Akula

So I've been tinkering with the loop the past 8 hours, I've used 2 meters of tubing already and I'll need to order another 2 by the looks of it.
Currently the loop has a certain "flow" to it i like, once the PCIE cables are installed i think it will look amazing :)
 
The only tubing I'm not that happy with is the CPU > Pump - But i'll work around that and see if i can take a different approach.
 
I've always used black tubing in my builds, I've never been one to overdo colors, and personally the sleek black looks really appeals to me, although i have just ordered 2 meters of black & clear tubing, just to test it out :D
 
Enjoy the photos.
 

 

 

 

 

Update : 5/06/2013
 
RAM block installed, fittings installed on all blocks.
I considered uploading a few photo's of my test loop setup, but personally i don't want to give any false impression of a tube layout with such horrible tubing, Tygon <_<
 
I intend to use Primochill AdvancedFlex 3/8 x 1/2 Black Onyx Tubing - I highly considered clear tubing, but personally i think it would look far better with pure black.
 
Here's a few shots, not much has changed other than the RAM block :)
 

 

 

Update : 4/06/2013
 
Ordered some more EK CSQ fittings, it appears i will require more 90 Degree fittings than expected.
Tubing is on it's way, Primoflex Advanced 2/8 1/2 Black tubing :D
 
Really happy with the graphic cards & water-blocks, couldn't have turned out better.
 
I mocked up a quick loop with some old Tygon tubing earlier, i think I've figured out the cleanest way to loop this thing, the problem is going to be the underside of the loop could get messy :o
 
Anyway, here's a few photo's.
 

 

 

 


 
 

Update : 2/06/2013
 
Few photo's of the EK fittings & installed Lamptron controller.
I had to re-drill the mounting holes for the Lamptron Controller, for some reason Dimastech has the 5.25" Bays mounted slightly foward, which would mean the controller wouldn't be flush with the system, Easy fix :)
 
These EK fittings are amazing, highly recommend.
 
It's Sunday here, so tomorrow I'm expecting my graphic cards, then the fun begins.
 

 

 
 
 

Just received my EK waterblocks, love em :)
Awaiting fittings, apparently they are in transit and are expected today :o
 
Few simple shots, enjoy :)
 

 

 

Just ran the cables in a test fit manner, they still need to be tweaked to achieve a clean look, but I'm happy with them currently while the build is progressing.
Hit a snag on the RAM block, it appears I have to wait for my thermal pads to arrive , expecting them early tomorrow.
 
Pretty happy with the centralized 5.24" Bay has turned out, look sharp and when loaded out i think it will be a nice touch :)
Oh well here's a few photo's...
 

 

 

 

 

 

Few component's have arrived, fitted into the build for a test fit, looks good :)
I intend to use fan grills on the exterior of the bench, although i don't mind the radiator fin's asthetics.
 
EKWB D5 Pump Top
EKWB CSQ 400ml Res
2 x EKWB XT 360 Radiator's
 
Sorry about the lack of photo's, just quite hard mix up the photos with just these components.
 

 

A k u l a  V 2
 
My first build-log on Linus forums, I've been in the PC Modding scene for several years now, always pushing myself to create new builds that capture my own personality.
I don't intend to capture every detail of this build, as time will be a factor but I'll try and update with as much content as possible.
 
Updates & Photos
23rd May - Motherboard & Radiator
30th May - Sleeving & Progress Shots
31th May - Graphic Card Waterblocks
2nd June - 5.25" Mounting & CPU Waterblock
4th June - All Waterblocks installed - GPU's Installed
5th June - EK RAM Blocks installed
7th June - Loop - Tubing installed
26th June - Cables installed - Preparing for filling loop
28th June - Loop filled - Completed
 
Main Components
Dimastech Easy V3.0
Dimastech Hard V2.5
Silverstone Strider 1200w - MDPC / Black Sleeving
ASUS Maximus Z Extreme
16GB Corsair Dominator GT
Intel Ivy 3700k
3 x MSI GTX 680
2 x Samsung 840 Pro 256GB - RAID 0
1 x WD 2TB Black
Lamptron FC Controller
 
