Project: Sexy

[Rob]

Project:
Sexy, name derived from my own nickname and hopefully everyones reaction by the time I'm through... will encompass all the skills I have thusfar aquired in my eventful 21 years of life. As long as I can remember I've strived to make normal things better, personal, and genuinely unique. Constantly I find my self looking at things and saying "I like this... but it's missing something." This project, by the time I'm finished, will have everything I've been wanting in a computer for some time now. It won't be an easy task, but I'm starting early, and giving myself plenty of time to do it right.

Goals:
-Clean Crisp Look (remove useless things, all cables sleeved, attention to details)
-Quiet (removing all noise that shouldn't be there)
-Powerful (using next gen hardware for next gen apps)
-Innovation (whatever I come up with...)



Hardware:
Most everything in this build will be new (most of it hasn't even been released yet.) I am starting my planning here, and will update the list as I decide what I want.


Color Indicates Status:
|||||| _ ||||||||| _ |||||||| _ ||||||||||
Have _ Ordered _ Waiting _ Modification


Motherboard:
- RD790 ATI Chipset

Processor:
- AMD:Phenom X4 (October/November)

Graphics:
- R670/R680 55nm (December/Jan Info here (http://www.vr-zone.com/?i=5044))

Ram:
- Whatever works best with Phenom chip

Soundcard:
- X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty Pro Series (the one with the 64mb of x-ram)

Powersupply:
- Not sure, must be quiet and stable ~600 watts (corsair, seasonic..?)

Opticals:
- Fastest SATA DVD-RW's Availible this Fall.

Harddrive:
-150GB Raptor X

Case:
RAIDMAX X1 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16811156175) Why this case? Well, honestly I love the LCD, It's hard to find anything that looks right, and with some heavy modifications this case should do Just fine.

-----Cooling-----

Radiator:
-HW Labs: 360GTStealth

Pump:
-Swiftech MCP350 /w Petras Top

CPU Block:
-D-Tek Fusion

GPU Block:
-Hopefully my Swiftech MCW60 will fit with minor modifications

Resovouir:
-Custom case fitted acrylic

Fans:
-4x S.Flex Sythe 1200 RPM ~22 DBA

Monitoring:
-Modify case monitoring to watercooled setup


Plans/Ideas:
-removing all rivets and taping for screws
-full case painting + designs
-remove un-needed peices
-build lower portion to house radiator and fans that looks like case... (for cleanness and airflow)
-add casefeet
-cut intake vents in top (adding painted hex mesh)
-replace case window with 1/4 thick plexi for sound dampening, drill/tap holes for window fixture
-seal off factory ventilations, to direct airflow in one specific direction
-replace cheap aluminum panel with LED lit plexiglas creation... (etching will be done)
-make window in the right side of the case for resoviour display
-maybe change usb location from behind door to somewhere that doesnt require me to open the door
-add card multi-in-1 card reader
-magnets on front door instead of snap ins

[Rob]

video of the LCD working Here x1_lcd_demo.wmv (14.7mb) (http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/X1_LCD_Demo.wmv)

some pictures...
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0331.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0352.jpg

Here is what im working with now...
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0342.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0469.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0470.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0471.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0472.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0473.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0475.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0476.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0477.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0478.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0479.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0481.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0482.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0483.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0484.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0485.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0493.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0494.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0495.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0496.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0497.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0498.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0499.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0500.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0501.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0502.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0504.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0505.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0506.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0507.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0508.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0509.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0510.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0511.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0512.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0513.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0514.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0515.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0516.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0537.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0538.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0539.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0540.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0541.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0542.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0543.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0544.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0545.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0546.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0575.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0576.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0577.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0578.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0579.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0580.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0581.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0582.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0583.jpg

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0584.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0585.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0586.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0587.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0588.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0589.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0590.jpg

finished this yesterday

[Rob]

more
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0591.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0592.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0593.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0594.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0595.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0596.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0597.jpg

[Rob]

I'll be honest, I started this on another fourm but it seems to be more active here, and I love feedback...
here is the original: http://www.ocforums.com/showthread.php?t=501202

[danthegeek]

I think you are off to a great start. Keep up the good work. + rep.

