DIY Rackmount NAS - 2U PC Case - for 10" Network Cabinets

This Instructable details the construction of a very compact 10-inch, 2U rack-mountable NAS/PC case designed for computer enthusiasts and DIY server projects. It supports up to four 2.5-inch SATA drives and two NVMe (M.2) drives (with optional brackets), using the kit manufactured by ARCAD Digital available on Etsy.

The case also includes a dedicated space for a power supply unit (PSU), making it a complete and flexible solution for compact server builds.

Tailored for makers and users of solutions like TrueNAS, OpenMediaVault, Home Assistant, and Proxmox, this case is ideal for building a custom homelab or private file server. It fits standard 10-inch network bays, offering a space-efficient yet high-performance platform for your storage or virtualization projects.

The enclosure is 3D printed in France using recycled PETG, a durable, heat-resistant material that ensures structural integrity up to 80°C. This eco-conscious choice minimizes environmental impact while maintaining excellent performance in server environments.

Compatible with Mini-ITX motherboards and optimized for low-power CPUs with a TDP under 10W, this case balances energy efficiency with functionality. It is produced in small batches to reduce waste and promote responsible, local manufacturing.

Note: This is a copyright-protected product. Reproduction is strictly prohibited.

Make sure you have all the necessary components before starting the build. There’s nothing more frustrating than pausing your project because you're waiting on a small part to be delivered.

You don’t have to purchase the listed parts and materials through the provided links. These are just examples and highlight the required specifications for the components.

Parts:

1. 1x Rackable case kit
2. 1x Network rack
3. 1x Motherboard with processor (TDP < 10W)
4. RAM
5. Up to 4x 2.5" SATA Drives
6. Up to 4x SATA cables
7. 1x MeanWell Power Supply GST36B12-P1J
8. 1x Pico PSU

Optionnals parts depending your setup:

1. Noctua NH-L9 CPU Cooler (Low profile)
2. Up to 2x 2.5" NVMe Drives
3. Up to 2x PCIe/mPCIe to NVMe adapters (20cm is perfect)
4. Up to 2x PCIe/mPCIe to M.2 NVMe mounts (Optional, to be selected during case order)
5. NVMe to SATA adapter (If the motherboard does not have enough SATA ports)
6. SATA power splitter (If the PicoPSU does not have enough SATA power connectors)
7. Power jack adapter (Could be useful to connect the PicoPSU to the Mean Well power supply)

Tools:

1. Screw drivers

Carefully assemble the different parts of the case using the provided screws. Do not tighten more than necessary to avoid damaging the case's mounting holes.

Start by mounting the I/O shield, the motherboard, and its RAM modules, then connect the PWR SW and PWR LED cables following the instructions provided by your motherboard's manufacturer.

Unscrew the two 2.5-inch drive brackets and place your drives in them. The drives are secured without screws and rely on the use of 7mm and 1mm thick spacers. Refer to the illustration for proper drive mounting.

Unscrew the power supply bracket and place the MeanWell GST36B12-P1J power supply in it.

Start by securing the mPCIe/PCIe to NVMe adapter to the bracket using the plastic clips provided with the case (optional, to be selected when purchasing the case). Then connect your NVMe drives. Note: Obviously, if your motherboard already has native NVMe ports, it is not necessary to use the aforementioned brackets and adapters.

Connect the Pico PSU and link it to the previously mounted MeanWell power supply. Then, connect the power cables for the SATA drives. Use a splitter if your Pico PSU only has two SATA power connectors and you wish to use four.

Connect the SATA data cables from the drives to the SATA ports on your motherboard. If your motherboard does not have SATA ports, or not enough of them, you can use an NVMe to SATA adapter or probably (this may need to be tested) a PCIe to SATA card by removing the metal bracket used to mount it in a slot. The PCIe port is usually sufficient to hold the card in place without the need for additional mounting.

Use the plastic zip ties provided with the case. If they are too short, feel free to combine two together to extend their length.

Are the screws included with the case?

1. Yes, all the screws needed for assembling the case, securing the motherboard, the drives, and the power supply are included.

Are the plastic zip ties included with the case?

1. Yes, around twenty plastic zip ties are included with the case to help optimize cable management.

Is the illuminated power button included with the case?

1. Yes, it is included. You just need to connect the 4 wires according to the instructions provided in your motherboard’s documentation.

Can I install a CPU cooler (air cooler) on my CPU?

1. Yes, as long as it is less than 50mm in height. Several users have successfully installed a Noctua NH-L9i.

Can I use a CPU with a TDP higher than 10W?

1. Technically, yes. However, you must ensure that your network rack is very well ventilated, otherwise the CPU will overheat and automatically throttle its performance.

What voltage version of the MeanWell power supply should I choose?

1. Make sure to select the 12V version, otherwise your PicoPSU could be damaged.

Why do I have trouble finding motherboards with processors that have a TDP below 10W?

1. It's true that motherboards with these types of ultra-low-power processors are not very common on mainstream consumer electronics websites. This type of hardware is more often used in professional environments, which is why you’ll find it on specialized websites or more broadly directly from China, for example on AliExpress. The most common processor models include: Intel N100, N150, N5105, J1800, J1900, J3160, J3455, J3710, J4125, J5040.

What can this PC case be used for?

1. The case was originally designed by me for personal use. I needed an ultra-compact, low-power case capable of running multiple services 24/7, such as Proxmox, OpenWRT, TrueNAS, Home Assistant, and AdGuard Home. Having a rackmount case also allowed me to consolidate my entire home Ethernet network into a small 10-inch rack, where I integrated my patch panel, switches, rackmount PC, and a power strip. The result is a clean, aesthetic, professional setup that fits perfectly into my utility room.

Will a 36W power supply be sufficient for my use?

1. I have in my personal setup an ASRock J3710-ITX (TDP 6W) with two NVMe drives and one SATA SSD. The power consumption measured at the wall socket is 10W at maximum, a few watts less in idle. Knowing that a 2.5-inch drive generally consumes about 3W during active read/write, 36W should be enough with four SSD/HDD.

I have a 3D printer — why can’t I download the .STL files to print the case myself?

1. I have great respect for makers who share their work with the community — in fact, I’ve contributed several times myself by sharing the results of my own projects. However, there are certain designs I choose to keep for commercial use. I run a business, and creating, continuously improving, and manufacturing this kind of hardware in my workshop is part of how I make a living and provide a high-quality service. That’s why this design is protected and cannot be reproduced, even partially. Thank you for your understanding, and happy building!

PROTECTED DESIGN – © Yannis MICHALET / ARCAD Digital – REPRODUCTION, EVEN PARTIAL, PROHIBITED

COPYING = OFFENSE SUBJECT TO LEGAL ACTION