Custom Build Questions

Framework Desktop
1

Considering a custom case to allow a larger PSU would appreciate some answers before I begin

  1. There are (2) 20 pin type E front panel connectors, these are not listed as “standard” so what cable would I need to connect to another standard Mini ITX Case to get my front USB ports working?
  2. It Lists 3x Standard 4-pin fan header (Standard PWM), does that include the CPU fan. Could I power additional fans with the correct connector and SATA connection to MB. It has been a while but on a water cooled setup I did 10 yrs ago I connected (1) set of 4 fans to one header and another set to another header for 2 top radiators.
  3. Under dimensions, Does the 96.8 include the cooler and how much space would you recommend between the CPU fan and the case.
  4. What does Mini-ITX (fits 2x in a 2U rackmount case) mean (2X in a 2U rackmount)
  5. Finally is there a thread with people who have done custom builds?

Thanks for your help

dan

2

The seller of mine (a eng sample) gave me a spare 650W SFX, the fan never turns on. I wouldn’t go ATX unless you’re trying to reuse an old PSU. There’s also DC → ATX power supplies that are smaller than a credit card if you want to reuse a few laptop bricks.

There’s Type E male to 19 pin male adapters with a cable, the one without a cable will block off the adjacent type E (if you really want 2 sets of working ports). I run a long cable USB3 hub and leave the ports on the back unused since I want the noise further away.

You have 3 4pin fan headers marked something like rear front and APU. Mine happen to not work so I can’t vouch for their adjustability but I got a $1 temp-PWM controller. It’s entirely sensible to daisy chain all fans to the same PWM output.

The Framework cooler is honestly fine (will do 130W quietly <90C). You can get AIO water coolers for $20, but I don’t have tools for making the adapter. The github has the hole spacing, M3 threads for the screws. Mount pressure is critical.

1 Like
3

Thanks, for the great info

So I should get (2) type E to 19 pin adapters with cables to get both front USB ports to work. I also was planning to use SFX power supply. What are your thoughts on LiamLi fan with integrated digital CPU temp read out. Looks neat but is the fan good enough to site on the framework cooler? Saw one on a custom Mini ATX build

4

I got a very good seat with thermal paste the other day. Based on my testing, with fan turned down to “pretty quiet” as opposed to speed where temperature stops dropping, was maybe 1/3 of fan speed? and the temp difference was about 4-5C. I am guessing the fan you linked is within a few degrees of max performance if run at 1900rpm.