[Zephik]

Awesome!

I'm trying to think of some constructive criticism, but I can't seem to conjure any up for ya. Just keep doing what your doing, its looking great!

+rep (http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7313)

[Cagedconnerman]

^agreed^ +rep

[simon275]

Damm this is gonna be one sexy case. Although I love that little LCD on the original. +Rep

[Spawn-Inc]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0511.jpg
QUOTE]

do you have a bunch of candy machines or do you really love bubble gum? i ask becuase my brother does candy machines and he buys the same stuff from oak leaf.

[QUOTE=Rob;103857]http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0594.jpg



might just be me but that doesn't look quite right. :think:

[psychowit]

agreed

[ChevronX]

lol he must have uploaded wrong one

[.Maleficus.]

Welcome to the boards Rob!

This is looking great so far. The plexi you added to the panel looks awesome. What are you using to secure it, rivets? Whatever they are, they look awesome.

Only thing I can think of as far as criticism, is maybe add a sentence or two explaining what you're doing. Like, above the pictures for the base, add "Here I'm making the base", or something like that. Otherwise, looks awesome.

[Eclecticos]

Great Job. What did you use to cut those pieces out on the side panel?

[NamesAreUseless]

This is looking great so far,good jobOh and if i can say something...



http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0510.jpg


HAIRY ARMS!
:D

[Rob]

well, it seems ill have to be sure to limmit further pictures of myself, as that seems to be the main critisism. Haha, anyways, thanks for all the comments I
appreciate it.
now to answer some questions.
NamesAreUseless: yes, im very very hairy.
Eclecticos: a dremel and some skill and patience
.Maleficus.: All the plexi is being drilled and tapped for screws, 6/32 with a torx 6 head I think, maybe torx5...
ChevronX: not quite, I just thought it would be interesting to see peoples reactions.
Spawn-Inc: about the bubblegum, thats just the box I got from frozen cpu a long time ago... Also you are correct, something doesn't look right about that picture.
simon275: Not sure what you mean exactly about you loving the lcd on the original, its going to be used in this when I'm done. that is the main reason I choose this case, for the LCD.

[.Maleficus.]

I think he means the little LCD on the top of the original case, but I don't think it's attached, maybe your camera?

[Rob]

its not attached, and it has horrible viewing angle problems... plus its blue, I like red. :)

[Rob]

finally an update,

I was in florida last week so I didn't work on the case, but this weekend I was able to get some work done...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0645.jpg
doing some test fitting to make sure it's going to work

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0646.jpg
fan looks good eh?

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0647.jpg
Primer sanding...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0648.jpg
wood base ready for second coat of primer

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0659.jpg
decided to cut the botom and make a plexi one.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0660.jpg
primer dried

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0661.jpg
doesn't look so much like wood anymore

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0662.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0663.jpg
really starting to look like something..

that's all for this update, I actually spent alot of time just looking and thinking about what I'm going to do and I think I got some good stuff, guess we will see what happens.

[Commando]

Dude,

Pretty cool. Welcome and keep up the killer work. +rep

[NocturnaL]

Looks great man, im likn the fans. +rep for modn in sandals lawl

[Rob]

To:
Commando - You calling my work killer is a great complement. Thanks alot, I love your airbrush work its sick.

NocturnaL - gotta mod in sandals, texas is too hot for anything else, plus I hate picking particles out of my shoes and socks. Yeah, the fan looks suprisingly nice, I think its the beveled edge on the wood... or something.

k now for some piktures.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0670.jpg
starting new plexi bottom
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0671.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0672.jpg
print out of gts360 rad
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0673.jpg
after some cutting and drilling
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0674.jpg
finished cut out
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0675.jpg
bondo on edges
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0676.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0677.jpg
test fitting

I got some neato plans in my head for something else I want to do to the base, but you will just have to wait for that...

