The NOTalis project was the result of Jeremy Birch’s (aka E.E.L. Ambiense) 4 day visit to Mnpctech. We’ve talked about getting together for the last couple of years. We’ve always admired each other’s work. I’ve worked closely with E.E.L. in designing many of Mnpctech products including our acrylic fan and radiator grills.

We both agreed that a Mini ITX project wouldn’t consume his entire visit. He suggested the Silverstone SG05 ITX case. He made a conceptual drawing inspired by the Nautilus submarine’s window from Jules Vern’s 20,000 Leagues under the sea. The SG05 arrived 2 days before his arrival. I brought it to our machine shop on Thursday to mill a new bezel based on his conceptual drawing.

The both of us had talked about working with the “Sophisticated Finishes” instant rust products. We’re both fans of Piloux’s Blackmesa HL2 case mod. A historical chapter in case modding. Piloux never explained his application techniques in detail which forced us to experiment a lot. It can be a little frustrating when you must wait several hours to see your results. While waiting for the rust effect, we kept busy with other things, like sleeving the FSP 300W PSU or modifying the 240mm Steampunk fan grill. We then discovered that a heat gun sped up the rusting process. You can read the official worklog, “The NOTalis Project”

We titled the project “NOTalis” because it sounded funny. Since it was E.E.L.’s first time here. I brought him to some interesting local businesses and eateries. We spent a great deal of our time talking about all things modding. He edited our own individual video footage into this 36 minute highlight video. We have a surprise toward the end for a mutual friend of ours.

Link to HD version of video

Silverstone SG05 ITX case

The “Nautilus” inspired bezel was cnc milled from 3/4″ 6061 aluminum.

Steampunk 240 radiator grill with honeycomb modder’s mesh and rust effect.

Steampunk radiator grill with a dilapidated and rusted theme.

10/32 socket head machine screw in front bezel.

Sophisticated Finishes “Rust” effect.

Bulgin Vandal resistant power switch. The ring illuminates Orange. The gear-like ring is a conduit washer.

Thermaltake Tsunami Dream thumbscrews we found didn’t escape our rust treatment.

300W FSP ITX Power Supply.

80mm “Gear” acrylic fan grill after applying rust effect. Watch E.E.L.’s “Sophisticated Finishes Rust Effect” Tutorial

We spent two evenings working on the project. We’re both amazed at what we’ve accomplished in a few hours of working together. I look forward to doing another project with E.E.L. again!

- Bill Owen