Building a PC grow box

[MrG]

Random af!!

Sent from my SM-F946B using Tapatalk

[barney_b]

Almost reads like an AI

B

[TheLowRyder]

Hi guys,

I'm looking to scale down my growing as the eye-in-the-sky is turning the missus into a paranoid wreck. (I must live under a heli flight path or something) She's convinced were going to get raided.

So, once my attic grow is complete I'll be turning things down a bit - and just growing on a very small scale. But, my thinking that a single PC case could quite easily supply me, perhaps with another PC case to house a mother, making the turn-around a lot quicker.

I've had an old PC tower knocking around for years, its about 16" high, 7" wide and 16" deep - which will be perfect for the job. I've got another 5 weeks to get this case up and running, so I intend to do it properly.

I've been very much inspired by Ghost's PC grow, but unfortunately it looks like his has been delayed indefinitely.


Goals
Stealthy
Low running cost
Low odour
Low setup cost


Location
Under my computer desk, next to my real computer


Plan
Case:
1. Strip all pc case down to its bare bones
2. Keep old power supply in place to add to illusion thats its just a PC
3. Fit reflective material inside case (TBD)
4. Install Philips MASTER Colour CDM-TC Elite 70W/930 with a G12 socket
5. Decide on number and size of fans required (TBD)
6. Decide on method to keep smells down when tending to my girls (TBD)
7. Make a carbon filter (TBD)
8. Install a scrog screen (TBD)
9. Install heat reflecting plexiglass under light
10. Install light traps to fans (TBD)
11. Make sure no light escapes
12. Decide on a 70w Metal Halide ballast (TBD)

Grow:
1. Decide on growing medium (TBD)
2. Decide on strain (TBD)
3. Decide on Auto or Photo (TBD)

Any tips or advise is very much appreciated.

It sounds like you have a well-thought-out plan for your stealth PC grow setup. Here are some suggestions and considerations for each step to help you achieve your goals of stealth, low running cost, low odor, and low setup cost.

### Case Setup:

1. **Strip all PC case down to its bare bones**:
- Make sure to remove all unnecessary components while keeping any that can contribute to the disguise.

2. **Keep old power supply in place**:
- Ensure it's non-functional if it's no longer needed, but looks operational for the illusion.

3. **Fit reflective material inside case**:
- Mylar is a great option as it is highly reflective and affordable. Alternatively, you can use emergency blankets.

4. **Install Philips MASTER Colour CDM-TC Elite 70W/930 with a G12 socket**:
- Make sure the light fixture is securely installed and that the bulb has enough ventilation.

5. **Decide on number and size of fans required**:
- Typically, you would need at least two fans: one for intake and one for exhaust. Small computer case fans (120mm) are quiet and effective.

6. **Decide on method to keep smells down**:
- Odor can be managed with a small carbon filter attached to the exhaust fan. You can either buy one or make a DIY carbon filter using activated carbon.

7. **Make a carbon filter**:
- There are many tutorials online for making a small carbon filter. You will need activated carbon, mesh, and possibly a small container or pantyhose.

8. **Install a scrog screen**:
- A simple screen made of wire or plastic netting can help maximize the use of your small space by training the plants to grow horizontally.

9. **Install heat reflecting plexiglass under light**:
- This will help manage the heat from the light and protect the plants.

10. **Install light traps to fans**:
- Light traps can be made using bent pieces of black cardboard or tubing to prevent light from escaping through the fans.

11. **Make sure no light escapes**:
- Use weather stripping or foam tape around any openings.

12. **Decide on a 70w Metal Halide ballast**:
- Ensure you get a ballast that is compatible with your light and fits within the case without generating too much heat.

### Grow Setup:

1. **Decide on growing medium**:
- Soil is straightforward and forgiving for small-scale grows. If you prefer hydroponics, consider a small DWC (Deep Water Culture) or coco coir setup.

2. **Decide on strain**:
- Choose a strain that is known for its compact growth and good yield in small spaces. Indica-dominant strains are usually more compact than Sativa-dominant ones.

3. **Decide on Auto or Photo**:
- Autoflowering strains are ideal for small grows as they don't require a change in the light cycle to flower and tend to be smaller. Photoperiod plants can yield more but may require more height and light cycle management.

### Additional Tips:

- **Monitor Temperature and Humidity**:
- Small spaces can heat up quickly, so keep an eye on the temperature and humidity inside the case. Aim for 70-85°F and 40-60% humidity.

- **Odor Control**:
- Besides the carbon filter, consider using odor-neutralizing gels or sprays around the grow area.

- **Stealth**:
- Ensure the PC case blends in with its surroundings. Regularly check for any light leaks or unusual noise that might draw attention.

- **Maintenance**:
- Regularly clean the fans and check the carbon filter to ensure proper airflow and odor control.

By following these guidelines, you should be able to create a stealthy and effective small-scale grow operation within your PC case. Good luck with your project!