[chaksq]

That is looking great, a lot of progress. I like the front panel/door you made.

[Ap1thy]

looks sweet, I am quite a fan of clean cases, love the jet black on this one too, sorta makes it look like a stealth fighter, along with the quiet fans combined with powerful hardware

[Rob]

small update, nothing major... just getting some more stuff done.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0685.jpg
here is an idea of clearance from the Radiator and the fans in the lower box
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0686.jpg
cleaned up the edges some more
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0687.jpg
I found this awesmome paint stripper today, it works really well.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0688.jpg
Melding the plexi support for conneting the front to the bottom
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0689.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0690.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0691.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0692.jpg
it's commin together, notice the lcd cover, it is transparent but you cant tell.
Well It seems my ideas are comming together, I just hope the hardware I want is put out soon. But untill then, I'm in no rush.

[Rob]

update again

I got some work done. Actually spent alot of time on it, but the time spent really isn't noticable. here are some pictures of what I acomplished this weekend.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0724.jpg
ready for primer
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0725.jpg
primed
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0726.jpg
some plexi installed to block air flow and fill a gap
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0727.jpg
bondo
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0728.jpg
expoxy the side rails
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0729.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0730.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0731.jpg

I think im going to cut out my nickname in the base and put some light out of it. what do you guys think?

[The boy 4rm oz]

I think that would look cool, but mabye if you centred "sexy" instead of having it on the far right. Can't wait to see how it turns out.

[mercerman318]

wow. everything is so cleanly done, nice work +rep

[psychowit]

wow that case is starting to look appealing

[Rob]

Big update (for me atleast)

First:
The boy 4rm oz - Yeah, I think I will end up centering it, it looks better...

mercerman318 - Thank you, I try.

psychowit - yeah... I guess it is huh?

and now for the update...

I finally got a coat of primer on the botom!
pics
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0734.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0735.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0736.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0737.jpg

[tybrenis]

Looks great so far! What's the solvent in the paint stripper you found?

[LiTHiUM0XiD3]

dude ur work is kickin ass.... sleek slick black is t3h way to go
+rep

[The boy 4rm oz]

One word AWESOME. Can't wait for the finnished product.

[Rob]

not a big update for you guys, but it took a long time for me...

It had to be done. I started to remake the back plate.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0753.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0754.jpg
Bandsaws are good

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0756.jpg
Drilled and Tapped

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0757.jpg
Metal Epoxy for the two peices

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0758.jpg
Here is something clever

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0759.jpg
removable

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0760.jpg
mobo

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0761.jpg
tray

I had to remake the back, the old one was ugly and poorly made. plus I think I want to run my new power supply in reverse so it pulls air from the top rather than the botom. I think it will help with temp and noise.

[lukeisthecoolest]

looks absolutely great!

[Drum Thumper]

That's gonna make accessibility that much easier! Great idea!

[The boy 4rm oz]

I like that removable mobo idea. Overall it looks great.

[psychowit]

hehe awsm

[Rob]

wow it's been a loooonnnnggggg time.

anyways, I've had some other projects that have taken priority lately. Ex: move from 29 -> 55 gallon fish tank, install HD radio in my car, help friend build computer, play battlefield 2, got a new processor and some muskin redline ram for my system (opteron 175 currently @ 2.8ghz ram running 1:1), got a new monitor (226bw samsung) so I had to find out how to reconfigure some games...

and on top of that deal with work and a girlfriend.


But..... I have an update!!!!!!!!!

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0763.jpg
wtf is this you might say..?

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0764.jpg
It's just a bracket to hold the back on.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0765.jpg
oh its clear!

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0766.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0767.jpg
so guess who learned how to flame polish...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0768.jpg
my trusty butane powered soldering iron/mini torch! ( I really love this thing)

[Rob]

and the rest of that update:

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0770.jpg
Remember this ugly thing?

