We’ve talked a lot about Framework’s modular, DIY computers, and for good reason. Its goal is to eliminate the need for consumers to discard an otherwise flawless device when a single component fails. However, as the business develops, it must also address the problem of what occurs when users decide to upgrade for functionality-related reasons. An early adopter may decide to forego their 11th-generation Intel motherboard in favour of any of its replacements or purchase the recently launched AMD version. That leaves them with an otherwise flawless mainboard that they will either have to sell, work on as a hobby, or, more likely, keep dusty on a shelf as a backup plan. For this reason, the business partnered with Cooler Master to provide you with an even better option.
It costs $39. Install your current Framework mainboard into the Framework x Cooler Master Mainboard Case. All you get for that is a kickstand and an attractive plastic frame with four hidden VESA mount screws and, well, not much else. That’s the good news: you can utilize suitable spares you may find lying about, cannibalize other components from your laptop, or get new ones from Framework at a discount. This isn’t directed towards Framework’s enthusiastic and skilled enthusiast group, who have independently produced many excellent 3D-printed cases. Instead, it’s required for individuals such as myself, who get hot under the collar whenever a DIY Perks video brings about soldering. (If you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen the laptop preservation video, but I also bet you’ve never tried.)
If you’re starting from scratch, you can get a more miniature PC with better specs for less money. However, this makes perfect sense if you’re already a part of Framework’s ecosystem and have one of those boards on hand and a few other extra features. Ultimately, the first generation model I evaluated has a Core i7-1165G7, which is more than sufficient power for routine chores like web browsing, productivity work, and media centre use. Because of the case’s flexibility, you can add or remove whatever accessories you choose. For example, the pre-drilled holes allow you to install SMA antennas instead of using the same laptop WiFi module twice. Oh, and since the mainboard was meant to be used with a battery, you’ll also need a 100W charger.
Flexibility is vital since it allows you to customize your system as you see fit and provides feedback on the build quality. You can’t get much for $39, and the plastic case’s two halves are far more fragile than I would have liked. It doesn’t help that the parts are held in place when the lid is screwed on because you don’t so much install them onto the backboard as you insert them. While it is relatively simple to put everything together, there was a problem with sealing everything up because there was no wire routing for the WiFi. Not to add, the USB-C ports for the expansion cards didn’t fit over the holes for them to pass through the first time I screwed everything in.
The inability of the device to push video to the TV was the only other obstacle to my original setup. The iFixit-style instructions don’t explain how to put the mainboard in Standalone mode, even if you need to. Mainly, if you spend thirty minutes in the BIOS trying in vain to find the setting before and after installing a batch of updates, to my astonishment, the board booted right to the screen when I finally put it back in the casing to see if anything had changed. The Framework must remember that no instruction should be given off-hand and that its user base may have a wider variety of abilities than it anticipates.
I was set to go once I had resolved the teething issues and pushed the WiFi cables back into position by making a screwdriver through the VESA mount hole. You have your regular selection of USB-C extension cards because this Framework laptop sits outside its typical chassis. As soon as I logged into Plex, I was streaming 4K movies without any problems, thanks to an HDMI out and a few USB-A connections for accessories. Tools like these make these projects accessible to those of us too shy even to consider creating our own hobby projects.