Design of an isolated, quiet, universal ATX computer case

Abstract

Machine integrators and PC builders require a great deal of flexibility and durability when assembling electronic components. The aim of this project was to design a universal ATX computer case that could accommodate any motherboard and processor combination available on the market. It also had to be isolated from the outside air, as to be used in dirty or industrial applications where durability is required. This case design maintains low cost and high flexibility by dissipating high amounts of heat using natural convection on the outside of the case and forced convection on the inside of the case. It is designed to dissipate a total of 250 W through a large heat exchanger and 27 W through a smaller one dedicated to dissipating heat from the hard disk. A universal CPU cooler uses pin fins with forced convection an custom adapter plates to mate with a variety of CPU processors. It is capable of dissipating 162 W, more than any CPU on the market needs. This is all accomplished without exceeding any surface temperature limit of any of the major electronic components in the case can operate in ambient air temperatures of 40 C.