Watercooling Components
EKWB 3 x GTX 680 CSQ Acetal & Nickel Waterblock
EKWB CSQ Acetal & Nickel CPU Waterblock
EKWB CSQ Dominator RAM Waterblock
Laing D5 & EKWB CSQ Acetal Pump Top
EK CSQ 400ML Resvoior
EK CSQ Fittings
6 x Noiseblocker BlacksilentPro PL-2
EKWB 2 x 360 XT Radiator
PrimoFlex Advanced LRT 3/8in ID x 1/2in OD Tubing Onxy Black
 
My newest major project Akula V2, Simplicity is key with this build.
Sleeving will involve 100% Custom wiring, all sleeved with MDPC Black Sleeve.
The color scheme throughout the build will be majority Black, with highlights of Red - Motherboard & Coolant being the only highlights.
 
The Red Heatsink's from the Dominator GT's will be removed prior to the EKWB Waterblock installation, in the mean-time enjoy the photos.
 
Over the next few days i expect to receive my radiators, fans & other components so i can load this build out.
 
Time for some component shots, enjoy.
Not the best image quality, I'm not exactly an expert at taking photo's :o
 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 
A k u l a  V 2 - Complete
 
So throughout this build i have stuck by my guns and gone with what i felt was right with my highlighting of colors, throughout all my builds I've always gone with the approach, more black less color, well now that I've seen the finished result with the red coolant i could very well change my ways.
The project is now complete, baring a few minor updates, little extra cable management down below & remounting the SSD, nothing big enough to halt the build.
 
I had my concerns prior to filling the loop, the EK angle fittings felt a little off, but credits to EK, their fittings held up fantastic :)
Couldn't be happier with the finished product, I'm sure it's not everyone's taste, but this sums me up perfectly :)
 
Started pushing these 680's to their limit today, getting some excellent speeds and the temperatures are amazing.
 
Thanks for the support throughout this build-log - your comments were very encouraging.
 
Anyway here is what you have been waiting for, pictures :o
 

 
 

 
 


 

 

 

 

 


 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 
Build Log - Start
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Still holding top spot.
2600k/Titan still beast mode.

A k u l a  V 2
 
My first build-log on Linus forums, I've been in the PC Modding scene for several years now, always pushing myself to create new builds that capture my own personality.
I don't intend to capture every detail of this build, as time will be a factor but I'll try and update with as much content as possible.
 
Updates & Photos
23rd May - Motherboard & Radiator
30th May - Sleeving & Progress Shots
31th May - Graphic Card Waterblocks
2nd June - 5.25" Mounting & CPU Waterblock
4th June - All Waterblocks installed - GPU's Installed
5th June - EK RAM Blocks installed
7th June - Loop - Tubing installed
26th June - Cables installed - Preparing for filling loop
28th June - Loop filled - Completed
 
Main Components
Dimastech Easy V3.0
Dimastech Hard V2.5
Silverstone Strider 1200w - MDPC / Black Sleeving
ASUS Maximus Z Extreme
16GB Corsair Dominator GT
Intel Ivy 3700k
3 x MSI GTX 680
2 x Samsung 840 Pro 256GB - RAID 0
1 x WD 2TB Black
Lamptron FC Controller
 
Watercooling Components
EKWB 3 x GTX 680 CSQ Acetal & Nickel Waterblock
EKWB CSQ Acetal & Nickel CPU Waterblock
EKWB CSQ Dominator RAM Waterblock
Laing D5 & EKWB CSQ Acetal Pump Top
EK CSQ 400ML Resvoior
EK CSQ Fittings
6 x Noiseblocker BlacksilentPro PL-2
EKWB 2 x 360 XT Radiator
PrimoFlex Advanced LRT 3/8in ID x 1/2in OD Tubing Onxy Black
 
My newest major project Akula V2, Simplicity is key with this build.
Sleeving will involve 100% Custom wiring, all sleeved with MDPC Black Sleeve.
The color scheme throughout the build will be majority Black, with highlights of Red - Motherboard & Coolant being the only highlights.
 
