Computer Case

Other then being the most noticeable piece of the PC, a good case choice does have its benefits. Most noticeable choice is size. Computer cases come in a range of sizes: microATX "micro tower", a microATX mini tower, an ATX mid tower,
an AT/ATX full tower, a microATX desktop, ATX desktop and SFF (Small Form Factor).

Note: ATX is a standard size, shape and layout for motherboards. It is almost exclusively used throughout the industry.

A case is not just aesthetics, a case is the foundation of your computer. Case considerations:

·         Expansion Bays: These are the slots in the front (usually) of a case (most commonly used for CD Rom drives) that determine how many drives you can fit into the PC. 

·         Protection: The case protects your valuable components from the outside world, but it also protects the outside world from those same components. PC’s give off a lot of RF frequencies commonly referred to as noise. This can damage other electrical equipment nearby and you! Also, look for a case with good filters over the cooling fans. These can fill with dust and restrict cooling to the PC.

·         Cooling: The layout of a case and slots provided for fans will determine how cool your components run. Insufficient cooling is the number one reason for lockups and computers freezing (Hot computers freeze, go figure).

·         Upgrades: How upgradeable a computer is will be mostly determined by your motherboard, but if you plan on doing those upgrades yourself you should choose a case with easy access to internals. Hinged side doors, thumbscrews and multiple ways to access the inside make it easier to do a good clean job.

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