cooler master 430 elite side window mod

[monster123]

Hi

I recently brought new pc with Cooler Master elite 430 case but it did not come with the transparent side window...
Can anyone help me how to mod this side panel (procedure) or construct a new one...

 

[theJesus]

The easiest way would be to buy a window kit from somewhere like performance-pcs.com and cut the hole with a jigsaw (make sure to use a smooth-cut blade for metal). You'll want to clamp the panel down pretty good and use a cutting guide (a "rip-fence" for a circular saw should work). And cover the area outside of the cut with tape or something so the panel doesn't get scratched by the feet.

If you have a nice dremel or other nice rotary tool, you can use a heavy duty cut-off blade instead of the jigsaw, but you might have a harder time getting straight cuts. However, you can always grind out the areas where it's uneven and then file it down. This is how I did it because I was unable to sufficiently clamp the panel for the jigsaw (it kept flopping up and down pretty bad).

Also, if you don't want to have a rubber grommet like the window kits use, you can buy just the acrylic and cut it to be larger than the hole, then rivet it to the panel. When cutting the acrylic, do not use power tools as it will melt very easy. Instead, score it with a utility knife and snap it. You may want to practice on scrap first.

 

[Chryonn]

i would practice as much as you can on scrap metal, plastic and acrylic. the last thing you want to do is make the cuts on your final/original piece and find you're out by a few inches.

 

[sneekypeet]

If you have access to more than just a dremmel, I suggest this guide as a really great place to start,

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=72470

 

[theJesus]

If you have access to more than just a dremmel, I suggest this guide as a really great place to start,

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=72470

Oh I wish I would have remembered that guide when I did my window mod