Updated - Swapping hardware between cases advice please

[sainthoodx]

I use a Sony Vaio with a new GeForce 6800, I can't add any fans or anything to the Vaio case (except for the expansion slots on back). The only fans on it are the CPU fans, Video-card fan, and PSU fan. This is not enough to keep things cool! So what alternatives do I have to go with? I'm leaning towards PCI-slot fans, anyone agree with this? What are some great brands//websites to look at?

 

[JBDan]

You could just swap out the case (ofcourse unless you are partial to the Vaio case).....get a case to your liking and swap out all the hardware....get the fans of your choice. Otherwise-->Is there not even a grill/mount on the rear for an exhaust (like an 80mm maybe) fan? I have used a slot cooler and imo its "gimmicky." Doesn't do much and too noisy. Could you post a pic or a link of your exact case? Look at SVC/Jab-Tech/Sidewinder/Newegg/ZipZoomFly.

 

[Greenman]

You can add fans to ANY case. You just have to want to, and own a hole saw.

 

[sainthoodx]

Ok I have decided to grab an Antec tx1050b Case since i need a new PSU also. I was wondering if its hard to move everything from one case to another? Are there certain things i should be extra careful about? Like unplugging certain things affect anything? Will i have to do anything special softwarewise for switching cases?

 

[sainthoodx]

I also have 2 dvd/cd drives. I also have 2 Hard-drives. Those 4 drives take up all 4 connectors on most (all?) power supplies! Since my new Vidcard needs to plug into it, is there any way to add more, or split connectors? What are the risks, and possible problems in splitting or adding plugs (if its even possible)?

 

[JBDan]

Software wise no. Hardware wise its fairly simple...only tricky parts for a novice can be the front I/O port connections & the powerled/reset/hdled connections in which your case will come with directions (most likely rather vague) on how to hook them up. If lost then head back here after you get your case and ask a fellow AT'er. Feel free to PM me (and some others) if you have any Q's.

 

[Jhhnn]

Save yourself a lot of time, effort and money by getting the appropriate arctic cooling vidcard cooler for your 7800- it's like a pci slot cooler, just for the vidcard, and it works a lot better...

Like this-

http://www.sidewindercomputers.com/arconvsi5for.html

 

[sainthoodx]

Thanks for advice. Is it ok (even recommended) to unplug all hardware while switching cases? I remember one time I unplugged//plugged my sound card in and it "found new hardware"... Maybe its because i switched PCI-slots(?).

How should i go about getting the cd/dvd drives and burners out of my Vaio case? Are the cd//dvd trays that slide in and out (pushing button) just apart of the case?