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Part One: Case preparation
Since I have an empty case here, it would be best
to start with preparing it first, taking advantage
of the lack of components. Again, I really feel strongly
that a well ventilated case is a must for a project
like this. I am using the 7788 from Maxtop, due to
the inclusion of a side intake fan as well as a top
blowhole that I will use to direct cool air in towards
the CPU and expel hot air from the top where it naturally
rises to anyhow.
What I am going to do here is to line
as much of the interior of the case as I can with
a quality sound dampening material then add some sound
isolating feet to the bottom. The dampening material
and "Quiet Feet" will contain any sound
or vibration that is generated by the drives, and
the bare minimum fans that are necessary to not fry
the CPU. Lastly I will install the power supply and
a case fan or two.
I will start with lining the case. Dave at Quiet
PC recommended AcousiPack. I had never heard of this
particular brand of liner before, but other reviews
of the stuff that I read seemed to rave about it.
It seems to take the theories of two popular sound
dampening methods and combines them into one material.
Here is a cross section of the Acoustipack material.
Note the two different layers and the adhesive backing
I have used Dynamat in many instances from car audio
to PC sound reduction. The resonance deadening ability
of Dynamat is amazing. However, it doesn't do much
for airborne sound. For this, I have tried various
densities of foam, none of which have been very effective
for resonance. AcoustiPack uses a dense base material
that is designed for resonance absorbtion and adds
a layer of foam for catching flyaway sound waves that
are airborne.
Installing the AcoustiPack is relatively
straight forward, but take your time and have a plan
before cutting the sheets or installing the liner,
and be sure not to cover any ventilation holes, or
you will restrict your cases natural ability to circulate
air which could be fatal for some of your components.
Focus on the larger panels such as the sides, that
will resonate the loudest, and use leftover material
to cover the top, bottom ad any other areas that seem
like they might resonate. A nice little tap with a
metal object will give you an idea as to the amount
of resonation any given area will produce.
Here are a couple of shots showing the basics, the
side panels are done as well as the top and bottom
of the case. I will add the finishing touches if there
is noticeable resonance or escaping whines.
Lets add the Quiet feet...
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