Computer case

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

An ATX desktop case lying on its side, the rear closest to the camera. The motherboard will lie flat on the bottom, (which would
be the right panel with the case upright). Peripheral connectors will protrude through the rear panel, drive bays at the top and
front, and the power supply at the top and rear.

A computer case, also known as a computer chassis, tower, system unit, cabinet, base unit or simply case, is
the enclosure that contains most of the components of a computer (usually excluding the display, keyboard and
mouse).
Cases are usually constructed from steel (often SECC Steel, electrogalvanized, cold-rolled, coil)
or aluminium. Plastic is sometimes used, and other materials such as glass, wood and even Lego blocks have
appeared in home-built cases.
Contents
[hide]

1Sizes and terminology

2Layout
o

2.1Major component locations

2.2Internal access

3Appearance
o

3.1Case manufacturers

4Intrusion detection

5Gallery

6See also

7References

8External links

Sizes and terminology[edit]

Further information: Comparison of computer form factors
Cases can come in many different sizes (known as form factors). The size and shape of a computer case is usually
determined by the form factor of the motherboard, since it is the largest component of most computers.
Consequently, personal computer form factors typically specify only the internal dimensions and layout of the case.

Form factors forrack-mounted and blade servers may include precise external dimensions as well, since these
cases must themselves fit in specific enclosures.
For example, a case designed for an ATX motherboard and power supply may take on several external forms such
as a vertical tower (designed to sit on the floor, height > width), a flat desktop (height < width) or pizza box (height
5 cm (2 in) designed to sit on the desk under the computer's monitor). Full-size tower cases are typically larger in
volume than desktop cases, with more room for drive bays and expansion slots. Desktop casesand minitower cases under about 46 cm (18 in) highare popular in business environments where space is at a premium. [1]
Currently, the most popular form factor for desktop computers is ATX, although microATX and small form
factors have also become very popular for a variety of uses. In the high-end segment the unofficial and loosely
defined XL-ATX specification appeared around 2009. It extends the length of the mainboard to accommodate four
graphics cards with dual-slot coolers. Some XL-ATX mainboards increase the mainboard's width as well, to allow
more space for the CPU, Memory PWM and, in some cases, a second CPU socket. While the market share of these
exotic high-end mainboards is very low, almost all high-end cases and many mainstream cases support XL-ATX (10
expansion slots). Companies like In Win Development, Shuttle Inc. and AOpen originally popularized small cases,
for which FlexATX was the most common[dubious discuss] motherboard size. As of 2010 Mini ITX has widely
replaced FlexATX as the most common small form factor mainboard standard. The latest mini ITX mainboards
from Asus, Gigabyte, Zotac and Foxconn offer the same feature set as full size mainboards. High-end mini ITX
mainboards support standard desktop CPUs, use standard memory DIMM sockets and feature a full size PCI-E 16
slot with support for the fastest graphics cards. This allows customers to build a fully fledged high-end computer in a
significantly smaller case. Apple Inc. has also produced theMac Mini computer, which is similar in size to a standard
CD-ROM drive.
Tower cases are often categorized as mini-tower, midi-tower, mid-tower or full-tower. The terms are subjective and
inconsistently defined by different manufacturers.
Full tower cases are typically 56 cm (22 in) or more in height and intended to stand on the floor. They have
anywhere from six to ten externally accessible drive bays. The ratio of external to internal bays is shifting, however,
as computing technology moves from floppy disks and CD-ROMs to large capacity hard drives, USB flash drives,
and network-based solutions. The full tower case was developed to house file servers which would typically be
tasked with serving data from expensive CD-ROM databases which held more data than the hard drives commonly
available. Hence many full tower cases include locking doors and other physical security features to prevent theft of
the discs. This is a high-end case intended for desktop systems and doesn't include security features.
Mid-tower cases are smaller, about 46 cm (18 in) high with two to four external bays.
A mini-tower case will typically have only one or two external bays. [2]
Recently the marketing term midi-tower has come into use, seemingly referring to (based on anecdotal evidence)
cases smaller than mid-tower but larger than mini-tower, typically with two to three external bays. Outside of the
United States the term is often used interchangeably with mid-tower.
The computer case is sometimes erroneously referred to as the "CPU" or "hard drive". [3][4]

Layout[edit]
Computer cases usually include sheet metal enclosures for a power supply unit and drive bays, as well as a rear
panel that can accommodate peripheral connectors protruding from the motherboard and expansion slots. Most
cases also have a power button or switch, a reset button, and LEDs to indicate power status as well as hard
drive[citation needed]and network activity (in some models). Some cases include built-in I/O ports (such as USB and
headphone ports) on the front of the case. Such a case will also include the wires needed to connect these ports,
switches and indicators to the motherboard.

