EVOLUTION User Manual
Welcome to the new online manual.
EVOLUTION is a trio of fully 3D printable PC cases with advanced customizations. We're exploring the future of PC cases as digital downloads.
Any questions, just email: support@modcase.com.au
Enjoy,
Haydn Bao
Designer
Table of Contents
- DISCLAIMER
- Overview
- Part List
- Materials
- Printer Requirements
- Slicing guide - Panels
- Slicing guide - Main Frame
- Optional Parts
- Specifications
- Versions (What's Included)
- CAD
- Remix Policy
- Troubleshooting
- Share your Pics!
- Update Log
DISCLAIMER
The Files provided by the MODCASE EVOLUTION (EVO) and its CAD assembly are for experienced PC builders, as they are intended to be used with the user's own printer, computer parts, screws and cables. MODCASE EVO is committed to ongoing development, with recommendations for maximizing print strength and reliability included for best results. However, it is the user's responsibility to source parts and cables from reputable suppliers and to observe their new PC after building, running some real-world stress tests, and ensuring that the parts are not brittle or easily delaminated. Additionally, the quality of the printed case may be affected by the filament, printer model, settings and any modifications made via CAD.
Detailed terms of use are outlined in our End User License Agreement (EULA) included with the files. By using MODCASE files, you understand and agree that Haiteng Pty Ltd, the owner of MODCASE, is not responsible for any loss or damage that may result from the use of the print files. Otherwise, please do not use the files, contact support.
Overview
EVOLUTION ITX Assembly
Join the frame halves using 4 screws from the inside.
EVOLUTION M-ATX Assembly
The M-ATX model comes in 4 splits to fit your print bed, they join using screws as shown below.
M-ATX uses a screw-less GPU retainer.
EVOLUTION APU Assembly
The APU frame is quite compact, it essentially slides on and assembles 'around' the electronics. To slide in the motherboard, please remove these 4 screws:
Tips:
1. All USB cables are secured with normal PC case screws.
2. Attach ATX and IO cables before sliding the motherboard in.
Panels
Insert retainer clips before installing panels.
Small Parts
Part List
EVO APU | Description |
Frame_T | Top half of mainframe |
Frame_B | Bottom half of mainframe |
Clips | Clips for retaining side panels |
Side | Side panel |
Mesh |
Removable mesh for PSU. |
Base | Removable vertical base |
Optional | |
Hat | Experimental glue on decorative panel. |
EVO ITX | Description |
Frame_F | Front half of mainframe |
Frame_R | Rear half of mainframe |
Clips | Clips for retaining side panels |
Door_B | Bottom access door |
Door_R | Back of motherboard access door |
Side_R | Rear half of side panel |
Side_F | Front half of side panel |
GPU_R | GPU retainer plate and thumbscrews |
Feet | 14mm case feet, best printed in TPU |
Optional | |
Caddy | Adds 2 x 3.5" or 4 x 2.5" drive support |
Rad_S240 | Side mounts 240mm radiators |
Fan_S120 | Side mounts 120mm fan or rad |
Fan_T120 | Top mounted 120mm fans |
EVO M-ATX | Description |
Frame_FB | Front-Bottom of Main Frame |
Frame_FT | Front-Top of Main Frame |
Frame_RB | Rear-Bottom of Main Frame |
Frame_RT | Rear-Top of Main Frame |
Clips | Clips for retaining side panels |
Door_B | Bottom access door |
Door_R | Back of motherboard access door |
Feet | 14mm Case feet, best printed in TPU |
GPU_R | GPU Retainer (NEW tool-less design) |
SFX PSU Bracket | SFX PSU bracket can mount to the side or the front. |
Side_F | Mesh Side Panel Front half |
Side_R | Mesh Side Panel Rear half |
Optional | |
Side | Single Body mesh side panel (247x344x6mm) |
Side_FB Side_FT Side_RB Side_RT |
Mesh Side panels. 4 Split (193mm longest dimension) |
Side_FB Style2 Side_FT Style2 Side_RB Style2 Side_RT Style2 |
Vented Side panels. 4 Split (193mm longest dimension) |
Side_F Style2 Side_R Style2 MESH (Side_F Style2) MESH (Side_R Style2) |
Vented Side panels. 2 Split (245mm longest dimension) The mesh a separate removable piece |
Side_FB Style2 Side_FT Style2 Side_RB Style2 Side_RT Style2 MESH (Side_FB Style2) MESH (Side_FT Style2) MESH (Side_RB Style2) MESH (Side_RT Style2) |
Vented Side panels. 4 Split (193mm longest dimension) The mesh is a separate removable piece |
MESH (Front PSU) | Mesh for front mounted PSU intake |
Filter_120 | Rear 120mm Fan mesh |
Filter_FT | Front-Top internal mesh |
Filter_RT | Rear-Top internal mesh |
Filter_S | Side internal mesh and Door Style2 mesh |
Door Style2 | Vent Style Rear of Motherboard Door. Uses Filter_S |
ATX PSU Brackets | Up to 225mm long ATX PSU support |
Caddy | Mounts up to 6x2.5" and 3x3.5" drives |
USB-C Holder | Mounts USB-C in V1.2 and earlier |
Materials
PETG Filament recommended. Do not use PLA. (Read more)
Hardware | Link |
---|---|
Power Button | Ø16mm |
Power Cable | Right Angle |
Screws | M3x20 Self tapping (30 pcs) |
EVOLUTION uses 1 screw type for all. Both socket head and flat head screws are compatible.
