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Im too lazy to do a build log, but i figured i'll just share what i had planned for my build.
I started with a SMA8 and was planning to do a custom pedestal + SMA8. I already made the midplate to connect the pedestal to the SMA8. Then i happen to stumble on a STH10 (which i always prefer) for sale.
Sold my SMA8 and bought the STH10.
So going into this project - i want to achieve most of the things i want, with as little mods to the case as i possibly can. Caselab parts arent inexpensive and shipping is a killer. So if i do change my mind down in the future, its more cost effective for me to do so.
So i started with building a midplate for the pumps + res. Aluminum sheets are quite expensive (thicker gauge anyways), so i used MDF boards. Cheap, easy to use and cheaper to replace if i screw up.
Looking at the rough placement for the midplate. And whether do i want a gap between the case and the pump/res plate.
Working on the top and figuring out where to drill the holes for the CPU loop.
Well, i messed up and didnt triple check my measurements. Lesson #1 learned the hard way
\
Double checking where the ports are on the CPU block and holes for the top of the case.
Finally taking shape. Also, i used 1/8" MDF board for the mid plate and use the existing holes on the chassis to route my tubing. I think it looks very clean and avoid drilling on the expensive part.
Plumbing the bottom rad. I hate EMT tubing. A pain in the ass to compress.
Then i got both my pump/res and found out, that if i put a 1"+ space between the back of the case and pump/res plate, it'll push the pumps too far forward and ill miss my ideal hole for one of the pumps. So, decided to install 1/2" foam gasket (ones you use to cover gaps for insulation) behind the res/pump plate. Also acts as an insulator against noise and vibrations.
Finally doing my bends. It took a couple of tries using the mandrel bends (barrow kit) for me to realize, its easier to hand form them than use the kit. Good thing i bought (3) 1m PETG tubing to use. I went through 2/3 of them.
Also, i redid the 90* bend coming into the pump on the left hand side.
Ordered a sheet of Brushed Alum and 4D carbon fiber vinyl and install them. I ordered a small sheet to see if i like it. Its much better in person than the pics. If you guys are looking for a vinyl sheet, check out VVivid. These are the ones i purchased:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I didnt take too many pics up to this point. I only had a day to finish everything and manage to finish the comp in 9+ hours. The current setup above is just temporary.
Next on the list to do:
- Sleeved cables
- Fabricate a bracket and Install the AQ6 by the window (since my comp is sideways anyways)
- Just ordered my foam insulation and install it when it gets here
- Finish the vinyl installation
- Re-do the wiring for the PA2, HD cages and install another HD cage for the HD's on the bottom chamber
Its been an 8+ months of hoarding parts and pieces and im glad to see its all together.
I'll update once i get my order next week.
I started with a SMA8 and was planning to do a custom pedestal + SMA8. I already made the midplate to connect the pedestal to the SMA8. Then i happen to stumble on a STH10 (which i always prefer) for sale.
Sold my SMA8 and bought the STH10.
So going into this project - i want to achieve most of the things i want, with as little mods to the case as i possibly can. Caselab parts arent inexpensive and shipping is a killer. So if i do change my mind down in the future, its more cost effective for me to do so.
So i started with building a midplate for the pumps + res. Aluminum sheets are quite expensive (thicker gauge anyways), so i used MDF boards. Cheap, easy to use and cheaper to replace if i screw up.
Looking at the rough placement for the midplate. And whether do i want a gap between the case and the pump/res plate.
Working on the top and figuring out where to drill the holes for the CPU loop.
Well, i messed up and didnt triple check my measurements. Lesson #1 learned the hard way
\Double checking where the ports are on the CPU block and holes for the top of the case.
Finally taking shape. Also, i used 1/8" MDF board for the mid plate and use the existing holes on the chassis to route my tubing. I think it looks very clean and avoid drilling on the expensive part.
Plumbing the bottom rad. I hate EMT tubing. A pain in the ass to compress.
Then i got both my pump/res and found out, that if i put a 1"+ space between the back of the case and pump/res plate, it'll push the pumps too far forward and ill miss my ideal hole for one of the pumps. So, decided to install 1/2" foam gasket (ones you use to cover gaps for insulation) behind the res/pump plate. Also acts as an insulator against noise and vibrations.
Finally doing my bends. It took a couple of tries using the mandrel bends (barrow kit) for me to realize, its easier to hand form them than use the kit. Good thing i bought (3) 1m PETG tubing to use. I went through 2/3 of them.
Also, i redid the 90* bend coming into the pump on the left hand side.
Ordered a sheet of Brushed Alum and 4D carbon fiber vinyl and install them. I ordered a small sheet to see if i like it. Its much better in person than the pics. If you guys are looking for a vinyl sheet, check out VVivid. These are the ones i purchased:
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01...?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I didnt take too many pics up to this point. I only had a day to finish everything and manage to finish the comp in 9+ hours. The current setup above is just temporary.
Next on the list to do:
- Sleeved cables
- Fabricate a bracket and Install the AQ6 by the window (since my comp is sideways anyways)
- Just ordered my foam insulation and install it when it gets here
- Finish the vinyl installation
- Re-do the wiring for the PA2, HD cages and install another HD cage for the HD's on the bottom chamber
Its been an 8+ months of hoarding parts and pieces and im glad to see its all together.
I'll update once i get my order next week.
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