I was recently sent some Neon string for review by the great guys at CoolCaseMods. Ever since it dropped through the letterbox, I have been wondering just where I can put it as my case was pretty much standard. This is when I decided to add a few more mods to the case to compliment the Neon string so as not to make it look out of place. I decided to fit a plexi window and a nice window etch to round things off. Lets get started shall we?
Tools:
Masking tape
Pencil
Drill
Jigsaw with fine finish metal blade, nibbler or dremmel
De-burring tool or file
Sharp Knife/scissors
Method: Click the pics for a larger view in a new window.
Well, this is the victim before the mods. It is the venerable GlobalWin 802, standard issue overclockers case.
The first thing to do is remove the side panel and tape it up with masking tape. This makes it easier to draw the outline of the window and will prevent the jigsaw from scratching the paint off.
Place the window onto the masked area where you have decided on it's location. Allow one half inch (½") or (1.27cm) of clearance between the windows edge and inside edge of the chassis. The same clearance must also be maintained between the window and any other obstruction that comes in contact with the door. Place the washer against the window and with the pencil on the inside of the washer, draw around the wondow. This will give an outline approx 5mm larger than the window. This will allow the seal to fit into the opening.
Drill a pilot hole inside the outline and cut the section out along the outline with a jigsaw, nibbler or dremmel. Remove any sharp edges with the de-burring tool or a file.
Fit the narrow opening of the seal over the edge of the cutout in the case with the rounded side of the seal facing out. Position the join at the bottom of the window cutout. Cut the seal to the right length with a sharp knife.
Insert the window from the inside of the seal. Pull the rubber back and push the corner of the window into the edge of the seal. Use something blunt to pry the rubber out of the way for the last section - I used an Arctic Silver Epoxy applicator that I just had lying around.
Place the locking strip in its groove in the molding. For best results, apply it horizontally (flat). It can be stretched to make it easy to insert. Then, when it is released, it will expand.
When it is locked in fully, cut off any excess locking strip with the knife or scissors.
Replace the door and marvel at the professional look from this kit.
A nice close up of the fully installed window. Now onto applying a window etch...