Optional | Link |
---|---|
Reset Button | Ø16mm |
USB Type C | 40cm |
USB Type A | 30cm |
USB-C Port
Modcase is designed to use most commonly available components. This USB C cable is suitable for EVO M-ATX. Similar cables may also work.
Make sure to cut the rubber tabs (it's soft) and use standard computer screws (#6-32 -6) to secure the cable and adjust its position if required.
Note: v1.3 onwards no longer requires the housing (shown in yellow above).
USB Type A - Also need to trim the rubber tabs before use.
Standard PC screws are used for PC components such as Motherboard and PSU. (#6-32*6)
Printer Requirements
- Nozzle Temperature: 240°C
- Bed Temperature: 90°C
- Minimum Bed Size: APU 180x180mm | ITX 240x170mm | m-ATX 200x200mm
Any printer meeting the above specs will work.
E.g: Bambulab P1p, P1S, X1C, X1, Prusa Mk3s+, Mk4, Sovol Svo1 pro.
ITX comes in 2 splits, m-ATX has the new 4 split assembly.
Like games and GPUs, higher end printers will render nicer looking prints. Older printers can get a good result, but may require more Troubleshooting to get started.
Slicing Guide - Panels
Tip: Download latest files before printing.
- Download updated files via the original link in your email. Your unique link has the newest version at all times.
- You will also receive this link via email when updates release.
- Updated files are backwards compatible.
1. Load “Door_R” in your slicer and select yes when prompted to “load as single object with multiple parts”.

Parts with mesh have 2 BODIES, one dedicated for mesh, one for solids.
2. Enter the following print settings
For PETG | 0.4mm Nozzle |
Layer Height |
0.2 |
Print Cooling Fan |
25% min, 50% max |
Infill |
36% Grid |
Walls |
4 |
Supports | No |
Nozzle Temp |
240°C |
Bed temp |
90°C |
Infill/Perimeter overlap |
20% |
3. Right click the mesh body in the objects panel > Select “infill” and “Layers and Perimeters”
Tip: In Bambu Slicer, you can select the mesh via the objects tab.
4. Set the mesh to: 36% Grid infill, 0 perimeter, 0 top and 0 bottom layers.
This dedicated body uses native slicer infill geometry to generate fast, clean and strong meshes. Make sure to reduce infill speed if you see broken mesh.
5. Slice and print!
Note on Stringing:
Please dry the filament before printing. Otherwise, tuning print settings may not help.
See Troubleshooting section for drying tips.
Note on Supports:
- Modeled supports are included for critical overhangs. For best print success, do not turn on additional supports.
Repeat the same procedure for the other panels and small parts.
Optional mesh customizations
The mesh can be customized without CAD. Simply set your own density and infill type when printing.
E.g. Use triangular infill with 30% density. This means the mesh will be weaved as triangles and with an open rate of 70%.
NOTE: Watch out for elephants’ foot, as it can restrict airflow. Elephants foot can be controlled via first layer flow adjustment (Cura) or via the Elephants foot compensation setting in others.
