Summary #
This video details the construction of a DIY "Steam Machine" using the ASRock BC250, a repurposed mining board featuring a cut-down PlayStation 5 APU. The project demonstrates how to build a budget-friendly, open-source gaming console capable of solid 1080p performance by combining a $100 motherboard with 3D-printed housing, a Flex power supply, and Bazzite (Linux/SteamOS).
Hardware Overview: The ASRock BC250 #
- APU Origins: The board features a cut-down PS5 APU with 6 cores, 12 threads (Zen 2 architecture), and a 24-compute unit RDNA2 iGPU.
- Memory: Includes 16GB of GDDR6 unified memory; the creator recommends dedicating 6–8GB to the GPU via BIOS.
- Thermal Design: The unit requires the removal of the top plate to allow air to flow through the integrated cooling fins.
- I/O Ports: Features USB 3.0, USB 2.0, Ethernet, and a DisplayPort.
Case Design and Assembly #
- 3D Printing: The case is a custom "DIY Steam Machine" design by NextGen 3D, available on Printables. It includes a rail system that slidingly secures the board without screws.
- Power Supply: Guided by a 350W Flex PSU (originally for eGPUs), though at least 300W is recommended.
- Form Factor: The vertical orientation is taller than an Xbox Series S but smaller than an original PlayStation 5.
- Cooling System: Uses a 120mm Noctua industrial fan to pull air through the bottom fins and expel it out the side.
- Front Panel: Features a honeycomb mesh design; files are available for different printer bed sizes (220mm vs. 300mm).
Software and Performance #
- Operating System: Uses Bazzite (a SteamOS alternative) because it allows for easier file system modification and overclocking compared to official SteamOS.
- Overclocking: The GPU was boosted from 1500 MHz to 2000 MHz, resulting in a reported 30% performance increase.
- Gaming Benchmarks:
- Fallout 4: Runs well at 1080p high/ultra settings.
- Performance Tier: significantly more powerful than a Steam Deck, though not a native 1440p machine for modern AAA titles.
- Retro/E-Sports: Older titles like Left 4 Dead 2 or Portal can easily hit 1440p settings.
Thermals and Power Consumption #
- Temperatures: Average 1080p gaming temps sit around 68°C, peaking at 84°C (below thermal throttling limits).
- Power Draw:
- Idle: 33 Watts.
- Average Gaming: 168 Watts.
- Peak (Shader Processing): 203 Watts.
Pricing and Availability #
- Board Cost: Currently found on eBay for $100–$150; the creator advises not paying more than $120 including shipping.
- Value Proposition: Because it includes 16GB of GDDR6 RAM on the board, it offers a highly competitive price-to-performance ratio for budget PC builders.
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