Mod a Computer Case
Everyone these days has a computer or one type or another. Yet, not everyone has a computer inside a one-of-a-kind, custom case! The term 'mod' is short for a modified PC; one that is unique because it has been altered from its original, stock look or function. In this guide, you will learn how to mod your computer's case.
Steps
Get a case if you don't have one yet.
Determine what you would like to do, such as add a window, add fans, or change exiglass) with double-sided automotive tape, hot glue, or via drilled holes and mounting screws. Don't use duct tape or any other temporary fasteners.
If you chose to use cold cathode (CCFL) lights to illuminate the case, install these now. Find a spot and make sure your power cables reach. Mount it to the case with the supplied fasteners, then connect it to a power cable (Molex connection) from your computer's power supply.
Test clearances for the case's mounting areas by carefully putting the case's cover back on its frame.
Inspect for any dust, tape, or anything else that affects the quality of your work.
Close up the case if everything looks good. If not, fix whatever is getting in the way.
Tips
If you plan on working on an existing computer, get a vacuum cleaner for the initial opening — it gets really dirty in there.
Paint either inside a paint booth or an enclosed area. If it's outdoors, it's susceptible to collecting dust, insects, and leaves. See warnings regarding painting in enclosed areas.
Warnings
Never work on a computer with it powered on as you risk damage to your components.
Never open up a computer's power supply unit (box). The high voltages inside the unit can deliver a very powerful shock.
Avoid letting paints dry or cure inside living areas. Many paints give off toxic fumes until fully cured. When painting indoors (for example a garage, not living areas) make sure that it is well ventilated.
Things You'll Need
Rotary tool such as a Dremel for cutting and sanding metal and plastic
Jigsaw if not using a rotary tool
Sandpaper and/or sanding tools
Acrylic panel cut to size for case windows
Tools for measuring and marking off those measurements
Clamps such as 'C' clamps or quick grip clamps
Obtain various paint supplies if painting your case, which may include self-etching primer for bare metal, primer, your choice of color paint, clear-coat, and tack rags for preparing surfaces. Use a plastic bonding paint without any primer for painting plastic, regular primer and paints for painting previously-painted metal, and self-etching primer and paints for painting bare metal.
Sources and Citations
ogle.com/products Google Product Search
Newegg
Directron
FrozenCPU
Xoxide
CrazyPC
PCExtreme
Performance PCs
XPCGear
Mod communities, guides, and tutorials
Hard community and forums
PCApex community and forums
CreativeMods guides and tips on modding
Steps
Get a case if you don't have one yet.
Determine what you would like to do, such as add a window, add fans, or change exiglass) with double-sided automotive tape, hot glue, or via drilled holes and mounting screws. Don't use duct tape or any other temporary fasteners.
If you chose to use cold cathode (CCFL) lights to illuminate the case, install these now. Find a spot and make sure your power cables reach. Mount it to the case with the supplied fasteners, then connect it to a power cable (Molex connection) from your computer's power supply.
Test clearances for the case's mounting areas by carefully putting the case's cover back on its frame.
Inspect for any dust, tape, or anything else that affects the quality of your work.
Close up the case if everything looks good. If not, fix whatever is getting in the way.
Tips
If you plan on working on an existing computer, get a vacuum cleaner for the initial opening — it gets really dirty in there.
Paint either inside a paint booth or an enclosed area. If it's outdoors, it's susceptible to collecting dust, insects, and leaves. See warnings regarding painting in enclosed areas.
Warnings
Never work on a computer with it powered on as you risk damage to your components.
Never open up a computer's power supply unit (box). The high voltages inside the unit can deliver a very powerful shock.
Avoid letting paints dry or cure inside living areas. Many paints give off toxic fumes until fully cured. When painting indoors (for example a garage, not living areas) make sure that it is well ventilated.
Things You'll Need
Rotary tool such as a Dremel for cutting and sanding metal and plastic
Jigsaw if not using a rotary tool
Sandpaper and/or sanding tools
Acrylic panel cut to size for case windows
Tools for measuring and marking off those measurements
Clamps such as 'C' clamps or quick grip clamps
Obtain various paint supplies if painting your case, which may include self-etching primer for bare metal, primer, your choice of color paint, clear-coat, and tack rags for preparing surfaces. Use a plastic bonding paint without any primer for painting plastic, regular primer and paints for painting previously-painted metal, and self-etching primer and paints for painting bare metal.
Sources and Citations
ogle.com/products Google Product Search
Newegg
Directron
FrozenCPU
Xoxide
CrazyPC
PCExtreme
Performance PCs
XPCGear
Mod communities, guides, and tutorials
Hard community and forums
PCApex community and forums
CreativeMods guides and tips on modding