nCase M1 - User Manual

Flatpack Assembly Manual
M1 Vertical GPU
Conguration

Summary

Chassis Frame Assembly

Initial Frame Attachment

Attaching the primary frame sections using M3-FS-5 screws.

Frame Extension and Securing

Continuing frame assembly with M3-FS-5 screws.

Frame Component Adjustment

Instructions for removing and installing frame components with M3-FS-5 screws.

Base Structure Assembly

Assembling the bottom structural elements of the chassis using M3-FS-5 screws.

Frame Reinforcement

Attaching frame support pieces using M3-CS-8, M3-S-6, and M3-FS-5 screws.

Internal Component Mounting

First Bracket Installation

Installing the initial bracket onto the chassis using M3-FS-5 screws.

Second Bracket Installation

Installing a second bracket using M3-FS-5 screws.

Bracket Removal and Reinstallation

Demonstrates removing and reinstalling a bracket with M3-FS-5 screws.

Bracket Placement Adjustment

Shows removing and installing a bracket for optimal placement with M3-FS-5 screws.

Support Bracket Installation

Installing a support bracket using M3-FS-5 screws.

GPU Support Rail Assembly

Assembling the GPU support rails using multiple M3-FS-5 screws.

Bottom Rail Attachment

Attaching the bottom rails of the GPU support structure with M3-FS-5 screws.

Top Rail Attachment

Attaching the top rails of the GPU support structure with M3-FS-5 screws.

Chassis Panel Installation

Side Panel Installation

Instructions for installing a side panel at a specific angle.

Side Panel Removal

Instructions for removing a side panel at a specific angle.

Top Panel Attachment

Manual guidance for attaching the top panel of the chassis.

Final Securing

Final step securing the assembly using M3-TB-10 thumb screws.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

This document is an assembly manual for the NCASE M1 Vertical GPU Configuration, providing detailed instructions for setting up a computer case to support a vertically mounted graphics processing unit (GPU). The manual is designed as a "Flatpack Assembly Manual," indicating that the components are shipped disassembled and require user assembly.

Function Description:

The NCASE M1 Vertical GPU Configuration is an accessory or modification kit for the NCASE M1 computer case, designed to allow users to mount their graphics card vertically within the case. This vertical mounting orientation is primarily for aesthetic purposes, showcasing the GPU's design, particularly its cooler and RGB lighting, through a side panel window. Beyond aesthetics, vertical GPU mounting can sometimes offer improved airflow for certain GPU cooler designs, depending on the case's internal layout and fan configuration. The kit provides the necessary hardware and structural components to securely hold the GPU in this non-standard orientation, integrating it seamlessly into the existing NCASE M1 chassis. The assembly process involves several steps, including the removal of existing components, installation of new structural elements, and the secure fastening of the GPU bracket.

Usage Features:

The assembly manual outlines a step-by-step process for configuring the NCASE M1 case for vertical GPU mounting. Key usage features highlighted by the manual's illustrations and instructions include:

• Component Identification: The manual begins by identifying the various screws and standoffs required for assembly:

  • M3-FS-5 (M3 Flat Sunk Screw)
  • M3-TB-10 (M3 Thumb Screw)
  • M3-Standoffs-6 (M3 STANDOFF Screw)
  • M3-CS-8 (M3 Countersunk Screw) This clear identification helps users select the correct hardware for each step.

• Modular Assembly: The NCASE M1 case itself is designed with a modular approach, and this vertical GPU kit follows suit. The assembly involves adding specific brackets and supports to the existing frame.

• Initial Frame Assembly (Pages 2-4):

  • The process starts with assembling the main frame components, using M3-FS-5 screws. The illustrations show how the frame pieces interlock and are secured.
  • A crucial step involves removing existing components from the case. Specifically, a horizontal bracket is shown being "Remove"d, indicating that the standard horizontal GPU mounting bracket needs to be taken out to make space for the vertical configuration.
  • New structural elements are then "Install"ed, forming the base for the vertical GPU mount.

