How to Add Computer Case Windows

The addition of a window on a computer makes it instantly educational as well as turning it into a conversation piece. You can buy a window kit and install it yourself. You can also buy a new case with a window in it and move all your current computer's components into it or buy a PC with a factory-installed window.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer window kit
• Ruler
• Drill
• Jigsaw
• Metal files
• Scissors
• Computer vacuum
• Safety goggles
• Gloves

1. Unplug the computer and remove the left-side panel. Place the panel on an even, flat surface, making sure the outside surface is facing up. Decide where the window goes, leaving at least an inch between the edge of the panel and the edge of the window.

2. Place the window on top of the panel, using a ruler to level it with the panel's edges. With a pencil, trace a line, 1/4 inch outside the window's edge which leaves the necessary room for the molding. This is the area to be cut.

3. Drill a pilot hole with a bit large enough for a jigsaw blade or rotary cutter wheel approximately an inch inside the pencil line. Use this hole as the starting point and cut carefully along the pencil line using the jigsaw or rotary cutter. Jigsaws usually produce the best results.

4. Use a flat file to gently smooth the edges and remove any burs in the cutout area. Use a rounded file to do the same on the inside corners.

5. Install the molding by starting at the bottom of the cutout in the panel and push the molding's narrow gap onto the edge of the cutout hole. As tightly as you can, work the molding around the hole until the ends meet. Neatly cut off any excess.

6. Carefully remove the paper or plastic protective backing from the acrylic window. Start with a corner and insert an edge of the window into the thick gap of the molding. Work molding all around the entire windows edge.

7. Tighten the moldings grip between the side panel and window by inserting the kit's locking strip, a thin piece of rubber that should pop into the moldings triangular locking groove. Insert the locking strip around the entire molding, cutting off any excess. Put the side panel back on the computer, plug the power cord in and turn it on.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your kit fits into your existing case and read the installation manual.
• While the computer is open, use a computer vacuum to clean and dislodge dust that may have collected inside.
• After removing the window's protective backing, take care to not scratch the newly exposed acrylic. It is a plastic and will scratch quite easily.
• To draw the 1/4-inch line straight, place a 1/2-inch washer on the edge of the window. Using the pencils tip inside the washer, trace the window's edge. The washer keeps the pencil line evenly distanced from the window edge.
• Windows give the best view of its interior on the left side. Putting a window on the right side only reveals the tray holding the motherboard in place.
• Don't block any air vents or holes. Doing so could cause serious damage to components.
• Drilling and cutting metal can be dangerous. It can create temperatures hot enough burn, edges sharp enough to cut and make bits of metal become airborne. Wear safety goggles and work gloves to decrease the risk of injury.
• Make sure to leave an inch between the edge of the panel and the edge of the window. Leaving any less weakens the panel's strength.
• Always clean the window using a lint-free cloth and warm water. Using products containing ammonia or alcohol causes the window to fog.