The Red Heatsink's from the Dominator GT's will be removed prior to the EKWB Waterblock installation, in the mean-time enjoy the photos.
 
Over the next few days i expect to receive my radiators, fans & other components so i can load this build out.
 
Time for some component shots, enjoy.
Not the best image quality, I'm not exactly an expert at taking photo's :o
 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 
A k u l a  V 2 - Complete
 
So throughout this build i have stuck by my guns and gone with what i felt was right with my highlighting of colors, throughout all my builds I've always gone with the approach, more black less color, well now that I've seen the finished result with the red coolant i could very well change my ways.
The project is now complete, baring a few minor updates, little extra cable management down below & remounting the SSD, nothing big enough to halt the build.
 
I had my concerns prior to filling the loop, the EK angle fittings felt a little off, but credits to EK, their fittings held up fantastic :)
Couldn't be happier with the finished product, I'm sure it's not everyone's taste, but this sums me up perfectly :)
 
Started pushing these 680's to their limit today, getting some excellent speeds and the temperatures are amazing.
 
Thanks for the support throughout this build-log - your comments were very encouraging.
 
Anyway here is what you have been waiting for, pictures :o
 

 
 

 
 


 

 

 

 

 


 
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
 
Build Log - Start
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks for keeping this updated since i've been away
Good to see I'm still king on Single

Project ARMADA
 
Index
Gigabyte Mainboard - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1007333
Define R4 - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050429
Fans & Radiator - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050988
Custom Cables - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1081853
LC Teleios - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1111740
EK Waterblocks - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1138980
RAM & Sleeving - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1196368
PrimoChill Tubing - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1205067
Corsair SP120's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1206175
Bitspower Z Reservoir - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1226919
Completed - Final Photo's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1232131
 
Completion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Introduction
My third LinusTechTips build-log, this particular log will be different to my past, documenting far greater throughout the building process hopefully bringing more people into the log to share ideas.
May seem strange to start a new project when my previous Mercury build-log is not complete, but i assure you that log is coming to an end.
 
Several months ago i bought myself the Fractal Design Mini, have to say it suited my own personality perfectly, simple, sleek and small.
I've never been a person to throw colors at a build, normally resorting to dull colors, blacks greys and whites with a splash of color but for this particular log i feel like stepping outside the box a little.
 
I'm still going over this log in my head so changes to the components and design will fluctuate.
A large portion of the components within the log will be of an older generation, i intend to use my leftover components rather than sell them.
 
Please note this is not going to be a build-log where you should expect to see the highest end components, some of my choices may seem odd or unusual but I'm trying to keep my wallet intact throughout this log as much as possible.
 
Vision & Color Scheme
I'm still tossing up how i want to plan this build, i have plenty of water-cooling components that can be salvaged for this build and i have plenty of ideas for Air Cooling.
 
Well, I've made my decision, Water is it. I have so much spare water-cooling components it just seemed right, not to mention i enjoy the silence you get from water-cooling.
I've decided to integrate Aqua into this build, aside from the typical Grey & Blacks i believe the Aqua element will provide a nice bold & striking contrast color, especially in the EK Solid Tubing.
 
