Removing Instapak Foam (Internal PC Foam)

In order to help prevent shipping damage, we pack systems with Instapak foam. Instapak is a mouldable foam solution which helps to minimise possible shipping damage from bumps and vibration within the PC during courier transit.

It's extremely important that you remove the Instapak foam from your system before you turn it on, and this page will help walk you through that process.

The first step is to remove the side panel of your PC. When you view the system from behind, this will generally be the right-hand panel. It's secured by two thumbscrews, and in most cases should not require a screwdriver. If you can't undo the screws with your fingers, then the assistance from a Phillips head screwdriver may be needed. Remember: righty-tighty, lefty-loosey.

Remove the thumbscrews from the case. Check for these as although it is likely they will be on each corner of your case's tempered glass, they could be located on the corners or the rear of the case, depending on your case's design. Some cases might have the side panel on a latch or hinge mechanism, so be sure to check before undoing screws and hoping for the best!

Next, simply slide the side panel off of the computer tower. Do this by pulling towards the rear of the computer, the panel should slide a few inches and then fall easily away from the tower. Remove the panel and sit it somewhere safe. If your tower has a window or glass side panel, take care not to scratch it. Gently remove the Instapak foam. It should come out easily without having to apply any force, typically straight up and out is the best way to go about it. If there's significant resistance, look for any obstructions and see what's restraining the foam.

Retain the foam with the rest of your packing materials, in case you need to ship the computer in the future. Then, simply place the side panel back on and secure it with the thumb screws. You're all done!