About the Project

Compact Open Frame PC Case is a minimalist and functional 3D printed test bench and daily case. It is designed to stack components vertically to save desk space, using an ATX power supply as the base and suspending the storage drives underneath the motherboard. It is perfect for repurposing old hardware, building a home server (NAS), or a dedicated test bench.

The chassis is equipped with mounts for a standard ATX PSU, a micro-ATX (mATX) motherboard (Mini-ITX should also fit), and a clever side/bottom mounting system for up to three drives (1x 3.5" HDD and 2x 2.5" SSDs/HDDs). It features an integrated front panel for standard PC Power/Reset buttons and an LED. 

Printing and Assembly

Due to the heat generated by PC components, we strongly recommend printing the parts in PETG, ABS, or ASA. Use 20-30% infill (Grid, Gyroid, or Cubic) and at least 3-4 perimeters for structural integrity. Supports might be needed for certain overhangs.

For assembly, you will need standard PC screws (6-32 for PSU and 3.5" HDD, M3 for Motherboard and 2.5" drives), momentary push buttons for the front panel, and zip ties.

Assembly Notes:

1. First, screw the drives to their respective brackets,

2. next, attach the drive assembly to the motherboard,

3. crucial detail: The bracket consists of an upper part (motherboard side) and a lower part (PSU side),

4. these two parts are connected together using a press-fit pin connection,

5. Assemble the bottom frame with the PSU and secure the completed upper section on top.

Background information

The actual motivation for this project was the need for a compact, space-saving solution for testing hardware and running a home server without the bulk of a traditional PC case. Traditional cases take up too much footprint, while flat test benches spread out horizontally. By stacking the motherboard directly on top of the power supply and hiding the drives in the negative space, this design achieves a minimal footprint while maintaining 100% functionality.