Make a Computer Case
Building your own computer case can be a fun and rewarding process, which, if done properly can be very impressive and contain functionality beyond off the shelf cases.
Contents
Steps
Soft Case
- Find an old sweater. The stretchier, the better. You should also find some ribbon.
- Turn the sweater inside out. Line up the bottom edges.
- Place your laptop on the sweater. Make sure that the edge of the sweater extends beyond the edge of the laptop.
- Use chalk or a pencil to trace around the sides and bottom of laptop. Sew about {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} inside each line (3 sides).
- Trim off the excess material.
- Turn the sweater right-side out. Slide in the laptop. Make adjustments if the case is too loose.
- Turn the sweater inside out again. Sew a piece of ribbon about an inch down from the opening on each side.
- Slide the laptop in, tie the ribbon, and enjoy your new laptop case!
Hard Case
- Draw plans for your case, factoring in mounts for PSU, motherboard, PCI cards and also think about the front panel electronics like the power switch. It helps if you have swapped a case before so that you already have knowledge of what mounting is required.
- Buy the raw materials and basic components that you will need. Ebay is very good for stuff like fans and power buttons.
- Start to build the outer shell of the case.
- Start constructing all the required internal mounts. Try to use spare components as a template.
- Fit last minor electronics like the power button and LEDs and fans.
Tips
- Innovative use of switches, LED's, displays, and lights make your machine unique and perhaps friendlier interaction between the user and the computer.
- One of the most common problems when creating a personal, custom-designed case is cooling. It is necessary to ensure that a proper and efficient cooling procedure is installed to avoid overheating which may result in damaging the computer parts. It is possible to use regular and appropriate computer fans, water cooling systems.
Warnings
- Work in a well-ventilated area when using some adhesives and paints; follow manufacturer instructions for the best application techniques.
- Cutting materials can create debris, use eye wear and other necessary protection.
Things You'll Need
- Construction materials, such as: sheet metal, wood, plastics, etc...
- Adhesive and fastening materials: screws, cable ties, etc...
- Tools for construction: drills, Dremel and bits, saws, sandpaper, knives, etc...
- Hardware components for your system
- Operating system
