Quote:
Originally Posted by
kruzmisl 
I set up an AV systems with plasma and components in separate cabinets. Components were rack mounted in a closed cabinet and the plasma was in a wall recess with a picture frame around it. I bought two System 1's from Active Thermal Management.
http://www.activethermal.com/System_1.htm
One worked so well I used a "Y" to split air flow to cover both systems and never used the second one, and since the unit is in the attic there is no discernable sound. My Adelphia (now Time Warner) "Moxie Box" DVR runs 24/7, and HOT, so my fan needs to run 24/7 otherwise the DVR would roast itself and the other components. This unit is relatively low cost to run continuously especially with a speed control that cut down the speed. I used inexpensive HVAC 3" aluminum stretch tubing and fittings from Home Depot to connect to the cabinets. Using a remote thermometer to monitor the units the inside of the cabinet with the volume cranked up is not that much above room temp except for right behind some of the components but the air gets sucked up and out of the top of the cabinets. The air goes into the plasma through a 1/2" by 48" slot in the bottom of the frame and then up past the plasma and out 2 holes in the ceiling to the attic. If anyone is interested in info (or a deal on my unused 2nd unit) I'd be glad to discuss it.
John
Pretty cool John. I'm in the process of doing similar, trying to vent the heat out of the room altogether instead of just the rack. I'm connecting my exhaust up to the air intake return on my HVAC system, but I think I might need something to encourage the air in the rack to leave.
I was afraid if I just vented to the attic I would end up with too much negative pressure (after running the fan 24x7) that it wouldn't push air anymore. I know bathroom vents will push all day, but they're loud. Plus in the winter time, I'd rather not throw hot air outside.
For that system 1, can you put the blower in the attic so it sucks the air out of the room through the tube? Or does the blower need to sit in the room and blow the air down the tube?
any chance you can provide a photo of this? And just so I"m understanding you correctly. You used multiple fans to run off the one wall wart unit? I'm thinking about using three fans, one blowing in the cabinet at the bottom, and the other two at the top exhausting the air. Only one concern I have is that all this is in a 'closet'. My contractor suggesting one interesting idea. Using a type of dryer exhaust set up to take the air out of the cabinet and exhaust it right out of the closet itself.. I'm not sure but if my idea does't cool it off enuf i might try his.
