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Building a Stained Glass Computer Case?
Ldyandrea asks: "I'm a stained glass artist, and also a bit of a computer nut....but I'd like to build an actual stained glass computer case, and don't know enough about hardware design to build something like this from scratch. I have seen the acrylic cases, and this would be one of the best things to base a design upon, but wondering if there is simply (rather than a case with cutouts) a "skeleton" that has the metal framework and whatnot that I can build around? I realize that cooling is a big issue for this idea, and would want to have a few different fans involved. Can anyone point me in the right direction of either a supplier of such a framework, or some general good ideas I should keep in mind when constructing this case?" This is such an interesting idea, I had to post it. When you think about it, it shouldn't be too hard to do, even if you can't get such a case "skeleton". How hard would it really be to take an ordinary case to a metal worker to get it cut to specs? I just hope Ldyandrea sends us back some pictures of the finished product whenever it is finished.
Wouldn't all the vibration made by the various pieces of hardware resonate off the glass? You'd have to dampen it somehow, which I'm sure someone here can suggest how.
Someone hates these cans.
This is an awesome idea and I imagine it will look so nice when it's finished but wouldn't you be afraid to work with your case since it's so nice but stained glass isn't exactly the same ol' sheet metal here. I have a mirror finish done on my case and I'm really apprehensive about working with it in fear of scratching it, I just think in your case shattering glass would be much worse than just a scratch on the paint.
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I know you don't really want to use an acrylic case, but it might be a good idea. AFAIK, Stained glass isn't the hardiest substance around, and PCs can weight upwards of 30 pounds or more, so I would think using a clear case, which is sturdy and will hold the weight, as a base then putting the stained glass on top of it might be a better idea.
I'm not 100% sure, but it makes sense that most of the strength of a stained glass window would come from the frame, right? Well, if that's the case, you'd need a real heavy and stiff frame to support all the weight of the pc parts, keep it true (Don't want to pick up a case and have it fold in on you like a stepladder) and any other unforeseen events.
Can stained glass handle being opened up and closed a bunch of times? Being knocked over?
Your dealing with something in 3 Dimensions here, not the mostly 2 Dimensions you use with a window, so you'll have to adjust your thoughts accordingly.
But, if your deadset on building one from scratch, most metal workers will build the frame you need, and fairly cheap as well. It's almost trivial to them. Then you can go online and get parts you'll need to finish it up. Hope it helps!
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The metal in the cases wasnt chosen only because it looks pretty, it blocks out the EMI coming from the PC inards, as well as the EMI from the surrounding environment from interfering with said PC innards. Hopefully the lead in the stained glass (is there lead in stained glass? or only in the sodder) will block some of it. (This type of issue got a lot of talk when the clear PCs came out) That being said, i would suggest using a regular PC case, where the sides and front can be removed as a starting point, even if the front must be hacked apart a little bit, mind the wires though, the LEDs will make the front real pretty when you have completed the project. For good air flow I would suggest leaving an inch or two between the ground and the start of the stained glass, and using that gap to suck air in at the front, mind the studies on effect of adding additional fans, it doesnt allways improve airflow.
paul reinheimer
Why not just take an alumnium case and cut out the panels? You could paint what remains black and then build the stained glass around the frame.
If I were you, I'd worry about not just cooling but dust -- after a year of running dust will collect all over the inside of your glass and in the little unreachable parts. You might want to look at air filters for the fans.