Case Mod How-To for the Alix Single Board Computer

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You’ll need a number of tools for this case mod:

• First and foremost, you’ll need a Dremel rotary tool to do the “heavy lifting”. I chose to use the Dremel 400 Series XPR rotary tool.
• Next, you’ll need a cutting wheel to cut through the soft aluminum of the case. I used the Dremel EZ456 EZ Lock Cut-off Wheel teamed with the Dremel EZ402 EZ Lock Mandrel. I used the wheel to cut the top and bottom of the slot.
• You’ll also need a Dremel 150 1/8″ Drill Bit to cut the left and right sides of the slot.
• Lastly, you’ll need precision files for fine-tuning the cut.

If you’ve got a little more cash, the following optional Dremel accessories will make your life a lot easier:

• Dremel Multi-Vise. The vise will help you hold the Alix case steady while you cut it.
• Dremel Flex Shaft. This is probably the most useful Dremel accessory. It gives you pen-like control of the Dremel rotary tool.
• Dremel Flex Shaft Tool Holder. This is handy for hanging your Dremel rotary tool, which is recommended when you use the Flex Shaft.

Here are some photos of the tools I used.

Fig. 5: EZ456 Cut Off Wheel

Fig. 6: EZ456 Cut Off Wheel

Fig. 7: Dremel Multi Vise

Fig. 8: Dremel Flex Shaft

Fig. 9: Dremel Flex Shaft Tool Holder

Fig. 10: Precision Files

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