Retro AT-Style Case for ZimaBoard 2: DIY Home Server Build with Smart Display

Eva Wong

IceWhale author

Eva Wong is the Technical Writer and resident tinkerer at ZimaSpace. A lifelong geek with a passion for homelabs and open-source software, she specializes in translating complex technical concepts into accessible, hands-on guides. Eva believes that self-hosting should be fun, not intimidating. Through her tutorials, she empowers the community to demystify hardware setups, from building their first NAS to mastering Docker containers.

Retro AT-Style Case for ZimaBoard 2: DIY Home Server Build with Smart Display - Zima Store Online

If you’ve ever wished modern hardware had more personality, this project will feel instantly familiar.

Recently, we connected with Florencia, creator of Estudio Tangente, who designed one of the most original custom builds we’ve seen for ZimaBoard 2 — a fully functional retro-inspired AT-style desktop case that blends 1990s PC nostalgia with modern self-hosting power.

What started as a case mod quickly became something bigger: a smart storage hub, a creative workspace, and a tribute to the golden age of personal computing.

Why Build a Custom Case for ZimaBoard 2?

Florencia noticed many community submissions followed a similar open-frame style. Instead of repeating what already existed, she wanted to create something with a stronger identity.

Her first idea was inspired by classic Macintosh computers, but the internal layout didn’t match the needs of the hardware. So she shifted direction and found the perfect reference point:

Classic AT desktop PC cases from the 1990s.

Those iconic machines inspired the final design — boxy proportions, clean front panel lines, and a nostalgic front display inspired by vintage CPU MHz indicators.

The result is a case that feels familiar, yet completely reimagined for modern makers.

Tribute to a Classic:

Classic 1990s AT computer cases with front panel switches, turbo indicator, and internal hardware view

A Retro Exterior With Modern Features Inside

This isn’t just a cosmetic shell. It was designed to be practical, expandable, and useful for daily workflows.

Florencia’s custom ZimaBoard 2 AT case includes:

Dual 2.5-inch drive bays
Support for PCIe NVMe expansion
Active cooling with Noctua fan
Front smart display powered by ESP32
Real-time monitoring via MQTT + ESPHome + Home Assistant
Durable PETG printed chassis with heat resistance

3D printed retro AT-style case with ZimaBoard 2 installed showing internal cooling fan and SSD

ZimaBoard 2 home server monitoring dashboard showing CPU temperature and system activity

Smart Front Display: More Than Decoration

One of the most impressive parts of the project is the front panel display.

Instead of showing fake MHz numbers like old PCs, this version displays live system stats from the ZimaBoard 2 in real time:

CPU usage
Temperature
RAM usage
Disk usage

To make it happen, Florencia collaborated with creator Eze from PochoLabs, who helped build the technical side and developed an open-source ZimaOS app that integrates system statistics with Home Assistant.

That means this build doesn’t just look retro — it actually talks to your smart home ecosystem.

Retro PC case front panel display showing system stats including CPU, temperature, and usage metrics

Why PETG Was the Right Choice

The case was printed using PETG, chosen for its balance of:

Heat resistance
Durability
Long-term reliability
Smooth finish

The selected color closely matches vintage beige/gray AT-era computers, helping complete the nostalgic look.

3D model render of retro AT-style computer case for ZimaBoard 2 with ventilation design

What Is the Device Used For Today?

Today, Florencia uses the system to centralize creative assets for her brand, Estudio Tangente.

That includes:

3D design files
Product photos
Video assets
Brand content archives

Having everything stored in one place — with remote access anytime — turns ZimaBoard 2 into a practical private cloud for creators.

ZimaOS home server interface with app launcher and system metrics

Why This Build Matters

This project captures what makes the maker community special.

It shows that a NAS or home server doesn’t need to be hidden in a closet or look like generic hardware. It can be:

Personal
Beautiful
Expandable
Functional
Fun to own

That’s exactly the spirit behind ZimaBoard 2 — open hardware that invites creativity.

Want to Build Your Own?

You can explore Florencia’s original design here:

ZimaBoard 2 — AT Style Case

And if you're looking for a compact x86 platform for NAS, self-hosting, automation, or maker projects, ZimaBoard 2 is built for exactly that.

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Final Thoughts on Nostalgia Meets Modern Function

Some builds are practical. Some are beautiful. This one manages to be both.

What Florencia created is more than just a custom case for ZimaBoard 2 — it’s a reminder that technology can still feel personal, creative, and full of character.

By taking inspiration from the iconic desktop PCs of the 1990s and combining it with modern storage, smart monitoring, and self-hosting freedom, she turned nostalgia into something genuinely useful for everyday life.

It now powers her creative workflow, keeps important files organized, and proves that a home server doesn’t need to look boring or disappear into a closet.

A classic design reborn as a modern private server — powered by ZimaBoard 2.

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