Custom-Built Marvel: The Ultimate Video Encoding Machine
Introduction
In the world of custom computer builds, there are ordinary projects, and then there are extraordinary ones. In 2021, our team embarked on a journey to create a machine that would defy convention—a true masterpiece of engineering. Our client’s requirements were clear: a rackmountable system with a touch screen, designed specifically for video encoding. But this was no ordinary task. Let me take you through the fascinating journey of building what became our most interesting custom creation to date.
The Challenge
Our client needed a powerful machine for video encoding, and they had some unique specifications:
Rackmountable: The system had to fit into a standard 4U server rack.
Touch Screen: A large, responsive touch screen was essential for user interaction.
Processing Power: Video encoding demands serious horsepower, so we needed a high-end graphics card.
Front Screen: Here’s where things got interesting. The client wanted a screen on the front of the chassis, but finding a suitable case proved challenging.
The Solution
The Chassis Quest
We scoured the market for a chassis with a built-in front screen, but alas, our search was in vain. Silverstone had once produced such a case, but it had been discontinued. Undeterred, we decided to take matters into our own hands.
The Silverstone GD08B Transformation
We started with a Silverstone GD08B chassis, known for its robust build and rackmount compatibility. Armed with precision tools and a vision, we set out to modify it. Here’s how we did it:
The Touch Screen Integration:
We sourced a 7-inch touch screen with a crisp 1920x1080 HD resolution.
Carefully measuring twice (and then some), we drilled holes into the chassis to accommodate the screen.
The back of the touch screen had to be securely mounted to the chassis, ensuring it wouldn’t come loose during operation.
Cable Management Ballet:
Three small cables—power, video, and input—had to snake through the front of the chassis.
We meticulously routed them along the inside walls, securing them to prevent any unwanted floating.
The USB ports and HDMI port at the back of the chassis completed the connectivity puzzle.
The Powerhouse Components:
An Intel Core i9-10900K processor provided the computational muscle.
128GB of RAM ensured smooth multitasking.
Storage was a blend of speed and capacity: a 1TB NVMe drive for lightning-fast access and a 2TB NVMe drive for ample storage.
For networking, we added two additional network ports using a PCIe card, complementing the onboard network card.
Graphics and Video Magic:
The heart of the system was the Blackmagic DeckLink 8K Pro video capture card (part number BDLKHCPRO8K12G).
A GTX 1650 Super graphics card provided just the right balance of power for video encoding.
The Result
The final product was a work of art—a 4U behemoth that seamlessly blended form and function. It wasn’t cheap, but it was precisely what our client needed. The touch screen allowed for intuitive control, while the powerful components ensured lightning-fast video processing. And yes, it fit perfectly into their server rack.
Conclusion
At our shop, we thrive on challenges. If you have a custom project that pushes the boundaries, don’t hesitate to reach out. Whether it’s a touch screen on a server chassis or something even more unconventional, we’re up for the task. Because sometimes, the most interesting builds lie beyond the ordinary.
Remember: When it comes to custom builds, we measure twice, cut once, and create magic.