The Case: Computer vs. Human

Computer Case

• Contains the major components of the computer. It helps protect them from outside elements.

• Cases are usually made from plastic or metal.

Front of the Computer Case

Inside the Computer Case

Two Common Bay Sizes

The Case and Panels

• Most computer cases have panels that allow someone to access the internal components.

• Why should I leave the panels attached while the computer is running????#1 Reason is dust, opening the panel allows more dust into your computer system.

• #2 Reason is to help protect the internal components within your PC

Devices At Work

• 5.25” Bays –Hard drives, Card Readers, CD Drives, DVD Drives, Case Speakers, 5.25” cooling fans,

• 3.5” Bays –Floppy or Zip Drives

Computer Cases and System Units

• Whether buying a tower or desktop it is recommended that the unit conforms to the ATX standard and has at least a 250-watt power supply (300 watts is ideal).

• Purchase a case that comes with a tray that allows easy access to the internal components.

• There are three basic system unit styles or types of cases: desktops, towers, and portables. Each design offers characteristics that adapt the system for different environments.

Desktops

• There are two important considerations in choosing a desktop case style for a computer:

1. Available desktop space2. Form factor (describes

the general layout of the computer case )

3. This style case is designed for the mother board to sit in a horizontal nature

Towers• Tower cases are usually

designed to sit vertically on the floor beneath a desk. With the motherboard being in a vertical fashion

• Tower cases come in three sizes:1. Mid towers -most

common and usually stand 18-24 inches

2. Mini towers - 12 to 14 inches and only have 2-3 expansion or drive bay slots

3. Full-size towers height greater than 30 inches

Why Should I Worry About The Form Factor????

• Motherboard Form Factor• There's one important consideration we need to be aware

of when choosing the case size and that is the size of the motherboard. They need to match. The size of the motherboard is often called the Form Factor and there are several standards. The form factor identifies the size of the circuit board, the location of the slots as well as the location of the faceplate that comes out the back of the computer. The form factor also identifies the location of the holes that are used to mount the motherboard into the system case. For example, the full tower has more than enough room to fit an ATX motherboard. Mid-tower case can also accommodate an ATX motherboard in most cases.