Wood Case Design - comments please

[Edward2]

I have enough computer parts lying around to make 2 Folding rigs (no monitor, keyboard, mouse required - just NIC and video cards). One of the computers would also serve as a file server for my home network. I came up with the idea to build a wood case, although I guess it could be made of anything.

I was thinking about using metal brackets of different types to attach all the pieces (HD, PS, mobo) to the case. The cable modem, router, and UPS would simply sit in the bottom of the case. The entire back is open with 4 fans in the front blowing IN for cooling.

The 2 computers are a Celeron 1.1A with Abit VH6T mobo and a PII 450 with AOpen AX6BC mobo.

Please give any comments you may have. I have never tried to build anything like this before. I have read a few threads about grounding and fire hazards associated with a wood case.... any additional information would be appreciated.

[ShadowFolder]

wooden cases?
naaaah! :(
i think theyre so unusefull!

maybe u must 2 try plastic or fiber like suitable material

let the drills turn on :)

[Diggrr]

Wooden cases work fine. I've seen them made of fibreboard, plywood, real wood, and even antique furniture (modified).

I really doubt that there's any kind of fire hazard, it actually takes quite a bit to start a piece of wood on fire. It usually takes very small pieces of wood (kindling) and an accellerant (like gasoline) to start the large panels like a computer would have on fire. Even the rare electrical fires in houses need a place to actually start a fire like rags or paper or insulation (kindling+accellerant).

I personally, recommend grounding everything inside.

Your ventilation depends solely on your airflow, so make sure there's plenty (looks like yours is fine).

I like to use "Liquid Nails" adhesive on wood panels along with using a few screws (i hate nails). When it's set up, you could use the case for a jack stand, practically. It also helps to make the joints tighter, so your air is flowing where you want it to.

Have a great one, and be sure to post lotsa juicy pics when you're done.

[JimmyG]

You may want to put tin foil on the inside and ground it all around. This will prevent electrical interference with your radio and TV.

[Edward2]

Well, I actually built the case this weekend. I made the front panel hinged, so that I could open it and have access to everything inside. I have not mounted anything in the case yet, and I have not cut the holes for the fans either (probably do those last, once I have everything mounted inside).

As I previously mentioned, I am planning on using metal L-brackets to mount the PS and HD's to the case. How should I attach the motherboards to the case? Can I bolt them directly to the case? Should I use some sort of stand-offs (if so, what?) to keep them from actually touching the case?

As always, thanks for all the input.

[Carnil]

I'd use standoffs because the back of a motherboard isn't really flat, and to give some air circulation behind the CPU socket. Anything should do; I'd use rubber washers.

[Dark Disciple]

make sure you ground the PS to a standoff and have a good airflow system (wood is a natural insulator).

[james.miller]

i would ground all the stadoff to be safe - no point in cutting corners - it could cost you.