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0771.jpg
Well I gots a plan..

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0772.jpg
and it's comming together...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0773.jpg
acrylic is handy.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0774.jpg
making channels...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0775.jpg
thermoforming /w a heat gun

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0776.jpg
finished bending

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0777.jpg
drilled paths for the led

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0778.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0779.jpg
I think its gonna look good when I finish this.

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks great wth the mesh.

[rendermandan]

Great work with the plexi and flame polish, I'll have to try that sometime. +Rep

[simon275]

What you are doing so far looks mighty fine I still love what you have done with the bottom of the case. I no what you mean when it comes to real life time conflicting with modding time. There aint enough to go around.

[Rob]

UPDATE:
did some more work on the front, Its like the image in my head is comming out perfect here. Let me know what you guys think of it so far, I can't decide weather I should paint the whole thing black or leave the brushed aluminum look and only paint the mesh... I used to be sure but now im thinking of integrating more brushed AL. in the mix.
also I ended up impulsively buying a nice sound card with my friend. we got the "fatal1ty X-Fi with 64mb x-ram" my audigy2 doesnt have crap for features on vista, and the x-fi's are supported. plus the idea of having ram on a sound card is f'king awesome. I figured it will be fine to move that into my next system so I can mark that off the list.
Now for pictures.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0804.jpg
finished routing and soldering the leads into the channels.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0805.jpg
got both of them fused to the front
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0806.jpg
lights still work... thats good.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0807.jpg
cut out the edging peice of AL.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0808.jpg
some test fitting
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0809.jpg
lights out
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0810.jpg
another
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0811.jpg
gave them some more power...
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0812.jpg
creating more surface area for the epoxy to stick
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0813.jpg
expoxying the mesh. w00t

[The boy 4rm oz]

Waited a while for an update...worth the wait. Good job.

[Computer-Geek]

Nice Work man the front looks good! :up:

[Rob]

small update...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0830.jpg

Cut out some designs on the edge.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0831.jpg

found the incredibly useful spot putty

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0832.jpg

clamping for the last of the expoy to set.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0833.jpg

before primer

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0834.jpg

after primer

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Wow, that front door is hot (not to call it Sexy :rolleyes: )

[psychowit]

OMW! I would literally kill for that door!!!! Rob is the anybody you don't like? I'll Assassinate them as a trade?

[Scotty]

Very very nice, hope it turns out nice and clean. Clean mods are the best imo.

[elbarto241]

this is one of the best mods right now going on here :D nice job bro.

ps. love the side window design, very unique

[Rob]

Update:
now its starting to get exciting! I'm done with all the work on the front door, and its in its final primer coat. one more wetsanding with 600 grit and then final paint on it, but I'll wait till everything else is done before that happens.
you can't see it, but I installed the magnets in the door so it feels much better now.
pictures.
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0850.jpg
lighting demo
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0851.jpg
sanded and ready for primer
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0852.jpg
metal primer applied
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0853.jpg
sandable black primer on
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0854.jpg
spot putty on the plexi cover I made
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0855.jpg
wetsanded with 400 grit and ready for primer
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0856.jpg
final primer coat on.

[Rob]

So I had to test out how it looked with the LCD and attached to the case.

images continued:

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0857.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0858.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0859.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0860.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0861.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0862.jpg

[Computer-Geek]

wow that looks so sweet with the lcd! :up: :D I would add a piece of plexi under the feet and light them up with led's :)

[SgtM]

Lookin great man! +rep.

[lukeisthecoolest]

really is sexay!

+rep

[Sting]

Those red LEDs and the LCD display look very sexy together, i love it.

+rep from me

[OrsoDesigns]

Nice Work! I really like the look of the LCDs behind the mesh.

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks great. It all blends in together nicely.

[Xtrykr]

Wow! Great job, I love the work you did on the door with the mesh and leds. Can't wait till its complete!

[Drew]

Yes.

Very, very yes.

+rep for the yesness.