Slicing guide - Main Frame
1. Load “Frame_R” in your slicer and select the following settings:
For PETG | 0.4mm Nozzle |
Layer Height |
0.2 |
Print Cooling Fan |
27% (Min and Max) |
Infill |
20% Grid |
Walls |
4 |
Supports |
No |
Nozzle Temp |
240°C |
Bed temp |
90°C (Important) |
Infill/Perimeter overlap |
20% |
Bed temp must be 90°C for proper PETG bed adhesion. Use a 'brim' or glue on the print plate if you're still having lifting prints.
2. Slice and Print!
You can print more perimeters or even entirely solid for additional strength. However it's not always necessary and uses more material.
Optional Parts
Removable Filters
Intakes such as the top and side panels have removable fine mesh for dust filtering. For example, the ITX model has the following filters:
The exhausts are relatively open for unobstructed heat dissipation. The PC should be set up with positive air pressure.
The Part List has a full list of filters available.
Cable management strap points
Up to 12mm wide cable management straps or zip ties can be fitted to the following 3 positions.
Metal Nut Inserts
M3 locknuts can be inserted into dedicated pockets behind most holes, to be used with normal M3 screws.
Please consider this as a backup option only. The self tapping screws have a lot of thread engagement and are quite reliable.
Drive Caddy
EVO M-ATX : Up to to 3 x 3.5", 6 x 2.5" drives
EVO ITX : Up to to 2 x 3.5", 4 x 2.5" drives
EVO M-ATX PSU options
Mount the PSU to the bracket first, using normal PC case screws. Then the bracket to the case with M3x20.
SFX and SFX-L can mount to the side or the front. Mesh filter is available in the 'optional' folder.
ATX PSU up to 220mm long can be front mounted with the 2 piece bracket.
NOTE: If the ATX PSU is longer than 140mm, the max GPU length is 254mm.
Fans and Radiators
M-ATX
2x 280mm radiators, on the side and the top
4x 140mm fans
1x 120mm fan at the back
ITX
1x 240mm radiator on the top
4x 120mm fans
1x 92mm fan at the back
280mm Radiators and 140mm Fans are mounted on the side with optional mounts as shown below:
When mounting just 2 fans on the side, please use a "bridge" in the middle. See below.
Reset Button
A 16mm hole is available at the back for an additional reset button. Just push out the cover piece and install the same type of switch as your power button.
Scalable Feet
Stock height is 14mm. You can scale it via your slicer in the Z direction. Untick the uniform scaling box and type in the height you like.
Going lower than stock is not recommended. If you're lowering the feet height, be careful and make sure your screw doesn't reach internal components.
Alternative Side Panel
Side panels that simulate the looks of the vents is also included in your optional folder. The default mesh type panels (left) have greater airflow for the same mesh density.
Carbon Fiber reinforcement
Four Ø6mm x 300mm Carbon Rods (Link) can be inserted to reinforce the case. See diagram below.
This is optional. Any Ø6mm rod will work.
Specifications
EVO mATX - 18.3L 1.5kg | |
---|---|
Size | 352 x 272 x 191mm |
GPU Support | 4.75 Slots - 340x165x96mm |
Motherboard | mATX, ITX, DTX |
CPU Cooler | Up to 158mm tall |
IO Ports | USB-C, USB-A x2 |
PSU | SFX, SFX-L ATX up to 220mm |
Radiators | up to Dual 280mm! |
Fans | 4x 140mm or 5x 120mm |
EVO ITX - 11.9L 1.1kg | |
---|---|
Size | 320 x 225 x 166mm |
GPU Support | 2.5 Slots - 305x140x51mm |
Mother Board | ITX |
CPU Cooler | Up to 135mm tall cooler |
IO Ports | USB-C, USB-A x2 |
PSU | SFX, SFX-L |
Radiators | 240mm |
PSU | 4x 120mm, 1x 92mm |
EVO APU - 3.7L 0.5kg | |
---|---|
Size | 305 x 179 x 68mm |
Motherboard | ITX |
CPU Cooler | Up to 49mm tall cooler |
IO Ports | USB-C, USB-A x2 |
PSU | SFX, SFX-L |
*Weight can vary due to customizations.