Main Components
Fractal Design R4 Titanium Gigabyte Z68X UD4-B3 Intel 1155 2600k Corsair Dominator GT 2133 (4x4GB) Silverstone Strider 1200w Gold Samsung 840 Pro (256GB) Gigabyte GTX Titan OC Watercooling Components
EKWB Supremacy Full Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EKWB Monarch Acetal Waterblock EBWB Titan SE Acetal & Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EBWB 2 x 240mm PE Radiator Laing D5 Vario Pump (Spare) Bitspower 150ml Z-Reservoir & Upgrade Kit Fittings & Tubing
EK-CSQ Nickel Compression Fitting x 4 EK-CSQ Black Compression Fitting x 8 PrimoChill Advanced LRT 3/8 x 1/2 Clear PrimoChill "Blue" Dye & Distilled Water Extras
16AWG 2.3mm Custom Cables  LC Teleios Sleeving (Aqua, Light Grey & Black) Closing
So just to advise everyone considering following this log, the updates will be slow, but detailed. I have limited time throughout the week up until Christmas, so time spent on this build will be minimal.
I'm looking forward to creating a build that can inspire others to reuse components all the while creating something beautiful.
 
Stay tuned.

Project ARMADA
 
Index
Gigabyte Mainboard - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1007333
Define R4 - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050429
Fans & Radiator - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050988
Custom Cables - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1081853
LC Teleios - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1111740
EK Waterblocks - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1138980
RAM & Sleeving - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1196368
PrimoChill Tubing - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1205067
Corsair SP120's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1206175
Bitspower Z Reservoir - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1226919
Completed - Final Photo's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1232131
 
Completion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Introduction
My third LinusTechTips build-log, this particular log will be different to my past, documenting far greater throughout the building process hopefully bringing more people into the log to share ideas.
May seem strange to start a new project when my previous Mercury build-log is not complete, but i assure you that log is coming to an end.
 
Several months ago i bought myself the Fractal Design Mini, have to say it suited my own personality perfectly, simple, sleek and small.
I've never been a person to throw colors at a build, normally resorting to dull colors, blacks greys and whites with a splash of color but for this particular log i feel like stepping outside the box a little.
 
I'm still going over this log in my head so changes to the components and design will fluctuate.
A large portion of the components within the log will be of an older generation, i intend to use my leftover components rather than sell them.
 
Please note this is not going to be a build-log where you should expect to see the highest end components, some of my choices may seem odd or unusual but I'm trying to keep my wallet intact throughout this log as much as possible.
 
Vision & Color Scheme
I'm still tossing up how i want to plan this build, i have plenty of water-cooling components that can be salvaged for this build and i have plenty of ideas for Air Cooling.
 
Well, I've made my decision, Water is it. I have so much spare water-cooling components it just seemed right, not to mention i enjoy the silence you get from water-cooling.
I've decided to integrate Aqua into this build, aside from the typical Grey & Blacks i believe the Aqua element will provide a nice bold & striking contrast color, especially in the EK Solid Tubing.
 
Main Components
Fractal Design R4 Titanium Gigabyte Z68X UD4-B3 Intel 1155 2600k Corsair Dominator GT 2133 (4x4GB) Silverstone Strider 1200w Gold Samsung 840 Pro (256GB) Gigabyte GTX Titan OC Watercooling Components
EKWB Supremacy Full Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EKWB Monarch Acetal Waterblock EBWB Titan SE Acetal & Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EBWB 2 x 240mm PE Radiator Laing D5 Vario Pump (Spare) Bitspower 150ml Z-Reservoir & Upgrade Kit Fittings & Tubing
EK-CSQ Nickel Compression Fitting x 4 EK-CSQ Black Compression Fitting x 8 PrimoChill Advanced LRT 3/8 x 1/2 Clear PrimoChill "Blue" Dye & Distilled Water Extras
16AWG 2.3mm Custom Cables  LC Teleios Sleeving (Aqua, Light Grey & Black) Closing
So just to advise everyone considering following this log, the updates will be slow, but detailed. I have limited time throughout the week up until Christmas, so time spent on this build will be minimal.
I'm looking forward to creating a build that can inspire others to reuse components all the while creating something beautiful.
 
Stay tuned.

PrimoChill Tubing
Tubing arrived today, so I've completed tubing up the main components, overall I'm quite happy with the loop, came up the way i was hoping
Might not be everyone's cup of tea, but good thing it's my build
 
I'll complete the loop once i fabricate the mounting plate for the pump & reservoir.
 