[Air Cooling Fan]

Love those LEDS, I dont care about overclocking and increased speeds. For me, modding is all about funky lighting! +rep

[Rob]

thanks for all the praise, haven't worked on it too much lately, stuff has come up.

but as a sidenote I will be overclocking my next rig so its not all just prettyness, it has function too. I closed off as much as I could to direct the airflow from top to botom to cool everything with minimal ammount of noise and keep the hot air away from the cool air. also the PSU will be reverse mounted to let it have its own share of fresh air to keep noise down.

I guess I won't really know how well my plan works untill I finish, so I guess I better hurry up.

[Blackout]

looking real nice, youve certainly given it a smart look cant wait for the next update

+rep for the great work on the door

[BigJohnson]

Man this mod looks awesome. Cant wait to see how it turns out.
+Rep

[dfigravity]

:banana: Awesome mod man...seriously. +rep for being cool!!!

[NocturnaL]

Wow glad you started working on this again, taking your time like me ;) Really liking the whole progress of this project, all your work looks nice. Love your tools too, mostly Delta tools, the way a garage should be :)

[Rob]

holy crap its been forever!!!

anyways got an update, and a reason for it taking so long.

School started. +friends wanting to play battlefield 2 all the time.

Well the part I was working on was taking forever because of intricate cuts... then I realized some of the epoxy didnt stick on that side of the botom and then i broke a peice off, so i got ****ed and ripped the whole side off and started over. I found a better tool to use than a dremel for this, the scroll saw.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0950.jpg
Sketching the cut out

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0951.jpg
starting to cut... looks good right??

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0952.jpg
OOOH THEN I GET MAD AND TEAR OFF THE SIDE.
the epoxy didnt stick well on this side for some reason and I broke some peices off when cutting with the dremel

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0953.jpg
cutting the frame because I realized the plexi behind it wouldnt fit well without me doing this. (another reason for the tear off/restart.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0955.jpg
ooo scroll saw work niceeee

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0956.jpg
primmed and ready to get stuck down.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0957.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_0958.jpg

man, I'm ready to finish this project. It's taking FOREVER!

[Eclecticos]

Yea. . Thats what I though. .
Takes Forever, but in the end you will have a Badass PC Case!
. .Looks Damnn Good! +Rep

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks great, good cutting. I hav a day off school tomorrow so I hope to get a lot of modding in.

[scar~face]

a little full of our selves there, sexy rob?

+rep for the nice lettering

[Rob]

a little full of our selves there, sexy rob?

+rep for the nice lettering

hah sorry, just my nick name... every account I make ussually has that callsign in it.

[Rob]

UPDATE!

well got some work done. I'm starting to get tired of this, it's taking forever, and there are other projects I want to work on. so im going to set a dead line finish date of SEPTEMBER 30th.

anyways. Picture time.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1080.jpg
this is the awesome red acrylic I found

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1081.jpg
cut out the background peice of acrylic

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1082.jpg
epoxing the side down

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1083.jpg
prep work

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1084.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1085.jpg
Metal primer coat

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1086.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1087.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1088.jpg
red interior paint coat... looks so nice!

[Rob]

started my res.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1090.jpg
after I bent the acrylic...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1091.jpg
cut it up and shaped it some more

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1092.jpg
gluing the botom and top on

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1093.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1094.jpg
case preview.

man working with acrlyic is tough work, just so you know.

[Remy]

Great work Rob. That paint is SEXXXy. What is the brand? And I saw you called it interior paint. Can you elaborate on what it is meant for? I'd like to use that paint, only blue on my mod.

Again, great work and +rep.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate the paint is awesome. +rep
How big is the res BTW?

[Rob]

Remy- by interior i ment, inside the case. It's dupli color metal flake. I got it at o'reily auto parts.

The boy 4rm oz- its pretty big in this update you can see its size in the case.

well I did some more work on my Res...

pictures
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1108.jpg
hmmm what should I do with these three items?

