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The computer's case is where all
the computer's internal components are located. The processor, hard
drive(s), optical drive(s), memory, motherboard, and power supply
are components found in most all computers today. The appearance of
this case is the most significant feature most users notice.
Computer cases are available in many sizes, shapes, and colors to
suit almost anyone's personal preference. There are some important
functional features that should be considered, as well.
The most important factor when
choosing a computer case for your gaming pc is compatibility with
the motherboard that will be used. The motherboard is the main
circuit board in a computer, which connects everything together.
Different form factors include ATX, MiniATX, MicroATX and others.
Each form factor has specific requirements for location of
connectors and the size of devices. These standards ensure that any
ATX motherboard and any ATX power supply will fit in any ATX case.
Once the correct form factor is chosen, other desired features can
be decided on.
Different cases provide
different numbers of drive bays. Each drive bay can hold one hard
drive, optical drive, or other component designed to fit in one of
the bays. If only a hard drive and a DVD-ROM drive are going to be
used, then the number of drive bays is not very important. For users
planning on using multiple optical drives and hard drives, this
could be a very important feature.
For users who are planning on
using numerous drives or devices, or who are planning on
overclocking, airflow through the case is important. The better the
airflow is through the case, the cooler the components will be.
Cases with locations for multiple fans to both bring in cool air and
expel warm air are very good cases for extreme systems.
With the functionality taken
care of, the rest is appearance. Cases can be clean and plain or
brightly lit with neon lights, intricate designs and windows in the
case displaying the internal components. None of these features have
significant impact on how the computer operates, so it is entirely
up to what the user wants the computer to look like. |