 

 

 

 

 
 
 

Completion - Final Photo's
So another buildlog comes to an end, this is my third log featured on LinusTech and hopefully it won't stop there.
Began filling the loop yesterday when i noticed a small leak in the Reservoir, the same leak that occurred within my Mercury build, this time it was my fault as i had forgot to place the O-Ring around the fitting
 
Out of all my builds I've created over the past few years this would have to be my best, aesthetically, you may not agree, but that's fine.
 
Anyway here's the photo's, stay in touch as a new build is always around the corner
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Project MERCURY
Caselabs Mercury S3 - mITX Watercooled - Simplicity
 
Index
#1 - 4770k IHS Removal - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=818295
#2 - ASUS Maximus IV Impact - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=833236
#3 - Nvidia GTX Titan - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=838360
#4 - Radiator & Fans - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=842895
#5 - Fittings & SSD - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=849644
#6 - Peripherals - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=857467
#7 - Himuro - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=857564
#8 - Himuro Mounting System - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=877824
#9 - Reservoir & Pump - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=881798
#10 - Polishing EK Waterblocks - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=907185
#11 - Initial Tubing Route - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=919997
#12 - Mercury S3 Case - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=934144
#13 - Secondary Tubing Route - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=966149
#14 - Completed - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=1030532
 
Completion - Scroll Down for the start of the log!
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Introduction
Back with another build log, this time a different path, less is more with mITX and i intend to showcase that in its full glory.
Caselabs has always had a soft spot with me, ever since i first bought the STH10, clean lines, modding friendly and extremely well designed, so when the Mercury S3 was announced some months ago i couldn't resist.
 
Prodigy may have started the mITX craze, Caselabs has perfected it with the Mercury S3.
Unfortunately due to size restraints, my previous build Akula V2 is now to be disassembled, it's just too big for my desk and is a dust magnet.
 
This computer will mainly be used for light gaming, work related use & general use, so the components don't have to be top of the line yet i intend to recycle my used components as much as possible.
 
Vision & Color Scheme
With all my build's i strive for simplicity, less is more.
Once again the build will be based around the components, the colors will be subtle, the components will be minimalistic.
 
Just like Akula V2, the build will incorporate Republic of Gamers products, which leaves me little choice but to follow to overdone red & black scheme.
Watercooling will be done with primary EKWB products used from Project Akula with some new splashes of products just released.
 
Mercury S3 Case
One of the biggest selling points for Caselabs cases is the options when purchasing, these are the options/variations i chose.
Matte Black Drop-in 120.2 Radiator Mount 36mm Ventilated Top Cover Left STB Window Right STB Window USB 3.0 Upgrade IO 120.2 Radiator Flexi-bay Upgrade Just a matter of shipping & waiting for it to arrive, sadly this thing cost me an arm & leg due to the shipping cost to Australia, worth it.
 
Main Components
Large portion of my components will come from previous builds, most from my Prodigy & Dimastech builds so my wallet won't be that much lighter in the end, i hope..
Intel Socket 1150 4770k ASUS Maximus VI Impact Corsair Dominator GT 2133 Mhz (2x4Gb) OCZ Vertex 3 Max IOPS 240Gb Western Digital Caviar Red 2Gb Silverstone Strider 650W Gold ST65F-G Gigabyte GTX Titan OC Windforce Edition Himuro 3.5" HDD Cooler Himuro 2.5" HDD Cooler Cooling Components
Lucky for me, most of my cooling components i already own, for most this is the expensive part.
New products that have just been released from EKWB will be tested within this build, including their new PE radiator's, hopefully they will have their ROG Impact waterblocks released in time..
 
