Case selection dilemas

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Joined
25 Oct 2002
Posts
158
Location
Perth,Scotland
Hi all,

I intend to build a new hi-spec system when i get back from my holiday in a months time.

System purpose:
Flight simulator deluxe
few other god sims
programming(java)
iPod connection
surfing
film,music and picture storage for PS3 & Xbox v1

Spec:
Q6600 with overclock
4Gb memory (maybe 8 depending on funds)
ATI HD 4870
700W PSU
ASUS P5Q (not selected model yet)
2x 320Gb Drives for system use

Dilema 1:
I am also looking at having 4 x 750Gb or 3 x 1Tb drives for NAS storage.
The question is would it be better to put these externaly or internally(heat issue & power usage issue being left on 24/7).

Dilema 2:
I am a little concerned about the amount of heat this will all put out if I go with the drives internally. But if i put them externally will the NAS server be able to supply the media to the PS3, I know there are issues around this, plus the extra cost?(not really for this thread, but feel free to comment)

Dilema 3:
i am looking to keep the system as quiet as i can since it will be in the lounge. I do have the option of watercooling(i have the gear), but not done this before and a little worried about the amount of aftercare needed(basically i dont want any!). which case would provide best space for mounting the kit, I have 2 x 120 swiftech rad. what would be the best place to put this?

My other issue is that thanks to the design of my desk I cannot go for a full tower. I was looking at an Antec 900 or Antec P182, if the desk was not an issue then a coolermaster Cosmos 1000. all suggestions are welcome though.

I know these issues arent specifically for the case forum, but i think they all touch on it in some way. essentially i think there are two questions...
1) if everything was to be put into one case which ones would be the best with and without watercooling.
2) if drives were put externally which would be the best case to keep cool and quiet without watercooling.

any other suggestions welcome.
Thanks
 
Last edited:
The Antec 900 is a tad on the small side for all that kit, nevermind WC. However the 1200 is much bigger in size but you'd obviously have to measure things accordingly
 
Lian Li PC-A05 will take that lot. Get a Thermalright HR-01 passive CPU cooler (use it with the blue fan duct off the rear case fan) and get a Tagan 2-ForceII PSU so the air bows straight through the PSU and out the front.

Add on an Accellero S1 with fan kit for the graphics and you have small, silent and oomphy.

Nas drives would probably have to live outside though.
 
Thanks for the advice guys.
Im going to go with a Lian-Li PC-A17B case and a QNAP TS-409 NAS server for the drives.
Ive also purchased a Noctua NH-U12F HSF from MM.

Ive decided to try things with stock HSF & Noctua to start with and see how the noise and temps go. Ive got the WC stuff (just need a block for the ATI 4870), so if needs be I will change over.
 
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