[Build Log] Project Blueberry Apple G4

[Metalcored00d]

Thumbs up for Asus VIII here, it's actually superb MB.
Update: Oh! i realized, you can't use ekwb.
but the option still exist: http://www.aquatuning.nl/waterkoeling/mb-waterkoelers/?p=1&o=1&n=12&f=2138

That is excellent news thanks for sharing

 

[Metalcored00d]

So today I tried to see how all the pieces will fit in the case. I just put them in without any screws and drew some pencil lines around the major parts.

It turned out that the case still closes with everything in place. However, the GPU touches the rubber around the fans from the radiator so it's a very close fit... I can either try to take out the GPU and lie it down on the first radiator (idea from the sour apple build) or I can try to use slim low profile fans instead.

we'll see. I also bought a rivet gun and some more drills because the chinese crap that I was using died on me after drilling the 5th motherboard standoff hole...

 

[Metalcored00d]

I've been playing with Sketchup to find a different layout for my watercool setup.

To the left is the layout that I've tried today, to the right is an alternative layout that should allow better airflow and more space for the motherboard / GPU blocks. While typing this I just realized that I could even attach the short side of the PSU instead of the long side, that way there would even be more open space.

 

[chinese_spy]

However, the GPU touches the rubber around the fans from the radiator so it's a very close fit...

This is the problem that I mentioned before. My setup got me just 5-6 mm between waterblock and 25 mm fan. I have no idea how to fit 30 mm rad even with low profile fans

I'd rather use a 60 mm radiator at the bottom of the case (bye-bye last pci-e slot) instead 30 mm side and bottom config.
Using rads on top and bottom of the case looks the best idea if you do not want to keep the original G4 look.
And don't forget that you can use server 1U PSU (like SuperMicro PWS-601-1H). It's rather expensive, but has just 40 mm thick. SFX PSU (like new Corsair SF600 - 100mm x 63mm x 125mm) can provide more space too.

 

[Metalcored00d]

Using rads on top and bottom of the case looks the best idea if you do not want to keep the original G4 look.

Yeah, I'm thinking of going with that idea in the end ;-). I would like the top plastic cover to allow airflow (so basically cut holes and add a anti-dust filter). I think that it could still look really neat even with a modded top plate.

And don't forget that you can use server 1U PSU (like SuperMicro PWS-601-1H). It's rather expensive, but has just 40 mm thick. SFX PSU (like new Corsair SF600 - 100mm x 63mm x 125mm) can provide more space too.

That corsair PSU looks awesome, it would indeed be a great idea to use that one . Thank you so much for helping me out!

 

[Metalcored00d]

Basically this is what I mean with the top panel:


So the whole plastic would be black and the blue parts are actually the holes but I would attach a mesh and paint that blue

 

[chinese_spy]

Basically this is what I mean with the top panel:

Of course, case design is very subjective and up to you indeed. As for me, I really like the Apple old style design and try to offer another option. It's how the G4 Cube top panel looks like. IMHO it's is better suited with G4 case.

 

[Metalcored00d]

Of course, case design is very subjective and up to you indeed. As for me, I really like the Apple old style design and try to offer another option. It's how the G4 Cube top panel looks like. IMHO it's is better suited with G4 case.

That does look really nice indeed! I still have time to figure it out since I still need to do a hell of a hack job first =P

 

[Metalcored00d]

I just realised that the top of the case isn't completely usable since the locking mechanism is in the way :/. I'm thinking of a way to trim the mechanism but still keep it working.

On a sidenote, I ordered these standoffs:
http://www.aliexpress.com/item/20pc...d-Standoffs-for-Motherboards/32615518501.html

Last thing I did is change the motherboard that I'm testing with, since I have the IO plate for that one. Good news, it fits . I'll just have to "clean it up"

 

[Metalcored00d]

I installed the waterblocks to my GPU, it looks so much better now :')