On another note, i intend to delid the 4770k - I've done this process on the 3570k earlier and the temperatures were excellent, this time i will be going naked chip, so EK's Naked Ivy supports will be used.
EKWB GTX Titan Nickel & Plexi CSQ Waterblock EKWB Supremacy Nickel & Plexi CSQ Waterblock Laing D5 & EKWB CSQ Acetal Pump Top Bitspower Z Type 150ml Reservoir EK CSQ Fittings Noiseblocker BlacksilentPro PL-2 x 4 EK CoolStream PE 240 x 2 PrimoFlex Advanced LRT 3/8in ID x 1/2in OD Tubing Clear EK Blood Red Coolant Extras
16AWG Individually sleeved cables, MDPC Black Sleeving Delidding 4770k & Using EK Naked Ivy standoffs Polishing EK Plexiglass Waterblocks Fabricate 2 x Himuro mounting brackets  
Closing
Hopefully this will be a quicker build than my previous logs, I'm a perfectionist so these things take time unfortunately.
In the coming weeks i expect to receive the Mercury S3, from there i will slowly incorporate the parts within the build.
 
The biggest hurdle is always the sleeving, in such a tight build sleeving even the best power supplies can be tricky, lines are tough to hide so perfection is required when all eyes are on the cables.
Stay tuned, I'm as eager as ever to begin and one day complete this build.

Project ARMADA
 
Index
Gigabyte Mainboard - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1007333
Define R4 - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050429
Fans & Radiator - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1050988
Custom Cables - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1081853
LC Teleios - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1111740
EK Waterblocks - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1138980
RAM & Sleeving - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1196368
PrimoChill Tubing - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks/?p=1205067
Corsair SP120's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1206175
Bitspower Z Reservoir - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1226919
Completed - Final Photo's - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/73352-project-armada-watercooled-define-r4-titanium-ek-waterblocks-completed-final-photos/?p=1232131
 
Completion

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Introduction
My third LinusTechTips build-log, this particular log will be different to my past, documenting far greater throughout the building process hopefully bringing more people into the log to share ideas.
May seem strange to start a new project when my previous Mercury build-log is not complete, but i assure you that log is coming to an end.
 
Several months ago i bought myself the Fractal Design Mini, have to say it suited my own personality perfectly, simple, sleek and small.
I've never been a person to throw colors at a build, normally resorting to dull colors, blacks greys and whites with a splash of color but for this particular log i feel like stepping outside the box a little.
 
I'm still going over this log in my head so changes to the components and design will fluctuate.
A large portion of the components within the log will be of an older generation, i intend to use my leftover components rather than sell them.
 
Please note this is not going to be a build-log where you should expect to see the highest end components, some of my choices may seem odd or unusual but I'm trying to keep my wallet intact throughout this log as much as possible.
 
Vision & Color Scheme
I'm still tossing up how i want to plan this build, i have plenty of water-cooling components that can be salvaged for this build and i have plenty of ideas for Air Cooling.
 
Well, I've made my decision, Water is it. I have so much spare water-cooling components it just seemed right, not to mention i enjoy the silence you get from water-cooling.
I've decided to integrate Aqua into this build, aside from the typical Grey & Blacks i believe the Aqua element will provide a nice bold & striking contrast color, especially in the EK Solid Tubing.
 
Main Components
Fractal Design R4 Titanium Gigabyte Z68X UD4-B3 Intel 1155 2600k Corsair Dominator GT 2133 (4x4GB) Silverstone Strider 1200w Gold Samsung 840 Pro (256GB) Gigabyte GTX Titan OC Watercooling Components
EKWB Supremacy Full Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EKWB Monarch Acetal Waterblock EBWB Titan SE Acetal & Nickel Clean CSQ Waterblock EBWB 2 x 240mm PE Radiator Laing D5 Vario Pump (Spare) Bitspower 150ml Z-Reservoir & Upgrade Kit Fittings & Tubing
EK-CSQ Nickel Compression Fitting x 4 EK-CSQ Black Compression Fitting x 8 PrimoChill Advanced LRT 3/8 x 1/2 Clear PrimoChill "Blue" Dye & Distilled Water Extras
16AWG 2.3mm Custom Cables  LC Teleios Sleeving (Aqua, Light Grey & Black) Closing
So just to advise everyone considering following this log, the updates will be slow, but detailed. I have limited time throughout the week up until Christmas, so time spent on this build will be minimal.
I'm looking forward to creating a build that can inspire others to reuse components all the while creating something beautiful.
 
