Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
If this is your first system build, it might take you an hour or so. If you've built
systems before, you'll probably have it ready to boot up in only 10 or 15 min-
utes. Before you proceed, make sure you have everything you need. Open each
box and verify the contents against the packing list. Make sure the I/O shield
and all driver discs, cables, screws, and other small components are present.
Order Is Important
When you build a standard desktop or tower PC, the exact component installation
sequence usually doesn't matter much. With an appliance system, that's often not
true. The small case means there's little room to work in. One component may be
inaccessible after you've installed another component. If you forget to connect a
cable to the motherboard, for example, you may later have to partially disassemble
the system to get to it.
The Antec ISK300 case is much better than most small cases in this respect. The
integrated top and side panels slide off as a unit, which means the interior is quite
accessible, albeit a bit cramped in places. If you're using a different case, it's worth
spending some time thinking through the installation order before you actually
start connecting things. Otherwise, you may have to tear everything down and start
again.
As you build your system, pay particular attention to cable routing. As you connect
cables, make sure you route them along and around frame components so that it
will be possible to dress and tie off the cables neatly to avoid restricting air flow or
fouling the fan.
PreparingtheCase
To begin preparing the Antec ISK300-65 case, remove the three thumbscrews
that secure the cover, as shown in Figure 7-2. (On our case, the thumbscrews
were tight enough that we needed a screwdriver to loosen them.)
After you remove the thumbscrews, slide the cover back about a third of the
way and then lift the cover straight off, as shown in Figure 7-3.
Figure 7-2.
Remove the three thumbscrews that secure the cover
Figure 7-3.
Slide the cover back about a third of the way and lift it
off
