Raspberry Pi 5 Extension for the Mainframe z16 and z17 Modular Case

⚠ Requires the:
Mainframe z17 Modular Case (Free) 
or 
Mainframe z16 Modular Case (Free)
for full functionality

🔌 Raspberry Pi 5 Extension for the Mainframe z16 and z17 Modular Case

This extension pack is designed to make the Mainframe Modular Case fully functional, adding essential features for cooling, accessibility, and stability.

Upgrade your Mainframe Modular Case with this extension pack and enjoy a sleek, 
modular, and well-ventilated setup! 🚀

Mainframe z17 design (recommended)

This is the newest design.

Mainframe z16 design

This is and older design and it is not as refined as the z17 - but it still works.

🔹 What’s Included?

This package contains custom-designed parts that complete the modular case:
✅ A sliding lid with an airflow mesh for heat dissipation
✅ A backplate with an airflow mesh, port cutouts, and sliding mechanism
✅ A stand that raises the case for improved airflow from the bottom
✅ A power button 
✅ A waveshare port protector 

z17 Raspberry Pi Extension	z16 Raspberry Pi Extension

💡 Why is this a separate paid extension?

The free case shell is based on IBM's publicly available z16 or z17 model. To respect IBM’s ownership, this extension is a separately designed add-on that makes the case fully functional.

💚🌈🍀 Your purchase helps cover development costs and supports future improvements!

🔗 Get the free base model here: 🆓 Mainframe z17 Modular Case (Free)

🔗 Get the free base model here: 🆓 Mainframe z16 Modular Case (Free)

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🔹 Backplate Information

The backplate supports two different setups based on your cable preferences:

1. Standard Cable Setup:
   1x USB-C (for power)
   1x or 2x Micro HDMI to Full HDMI adapters
    
2. Waveshare Full HDMI Adapter Setup (SKU: 27009):
   This adapter allows all ports to be accessible at the back using full-size HDMI cables:
   1x USB-C (for power)
   1x or 2x Full HDMI cables

🛒 Note: The Waveshare full HMDI Pi5 adapter SKU:27009  must be purchased separately.

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💡 Power LED Hole

The Mainframe Modular Case includes a small hole above the power button, designed for a Ø1.75mm white, transparent, or glow filament. 

Simply insert a piece of filament to act as a light guide, transferring the power LED’s light from the Raspberry Pi to the front—just like a fiber optic cable. 

Trim any excess filament flush with the front using flush cutters for a clean finish.

💡 Power Button Mount

To install the power button:

1. Push the button through the hole in the case.
2. Make sure the pin is in the vertical position initially.
3. Then, rotate the pin to the horizontal position to lock it in place.

🚨Waveshare Full HDMI Adapter - External Power Plug Removal

Before using this model, make sure to remove the external power connector (the light green connector) on the Waveshare PCB. This small plug (often secured with micro screws) will block the Raspberry Pi board from fitting properly in the case.

For this project, the external power connector is not needed – but it’s a good idea to keep it safe in case you need to connect an external power supply later in another project.

🚨Waveshare Full HDMI Adapter - Add Waveshare Port Protector

The Waveshare Port Protector is simply press-fitted onto the HDMI adapter ports and protects them from cable strain.

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Filament used

Prusament PLA Jet Black or Prusament PLA Galaxy Black
Prusament PLA Blend Royal Blue / Prusament PLA Orange 

Print settings

Nozzle size 0.6
Layer height 0.32 Structural
Infill Grid 20% for Powerbutton, Stand

Supports

Support on build plate only for Powerbutton, Stand and Backplate for Raspberry Pi 5

Build plate

Smooth PEI Steel Sheet / Textured Steel Sheet

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Change log

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Support my work

Like this model? Donate at https://paypal.me/hjembaek