That's what you should do but not many do. I just touch a tap or something to ground my self then start ripping on a normal table with a towel underneath to stop any scratches.
I found that having quite a small room that gets warm having a large case (even if you havent got a huge mobo and lots on it) plus some big slow spinning fans keeps the pc cool and fairly quiet. I also put mine on the floor so the fan noise wasnt at head height.
So, my Fractal Design R3 case arrived today. Prior to doing anything I have studied all the connections on the existing set up, worked out where they all go and then examined the new case. It's very nice, but i noticed at the back top left as you look at the back, next to the fan... a great big opening! I rang Scan Computers (who I bought it from) and they said... "it's meant to be like that". Not wishing to doubt the good guys at scan, I went to Fractals web site and sure enough, in the photo's there is is a big rectangular hole. How can this be a noise reducing case with a big hole in it? Or am I wrong? Since the product is as shipped, I will go ahead and fit it. It's a lovely bit of engineering (apart from the hole)..
I don't really undertsand what are you talking about. A picture might help. The case has a variety of holes for fans to get some air flow going to cool off your components, else it will be an oven in a mater of minutes, and at the inside (once the panel are removes) for cable management.
well, the image is of the side view with the panels open, but I am talking about the back view, right next to the fan there is a rectangular section that is open to the world. LEt me see if I can get a picture of it and post...
OMG! DragunovHUN you are right.. what an arse I am. Can you tell I have not done this before! What a prize plonker I HAVE BEEN... so sorry all... I hope it gave you a laugh anyway...
for silent disks, you should be looking at SSD's. they offer both speed improvement over your current HDD, and totally silent operation. a 40GB SSD is pretty cheap, and should allow you to get most of often used programs on there. then use your current HDD for data storage such as stuff inside "My Documents"
Ok, let me explain. Here is an example of a motherboard backplate (it can be different) The backplate can be difficult to remove and install.. it's one of those ultra tight fit things that needs to be inserted. Take your time.
yes, the SSD's might be a good idea, but there are more fundamental things to do first, this weekend, new case (ahem).. then move the OS to a new SATA drive (to eliminate the clunky old IDE drive) then perhaps a new PSU. That's my schedule of activity for now... but you are right about the SSD's perhaps I can tag that on to the end of the list.
If you have an HDD and SSD, it won't reduce system noise, as the HDD will still spin. They are quieter HDD's around. But the case does help greatly in reducing noise. If you are going with an SSD, get a 120GB one, where you nicely fit Windows, the coming up service packs, updated, room for program temps, software, and save large project which you want to open quickly. If you need more room, get an external HDD enclosure on eSATA, and use your old HDD. Turn on the external HDD when needed.
So, I moved the PC into the new case, and horror! the PSU connection to the motherboard would not reach, about 4 inches too short! So, new PSU, went for a new PSU, Corsair CX600 (I think). Put the whole lot in the new case and my word, what a difference! Now I can hardly tell it's even on! With the help of all of you, my goal has been achieved. Thank you all.
AWESOME! Glad we could help. Yea, if you go with a good PSU manufacture. They tend to well test their units to ensure that you don't fall onto a short wire with special cases.
I know the OP's problem is basically solved, but since it's such a useful resource I might as well link everyone to http://www.silentpcreview.com/ - damn good site for silent PC kit reviews.