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1109.jpg
make a fill port... yeah.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1110.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1111.jpg

mounting bars attatched

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1112.jpg

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1113.jpg

pics in case.

OHHH, I picked up the paint from the store... should be pretty nice. I went to a auto paint shop btw spent 44 bucks on a pint(+hardner and a air filter) so it better be good.

[The boy 4rm oz]

**** mate that is a big res lol. haha wont have any temp problems, especially with all those radiators. Have you leak tested it, do you know how much it holds?

[Jetty_200]

well prolly a lot. I haven't seen a pump in here yet....soooo. Looks pretty damn slick though man, i like this project, good work on this :D

[The boy 4rm oz]

The res looks to be just bigger than three drive bays so I recon at least 2 litres plus of coolant.

[liquid_fire]

Awesome craftsmanship. I envy your workshop and all the great tools you have, AND your budget! lol.

I think your lettering inspired me to come up with a way to put my name somewhere on my mod. Did you make forms for bending your plexi, or just free hand it?

Thanks!

[BerticusPryme]

looking good.I will keep watching this one.

[Deadeye]

Love the red paint job in the interior. Super sexy. +rep

[Rob]

k update... stuff is getting done!
check the pictures

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1120.jpg
window for the resevoir

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1121.jpg
paint stripped

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1122.jpg
So i think im painting the mesh red...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1123.jpg
metal primer on

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1124.jpg
all parts wetsanded with 800grit, ready for primer sealer

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great, Will you paint it black again or red to match the interior?

[psychowit]

hopefully black?

[Blebbz]

Wow this is looking awesome

[Rob]

ahhh paint!

getting close now, man this paint looks good... and I haven't even polished it it yet.

pics

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1138.jpg
almost forgot the window for the res...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1139.jpg
primer sealer on

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1140.jpg
again

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1141.jpg
mmm painting tools

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1142.jpg
!!!
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1143.jpg
!!!
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1144.jpg
!!!
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1145.jpg
test fitting the red plexi
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1146.jpg
man it looks good
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1147.jpg

well I don't have pics but i finished painting the rest, I will let them cure for awhile (probably untill the weekened) then wetsand with 2000 grit and use some 3m polishing compound, and see what happens.

[b4i7]

looking good, happy birthday:D

[xRyokenx]

This case is pretty cool.

/subscribe

[The boy 4rm oz]

Nice painting, looks great.

[psychowit]

Can't wait till this weekend!

[rendermandan]

Looks killer! +rep

[Computer-Geek]

Amazing paintjob! I wish I had your skills +Rep!

[Remy]

Great Job. Wish I had that painting equipment...

+rep

[Rob]

wow, I couldn't resist. I put together the peices just to see what it would look like and I'm definatly happy. Note, this pictures are before any polishing has been done. also something I will now have to deal with is fingerprints. EVERYTHING SHOWS!!!! my camera makes this look dirty or something its sad, because it really looks good in person.

Oh, I got my self a birthday present too (18th sept) so you'll just have to wait till it comes in to find out what it is.

picture time.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1149.jpg
everything laid out so paint could cure.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1150.jpg
close up, shows alot of dust and a small chip i have to fix...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1151.jpg
time to apply some red

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1152.jpg
while the red is drying i decided to make sure my botom would work on the actual radiator.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1153.jpg
It did

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1154.jpg
Red is dried, and looking good.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1155.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1156.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1157.jpg
Assembled... partially...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1158.jpg
and with me.

well so far i am satisfied, I still gotta work on the lighting and finish the res. I think this weekend I'm going back to air cooling on my current rig, so I have to turn down my overclocks, but its a nessisary evil.

[xRyokenx]

Sweet case dude. Looks awesome.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Fantastic, awesome job.

[psychowit]

Wowee

[Rob]

well I didn't get too much acomplished, but I did take a big step forward again, and my birthday present came ;)

pictures

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1170.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1171.jpg
finished the front intake cover

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1173.jpg
random processor shot..

