I only know from my experience. The PC-9F replaced a negative-flow design. Even with my attempts to block off extra intakes, dust found other ways in. The result required monthly maintenance to clear dust from various crevices that could not be sealed, including the CD-ROM door and backplanes of my sound and network cards. Though I can't be certain, I suspect that dust build up eventually killed the CD-ROM, as it died after just 2 years.bonestonne wrote:Explain to me how using negative air pressure is a detriment. Most builds that I do rely on it (and the ones that don't only have a CPU fan and PSU fan). I can assure you that no less dust enters a system using positive pressure. You can also use open cell foam in the front fan area to be a much more effective filter when compared to many of the standard dust filters that come on computers.
The mostly-neutral (P182) and more-positive (PC-9F) builds have fared much better. I still need to clear dust from the intakes on a weekly basis, but the dust collects at the intakes and virtually nowhere else. The inside of the cases is almost dust free, even after 3 years. There are too many variables to claim just one single cause, but the newer builds also have lower case temperatures.
Of course, mATX and mITX builds are different. The size mostly eliminates much of the positive or negative ideology. The volume is low enough that it doesn't matter as much. Still, experience suggests that I'll have an easier time maintaining the case if it follows stereotypical positive designs: comparatively strong intakes with filters on the exterior side.
Agreed. However, I myself don't have the skill to professionally paint or powder coat a PC case, and it's not economically feasible to pay to have it done to solve minor issues. If the only solution to get a mATX/mITX case to fit my needs is paying someone to cut, sand and powder-coat case mods, then I'll just ditch everything and go back to ATX, where the solutions are simple. If the mods are simpler, then I'm willing to consider them.bonestonne wrote:If you mod the computer yourself, they look as good as you're willing to make them look.
If only that were the case. 8.25" is a popular case width. That is the width of the PC-9F. It does not fit in the space used by the P182. I need something that is 205mm or smaller. A 210mm case won't fit unless I start getting very creative with my house (cutting away baseboard trim, replacing the banister on the stairs...). And yes, I know that's packing them really tight. It also means that side vents on the right side are useless in the P182 location, as they'll be blocked anyway.bonestonne wrote:In all, you're looking for a case in the ballpark of no greater than 8.25 inches wide?
The TJ08 won't fit in the space left by the P182, and its too deep to fit between the desk legs. If I go with the TJ08, I have to find someplace else to put the case. Currently, there is no suitable place. I'd need to re-arrange some things in the dining room to run cords from there to the KVM in the living room.bonestonne wrote:I think the TJ08 sounds like a clear winner for you
At the moment, the W1 with some mild modding is the easiest solution, though even that would be a tight fit. The 250D fits better, and is lower (which is good, since we're now talking about putting the case where i normally keep my feet).bonestonne wrote:I liken this to my girlfriend's recent shopping adventure for a Tibetan Singing Bowl. ... Sometimes, it doesn't take very long to make a decision, there's no point in trying to talk yourself out of it once you've found what you like.