Using the right tools

[eli]

I was wondering if case modding is hard. All I really want to do is cut some holes in my new case, so that I can get some good airflow with some fans. If I use the right tools, do you think it would be hard. What tools do you suggest I use. Is the dremel multipro good?


Thanks

[Google]

[DMW]

sure it's a good tool....also keep in mind the placement of your news holes....

air FLOW is a little more important than just pumping air.

ya gotta get the hot air OUT too.

[[TN] Nathan]

Dremels are the way to go for case modding, you can pretty well cut and sculp anything on your computer with that tool.
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[jadison]

Well bud - what case make/model do you have and do you plan on buying a new one?
If you plan on buying a new one, then I'd suggest going with the Antec SX1030 or similar SOHO line of Antec cases (or Chieftec, since they also have the same case design) because these cases already have 2 or more 80mm case fans with 4 80mm holes in the case overall for good airflow.

When it comes to case modding and inserting blowholes, air intakes and air outtakes I would first devise a schematic of your case and then plan out where you think the holes should go. I know some case modders who've cut out a blowhole (a hole in the top of ur case) which works well since heat rises and thus keeps cool air circulating. Key things to remember are that you need to allow for an equilibrium between air in and air out...so the size of the fans, their CFM rating, and not so important: how loud they are (this depends on ur personal preference) matter - don't forget to include your power supply fan(s) in the schematic since they account for air circulation.

Keep in mind also that once you put dremel to metal - this is permanent, there's no going back

I'd recommend going with this drill bit w/that dremel: http://www.dremel.com/productdisplay/bit_template.asp?SKU=456&Color=99CCFF -> it's low cost and decent lifespan, plus you should be able to find it at any hardware store. If you have any similarly sized pieces of metal that you can practice on before you go for your comp case, that'd be a good idea as well.

Here's some good reading on case modding and modding in general (number of guides): Click here

For now, here are a couple "mod" sites that get my personal recommendation:

- Moddin'.net
- Twisted Mods

[eli]

Thanks, thats exactly what I needed to know. Yes I do have a spare case to practice, and I'd rather go with the dremel instead of a pre-cut case, because I want to get familiar with cutting stuff. The case that I want is the Skyhawk ALP4388, Plastic Bezel, USB, Firewire. It's aluminum, and It only costs $49. I can spend more in neccesary, but the only need in my opinion, would be to get a case with a smooth aluminim front bezel, instead of this plastic one. I am planning on getting nexus to control the speed of my fans, because I will be getting Vantec Tornados, and they are really loud. I was thinking about getting a Coolermaster case, or an Antec, instead of the skyhawk. What would you recommend. Also, should I get a wireless Dremel, I hear there battery life is horrible, and there RPM is pretty bad, but what model would you suggest?


So heres what I think I'm going to do: build my new computer on my birthday, when I will have $2000, but a nexus, buy a few tornado case fans, then practice with my dremel on my spare case, then when I feel ready, buy a couple more tornados, and drill some holes. What do you think??


Thanks

[eli]

just make sure, no, im not spoiled, I make my own money working, its my birthday present to myself.