New Case, New Questions

Silibant

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Nov 23, 2013
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I got a HAF 912 to replace my s::tty Cougar Spike, and before I jump into anything, I have a few questions. First of all, how much of my PC will I have to dissasemble for a case swap? Taking GPU and PSU away from MOBO, and unplugging HDDs, of course. Next question is how long will this take? My PC took 4 hrs to make the 1st time including CPU install, unpacking, etc and I was hoping for an estimated timeframe. Thanks for any possible help. Also, for all you experienced system builders, any tips for someone who's new to PC building? Thanks, and happy building.
 
Solution
like you said, i'd take the GPU off the mobo, and leave the CPU/heatsink/ram all connected. easiest way is to lay both cases on their back next to each other, pick up the mobo from one, then just lay it in the other (might need to adjust riser positions)

then screw'n and plugg'n. that's it. not rocket science.

i'd clean out your components while they're out. for instance, the fans on your GPU might be caked with dust. Just take a Qtip dipped in isopropyl alcohol and clean each fin. same goes for case fans and heatsink fans. Also canned air works well for blowing out random dust collections.

just dont used canned air on your fans if you're a novice... the bearings inside them dont like being spun super fast on some fans.

lowriderflow

Distinguished
like you said, i'd take the GPU off the mobo, and leave the CPU/heatsink/ram all connected. easiest way is to lay both cases on their back next to each other, pick up the mobo from one, then just lay it in the other (might need to adjust riser positions)

then screw'n and plugg'n. that's it. not rocket science.

i'd clean out your components while they're out. for instance, the fans on your GPU might be caked with dust. Just take a Qtip dipped in isopropyl alcohol and clean each fin. same goes for case fans and heatsink fans. Also canned air works well for blowing out random dust collections.

just dont used canned air on your fans if you're a novice... the bearings inside them dont like being spun super fast on some fans.
 
Solution

Silibant

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Ok, thanks. Yeah, I have a lot more experience now so it should take around 2 hrs, but I wanted a 2nd opinion. I have 2 RAM sticks; you're sure I should leave them in?
 

Silibant

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Thanks for all the help. One more question: can I use a hair dryer on "cold" to blow out dust on components, or is it too dangerous? I know not to use it on hot, but ours can blow actual cold air when you want it to.
 

Silibant

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True, but I'd like to get a 212 EVO now that i have a case that supports CPU cutouts, and I'd need it then.
 

Silibant

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Well, I don't even have the stock cooler. I have a ThermalTake 80mm 3 pin barely-does-the-job cooler. The 212 will be quieter and since it is universal I can recycle it to each new build.