Building an Unconventional Mini-ITX Gaming PC
There is a new mini-ITX gaming PC that has caught the attention of many enthusiasts due to its unique design. Created by modder Michael Sheppard, this open-air system features a custom-made steel case and a range of impressive components.
The inspiration behind this outlandish PC came from Sheppard’s previous project, Project Z. His main goal was to downsize the footprint by using a mini-ITX motherboard and a full-sized ATX power supply, while also making design improvements for better user-friendliness.
The design process began with pen and paper, allowing Sheppard to quickly visualize and brainstorm ideas. He marked out component locations and cable holes onto the case itself, providing a clear blueprint for the final product.
One of the standout features of this mini-ITX build is its neat cabling. Sheppard meticulously designs and custom-makes all the cables, lending a clean and organized look to the system. Additionally, he created panel-mounted combs to enhance cable management and facilitate easy maintenance or upgrades.
Another impressive aspect of this gaming PC is its custom water-cooling system. Sheppard took great care in planning the routes for the tubing, ensuring that they passed through the case rather than around it. The use of a parallel loop configuration resulted in a cleaner and tidier appearance.
To add a personal touch, Sheppard used a vinyl cutter to create custom decals for the GPU waterblock. By taking a picture of the graphics card and transferring it to the software, he was able to design a backplate with a Star Wars light-speed stripe and incorporate the Z and be quiet! logos.
The build process involved repurposing a 2mm-thick steel sheet from the previous project. Sheppard cut and bent the sheet to create a smaller case with improved features such as a relocated I/O panel and additional holes for better airflow. The entire process required various tools and techniques, including an angle grinder, Dremel, hacksaw blades, files, and sandpaper.
While there were some difficulties encountered, such as limited space for mounting the graphics card, Sheppard found creative solutions to overcome them. He ultimately used a PCIe riser bracket and angled steel to achieve the desired positioning.
In conclusion, this mini-ITX gaming PC showcases the creativity and technical skills of its builder. With its unique open-air case, custom water-cooling system, and attention to detail, it is a testament to the possibilities of PC customization and innovation.
Additional Facts:
– The mini-ITX gaming PC created by Michael Sheppard is powered by an Intel Core i7 processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics card.
– The system features 32GB of RAM and a high-capacity Solid State Drive (SSD) for fast storage.
– Sheppard implemented RGB lighting in the build to enhance the overall aesthetics of the PC.
– The mini-ITX form factor allows for compact size, making it suitable for those with limited space or those who prefer a portable gaming PC.
– Building a mini-ITX gaming PC requires careful component selection and efficient cable management to optimize airflow and prevent overheating.
Key Questions and Answers:
1. What is the advantage of using a mini-ITX form factor for a gaming PC?
– The advantage of using a mini-ITX form factor is the compact size, allowing for easy portability and fitting in small spaces. It’s ideal for gamers who want a powerful gaming system without sacrificing desk or room space.
2. How does the custom water-cooling system benefit the mini-ITX gaming PC?
– The custom water-cooling system helps to maintain optimal temperatures, ensuring better performance and longevity of the components. By carefully planning the tubing routes and using a parallel loop configuration, it enhances the aesthetics and cleanliness of the build.
3. What challenges were faced during the build process?
– Limited space for mounting the graphics card was a challenge during the build process. However, Sheppard found a solution by using a PCIe riser bracket and angled steel to achieve the desired positioning.
Advantages:
– Unique and eye-catching design.
– Compact size for easy portability and space-saving.
– Custom water-cooling system for optimal cooling and performance.
– Meticulous cable management for a clean and organized look.
Disadvantages:
– Limited space for components, potentially resulting in restricted upgrade options.
– Higher complexity and technical knowledge required for building and maintaining the system.
– Cost may be higher compared to traditional ATX gaming PCs due to mini-ITX-specific components.
