Mod challenge: fitting an ATX build in an mATX sized case

[Lyons]

So, after coming up with this (http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/38374-the-ghetto-rigmod-thread/?p=493205) abomination, I had my Bitfenix Shinobi case sitting around doing nothing. I've always wanted to do an mATX/mITX build, but at the moment I just don't have the money, plus I'm very happy with the gear I have now. I decided why not challenge myself, and get an ATX mobo to fit in an mATX sized case. After some sketching and calculating, I figured by moving the PSU up to the top corner, I can reduce the size significantly - 350 x 370 x 205mm to be exact. For reference, a Corsair 350D is 440 x 450 x 210mm. So here we go; first pictured is what my rig USED to look like (the only pic I have at the moment, sadly), then where I'm up to so far. Currently in the case is a mock up of the PSU, just so I can get some measurements done.

[SSOB]

Goodluck!

[TheMrBeb]

Hope it turns out well

[gastew15]

It's certainly an interesting layout, so I'm curious how this will end up. Subbed, and good luck!

[Lyons]

Some progress... more or less finished cutting up the panels to their final size, still a little adjusting to go. Getting some rivets today and will keep working on Sunday. Did a mock fit up and it looks like everything will fit just fine, the GPU only JUST fit in, actually had to slide it into the case on an angle  :P The PSU will sit a little lower than what's pictured to make room for the AC power cable at the top (will be getting a right angle plug).

 

The PSU component cables should be able to run behind the GPU and then back out to wherever they need to go for a clean look. Drives will probably sit behind the motherboard tray, I only have and SSD and a 2.5" HDD, plus I use an eternal. Getting there!

 

After the fitting of the panels is finished I'll be sourcing some perforated aluminium sheet to go over the top and front of the enclosure, plus I need to decide what to do about side panels, as I'll need to custom make them. Sorry about the pics, taken with my phone... and that screwdriver was a temporary standup for the PSU.

[Lyons]

very nice so far mate, how do you intend on cable managing though? from memory there wasn't much room behind the shenobi's motherboard tray for such things?

 

There isn't HEAPS of room but there's enough  I'm wondering if I should get something like an H80i....

[Lyons]

Today's update.... Joints are all basically finalised and they chassis is riveted back together. I did a test fit and boot just to see how everything's going. Turns out the GPU is about 5mm too long and hits the cables coming out the bottom of the PSU, so I had to put it in the lower PCIe slot. IIRC it'll still run at 16x because there's nothing plugged into the upper slot. the GPU can draw air straight from the bottom of the case, but I'd still like to figure out how to put it back in the top slot. Added some case feet too that are nice and high to let as much air get to the bottom as possible. The plan is to sort out the GPU position so I can get 2 fans on the bottom. Also made some brackets for the PSU to sit on, as pictured. Once I'm happy with the chassis I'll think about side panels and front/top covers.

 

 

[zxcvbnmmssdh]

Looks awesome, should be interesting

[Lyons]

Progress... rotated the PSU and it made a huge difference, now it's on to the covering panels. GPU temps are surprisingly about 10 degrees lower with the two fans pointing at it in the bottom. Need to buy that right angle PSU power cable...

[Lyons]

Really nice work You planning on doing doors and a front/top for it as well?

 

Yes! that's next... What's shown is merely the chassis/skeleton of the case.

[Lyons]

Also, turns out the lower PCIe slot runs at 8x, regardless of whether or not anything is plugged into the upper one. That was a surprising drop in FPS...