Looking for... low-profile case with full-height slots

imported_Graphite

Junior Member
Dec 28, 2008
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G'Day all,
See if I can give all the data I can...
The desk my computer is on at home has a space in it that looks designed for the traditional desktop case, and is around 14cm high (~6"), and has around 42cm depth (~17"), with a width of about 45cm (~18"), give or take a little.
What I would like (to make best use of my desk space) is a low-profile PC case for that space.
I know there are a few cheap-ish ones around that fit the bill in a typical situation, such as one here - Bliss RV-77. However, as I like my 3D games, the typical low profile case is a little... Inadequate... :eek:
I have seen some 'short' cases with full-height slots tipped on their side (which sounds workable), but only with PCI slots (such as an old Dell GX240)...
Are there any cases that use PCI-e x16 risers? I don't mind if they're from HP/IBM etc because at worst I can gut the case and use what I already have (within reason).
I know that PSU could be an issue as well, but I am not a serious gamer - no threat of an HD4850 here - the most effort will be from a GPU that doesn't use a PCI-e connector. Hopefully 300W would be a roofline figure...
The other issue that may not help is location - I'm in Australia, so choices that I have been able to actually see have possibly been somewhat limited :D
I'd be GREATLY thankful for any advice. Also, if you prefer to suggest a low-profile GPU as an alternative, go ahead (current specs in signature). The most demanding games I play are Need For Speed Most Wanted, Age of Empires III (Asian Dynasties) and World of Warcraft, all at 1280 x 1024.
If anyone think such a case is make-believe, mention that too; Worst case (ha!), I'll just put up with my X-QPack, which is doing a good job, just can't quite fit it in the gap :p
 

WoodButcher

Platinum Member
Mar 10, 2001
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Good day to you too! welcome to Anand.
Here is the type of case I think you're after, at least it is one I would like on my desk. There are many HTPC / media center type cases with displays that will fit your bill but this you won't be limited by the PSU or vid card size. I'm sure the 3.5 bay could be removed if you did need the space for a vid card.
 

imported_Graphite

Junior Member
Dec 28, 2008
17
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Thank you WoodButcher, that was quick!

Well, no doubt that I'd not be wanting for space in that case... And the best thing is I can get that one in Australia (saw the name Silverstone and nearly fainted, they're usually expensive, but this one seems to be around $AU150, so not bad). But WOW it's pushing the space limit in height, I'll have to check that once I get home lol...

I'll let you know if that one will fit :) If not, I'll start looking again...
 

WoodButcher

Platinum Member
Mar 10, 2001
2,158
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76
If it doesn't fit ,no problems, send me a ticket and I'll fix your desk!
What I was trying to convey was more the point that there are many cases that should be in your size range if you look for HTPC cases, Silverstone had the "lascala"? that used risers to put the pcie on its side but it was pricey. Air flow may be a problem if the cubbyhole is tight.
 

imported_Graphite

Junior Member
Dec 28, 2008
17
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0
Checked the cubby hole last night (I like that name...) and it'll fit the case mentioned, just. Thankfully the desk is open at the back in that space, so hot air can be pumped out. That's a good sign!

Unfortunately, the LC13B is still a little tall for my liking (17cm vs 14cm...) But I knew the hunt wouldn't be easy... Think the IBM Thinkcentres I've seen made me think the impossible :D

Your point for HTPC cases is exactly on the money, there are some around. But unfortunately... The only HTPC cases I can find 'nearby' are Silverstones and Lian-Li's at specialist shops, and bar the one you pointed out (which is pretty good actually) they all cost more than $A200, which is a little expensive... That, and most are taller than the LC13B, and won't fit even if they were a little less painful :p Maybe I do need your wood butchering!
But I guess since this is the way the market for cases has gone, I'll just have to chew on it.

Well, it's down to aesthetics now, see if it looks good in the flesh... Metal... Whatever :p
Thanks for your help WoodButcher, keep you posted!
 

WoodButcher

Platinum Member
Mar 10, 2001
2,158
0
76
Good luck with your search, maybe zepper will chime in, he is the "casemaster", I just got lucky on that one. It was the first that came up on newegg search with no display or PSU included. If you do use that the side will want a little air, an inch or more at least.