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1172.jpg
found my old air coolers... turned down my overclocking and installed them

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1174.jpg
came out with this... definatly needs some cleaning, and oh I'll never be using pc ice again. (residue on tubes plus some particles)
and i broke a cold cathode :(

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1175.jpg
yay my birthday present to myself!!!

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1176.jpg
another, wow everything looks dusty

thats all for now.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Sucks about the tubing, looks great so far.

[Rob]

well obviosuly didn't finish by the 30th of september... I decided rushing it really wasn't worth it after comming this far, plus friends were in town and I didn't have the time.

But I do have another update.

First, I orderd my powersupply, I went with the Corsair HX 620 I love the cables and the fact that they are modular. Plus the PS is quite and stable and efficient... its pretty much awesome from all the reviews.

I worked on the reservoir, got some lighting situated... somewhat... and got the barbs mounted, and did something special I've been planning. Remember where I said the pump was going to go? No?? oh thats because I didn't tell you. Well, in the pictures you will
find out.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1190.jpg
drilled holes
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1191.jpg
for led's...
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1192.jpg
which will be shaved down...
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1193.jpg
lit up
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1194.jpg
again.

[Rob]

and now for the res...

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1200.jpg
cut out a hex in the plexi, for a 1/2" fitting

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1201.jpg
drilled the hole and shaved down the fitting to fit inside.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1202.jpg
cut the fitting and polished the insided, also added a slope for less restriction into the pump.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1203.jpg
test fitting, looks good... hopefully you figured out how im mounting my pump by now.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1204.jpg
mixing jb weld epoxy

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1205.jpg
jb weld applied to fitting and plexi res.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1206.jpg
after it cured for a day, also drilled and tapped the socket for the inlet to the res.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1207.jpg
it's strong, I also hope this design reduces vibrations. Plus it looks good since there isnt a crap load of plumbing hardware in between the pump and the res.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1208.jpg
last pic for now.

thanks for all the feedback thus far, I should be wrapping up within the comming weeks.

[Fuganater]

Very nice so far dude. +rep Where did you get the mesh for your computer? I'm looking for something like that but no idea where to get it.

[Rob]

here
http://www.mnpctech.com/moddersmesh.html

[Zephik]

Awesome project, I'm loving it so far. I especially like the paint, it looks great! You did an excellent job on getting your base color and accent colors right. Everything definitely looks like it was meant to be that way.

This is the second time someone has taken a case that I didn't like and made it into something that I liked very much.

Keep up the good work! +rep!

[Spawn-Inc]

Very nice so far dude. +rep Where did you get the mesh for your computer? I'm looking for something like that but no idea where to get it.

it might not be the exact same as his but hardware stores should have chicken fence or gutter mesh (for leaves) or something along those lines, might be cheaper there and no shipping.




this project is looking really good man, i really like the black and red, its, its, SEXY! +rep.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Fantastic mate, great way to mount a pump.

[Rob]

woooo, getting close to the end! Just got to tie up some loose ends.

Got my power supply in, so thats good. Ended up going with the corsair HX 620.

while waiting on phenom I think I will just move my current motherboard cpu ram and video card over, to enjoy the benifits in the new case.

picture time.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1210.jpg
finishing the lighting rails

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1211.jpg
gluing them down to the res

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1212.jpg
oh joy!

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1213.jpg
cut out stencil

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1214.jpg
green tapped it off

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1215.jpg
cut it out!

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1216.jpg
drilled holes and mounted

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1217.jpg
put some more acrylic in to brace the powersupply and back bracket.

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1220.jpg
acrylic peice for res, attatched to side panel

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1221.jpg
installed the lcd and epoxyied the cover on.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1222.jpg
leak testing the res, it passed.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1223.jpg
epoxying the top mesh on

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1224.jpg
uh this is messy... that wont do.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1225.jpg
resitance is fu... hidden

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1226.jpg
thats better

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1227.jpg
well lights still work so thats good.

thats it for now. see you soon.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate looks great, can't wait to see it all together.

