Where do I find custom computers like the ones I see posted online, with special designs and lights?
Case modding, or case modification, is a practice that has evolved into an art form for many computer enthusiasts. Case modders make custom changes and additions to their computer’s case in order to increase aesthetic appeal. Case modding also includes various methods of improving the computer’s performance by making changes to its case.
Case modification is usually performed by the individual owning the computer in order to customize their system to their own specific wants and needs. Some of the modifications a person can make to their computer’s case include:
- Adding see-through panels to reveal the computer’s internal hardware.
- Applying decals, painting symbols and other designs.
- Custom artwork depicting any character or scene the person can imagine.
- Building custom-shaped cases that resemble sculptures more than computers.
- Installing various forms of lighting inside and outside of the case.
In addition to aesthetic appeal, case modders also make performance enhancements. Once such common modification is to increase the cooling capabilities of the computer in order to support more powerful internal hardware. Cooling mods range from simply installing a more powerful fan or heat sink, to complicated liquid cooling set-ups. Without these cooling mods, pushing certain pieces of hardware to their limits may generate enough heat to damage the computer system.
Commercial availability
Many companies have sprung up to offer customized computer cases since the popularity of case modding has become widespread. Video game companies are a good example — many of them will promote a new title by selling custom cases or snap-on plates with artwork from the game. In general though, a lot of the impressive case mods seen online are original works. Since many people view case modding as an artistic endeavor, they prefer the “Do It Yourself” approach.
Finding inspiration for case mods
If you are going to start planning your own case mods, many case modders will probably suggest you come up with a theme that expresses your own personality and interests. A lot of inspiration can be found online by searching the Web and checking out various social networking sites. A Google Image search for case mods brings up some very impressive results, and there are two case modding groups on Flickr with hundreds of members: Computer Case Exhibitionists, and Custom Computers.
Photo by skenmy.
