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Need Help with Briefcase Mod!

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akdoanmg

New Member
Joined
Apr 9, 2012
Okay, so I want to make a briefcase mod. I've decided to create a cheap, low-end, computer because this is my first mod ever. I've already put together a list of parts and stuff that I want.

My plan is basically to mount a monitor on the inside of the lid. Then on the bottom part, I want all my components to be. I will be using an integrated video card to save room. And I wanted to have wifi, so I'm using a PCI wireless adapter that will be connected to a 90 degree PCI adapter. The components will be enclosed in a plexiglass case that will have a few fans coming out of. I havn't decided if I want the fans to point down or up. Pointing them up would seem easier because I wouldn't have to cut through the case, but I don't want air blowing upwards in front of me while I'm using the PC. My DVD/CD drive will open on the right side of the case. I will have to cut part of the case for that. I think that I will probably use metal 90 degree angle parts to screw the speakers into the bottom of the case. I want my plexiglass case to have some latches so that I can open it and do some maintenance on the PC when needed. I was thinking of cutting a hole in the plexiglass to allow my keyboard and mouse to attach directly to the motherboard. I want to install a USB hub that will be attached somewhere so that it does not flop around and it is easily accessible. When not in use, I want the keyboard and mouse to be laying between the monitor and plexiglass case, so I want to leave a good amount of room there. I will be putting a cloths between the monitor and keyboard/mouse and plexiglass to prevent scratches or damages.

My Plan looks a little bit like this. Sorry the stuff isn't in proportion.
546285_3631929205124_1480956609_3369681_1208586705_n.jpg


Here are all my parts.

Briefcase: http://www.amazon.com/Zeikos-ZE-HC3...TK5Y/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1334016802&sr=8-4

PCI 90 Degree Adapter: http://www.soarland.com/1U_32Bit_Single_Slot_90-Degree_Right_Angle_PCI_Riser_Card-product-178.html

Motherboard: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813130556

Speakers: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16836280004

DVD Drive: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16827118067

HDD: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822148875

PCI Wireless Adapter: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16833166033

CPU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116381

PSU: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817822001

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16823201043

Fans: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16835200048

Right now, I havn't ordered any parts yet. I want to be 100% sure of my plan before I begin. What should I use to cut holes into the briefcase? What other components do I need or what parts should I use instead of my already chosen ones? Do you think my plan will work? I do not know where to find a monitor without a stand that I can mount onto the top of the case. Could you please provide links?

Thanks
Adam
 
Do you plan to make it like a laptop where you open it up and use it or do you plan to keep it closed and have the screen viewable from the outside?
 
well the only cuts I need in the case are for fans and the DVD drive. I'm not quite sure how to cut the circle for the fans. I don't want to buy a hole cutter. is there any other way to cut perfect circles? I want to stick with circle fan grills, even though it'd be easier to make a square cut. A dremel with a cutting edge will work right?
 
I like the idea.

dremel is your friend, just take your time and do it right on the first try, it's easy to screw up.

I'm planning on something in the same vein, the major difference is I want to make it closer to a laptop. Im a little uncertain what to contrusct my chassis with, I was thinking clear plastic at first but now Im thinking I might weld up a case out of steel.
 
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