[Rob]

update time!

first, I'll start you off with a video. here (12.9 MB .AVI) (http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/MVI_1275.AVI) This is just a video I took of the flow rate with everything in the loop installed. That means my Res, Pump, Dtek Fusion Block, Swiftech MCW60 Block and my 360 GTS radiator... I think flow is pretty good ;)

also, I'm almost done, just gotta wire up the fans in the botom, light the logo, and move my old system over for the time being. I'm not going to wait till december january time for the new mobo ram and cpu to use this awesome case. Preliminary test show it to be very quiet compared to my old one, just like I planned. In the video the camera is about 1-2 feet from the case and you can't hear any noise from the pump/water loop. Also with the s-flex fans its not makin much noise. Almost feel bad about putting the raptor in there, but it is a nessisary evil.

now for the pictures:
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1250.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1251.jpg
arranging tubing to get an Idea of routing.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1252.jpg
polish on
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1253.jpg
buffed out
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1254.jpg
mounting UV cathodes
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1255.jpg
kinda messy...

[Rob]

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1260.jpg
Mixing coolant for the loop

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1261.jpg
It glows ;)

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1262.jpg
filled loop... well the res isn't full yet, I had to go to the store and get some mroe distilled, I underestimated how much this thing holds.

http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1263.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1264.jpg
http://xbcustoms.com/newcomp/IMG_1265.jpg
lights out... ooo prrretty

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate the coolant looks great. Not full red, kinda pink. Mixed great with the rest of the theme, perfect contrast.

[Rob]

yeah I can't find anything UV red, its always off.

[The boy 4rm oz]

I don't think it has to be pure red. Looks great as it is mate, you could always try food die but the contrast looks fantastic as it is.

[psychowit]

Love It!!!!!!!!!

[Blebbz]

Wowaweeza!

This has come on a long way since i last checked lol. I love the mesh and the idea of having the mobo come out through the back is awesome, but are you planning on actually using that for access because the cables and water-cooling could restrict it a bit. Other than that little niggle I want one!

[Fuganater]

I like the color. Looks good so far.

[Ap1thy]

though blood red would be cool, the uv red is just as good

[NightrainSrt4]

I have blood red in my loop, and that color red/pink you have there goes MUCH better with that mod. Believe me. That color is a sick contrast to everything else.

[Rob]

yeah I was thinking blood red, but I didn't feel it would light up enough. Once I saw the UV in there mixed with the red lights it just felt right... there is this eeerie glow of purple with the demonic red. It just fits... the coolant is a little tricky with the lights, the camera only shows a little bit of the color spectrum it emitts. The in person I can see red, pink, and orange depending on the angle. It's pretty sweet. Thanks for the feed back, I can't wait for this to be done.

[jdbnsn]

Very cool effect!

[gntlkilr]

Hey Rob, Quick questions, how did you do the flame polish?
As in, what did you use for a flame?
How Hot?
How long, etc?

[Rob]

wow, been forever.. just reminiscing about this. wanted to give a little update

The case has since been filled with the following hardware for awhile. Everything has run smoothly for however many years since I built it. No real issues with anything.

AMD PhenomII 965 (overclocked to 4ghz)
Asus Crosshair IV Formula mobo
4 (2x2) GB low timings Mushkin razorback RAM
AMD 5870 graphics card
X-Fi XtremeGamer Fatal1ty Pro Series (the one with the 64mb of x-ram)
Corsair Agility3 120gb SSD

looking at the new AMD FX chips even though performance is disappointing. I'm going to disable the two slowest cores and shoot for a 5ghz overclock.

[SXRguyinMA]

:pics:

[Rob]

heh, its all dusty now.. I'll have to clean it up and take some newer pics.

[SXRguyinMA]

I hadn't seen this thread until now (IIRC I didn't join till after it lol), I just took a read through the whole thing and I must say it's impressive! Nice work :D