A creative maker known as Ideatracker has developed an innovative cooling solution for the Raspberry Pi 5 using CNC-machined aluminum, offering an efficient passive cooling alternative that eliminates the need for noisy fans.
The custom-designed aluminum case, crafted from a $15 piece of aluminum, is compatible with both the latest Raspberry Pi 5 and the previous Pi 4 model. The design prioritizes heat dissipation while maintaining a sleek, minimalist appearance.
The project originated from Ideatracker's need for a reliable cooling solution for their 24/7 Umbrel server setup, which requires consistent temperature management. The case houses a CM4 module connected to a Waveshare CM4-IO-BASE-C board and a 1TB SSD for operating system and storage purposes.
One notable feature is the case's adaptability - it accommodates both regular Raspberry Pi 4 and 5 models through interchangeable 3D-printed faceplates for different port configurations. However, users should note that the aluminum construction does impact wireless connectivity, limiting both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities.
This DIY cooling solution represents a cost-effective alternative to commercial options like the $80 Galactic Case by DeSalvo Systems. The project demonstrates how makers can create professional-grade cooling solutions using accessible materials and manufacturing techniques.
The successful implementation of passive cooling in this design showcases the potential for silent, efficient operation in small form-factor computers, particularly for applications requiring continuous operation like home servers and cloud systems.