iStarUSA 3U Compact Server/Desktop Chassis - D-313SE-MATX-DT

Meet the iStarUSA D-313SE-MATX-DT, a durable 3U-high industrial chassis engineered for reliable server and desktop performance in space-constrained environments. This compact 3U enclosure blends rugged build quality with practical expansion and front-panel convenience, making it an ideal choice for small data centers, embedded systems, NAS deployments, telecom applications, and industrial control stations. Designed to accommodate Micro-ATX motherboards and ATX PS2 power supplies, it balances performance, versatility, and value without compromising on airflow or serviceability. Whether you’re assembling a compact rack unit, a lab workstation, or an edge computing node, this chassis delivers stability, easy maintenance, and scalable expansion in a compact footprint.

• Compact 3U industrial chassis with 15" depth — engineered to fit tight rack rails and desktop setups, offering a sturdy platform for critical components while preserving valuable workspace and ventilation.
• Micro-ATX compatibility and PS2 power readiness — built to support MATX motherboards and ATX PS2 power supplies, enabling flexible, cost-effective builds and straightforward upgrades.
• Front-panel I/O and status indicators — convenient front USB 2.0 ports (x2), plus Power and HDD LEDs and a Power/Reset switch, allowing quick access and clear system status without opening the chassis.
• Expansion-ready with 4 full-height add-on slots — accommodates a broad range of PCI/PCIe cards for server, I/O, storage, or industrial control expansion in a compact form factor.
• Rugged, reliable design for demanding environments — constructed for long-term operation in industrial settings, with stable power delivery and straightforward serviceability for minimized downtime.

Technical Details of iStarUSA 3U Compact Server/Desktop Chassis

• Model: D-313SE-MATX-DT
• Chassis type: 3U industrial server/desktop chassis
• Depth: 15 inches
• Motherboard compatibility: Micro-ATX (MATX)
• Power supply compatibility: ATX PS2 power supply
• Front panel I/O: USB 2.0 x2
• Indicators: Power LED, HDD LED
• Front panel controls: Power switch, Reset switch
• Expansion slots: Supports 4 full-height add-on cards
• Construction: Industrial-grade materials designed for durability and long-term operation

How to Install iStarUSA 3U Compact Server/Desktop Chassis

• Step 1 — Plan and prepare: Confirm your Micro-ATX motherboard and ATX PS2 power supply are compatible with the D-313SE-MATX-DT chassis. Gather screws, standoffs, and a compatible cooling solution. Clear a clean workspace and unplug all power sources before starting.
• Step 2 — Remove side panels and inspect interior: Open the chassis by removing the side panels to access the internal mounting area. Check for any shipping brackets or protective covers and remove them as needed to expose the motherboard tray and expansion slot areas.
• Step 3 — Install the power supply: Slide in the ATX PS2 power supply into its designated area, align mounting holes, and secure with screws. Connect the main 24-pin motherboard power connector and the CPU power connector as required, ensuring cables are neatly organized to maintain airflow.
• Step 4 — Mount the Micro-ATX motherboard: Place standoffs at the correct motherboard screw locations for Micro-ATX form factors. Position the motherboard, align I/O shield with the chassis cutout, and secure with screws. Route power cables and any chassis fan cables toward their respective headers without obstructing PCIe slots.
• Step 5 — Install PCI/PCIe add-on cards: Install up to 4 full-height add-on cards in the available expansion slots. Secure each card with screws and verify that no cables or wires block slot access. If you’re using passive backplane or hot-swappable drives, follow manufacturer instructions for power and data connections.
• Step 6 — Connect front-panel I/O and storage: Attach the USB 2.0 cables from the front panel to the appropriate USB headers on the motherboard. Connect any case fans, HDDs, or SSDs to the motherboard or a dedicated controller as your build requires. Route cables along the chassis edges to maintain airflow and minimize interference with PCIe cards.
• Step 7 — Verify indicators and power-on: Double-check that the Power and HDD LEDs illuminate correctly when powered. Recheck cable routing and ensure all fasteners are secure. Power on the system and enter the BIOS/UEFI to configure boot order and hardware settings for your operating system.
• Step 8 — Finalize cooling and airflow: If the chassis includes dedicated fan mounting options, install appropriate fans to ensure optimal airflow across the motherboard, add-on cards, and storage devices. Maintain clean cable management to maximize cooling efficiency and system stability.
• Step 9 — Perform testing and validation: Run basic system checks, verify all drives are recognized, and test drive and card performance. Monitor temperatures under load and adjust fan curves or airflow paths as needed to ensure reliable operation in your environment.

Frequently asked questions

• What motherboard form factor does this chassis support? It supports Micro-ATX (MATX) motherboards, offering a compact yet versatile platform for compact servers and desktops.
• How many expansion cards can I install? The chassis accommodates up to 4 full-height add-on cards, making it suitable for multiple PCI or PCIe expansions.
• Does it include a power supply? The unit is designed to be compatible with ATX PS2 power supplies, but it does not specify that a power supply is included. Check your supplier listing for availability.
• What front I/O options are available? The front panel provides USB 2.0 ports (x2) along with Power and HDD indicators and a Power/Reset switch for convenient access.
• Is this chassis suitable for industrial environments? Yes. It is described as an industrial chassis designed for reliability and stable operation in demanding settings, with a rugged build and straightforward maintenance features.
• What is the depth and footprint of the chassis? The chassis has a depth of 15 inches, making it suitable for compact rack installations as well as desktop setups in tight spaces.