How to Modify a PC Case

Blank case? Boring. Spice it up with a custom mod.

There is no better way to show off your custom PC than with a case mod to match. With the right design, you can show off your internal hardware or create a machine that looks like something straight out of your favorite sci-fi movie. The only limit is your imagination. These steps will walk you through the basics of cutting panels and creating windows. In order to successfully build a case mod, you will need to be comfortable using hand tools and installing computer hardware.

Things You'll Need

• Latex or rubber gloves
• Safety goggles
• Face mask
• Work gloves
• Screwdrivers (flat head and Phillips head)
• Power drill
• Jigsaw or rotary cutting tool
• Ruler
• Masking tape
• Anti-static wrist strap
• Metal file or sandpaper
• Paper and pencil
• Decorative materials (lighted cabling, case window panels, paint, decals, etc.)
• Acrylic window panel(s)

Instructions

1. Pick out a good case for your project. The ideal case will have smooth side panels and no external detailing. The case is your canvas, so you will want to find something simple to work with. In general, aluminum panels are easier to work with than plastic.

2. Measure the side panels of your case. Create paper templates that match these dimensions exactly. Before you start cutting, you will want to take the time to draw out your guidelines. Better to have to make several templates than finding a whole new case.

3. Remove any hardware that may be installed inside the case. Wear your wrist strap to prevent damaging static discharge. Carefully place all the hardware somewhere cool and safe, preferably out of direct sunlight.

4. Remove the side panels. The side panels will be held together with either rivets or screws. Screws can be removed with a basic handheld screwdriver. Make sure to place all the screws in a small bowl or dish so that you do not lose them. To remove rivets, use an 1/8-inch drill bit to break the rivet apart. The rivet will need to be replaced by a new one when you are reassembling the case.

5. Tape your first template to the corresponding panel. Use the drill to create small pilot holes. A pilot hole allows you to insert your cutting tool easily without scratching or tearing the exterior of the case. For a rectangular design, such as a basic window, drill one pilot hole per corner. For a circular or curved design, you will likely want several pilot holes at regular intervals, so as to follow the curve more carefully rather than cutting in one long strip.

6. Use the jigsaw or rotary tool to cut out your design. Go slowly and take breaks as needed. Rushing through this step will result in a sloppy mod. Once all the cutting is complete, gently smooth out the edges using your file or sandpaper.

7. Attach your acrylic paneling to the back side of the panel. There are many different methods for securing the paneling. Silicone glue creates a sturdy seal. Strips of velcro are popular among modders who like to swap out paneling in different colors. If you do not wish to have windows, you may skip this step. However, keep in mind that having open holes on your case leaves the internal hardware unprotected.

8. Add paint, decals, stickers or lights to give your case its own unique style. Have your color scheme all picked out before you start on the case. If you are using paint, you may want to first test it on the scraps cut out from the panels.

9. Reassemble the case once all the panels are complete. Install the hardware and seal the case back up.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear a face mask when working with paints or glue. Safety goggles are essential throughout the modding process. An aluminum chip in the eye can ruin a modder's day.

References

• SLI Zone: Case Modding Tutorial 1
• Case Mod Blog: Guide to Basic Tools for Case Modding
• ExtremeTech: Creating a Case Window