Versions: What's Included
EVO | EVO CAD | |
---|---|---|
EVO ITX Print File | ✓ | ✓ |
EVO mATX Print File | ✓ | ✓ |
Optional parts | ✓ | ✓ |
EVO ITX CAD Assembly |
✓ | |
EVO mATX CAD Assembly | ✓ |
CAD
Efficiency is at the heart of Evolution's CAD library. The simplicity of the drawing means you'll find clean forms and features that can be adjusted either by dragging or entering numbers.
This CAD file is created from the ground up and delivered in the universally compatible STEP format. There are no hollow bodies or inoperable surfaces. Just clean, fully detailed and functionally interactive 3D models - that is ready to print.
It's a complete CAD assembly with all the optional parts as well. It's continuously updated and always accessible via your unique download link.
Recommended CAD Program: Autodesk Fusion 360 (free)
Opening the File
File > Upload > Select Files > Choose file > Upload.
Enable Direct Editing
Right-click top component in Browser Tree on the left > click "Do not capture Design History".
Export
Right-click a body> Save as mesh > Choose "3MF" > tweak refinement (optional)> Save.
It's recommended to export as 3mf instead of STEP for printing for resolution controls and generally better slicer compatibility.
Examples of CAD Customization
Adjust Chamfer
The same tool can be used to change the angle of the chamfer.
Add Fillets
Delete Features
The same applies to holes and other geometry. The trick is to select all faces to do with the features you're deleting.
Edit Holes
Pattern Vents
Resize Case
Add and Subtract bodies
Here's a reference on CAD skill levels involved editing various actions.
Easy Edits:
- Fillets - Add/Remove/Resize
- Chamfers - Add/Remove/Resize/Adjust Angle
- Holes - Add/Remove/Resize/
Move/Duplicate/Pattern - Vents - Remove/Pattern
- Mesh - Adjust pattern and Density
- Feet - Resize/Adjust angle
- Combine/Subtract Operations (Boolean)
Advanced Edits:
- Alter/Move large structures
- Move Walls, Adjust Thickness
- Custom Front IO
- Custom Water Cooling Mods
- Create RGB Lighting Accessories
- Create new mounts and accessories
- Create molds
- Create new vents
- Add more PCIE slots
- Resize case
- Split Bodies
Proceed with caution. Please understand, by altering the CAD you're changing the structure of the case itself. Ensure at least a 4 to 1 safety factor when designing your structures.
To expose issues and speed up testing, you may want to consider test prints with only 2 wall perimeters, 2 top and bottom layers. This will reduce printing time and create an intentionally weaker print to expose any structural issues.
Remix Policy
Personal Use
You're welcome to remix and modify all parts for your own use.
Commercial Use
You're welcome to sell physical prints of all parts with attribution.
Community Use
With the exception of the Mainframe* files, you can share your mods and remixes for free amongst others with attribution.
*Mainframe files:
Frame_FB, Frame_FT, Frame_RT
Frame_RB, Frame_F, Frame_R
Frame_T, Frame_B
Distribution of mainframe files for profit or for free is not permitted, whether original or modified. If you wish to collaborate or monetize MODCASE designs, please contact hbao@modcase.com.au for business enquires.
We trust these guidelines inspire creativity within our community while preserving the design's integrity. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Troubleshooting
How to print stronger
- Dry your filaments prior to print.
- Print at the upper material temperature limit.
- Reduce print cooling.
- Higher mesh density.
How to print for better appearance
The following is an oversimplified list of factors that usually produce nicer looking prints, some affect strength.
- Use a lighter filament color or one with matte finish.
- Print at colder nozzle temps.
- Slower external perimeter speed
- More print cooling.
- Faster travel speed.
- Try Arachne perimeter generator.
- Service the printer (lube, loose screws, belts, defects)
- FDM prints look better in a soft lighting environment in general.
Stringing
- Dry your filament. Otherwise tuning settings won't help.
- Check your retractions. Bowden ~2.5mm. Direct Extruder ~0.8mm (Varies with printer, normally it should be settings from your manufacturer.)
- Set Z-hop to 0 or 0.1mm (Lift Z)
How to dry filaments
- Using your oven. Set to 60°C and put your filament roll in it for 8 hrs.