• Base and Support Installation (Pages 4-7):

  • The bottom panel of the case is attached using M3-FS-5 screws, as indicated by "X4 M3-FS-5."
  • Further structural supports are added using a combination of M3-CS-8, M3-S-6, and M3-FS-5 screws, reinforcing the case structure for the new GPU orientation.
  • A key component, likely the vertical GPU bracket or a support for it, is installed. The manual shows this component being secured with M3-FS-5 screws ("X3 M3-FS-5").
  • An important instruction, "Rotate 180D," indicates that a component needs to be oriented correctly before installation, emphasizing the precision required for assembly.
  • Another bracket is installed, again using M3-FS-5 screws ("X2 M3-FS-5").

• Riser Cable Integration (Pages 6-8):

  • The manual illustrates the removal of another existing component, likely a standard PCIe slot cover or bracket, to prepare for the riser cable.
  • A PCIe riser cable, essential for connecting the vertically mounted GPU to the motherboard, is shown being installed. This involves securing the riser cable's mounting points with M3-FS-5 screws ("X4 M3-FS-5").
  • Additional support structures, possibly for the GPU itself or for cable management, are installed using M3-FS-5 screws ("X4 M3-FS-5" and "X8 M3-FS-5").
  • The final step in this section shows the riser cable fully integrated into the case, with its flexible nature allowing for connection to the motherboard.

• Case Panel Installation (Pages 8-9):

  • The manual demonstrates how to install the side panels of the NCASE M1. This involves aligning the panel and securing it, likely with screws or a latching mechanism. The illustration shows the panel being installed at a "30°" angle, then pushed into place, and also how to "Lift 1mm first" and "Remove" it, indicating a specific technique for panel removal and installation.
  • The top panel installation is also detailed, showing it being placed on top and secured.

• Final Securing (Page 10):

  • The assembly concludes with securing the top panel using M3-TB-10 (M3 Thumb Screws), which are designed for tool-less installation, making future access easier.

Maintenance Features:

While the manual primarily focuses on assembly, several aspects imply ease of maintenance:

• Thumb Screws (M3-TB-10): The use of thumb screws for securing the top panel (and potentially other components, though only shown for the top panel) is a significant maintenance feature. Thumb screws allow for tool-less removal and reinstallation of panels, making it easy to access internal components for cleaning, upgrades, or troubleshooting without needing a screwdriver.

• Modular Design: The modular nature of the NCASE M1 and its vertical GPU kit means that individual components can be removed or replaced if damaged or if the user wishes to revert to a standard horizontal GPU configuration. The explicit "Remove" instructions for certain components at the beginning of the assembly process suggest that these parts can be reinstalled if the vertical GPU setup is no longer desired.

• Clear Disassembly Instructions (Implied): Although the manual is for assembly, the detailed steps and illustrations for installing components implicitly provide guidance for disassembly. For instance, if a component was installed with "X4 M3-FS-5," it can be removed by unscrewing those four screws. The "Remove" instructions for panels also directly address maintenance access.

• Accessibility for Cleaning: The ability to easily remove side and top panels facilitates regular cleaning of dust filters and internal components, which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and longevity of the computer hardware. The vertical GPU orientation itself can sometimes make GPU fans more accessible for cleaning, depending on the case design.

In summary, the NCASE M1 Vertical GPU Configuration manual provides a comprehensive guide for transforming the NCASE M1 case to accommodate a vertically mounted GPU. It emphasizes clear, step-by-step instructions with visual aids, utilizes a modular design for ease of assembly, and incorporates features like thumb screws that contribute to user-friendly maintenance and accessibility.

nCase M1 Specifications

General

Form Factor	Mini-ITX
Material	Aluminum
Motherboard Support	Mini-ITX
CPU Cooler Max Height	130 mm
PSU Support	SFX, SFX-L
Expansion Slots	2
Weight	3.2 kg
Volume	12.6 liters
Maximum GPU Width	140 mm
GPU Max Length	317 mm
Maximum PSU Length	130mm (SFX-L)
Dimensions	328mm x 160mm x 240mm (L x W x H)
Cooling Support	2 x 120mm (Side), 2 x 120mm (Bottom), 1 x 92mm (Rear)