Materials for Building a Case

[pdubs]

Hi,

 

I am considering building a simple pc case. I have no particular reason to do it except for that it seems like a fun thing to do and I'm kinda bored.

My plan is to make a test bench type thing out of aluminum t-slot framing and then slide windows/aluminum panels into the slots on the sides/top/bottom for seeing inside or mounting fans. I have a motherboard tray from an old case already, but I want to make everything else.

 

Looking at materials for the windows, I found polycarbonate and anti-static polycarbonate, which is a little over 3x the price.

Is the anti-static worth it, or does it being mounted on the aluminum make that a non-issue?

I don't plan on having any electronics touch the windows.

One thing I am concerned about is the floor of my apartment being carpeted. I can put an anti-static mat underneath if that would help.

 

Any recommendations of how to make a case is very welcome.

 

Thank you

 

[W-L]

-SNIP-

For static material you don't need to really worry about any of that, the PSU is grounded via the plug and as long as it's attached to the frame or case it will also be grounded. I'd recommend to use glass or acrylic if your afraid of broken glass for clear windows and panels.

[pdubs]

Great!

That's what I was expecting, but I'd rather check than fry a part.

 

I'll keep that in mind for the windows.

[RobTapps]

Use cardboard.. See thread titled "scratch case build Poorair c3000"

[KohGeek]

I would recommend metallic casing coated with black paint.
The reason behind this will be the ease of heat dissipation through casing even if you have not a lot of vents.

Edit in 2021: Please, DO NOT FOLLOW THIS ADVICE.