TR Forums

Hey! I was thinking about putting one of those big 120mm fans onto the side of my case to generate more airflow over the PCI cards (and in the case in general), and I was wondering what the best way to cut into a case is. Are there any special kits that make cutting the aluminum way easy? Thanks!

And would anybody recommend top exhaust fans? I'm thinking they would do much to draw heat out of the top of the case.

I recommend a panaflo fan for a top exhaust fan. They are quiet and move a lot of air. If you want massive airflow, you can always go with 120mm delta they sell at http://www.sidewindercomputers.com I am sure that using that one would drive anyone insane though. I had one of those 9000 rpm 60mm deltas in my case and it really drove me nuts, so I removed it and went with a slower one. I can just imagine how loud that one has to be.

As for cutting aluminum cases, just mark where you want to cut, use some good quality masking tape, and then use a dremel to cut the holes you need. Just remember the old addage, measure twice, cut once. Take your time and go slow, it will take some time to cut through the case. Just remember to wear safety glasses and good work gloves because little pieces of the cutting wheel will break off as you are cutting. It is no fun to get sharp pieces in your eyes.

Thanks! I think I'll be adding a top fan and a side fan this Christmas.

I have a low-speed, 120mm panaflo chimney fan on my aluminum case. I got a low speed 120mm over an 80mm higher speed to cut down on noise while retaining airflo. Inside I have an 80mm Apha cpu fan (plus 2x80mm intake, 1x80mm exhaust, 2xPSU fans) and the 120 mm hold in the top of my case definitely lets more noise escape. Although not loud, my case does make a little noise. I wouldn't want to sleep with it in the same room.

Although I bought my case w/ the chimney hole cut (and it's not perfect), I've read a few mod articles and the tip that I liked most was covering the panel w/ contact paper first. There are plenty of mod articles on the net to read before you get started.

Good luck.

Good luck with the case mod, hope all goes well for you. Happy cutting