Installation
Next, we’re going to build a system inside the NZXT Switch 810 SE. Here are the system specs, for your information:
CPU: Intel i5 3570k
Motherboard: ASRock Z77 Extreme6
Graphics: Sparkle Calibre GTX x480
RAM: Mushkin Enhanced Blackline 1600mhz (2x4GB)
Hard Drive: 128GB Plextor M3 SSD
Power Supply: NZXT HALE82N 750W
When I install a case, I tend to always start off with motherboard installation. Firstly, put your motherboards I/O Shield in the cutout that is provided for this purpose. Then, you can use the included key etched into the motherboard tray to know which holes your particular type of motherboard lines up with. Once you identify the correct installation location, install the provided standoffs first. NZXT provide a tool to tighten your standoffs, so that you don’t have to do it by hand. Then, place your motherboard onto the standoffs and fasten with the provided screws.
After that, install your CPU cooler. You can do this out-of-case, if you want, but the CPU cutout on the NZXT Switch 810 SE is so large it’s just as easy to do it in case – especially if you’re using a closed-loop liquid cooler like I am, you can install the radiator and fans first to prevent any extra weight on the CPU block during installation.
Next, your graphics card! Unscrew the thumb screws on the expansion slot covers and remove them. Keep the screws to hand, though, as you’ll be using them to secure the card in place. Push your graphics card into your chosen PCI-E slot on your motherboard, and it’ll lock into place. Then you can re-attach the thumbscrews.
Next, you’re going to want to install your hard drive(s). You can either remove the drive cages, or turn the case around and install them from the back side of the case. Remove a drive tray and place your hard drive into the tray. If you’re using a 3.5” drive, you will be able to line up the holes on the side of the hard drive with the tool-free parts on the tray. Once everything is in place, simply slide the drive tray into the slot you got it from and it will click into place. If you’re using a 2.5” drive, you’ll need to install it with screws. NZXT have provided mounting holes on the drive trays for this purpose. As I mentioned before, when the NZXT Switch 810 was originally released, there was an additional piece on the drive tray that prevented the use of 90 degree SATA cables with 2.5” drives. This has been rectified with the SE.
Optical drive installation on the Switch 810 SE is one of the easiest tool-free systems I’ve worked with. First, remove the optical drive cover from the case’s front panel. Secondly, push your optical drive gently into the now-open slot. Once you reach the location the drive is supposed to be in, you’ll hear a click, and that’s it! Place the optical drive cover back in front of your drive, and it will keep the case aesthetic consistent and also provide disc drive functionality. Lock the drive in place with the tool-free lock, and you’re done. To remove the optical drive, unlock the drive with the tab, and then lift the rear of the tool-free mechanism. You’ll then be able to slide your drive out with ease.
Next, your power supply. Install it in the provided location at the bottom of the case, and fasten it with the four screws. There are a plethora of cable routing holes with excellent quality rubber grommets that will allow you to hide messy cabling and therefore show off your components clutter-free. Connect the cables you need to use, and hide the rest.
Once everything is done, admire your handiwork and your hardware through the huge case window.
