External PCI Riser Enclosure/Expansion Slot Case

thingiverse

This is a custom-built enclosure for an external PCI-E to PCI riser that transfers data via a USB cable. Specifically, it's designed to house one of these: * https://www.aliexpress.com/i/32781713997.html and aligns perfectly with the screw holes on the board when the black bars are removed. I reused the original black screws to secure it into place on the standoffs. Note that this is not the exact product I ordered from Aliexpress, but rather a substitute. As for my experience with the platform, let's just say it was an adventure. The design should be adaptable for other risers as well, although some modifications might be necessary. You may need to relocate the hole for the USB cable and potentially reposition the stands that hold the card in place. One notable feature of this enclosure is its compatibility with a 40mm fan on top. I chose to use an exterior-mounted fan that blows air inward, secured using small self-tapping screws that I already had on hand. If you opt for different screws, be prepared to adjust the hole sizes accordingly. To maximize airflow, I positioned the fan so it would blow across the heatsink on my graphics card. The card in question features a 12v two-pin fan header, which I modified by removing the shroud around it to accommodate the three-pin fan connector. If this hadn't been possible, I would have resorted to soldering a custom fan connector directly onto the SATA power connector on the riser card. The lid of the enclosure has a .25mm gap on each side from the main box walls and snaps securely into place. What's more, it can be easily lifted by the lid when it's attached.