Mod of the Month - February 2008

Enigma Reborn

by Tolk
Worklog

Tolk is a relative newcomer to our forums, but we have a pretty long history of newcomers dropping amazing mods in our laps. And with the way his project Enigma Reborn is looking, we might just have to add another notch to the proverbial bedpost.

Rather than thinking inside the box, Tolk has decided to take a look around it – creating a 'floating' structure that is both highly functional and very unique. The main 'case' floats above the floor, held fast to a curved support. At the top of the support sit a set of radiators (and their attached fans), meaning that the heat that leaves the case actually leaves the case and makes sure that the rads always have fresh air to pull from.

The unique design is as stylish as it is functional – at least on sketchup renders! So how does it fare when Dremel hits metal? Let's take a look.


I'll give you three guesses on what I'm about to say next...nope, just one – plan your mod!! However, planning can only take you so far – eventually, you need to leave the comfortable realms of your 3D modelling programme and star building the frame. Tolk started with one of modding's favourite materials – sheet aluminium.



The main "box" in Enigma Reborn would be made out of sheet metal that is suspended from a side-facing arch. Though it could easily be bent or riveted together, Tolk needed to be especially concerned with how it would come apart. The non-standard shape of Enigma Reborn could pose some interesting build challenges as he tries to keep edges flush but parts still accessible.



In light of the somewhat awkward wiring issues that Enigma Reborn could create, Tolk opted to make the ATX motherboard tray removable. Since directly above it will be a reservoir and pump for the watercooling loop, we think this is a pretty good plan.



The side panels for Enigma are already cut, trimmed and filed. Will they look as good on the final project as they do on the chair? We bet they will.

Enigma Reborn still has a long way to go, but the incredibly original "floating" case design is one that certainly scores some points for originality. Add to that a robust set of features that Tolk has outlined in the worklog, and you have a scratch build that's just begging for some glory.

If Enigma Reborn has what it takes to get you thinking outside of the box, then make sure you give it your vote as February's Mod of the Month!