Valve Steam Machine CAD Files Released Alongside New Reservation Queue Updates

Valve has released the CAD files for the Steam Machine under a Creative Commons license, allowing users to customize the hardware. The transfer will enable owners and hobbyists to design their own exterior components, trial new designs, and better understand the hardware's physical layout.

In addition to releasing the CAD file, Valve has also updated the reservations, waitlists, and software support, providing a better indication of what to expect as the months go by. Valve has officially published the Steam Machine CAD files on Steam, available under a Creative Commons license, which allows owners to make their own Steam Machine mods and accessories.

Official Release of Steam Machine CAD Files

The release lets anyone with access to a 3D printer create their own parts. The original STP CAD file is provided, as well as STL and OBJ files for those who wish to print the components or view them in a 3D program. The files also enable the viewer to examine the geometry of the device, to change the display colors, or to use the model for various non-commercial projects.

Valve recommends that anyone who wants to produce accessories or replacement parts commercially reach out directly to the company. But a license that lets you make or print accessories for your own Steam Machine is its ticket if you just want to design and print accessories for your own Steam Machine. This release comes after a few other hardware resources that Valve has released over the past few months. 

The company had already shared the CAD files for the Steam Controller on Steam, and they've since released them for the Steam Machine's exterior geometry as well. That enables hobbyists to design their own faceplates and other external accessories while still staying within the purview of the license.

Steam Machine May Void the Warranty

A good one to note in the documentation that Valve provides is a warning about hardware mods. The Steam Machine enclosure apparently includes a readme file that states: Opening of the Steam Machine enclosure may void the warranty.

It's a different strategy than some of the other hardware advice Valve has given in the past, in which case swapping out parts like storage drives didn't necessarily invalidate the warranty. Steam Machine seems to be playing it a little safer, and has a better chance of lowering the number of warranty claims that stem from accidental damage while modifying or repairing the machine.

It may be possible to make Custom Designs a community project. Official CAD files can also be a source of inspiration for the community to design creative accessories. The external measurements are now public, and custom faceplates, decorative panels, carrying solutions, and even new ways of designing enclosures are quite easy to produce.

Valve also gave some updates on Steam Machine availability.

One idea that was suggested is a GameCube-style carrying handle embedded in a custom shell, but it's a wide-open field for ideas. All CAD users can create special accessories, and owners with 3D printers can create them for their own use. Having accurate dimensions can make the design of compatible accessories much easier, even when it's not envisioned that the parts will be manufactured.

The company states that its shipments started at the end of June, and after a few weeks of deliveries, it wished to clarify the existing reservation and waitlist mechanism. In addition to the hardware upgrade, Valve announced the inclusion of FSR 4.1 in Proton Experimental, allowing for the use of the new FSR upgrade on games that support it.

There's also the official Steam Machine CAD file, downloadable from Valve's GitLab repository. Orders are being filled daily, and purchase emails are being sent out to the people in the line, according to Valve. People who currently have places on the reservation list should be able to buy the Steam Machine by the end of the year, according to current expectations.