November 3, 2025Nov 3 I wanted to downsize my build, the Fractal Define R5 and core system was purchased back in 2016 when I first got into Unraid, I wanted to find an mATX case that could fit a minimum of 6 drives without spending a fortune or having to change any hardware.SpecsSupermicro X10SL7-FXeon E3-1231 v332GB ECC DDR34 HDD - 1 SSDEVGA 650 P2 Platinum PSUThe Lian Li A3 DAN case looked perfect, I figured I could use the GPU side bracket as a HDD bracket, I used off the shelf metal brackets wrapped in some black tape.Idle power draw is 20w.The case is very nice with great build quality and tons of air flow, and options to add more drives if needed at a later date.Size ComparisonWithout any drivesBracketsFully assembled (side panel off) Edited November 3, 2025Nov 3 by dj_sim
January 21Jan 21 Brilliant build to fit so much HDD in the A3, congrats!Would you mind sharing more details about how it works?I wonder how much space is left between the ventirad and the HDDs, and if you have any issues with cooling the drives. Any extra noise / vibrations?
July 16Jul 16 No reply from OP ☹️ @dj_sim I keep wondering why the black brackets are needed. Shuffle the drive down 10mm and the holes may well line up on the radiator bracket? Are the drives attached anywhere else or free floating?Also could the PSU not be rotated 90 degrees so its mounted on front and then giving even more space for drives etc?Considering this case and that was my thoughts as to how to build it Edited July 16Jul 16 by methanoid
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