Scratch Build – In Progress Project Specced ITX 1.0

Right now, things are like this. BUT there’s a problem, quite a hot one, that needs to be addressed. And it’ll mean some changes to the build…



























So the PROBLEM then. Those that already stated their concerns about the heat in this system: you were right. With the top or side panel off, it’s no problem. But once it’s closed up, oh man it’s like an oven in there. 90+ °C after playing an hour of GTA V is waaay to much. Plus the tubing gets a little ‘soft’ again due to the heat, which caused fittings to loosen up and LEAK. Changes have to be made, only esthetically, I don’t know if it’ll do it any good… Let’s find out?



This is what I drew up… generally cutting out bigger parts in the rad cover. Going to test temps with this because I can do this without having to take the whole build apart. If not good, same treatment will ensue for the front rad cover.

+ I have room at the back for a 92mm fan. My eye fell on a Be Quiet Silent Wings 2… Still having to make that decision though…

 

UPDATE

So, I did some testing with the bottom rad cover off. As such:



Didn’t help a thing, so some things needed more changing. Panels off. Fun fact: my ‘standard’ screwdriver was just the right length to support my graphics card



Another surprise soon followed. The computer in this open state was still very usable, so I did. But the lighting effect against my wall I did not expect. It’s crazy beautiful…



Anyway, drilled some holes, had to file and sand them down ofcourse, but the panel is going to be repainted after this anyway.



Very nice Shadow Wings 2 fan by Be Quiet. 92mm version. Sleeved that!



Then took the jigsaw to the back panel. Made this hole in 1 go. Perfect.



Fan on. The M3 holes I made were júst a little too small for the plastic push-in-inserts (instead of screws) that Be Quiet delivers with its fans. Had to wiggle a bit with the drill (M3). M4 would have been too big. But the caps of the inserts look soooo nice on the outside.



So I tested like this. (Took the wrap off of the bottom rad cover because I made marks on it when planning to cut it up, woops.)



More testing like this. Visually not as pleasing as before. But a necessary change I’m afraid



And temperatures are good! On full load everything stays around 70°C. No noticeable added noise. Happy me.