Modder's Mesh

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Modder's Mesh

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Brian Kristensen
Kurtis
MnpcTech
May. 3, 2003

Specifications

Introduction

Mnpctech is all about computer modding. Bill Owen, the man behind Mnpctech is what some of us would call a "mod god." His site contains a gallery of his works, tutorials, a small shop for different mod related items, and services he provides. I was looking at some of his Modder's Mesh to work with for my computer case, and Bill was kind enough to send some my way. So today, thanks to Bill, you all get to see me work with his Modder's Mesh, and hurt myself in the process!

The Modder's Mesh

I received the Modder's Mesh in a giant, thin package. The edges if the mesh are rather sharp, and managed to cut along the sides of the package. UPS also managed to bend some corners of the mesh. They can be easily bent back in to place, so it's all good.

Here you see the two types of mesh that Mnpctech carries. There is the circle mesh, with 60% airflow (recommended minimum airflow) and the honeycomb mesh with 70% airflow. The honeycomb mesh, with less metal, is easier to bend and cut. Here are some specifics for each mesh:

Round Hole (60% airflow)

22 gauge perforated plain steel.
5/32" holes that have 3/16" staggered centers.
33 holes per square inch.

Honeycomb (70% airflow)

22 gauge perforated plain steel.
1/4" hexagon holes with 9/32" staggered centers

The mesh did have some grease on it, but it is easy to clean off.

Working With the Mesh

Mnpctech's web site has a lot of information regarding working with the mesh. Bill tells you what tools you need and has tutorials on working with the mesh. You can visit his site at www.mnpctech.com.

My first job was to make a simple grill for the side fan in my case. The original grill has tiny holes and didn't provide as much airflow as I would have liked.

First I got my tools ready. They are not the right tools for the job, but they worked for me. I used a pair of needle nosed pliers and some wood cutting cutter thingies (not recommended as this might ruin the cutters).

First I got a fan, and marked where I would need to cut. Then I carefully cut the honeycomb mesh to the right size. I then took the needle nose pliers and straightened out any bent edges.

I placed the mesh over the fan, and noticed that the holes don't line up with the screw holes on the fan. So, taking the cutters again, I cut out a little of the mesh to allow the screws to fit.

I pounded the whole mesh flat, and installed it into the side of my case. This was a simple, yet effective mod that helped the airflow of my case while still looking good.

My second idea was to make a fan basket from a tutorial on the Mnpctech web site. I personally don't need one in my case, but it is a great case mod idea. I got my tools ready again, and measured the mesh I needed to cut. I measured two inches out on each side of the fan and cut out the square. I then cut out the corners of the square so the mesh could be bent around the fan.

While bending the mesh around the fan, I decided to cut myself to show you that this is sharp stuff. Ok ok, it was an accident. Who would have known that cut metal would be sharp?

Anyway, after folding the edges up, I cut some more so I would have tabs to hold the fan in place. I folded the other two sides outward.

These flaps will be used for mounting the fan in your case. You can either screw it in, use glue, or an adhesive tape. Just note that to mount this, you will need to cut a square hole somewhere in your case. That will most likely require a dremel.

Conclusion

I am glad I stumbled upon Bill's web site. His Modder's Mesh is a great addition to almost any case. The mesh can be used in many applications and the possibilities are endless. The honeycomb mesh is easier to work with than the circle mesh due to the smaller amount of metal. As long as you have the tools, and a case to mod, I would definitely recommend Modder's Mesh. I will be using it on a case I am making from scratch.

Pros

Looks great
Endless possibilities

Cons

Packaging could be a little better

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