this thread?! Mk you're the champ!:toast:
welcome to the "nut house" erocker...

I got the comp in pieces...Il get some PS photos tomorrow.

[pt]

hey PT, we have plenty of hookers here in Nevada (free booze too):toast:


*catchs plane to states*

btw, any ideas where to get the perforated aluminium?
i got some ideas

[Paulieg]

MK, you are truly an artist. Can't wait to see what you do next. Great thread. :respect:

[woozers]

Mad mod there. Props.

[MKmods]

btw, any ideas where to get the perforated aluminium?
i got some ideas
here is where I get mine,
metalsupermarket.com

Mad mod there. Props.
Thanks Woozers, and welcome to TPU

EDIT: Aspire was nice enough to point this out to me..
http://www.nvision2008.com/index.cfm
looks like there is gonna be a pretty cool place to show this comp.....

[MKmods]

Hey mark, Would you be able to make something like this
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/FanGrills/BilletgrillWb2.gif
But thinner and anodized black?
Just curious if you have access to the machinery needed.

Like this?
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/FanGrills/Picture017.jpg
My hats off to MNPCTech, alum is a PITA to do this with.

[fitseries3]

it looks even better without the screws. i like the black with the silver grill.

[calvary1980]

you know what would be cool? an air filter with a tab, cut a slit out in the metal just like an Air Conditioner.

http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/9638/billetgrillwb2dy6.jpg

- Christine

[MKmods]

you know what would be cool? an air filter with a tab, cut a slit out in the metal just like an Air Conditioner.
- Christine

Welcome back Christine... its for a friend (aspire) on my comp I am going with the modded Silenx fans mounted in the o-ring.

its just those modded fans can take up to 8 hours each to mod.(hard for everyone to justify their use)

PS:CyberDruid was working on using an air filter for his case.. sounds like a cool idea.

[MKmods]

OK I need ur help now again...this Nvidia LAN is gonna be pretty big and I want to make a good impression..
for this mod should I mod this case pulling out all the stops or build one of my CarbonFiber SFF cases.
Im gonna use my 590 mobo and 2 8800GTs in SLI.

Here are a few picts of my SFF cases (about 12" deep X 10" wide X 8" tall)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Bottomhalfdone.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/2nd_place.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117-1.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture107.jpg

[erocker]

They are both amazing.:toast: Bring a bunch of them and get rich!:D Your work is unparalleled.:respect:

[MKmods]

LOL, thanks erocker...But I need to build 1 and I seem to be kind of plain.

Since LANs are geared more towards 16-25 year olds thats the group I need to pander to.

I really need all of you to share your ideas for an insane mod. (Il built that)

[DanishDevil]

If you want to impress kids, use UV lights and lots of UV reactive stuff. Get a good color combo going. That in combination with what you're already easily capable of and do automatically will do great.

[aspire]

Hey now, don't be so stereotypical :P

Im 18 and my rig isn't one of those super flashy, seizure inducing, monstrosities.

[MKmods]

If you want to impress kids, use UV lights and lots of UV reactive stuff. Get a good color combo going. That in combination with what you're already easily capable of and do automatically will do great.

OK heavy with the bling...:toast:(maybe a switch that switches between color themes, red, Blue and UV)

But do you like the Tower or SFF style..
to me what I have seen is the older people like the SFF stuff and the younger like the towers.
(LOL except for Aspire who likes the SFF)

[aspire]

I'm working on that satellite mod that i had thought up. Painted the shuttle case metallic gold today and I'm gonna be laying down the clear coat tomorrow for some nice high gloss.

After that I have to get ahold of some solar panels and figure out how I'm gonna mount them without hitting anything inside the case.

[tkpenalty]

OK I need ur help now again...this Nvidia LAN is gonna be pretty big and I want to make a good impression..
for this mod should I mod this case pulling out all the stops or build one of my CarbonFiber SFF cases.
Im gonna use my 590 mobo and 2 8800GTs in SLI.

Here are a few picts of my SFF cases (about 12" deep X 10" wide X 8" tall)
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Bottomhalfdone.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/2nd_place.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117-1.jpg
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture107.jpg

I think I'm looking at PC heaven.

MKmods, whoa.... those blow anything i've seen out of the water!

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117-1.jpg

This one... u replaced the board O_O

I so badly want that PC.

[MKmods]

hey TK, let me know of the things that really stand out for you.
water cooling, SFF, Carbonfiber, alum,colors, etc...
I'm working on that satellite mod that i had thought up. Painted the shuttle case metallic gold today and I'm gonna be laying down the clear coat tomorrow for some nice high gloss.
After that I have to get ahold of some solar panels and figure out how I'm gonna mount them without hitting anything inside the case.
Run a tube through the middle, that way the panels will rotate

[tkpenalty]

hey TK, let me know of the things that really stand out for you.
water cooling, SFF, Carbonfiber, alum,colors, etc...

Absolutely everything stands out on that benchtop PC... I liked how you went for a HR-05 SLi IFX instead of a NB water block-certainly a smart choice.

The fact that you build everything around your hardware stuns me! The CF, the mesh and alu, colours, what you pointed out is definately a standout.

Heres something however you should consider, the rear IO are not reinforced, and thats what i'd really consider, by adding a shield that covers the rear IO on the mobo (like a box thing).

http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Picture117-1.jpg

See here, the Parallel port, with the pink colour somewhat ruins it. So constructing a box to cover it, (use the IO shield and spray it black or something as well and intergrate it into the box). I'd do that if the mobo wouldnt be used elsewhere...

This is a personal taste, but i'd prefer completely clear hosing instead of coloured hosing.

Heres something that you could do- A full thermalright setup, on top of one of your bench-like cases. (Best to use HR-01 instead of HR-05). Okay its a costly idea, but oh well.

[MKmods]

SCORE!!!!!!!!!!!
(thats EXTREMELY helpful)

Now everyone else tell me what you would do like TK did.....

[tkpenalty]

SCORE!!!!!!!!!!!
(thats EXTREMELY helpful)

Now everyone else tell me what you would do like TK did.....

Onto another point, this is a more serious one. I'd install shielding for the PSU... even a simple perspex casing is adequate, for safety reasons. (or use your nice and useful plastic mesh)

[fitseries3]

OK....i've changed my mind. do a water build. it amazes me the stuff you come up with.

[MKmods]

If I just used Passive cooling up top (thermalright for CPU, Acceleros for the 2 8800GTs) than I could lower the bottom part, put a CF box around the PS and use the laptop hdds and DVD.

[tkpenalty]

If I just used Passive cooling up top (thermalright for CPU, Acceleros for the 2 8800GTs) than I could lower the bottom part, put a CF box around the PS and use the laptop hdds and DVD.

Full Thermalright FTW :rockout:

[MKmods]

Ok looks like its gonna be a SFF case. Is anyone interested in getting this Rosewill Case? Shoot me a PM
(Il need $ to get materials for the SFF one)

[erocker]

Which one is the Rosewill?

[MKmods]

This one..
http://i272.photobucket.com/albums/jj169/mkmods/Rosewill%20Mod/Picture013-2.jpg

[erocker]

God, is that nice!:toast: I really want a SFF case though, i just bought a LianLi V1000... I can't believe a Rosewill looks that good!

[MKmods]

the cooling is the good part, it kicks Lian Li in the balls
Rosewill>:nutkick:<LianLi, lol, sorry erocker I just couldnt resist..

[Wile E]

Man, I really wish I could draw or use cad, so I could give you an idea of what I want done to my Stacker 830. Your work is amazing. Might have to pull out a TIG for what I want tho. lol.