- Using your 3D printer. Set your print bed to 70°C, put the roll of filament on the bed and cover it with a box. The box doesn't need to be airtight, so the moisture can escape. Leave it there for 8 hrs.
- Using a good filament dryer like the Eibos dryer, or one that can go up to 55°C.
Ghosting (Rippling Edges)
Alternatively, just reduce printing speed globally.
Print with 0.6mm nozzles
All print settings are the same as 0.4mm except infill% for the mesh. You’ll need to increase density - a 40% mesh for 0.4mm nozzle is similar in hole size as a 50% mesh printed with 0.6mm nozzle.
It is best to print the side panel retainer clips with 0.4mm nozzle.
Post Processing (cleanup)
Some overhang will occur in these 2 areas of your print. These are factored for in testing; they're internal and do not affect function. You do not need to tune your printer for these areas.
You may need to trim some small bits of plastic sticking out, there's no need to reprint. For the most part, overhanging features have been mitigated with angled geometry.
For example, the side vents start their lowest end on the inside, leaving the visible side perfect as it is the top of the vent strut.
Material Saving
The recommended 4 wall is on the cautious side. If you are confident of your layer adhesion, you can step down to 3 perimeters to save on some material on the smaller models.
Broken Clip
If you're having issues, try the following:
1. Press P to access 'paint seam' feature in PrusaSlicer or Bambulab Slicer.
2. Paint seams on the back of the thickened middle area.
This ensure the thin features of the clips are free from any seams that may weaken it.
Broken Mesh
Option 1. Set sparse infill line width to 0.5mm
Bambulab: Quality>Line width>Sparse infill>0.5
Prusaslicer: Print settings>Advanced>Extrusion Width>Infill:0.5
The above is for 0.4mm nozzles. For fixing broken mesh on 0.6mm nozzles, set it to 0.7
Option 2. You can reduce sparse infill speed by 30%.
Prints lifting or curling corners
For PETG – Clean your bed with alcohol and ensure bed temp is 90°C.
For PA, PC, ASA, PC-CF - try glue stick, use a print enclosure and even higher bed temps.
Cracking, brittle or delaminating prints
- Dry your filament again. The surface area of a spool of filament is immense. In open air, it can absorb enough moisture in 1-2 days to cause noticeable stringing, uneven walls, and bad layer adhesion.
- Increase nozzle temp. Normally nozzle temp shouldn't exceed 250
Supports hard to remove
If using Slic3r based slicers (including PrusaSlicer), set support "style" to Snug, and "XY separation between an object and its support" setting to 100%.
Restrictive mesh
Your first layers might squished and flare out, making the holes smaller.
To fix: reduce first layer flow in Cura, or in PrusaSlicer adjust increase elephants foot compensation parameter.
For expert printers: you can individually control the first 4 layers by using the following custom GCODE before layer change.
{if layer_num==0}M221 S92{endif}
{if layer_num==1}M221 S98{endif}
{if layer_num==2}M221 S99{endif}
{if layer_num==3}M221 S100{endif}
S Value = flow percentage. You many try your own S values too. Each line of this code instructs flow % for that layer. By having full control of the first few layers, you can eliminate elephant’s foot, and even shape a tapered leading edge.
Share your experience!
Let us know how you liked your MODCASE and send in a couple of images. Your experience helps others find and improve the Evolution. It's a digital item with continued updates after all!
MODCASE Evolution improvement
All attempts have been made to provide an informative and helpful guide. However, if you spot any issues or discrepancies please contact support. This manual and EVO will continue to improve over time.
If you have any further issues, do not hesitate to send in your query image and description to: support@modcase.com.au
Update Log:
You can download the latest files via:
1. The original link in your purchase email confirmation.
2. The link in your update notification email. It's the same URL.
Your unique download link contains the latest files at all times. Updated files are backwards compatible.
29 Nov 2023
- MODCASE EVO 1.3
*NEW* Evolution 3.7L APU model added!
- New min 180*180mm Bed size support for APU.
- ITX updated side vent and PSU mount print quality. (Frame_F)
- ITX added USB-C front IO
- MATX now has new direct mount USB-C (Frame_FT)
3 Nov 2023
- MODCASE EVO 1.21
16 Oct 2023
- MODCASE EVO 1.2
26 Sep 2023
- MODCASE EVO 1.1
- CAD Assembly cleanup.