Side Panel to Window

[JogaBonito1502]

How hard is it to mod a side panel to a window? Would it be cheaper to just get a new case? I've never done any modding work with metal.

[sniperviper21]

if you can cut the metal/aluminum with a dremel or what not, you can just get some plexiglass from a hardware store an put in there to.
I cant imagine it being any harder then that.

[JogaBonito1502]

My school has a metal shop, they'd be able to cut it there right? How would I mount the window onto the side panel frame. On top? Underneath?

[Remeniz]

I'd mount it from behind...

Anyways. If you can bevel the perspex edge so that you get a flush mount window it'd look even better.

[Cabbs]

You could mount the window to the panel by drilling holes and bolting it to the window. I've also seen double-sided tape used for a cleaner look, but some might find that a bit ghetto.

[JogaBonito1502]

Well, I just ask because I need something to do; I need a project. It doesn't necessarily have to be this, but this is what comes to mind since I want a side window. Is it advisable to mod a window on both sides?

[Cabbs]

Not on both sides. You lose a place to hide wires and there really isn't anything to see over there.

You could sleeve your PSU.

[madanchi]

yeah one window is enough, plus when you do the side window you could always add the side fan to it by marking and drilling holes for it, then cutting a circle the right size and stick on a fan filter ^^

[Atomic Rooster]

Here ya go Joga: CrazyPC - Window Kits

[Grantofhell]

NEVER, for the love of God, never use those kits. The molding is massive and ugly. That's my opinion. Look back over my Case Log and see the first window I had.

I just went to my brick and mortar (TrueValue, Lowes, HD) store and bought a 30x30 sheet of plexi (1/8th thick - You can also use 1/4 for a stronger window). Also, I bought something called "Allen Key Bolts". 10 of them, and matched 10 nuts to go with those.

Then from FrozenCPU, I bought some C-Channel molding (I bought 6 feet for also cleaning up the modded edges on my case). That molding works great for stopping vibrations and looks excellent with my current window.

^^^ EDIT: I'm sure you can pick up essentially the same molding from your local B&M store. Just make sure it's rubber and not plastic.

From there, it was all work. You can see progress pictures, also in my Case Log. I taped up the metal to prevent scratches, measured things up, and began cutting the metal. From there, I cut the plexi to fit inside the metal guides that help the panel go on. I VERY CAREFULLY drilled holes in the plexi and the metal for mounting. Tack-clothed both items, mounted it, tightened the bolts, and dremel'd the ends of the bolts off to keep from having mounting interference.

Case Log - CM690