One of the most obvious trends in technology is the increasing popularity of laptops - but while many people can see the attraction of a small PC, it's hard to build your own laptop and if you do opt for a portable computer, you'll often be stuck with components which are significantly slower than their desktop relations.
A small form factor machine is a good compromise between size and speed, but finding the right case isn't easy. Zalman's HD 160 XT Plus, for instance, is certainly ideal for a sleek looking media PC, but at £400 it's not exactly cheap.
That's why we turned to expert modder Daniel Costin (aka Syrillian) to write a series of articles showing how to build your own SFF case from acrylic. He seemed like the ideal man for the job, having constructed the amazing Gemini mod for our Towers of Power feature.
Daniel blogged throughtout the construction of the case at www.custompc.co.uk/blogs/syrillian. The case is now complete, and you can now read his complete guide to building a compact case from acrylic below.
Posts:
1) Introduction and tools
2) Measuring and cutting
3) Scoring, Snaping and profiiling acrylic panels
4) Hardware and cooling fan placement
5) Cutting and finishing fan holes
6) Polishing
7) Bonding and polishing (part 2)
8) Case cooling, and an acrylic optical/HDD caddy
9) The rear I/O pannel
10) Final steps
Author: Alex Watson
Complete Guide To Building Your Own Acrylic SFF case