Stay tuned.

Project MERCURY
Caselabs Mercury S3 - mITX Watercooled - Simplicity
 
Index
#1 - 4770k IHS Removal - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=818295
#2 - ASUS Maximus IV Impact - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=833236
#3 - Nvidia GTX Titan - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury/?p=838360
#4 - Radiator & Fans - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=842895
#5 - Fittings & SSD - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=849644
#6 - Peripherals - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=857467
#7 - Himuro - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=857564
#8 - Himuro Mounting System - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=877824
#9 - Reservoir & Pump - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=881798
#10 - Polishing EK Waterblocks - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=907185
#11 - Initial Tubing Route - https://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=919997
#12 - Mercury S3 Case - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=934144
#13 - Secondary Tubing Route - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=966149
#14 - Completed - http://linustechtips.com/main/topic/56428-project-mercury-caselabs-s3-watercooled-gtx-titan/?p=1030532
 
Completion - Scroll Down for the start of the log!
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
Introduction
Back with another build log, this time a different path, less is more with mITX and i intend to showcase that in its full glory.
Caselabs has always had a soft spot with me, ever since i first bought the STH10, clean lines, modding friendly and extremely well designed, so when the Mercury S3 was announced some months ago i couldn't resist.
 
Prodigy may have started the mITX craze, Caselabs has perfected it with the Mercury S3.
Unfortunately due to size restraints, my previous build Akula V2 is now to be disassembled, it's just too big for my desk and is a dust magnet.
 
This computer will mainly be used for light gaming, work related use & general use, so the components don't have to be top of the line yet i intend to recycle my used components as much as possible.
 
Vision & Color Scheme
With all my build's i strive for simplicity, less is more.
Once again the build will be based around the components, the colors will be subtle, the components will be minimalistic.
 
Just like Akula V2, the build will incorporate Republic of Gamers products, which leaves me little choice but to follow to overdone red & black scheme.
Watercooling will be done with primary EKWB products used from Project Akula with some new splashes of products just released.
 
Mercury S3 Case
One of the biggest selling points for Caselabs cases is the options when purchasing, these are the options/variations i chose.
Matte Black Drop-in 120.2 Radiator Mount 36mm Ventilated Top Cover Left STB Window Right STB Window USB 3.0 Upgrade IO 120.2 Radiator Flexi-bay Upgrade Just a matter of shipping & waiting for it to arrive, sadly this thing cost me an arm & leg due to the shipping cost to Australia, worth it.
 
Main Components
Large portion of my components will come from previous builds, most from my Prodigy & Dimastech builds so my wallet won't be that much lighter in the end, i hope..
Intel Socket 1150 4770k ASUS Maximus VI Impact Corsair Dominator GT 2133 Mhz (2x4Gb) OCZ Vertex 3 Max IOPS 240Gb Western Digital Caviar Red 2Gb Silverstone Strider 650W Gold ST65F-G Gigabyte GTX Titan OC Windforce Edition Himuro 3.5" HDD Cooler Himuro 2.5" HDD Cooler Cooling Components
Lucky for me, most of my cooling components i already own, for most this is the expensive part.
New products that have just been released from EKWB will be tested within this build, including their new PE radiator's, hopefully they will have their ROG Impact waterblocks released in time..
 
