Case modding - Worth it?

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BumblingTinkerer

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Dec 27, 2014
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So I have a DC7900 convertible mini-tower with a bashed in case. Everything inside seems to work just fine, but the case itself is a trainwreck. I'd like to replace it, but it's the failed BTX format (and thus impossible to find). I've debated on trying my hand at a "from scratch" case made out of wood, but I have a few questions first.

1. Do modded / from scratch cases shorten the life of the computer at all? I'm worried that I'll spend weeks (if not months) building the thing only to have it die on me within six weeks.

2. Would a wooden case have any problems with electrical interference? I found a lot of wooden cases on Google, but I didn't see anything about how well they perform.

3. Is there anything else I should be aware of before tackling this project?

Thanks in advance for the help and advice.
 
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GhislainG

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Jul 16, 2008
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A wooden case would work as long as it's well ventilated. Grounding of components is achieved through the PSU, but you still need to install most components inside the current case to support components, including the motherboard. You should preferably shield the case, but that's a different challenge. Consider it as a fun project where the longevity of that old PC shouldn't be a criteria. Unless it's damaged beyond repair, have you considered fixing the original case? That could also be an interesting project.
 
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BumblingTinkerer

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Dec 27, 2014
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I considered trying to repair it, but finding a replacement part online has proven nigh impossible.

UPS apparently dropped the box onto its corner prior to delivering it. The aluminum corner is bashed in, the internal "cage" is dented, the front plastic bezel is cracked and warped out of shape, and the plastic front bay covers are completely shattered. I would need to completely replace the side aluminum panel and front bezel at the very least.

The shipment was insured, and the machine was replaced. I was told that I could keep this tower for parts (which I've harvested as much as I can), but I feel bad getting rid of the surplus motherboard and CPU (as they're perfectly good).

That being said, without a BTX case, there isn't much that I can do with them.
 
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