Adding a fan to a case

[ryan256]

I have a Silverstone TJ04 case that I have had to leave open with a fan blowing into it for the past few months to keep my video card from overheating. Well I'm ready to replace this video card and add a new power supply. But I'm also adding this fan to the case to give it extra air flow. My original idea was to cut the hole for the fan in the bottom of the case. But now I'm considering cutting it in the side window.
Any recommendations on which would provide better airflow? I'm thinking putting it on the window will. In which case what steps should I take so the dremmel won't scratch the hell out of the rest of the window when I cut the hole? Painters tape?

 

[Fallen Kell]

Tape is a start, but it really depends on what the window material is made from that will determine what might work for cutting a hole in it. I mean, if you put a piece of tempered glass in there, a dremel will simply shatter it...

 

[ryan256]

Originally posted by: Fallen Kell
Tape is a start, but it really depends on what the window material is made from that will determine what might work for cutting a hole in it. I mean, if you put a piece of tempered glass in there, a dremel will simply shatter it...

Hehe... good point. The window is acrylic.

 

[Zepper]

I'd try blocking off that vent above the card slots before cutting another fan opening. Extraneous venting like that just shortcuts the airflow, i.e. the rear fan just draws air in thru that venting instead of having to do some work pulling the air thru the case from front to rear. Air (like water, electricity and students) takes the "path of least resistance." ;-) I often use a double layer of saran wrap (or the colored, holiday wrap from Reynolds) to block superfluous venting.

Check to see which way the air is flowing thru that vent currently. A single ply of toilet paper can often work as an indicator. The Zalman fan arm kit can get some air directly on hot items rather than having to cut - or the Sunbeam multi-purpose bracket kit.

.bh.