September 10, 2025 · Hardware

Building a Backpack Case for the Framework 16

Framework has been taking their sweet time releasing any kind of standalone enclosure for the FW16, even after releasing new mainboards! I believe this is the first (publicly available) standalone case for the FW16.

Framework 16 mainboard installed inside the 3D-printed backpack-inspired enclosure.
Fully assembled - it is a big janky, but functional.

Overview & Files

The enclosure is derived from the Framework Backpack Repack (full credits go to Dregin_2599256). Only four STLs are needed: Motherboard Tray, Motherboard Cover, Fan Duct L, and Fan Duct R.

Bill of Materials

Thermalright 80mm fan resting on the 3D-printed duct for the Framework 16 case.
Standard 80 mm PWM fans can be attached directly to the printed ducts with the screws that come with the fan.

1. Configure BIOS for Standalone Mode

  1. Temporarily reconnect the stock display and keyboard modules.
  2. Enter BIOS > Boot Configuration.
  3. Enable Standalone Operation.
  4. Disable Standalone Detection.
  5. Set Require Power Button to Force Off.
  6. (Optional) Disable Quiet Boot so POST messages confirm a successful start.
  7. Shut down, disconnect the modules, and verify the board boots solely from USB-C power.

2. Print and Prepare the Enclosure

  1. Print the four required STLs. If the tray exceeds your build volume, split it and attach however you can (I used glue).
  2. Deburr screw holes and dry-fit each part. Ensure ducts align with the fan screw pattern.
  3. Install M3 heat-set inserts while parts lie flat. Heat the insert with a soldering iron (~220 °C) and press until flush.
Installing heat-set inserts with a soldering iron.
M3 heat-set threaded inserts.
Soldering iron, inserts, and screws laid out before assembly of the Framework 16 tray.
Deburring and inserting inserts progress pic.

3. Mount the Mainboard

  1. Position the mainboard on the tray.
  2. Secure it with short M3 screws into the inserts. (note: there is no easy access to the power button once the top cover is screwed in)
Close-up of the Framework 16 power button accessible through a single corner screw in the 3D-printed cover.
Keeping the upper-left corner loose exposes the onboard power button for maintenance.

4. Assemble and Wire Cooling

  1. Attach each 80 mm fan to its duct using the included fan screws.
  2. Fasten both ducts to the tray.
  3. Connect the fans to a PWM splitter, then feed the splitter from the boost converter’s 12 V output.
  4. Power the converter with a USB-C to USB-C cable plugged into the mainboard.
  5. Set the PWM knob around 50% to start; you can dial it down after thermal testing.
PWM fan splitter and boost converter wired together on a desk.
Fan splitter, the USB-C ports on the FW16 should be sufficient to power 2 standard 80mm fans are full speed.
PWM governor mounted inside the Framework 16 enclosure with wiring routed to the fans.
Mount the converter along the tray edge with tape so the dial remains reachable.

5. Functional Checks

  1. Power on the system and confirm both fans spin immediately.
  2. Run a CPU stress test; expect package temperatures in the mid-60 °C range at half speed with TL-B8W fans.
  3. Verify the board shuts down cleanly when USB-C power is removed.
  4. If auto power-on from AC fails, leave the cover’s upper-left screw loose or cut a finger-width notch for the power button. (for some reason auto power-on from AC doesn't work for me)
All modifications are reversible—reinstall the board in the Framework chassis at any time without replacing components.
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