Installing a case fan in plexiglass?

[cctaylor88]

This may seem like a super noob question, but I am just that when it comes to case modding. I have never before done any serious case mods to my pc and would really like to start doing it purely for better visuals, as most case mods are just that.

I have an Antec 300 Illusion case...and the side panel is completely steel...my ultimate goal is to cut out a window of sorts and place some plexiglass in its place. Now, what I can't wrap my head around is how do I install a fan in the plexiglass itself?

I want to buy two 80mm case fans (clear LED) and install them right into the plexiglass itself...so when you look at the side of my case there will be a window with the two clear case fans installed but I don't really understand how to accomplish this. I have searched all over youtube and google trying to find installation of case fans in plexiglass and can find nothing, so I am here looking for help! I mean the only thing on the outside of the plexiglass will be 4 mounting screws correct? So should I just cut 4 holes for the screws and then a much larger hold in the plexglass in order for the fans to intake air?

Thanks guys, as someone who has never personally modded and can't find videos on plexiglass fan installation this is difficult for me to visualize and I would like as much information as possible before cutting holes everywhere. Thanks in advance!!

For reference I guess I would like something similar to this

 

[tracerbullet]

I've never had good luck trying to do anything like this, so I can't really say what you need to do. But I can mention some more things to consider, which might help:

* Keep any plastic or paper covering on your plexiglass while you do the work, to cut down on scratching and such
* Plexiglass might not be the right material, there are various acrylic and other clear plastics sold, do a little research to find out if one is better than another
* When doing the work on the plastic, practice first! Learn what speed to run drills, and what blades to run in saws. Too aggressive and you'll crack something, too wimpy and you'll just melt it.
* Look for something that will cover / clean up the edge of the hole you put into the side of the case, filing helps but a plastic trim of some sort may be better.
* There are a couple of case modding stores in existence that sell bits and pieces for things like this, they might be a great source for trim and anything else you need. Looking there first might even give you some new ideas.
* You'll want to own a jig saw and a drill at a minimum, with a variety of blades and bits for each. Plus perhaps a file, sandpaper, and etc.

Maybe Antec sells side panels for another case that happen to fit?

*************

edit - here's a possibility for a store that may sells stuff worth a look: http://mnpctech.com/

 

[Lonyo]

http://www.overclock.net/g/i/1300051/installing-a-fan-in-plexiglass-acrylic/flat/1/

 

[cctaylor88]

Awesome...?

 

[john3850]

Dont use two 80mm case fans try to use 120mm if only use one your better off.

 

[Eureka]

Draw out your outline of what you want to put in the plexiglass. If you have access, use acrylic and a laser cutter, but otherwise go slow with a drill or dremel.

All you need to do is mainly to cut out one big hole for the fan to intake, and then the four small holes for screw points. Drill them slightly smaller than the threads of the screws (6-32) so that it threads in when you screw in the fan.

Look up acrylic or plexiglass work, it's just the same thing except you're cutting out a hole for a fan.

 

[WilliamM2]

Buy a window kit with the fan hole already drilled:
http://www.crazypc.com/products/PX821950.html

You'll want a fan grille as well.

Or just do a window with no fan, it will just make the window dusty all the time anyways:
http://www.crazypc.com/products/casemods/windows.htm#windowkits

 

[lehtv]

Buy a window kit with the fan hole already drilled:
http://www.crazypc.com/products/PX821950.html

Now where would be the fun in that?