Modify a Computer Case

Everyone these days has a computer of 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

  1. Get a case if you don't have one yet.
  2. Determine what you would like to do, such as add fans, or a window (acrylic panels with double-sided automotive tape, hot glue, or via drilled holes and mounting screws). Don't use duct tape or any other temporary fasteners.
  3. 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.
  4. Test clearances for the case's mounting areas by carefully putting the case's cover back on its frame.
  5. Inspect for any dust, tape, or anything else that affects the quality of your work.
  6. Close up the case if everything looks good. If not, fix whatever is getting in the way.

Tips

  • 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.
  • Always measure at least twice. If in doubt, cut an amount that will allow you to adjust things by cutting more later. Never cut off too much material, or cut too large of a hole. It is much easier to cut again as opposed to fabricating sections to compensate for too much cutting.
  • If you plan on working on an existing computer, get a can of compressed air for the initial opening — it gets really dirty in there.

Warnings

  • Never work on a computer with it powered on as you risk damage to your components.
  • Remember that all power supplies contain various capacitors inside of them that retain power even after it has been turned off. Never open up power supply or insert any metal objects into the vents of it, as you can risk electrical 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.

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Sources and Citations

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