Shallow HTPC Case

[ZetaEpyon]

I'd like to move my HTPC into a real HTPC case so that it can go into my entertainment center and not be sitting outside all by itself.

The problem lies in the fact that my entertainment center is fairly old, and as a result, is not really deep enough to hold most of the HTPC cases I've seen. Generally, the cases seem to be 16 or 17 inches deep, and my entertainment center will likely only hold a case around 13 inches deep.

I've seen a couple microATX cases that aren't too deep, but I'm really looking for a case that can hold a regular ATX motherboard, as that would allow me to move my existing hardware over without any upgrades, which at this point aren't really necessary. The only case I've seen that might work is the A-Tech custom case, but it's just too prohibitively expensive for me. I'd love to get one, but I can't justify the cost.

Right now, the HTPC is just an Athlon XP 1700+ with a Geforce 4 Ti 4400. It doesn't really generate a whole lot of heat, so if the case is a bit cramped (which I'm imagining will have to be the case for what I'm asking), that's probably fine.

Does anyone have any suggestions that might fit the bill? If I can't track anything down, perhaps I'll just wait until I upgrade the HTPC (thinking about the energy efficient A64), and go with a microATX board at that time.

 

[nullpointerus]

I can't seem to find anything for an ATX system board. If you're comfortable with it, you may be able to find a cheap Socket A MicroATX board for very little money right now. This way you could use a small MicroATX case. Here's one that I would try:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16813185053R

It's a gamble of course, and you may have to reinstall your OS, but it's only $24 including shipping. There are also new boards around $40. It's not a very big investment compared to that expensive case you mentioned.

 

[Zepper]

To get the shallowness you want with an ATX mobo, you'd have to go thick. Otherwise you'd have to move the cabinet out from the wall and cut a hole in it in back of the computer box so it could protrude out the back. Put a plywood shelf on the back of the cabinet to support the extra length. the nMedia 300 series could be set on its side using some higher feet. then there are a couple of Coolermasters and some of the new Thermaltake HTPC cases.

.b.h.