Case Mod Quiet Switch or Firewall

This video shows how (and why) to convert a noisy managed/POE switch or firewall into an ultra-quiet device without losing any cooling capacity or performance. We use this mod in our server room when passively-cooled switches and firewalls don't have capabilities we need.

NOTE: This case mode WILL VOID your warranty. Use it at your own risk, preferably on devices you bought used. Don't do this to devices you will be putting into PROD or into a colo -- it isn't worth the risk. Having said that, we have multiple switches with this mod running in our server room without any problem.

Your mileage may vary, and we take no responsibility for your independent actions.

See other case mod videos for specific instruction in how to cut fan holes in cases using a hole saw, a jig saw or a rotary tool. Do not cut holes in devices while they are plugged into power outlets (or when you are standing in a bathtub or pond!)

Practice safe and sane quiet computing.

All service marks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Copyright 2012 Stand Sure Systems. All rights reserved.

[usynnstradler]

what did you use to cut the metal? thanks

[tomozz]

Very useful. I really dislike loud server equipment. May implement some of these ideas. Thanks.

[amb]

One thing I'm wondering is I have a 2950-X Cisco switch and I wonder if I can put the fan on the inside rather mounting it on the outside

[minecraftfreak]

What about a fujistu BX600 Blade Center it's really loud but i do not know how to replace the fans in the psu's (4) and the big 2 fan units each holding 2 fans ?

[MrCrystan]

hi, nice video. What music have you used pls? I really like the tunes.

[thorodinsun]

I only have drywall screws available to hold the fans in place, would that work ok?

[Pabula]

Really nice mod, im about to do the same to neatgear 24port switch.

Would you mid telling me how to search for your u channel on ebay? i just get a lot of car and door things that im sure its not what im looking for, maybe a link or the name of the seller, whatever ill be grateful.

[hdtvkeith]

Nice mod, but the original fan ports should be blocked off to avoid changing the thermal air flow.

[OraEtLabora]

hmm measuring from about 1", very clever...
"where not stated it is usually one metre (1 m)"
en.wikipedia. org/wiki/Weighting_filter

[GuillermoPradoObando]

the fan is used to pull or extract air?

[rogernevez]

Replace the cheap fans for high quality fans of the same size.

[jj-icejoe]

Just replace the litle one by Noctua fans.

[usmcraid]

geeez... this is the most ugliest thing you can do to the POE switches require lots of if you can’t deal with the noise stay out of the kitchen.... server room are meant to be loud and the manufacturers design those devices to be properly cooled.... if anything replace the noisy fans with the quieter fans.... Ugly....