Computer Cases

The case is a foundation of your computer in terms of both "architectural" and electrotechnical meaning. It is not just an iron box with bays for different devices. It also provides electricity to the whole system through the power supply unit.

Let's make the appropriate demands to the computer cases:

• Choose one that has a quality power supply.
  This requirement is the same for any user category and must be met out of dependence on everything else. It means that a quality power supply must be no less than 400 watts and no more than +/-5% of the declared parameters for voltage and a current strength. The power supply is not a stuff to be considered in the first place when buying or building a computer. However, it may become vitally important when you're pushing your computer hardware to its limits.

• Choose one that have a sufficient quantity of bays for internal devices.
  Say, if your case has 3 x 5.25" and 3 x 3.5" drive bays, it's perfect! It's good enough if you have 2 x 5.25" and 2 x 3.5" drive bays. At least, you have to be able to install one or two hard drives and a CD/DVD drive.
• Choosing computer cases, choose one that is well ventilated.
  It doesn't mean that it has to be crammed with blowers and additional fans. But if it has, it is not a bad thing. The case is not to be a dark box. Much better when it has front and/or rear vents.
• Choose one that is roomy.
  It means that a motherboard is not to be blocked or overhung by a power supply unit. This is not a fatal situation, especially when the case is well ventilated, however, when the power supply is a tiny bit overtop then the computer cases are better cooled because of enlargement of air circulation.
• Choose one that is handy for building or upgrading.
  This requirement can be neglected if you are not going to look inside of your computer. But if you are going to build it on your own, it is very important for you to have a case that is handy/roomy to put internal computer parts.