On another note, i intend to delid the 4770k - I've done this process on the 3570k earlier and the temperatures were excellent, this time i will be going naked chip, so EK's Naked Ivy supports will be used.
EKWB GTX Titan Nickel & Plexi CSQ Waterblock EKWB Supremacy Nickel & Plexi CSQ Waterblock Laing D5 & EKWB CSQ Acetal Pump Top Bitspower Z Type 150ml Reservoir EK CSQ Fittings Noiseblocker BlacksilentPro PL-2 x 4 EK CoolStream PE 240 x 2 PrimoFlex Advanced LRT 3/8in ID x 1/2in OD Tubing Clear EK Blood Red Coolant Extras
16AWG Individually sleeved cables, MDPC Black Sleeving Delidding 4770k & Using EK Naked Ivy standoffs Polishing EK Plexiglass Waterblocks Fabricate 2 x Himuro mounting brackets  
Closing
Hopefully this will be a quicker build than my previous logs, I'm a perfectionist so these things take time unfortunately.
In the coming weeks i expect to receive the Mercury S3, from there i will slowly incorporate the parts within the build.
 
The biggest hurdle is always the sleeving, in such a tight build sleeving even the best power supplies can be tricky, lines are tough to hide so perfection is required when all eyes are on the cables.
Stay tuned, I'm as eager as ever to begin and one day complete this build.

Completion - Final Photo's
So another buildlog comes to an end, this is my third log featured on LinusTech and hopefully it won't stop there.
Began filling the loop yesterday when i noticed a small leak in the Reservoir, the same leak that occurred within my Mercury build, this time it was my fault as i had forgot to place the O-Ring around the fitting
 
Out of all my builds I've created over the past few years this would have to be my best, aesthetically, you may not agree, but that's fine.
 
Anyway here's the photo's, stay in touch as a new build is always around the corner
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A k u l a  V 2 - Complete
 
So throughout this build i have stuck by my guns and gone with what i felt was right with my highlighting of colors, throughout all my builds I've always gone with the approach, more black less color, well now that I've seen the finished result with the red coolant i could very well change my ways.
The project is now complete, baring a few minor updates, little extra cable management down below & remounting the SSD, nothing big enough to halt the build.
 
I had my concerns prior to filling the loop, the EK angle fittings felt a little off, but credits to EK, their fittings held up fantastic :)
Couldn't be happier with the finished product, I'm sure it's not everyone's taste, but this sums me up perfectly :)
 
Started pushing these 680's to their limit today, getting some excellent speeds and the temperatures are amazing.
 
Thanks for the support throughout this build-log - your comments were very encouraging.
 
Anyway here is what you have been waiting for, pictures :o
 

 
 

 
 


 

 

 

 

 


 
 
 
 

Scores updated
 
 
 
Guess we have two now

Haven't seen a build of the week in the WAN show for over a month, safe to say this segment is dead, despite the "revamp" that was proposed.
That segment was the driving factor for myself to post builds, along with others.
 
Perhaps Linus or Slick could fill us in?
 

My advice for anyone considering getting into custom cables along with sleeving.
Id recommend heatshrinkless for beginner's, 90% of people can achieve great results with heatshrinkless, same cannot be said for those attempting the heatshrink method, it takes patience and you may not be happy with the end result. Invest in a quality sleeve - MDPC / LC Teleois / Paracord (Do not invest in cheap sleeve, it will be visible in the end, and you will be kicking yourself for wasting hours sleeving) Providing you have taken my advice above the only custom-wire you should buy is 16AWG 2.3mm Diameter Hook Up Wire - This achieves the best results than 18AWG or 16AWG 1.8-2.0mm Wire. If you are serious about custom cables, my only power supply choice is the Silverstone Strider series, this lineup from Silverstone is a sleever's best friend, no double wires, no crossovers just clean lines. Something often overlooked when creating custom wires, Smart crimping, before you crimp the terminal, think how the wire is going to bend, the terminal only goes into the connector one way, avoid having to twirl your new wire, just be smart with your crimping

All scores updated.
 
Sorry guys i've been busty the past 2 weeks with work and holidays so i was not able to update scores.
In future scores will be updated ever few days.

All scores updated.
 
Sorry guys i've been busty the past 2 weeks with work and holidays so i was not able to update scores.
In future scores will be updated ever few days.