Thermaltake M9 Case: Mobo Install Question

[jillsy]

OK, I feel like a moron asking this, but this is only my second build from scratch. I have a Thermaltake M9 case and a Gigabyte GA-EP35-DS3P Mobo. Both meet my needs well and were reviewed favorably at Newegg.

The case has a mobo tray, but it's not removable. In addition, it has many screwholes, but 6 are raised (see photo). These 6 do line up with 6 holes on the mobo, but there is definitely no room for standoffs in these raised holes in the case (the I/O connections wouldn't line up with the rear I/O panel).

So is it meant to screw directly into these raised holes and then place standoffs in the flat holes where necessary? That seems like the only logical solution to me. The raised holes would allow a bit of surface contact with the underside of the mobo, but it shouldn't go beyond the area cleared around the mobo holes.

So I guess I'm just looking for reassurance that this is the correct way to do it, or advice on what I might be missing here. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Jill

[doctorgonzo]

It sure looks like that would be the right way to do it. I think you are correct.

[Katreat]

that is my understanding also. I have never worked with one, but have seen it discussed by others.

Kat

[jillsy]

Thanks both for your replies. I did a search on "M9," but didn't see any discussions pertaining to the raised holes.

I've installed the mobo and CPU, and attached the front panel headers. I still have a ways to go before I actually turn on the power, but at least now I feel a little better about actually pressing the button.

Thanks again,
Jill

[Cricket]

Yes, the raised "bumps" are the molded-in standoffs. For that particular motherboard you have to use more than just those 6 "bumps"...I can see 9 mounting holes on the motherboard that should be used. The mounting holes have those metal "fingers" around the holes. Use the brass standoffs for the last 3 mounting holes near the edge of the motherboard that has the motherboard power connection.

Cricket

[jillsy]

Thanks, Cricket. Yes, that's what I did. I used 6.5-mm high standoffs. I have 6.5 and 8.5 sizes, but 6.5 appeared to be the perfect height.

I turned the system on last night and all appeared well. I had to use a Celeron CPU to turn on and flash the BIOS so the board will recognize my Q9450 CPU. I've done that and am now preparing to install the Q9450 and will continue from there. Hopefully it will all go smoothly.