Major component locations[edit]

The motherboard is usually screwed to the case along its largest face, which could be the bottom or the side
of the case depending on the form factor and orientation.

Form factors such as ATX provide a back panel with cut-out holes to expose I/O ports provided by integrated
peripherals, as well as expansion slots which may optionally expose additional ports provided by expansion
cards. Many larger ATX cases can also be used with motherboards of other form factors.

The power supply unit mounting point differs from case to case, but the most commonly used locations (both
at the rear of the case) and their benefits/disadvantages are:

1. The top of the case, usually allowing the PSU's built-in fan to act as an auxiliary exhaust fan, but causes the PSU
to be fed air heated by the internal components of the case, thus causing PSU efficiency and lifespan degradation.
2. The bottom of the case, with a (often filtered) vent in the bottom of the case allowing the PSU to draw cool air
from the outside.
Regardless of the mounting position, the PSU will usually be attached to the case with four screws to support its
weight.

Most cases include drive bays on the front of the case; a typical ATX case includes both 5.25" and 3.5" bays.
In modern computers, the former are used mainly for optical drives, while the latter are used for hard
drives, floppy drives, and card readers.

Buttons and LEDs are typically located on the front of the case; some cases include additional I/O ports,
temperature and processor speed monitors in the same area.

Vents are often found on the front, back, top, left side panel, and sometimes on the right side panel of the
case. Regardless of their placement, their purpose is either to let cool air into the case, or to let hot air out.
Larger vents usually allow cooling fans to be mounted via surrounding threaded screw holes. Newer cases
include mountings for larger 120mm or 140mm cooling fans for quieter operation than the 80mm fans formerly
common.

Internal access[edit]
Accessing the interior components of a modern tower case is done by removing the side panels. Looking front-toback, accessing the motherboard, PSU, drive bays and most case fan installation points is done by removing the left
side panel. Removing the right side panel is done less often to access the space behind the motherboard mounting
plate. This space is devoted to cable management, as cables routed in front of the motherboard will cause
disruptions in the flow of air within the case.
Alternatively, the case may have a single large U-shaped cover that saddles the chassis.
To prevent the buildup of performance-degrading dust within the case, many models feature dust filters in front of
the air intake fans. While the exact method of accessing the front filters depends on the case model, it usually
requires the removal of the entire front panel. Removal of the front panel itself may or may not require the removal
of one or both of the side panel. If there is any doubt, consult the user's manual if possible.
Traditionally, most computer cases required computer case screws to hold components and panels in place (i.e.
motherboard, PSU, drives, and expansion cards). From the 2000s there is a trend towards tool-less cases, in which
components are held together with snap-in plastic rails, thumbscrews, and other methods that do not require tools;
this facilitates quick assembly and modification of computer hardware, and is also cheaper to manufacture.

Appearance[edit]
Further information: Case modding
Through the 1990s, most computer cases had simple rectangular shapes, and were often
painted beige or white with little attention given to visual design. Beige box designs are still found on a large number
of budget computers assembled from generic components. This class of machines is still known as white box
computers.
Case modding is the artistic styling of computer cases, often to draw attention to the use of advanced or unusual
components. Since the early 2000s, some cases have included clear side panels or acrylic windows so that users
can look inside while it is operating. Modded cases may also include internal lighting, custom paint, or liquid cooling
systems. Some hobbyists build custom cases from raw materials like aluminum, steel, styrofoam, acrylic, or wood.

Case manufacturers[edit]
See also: List of computer hardware manufacturers Computer cases
Prominent after-market case manufacturers include Antec, BitFenix, Cooler Master, Corsair, Fractal Design, In Win
Development, Lian Li, NZXT Corp., Phanteks, Rosewill, andThermaltake.

Aluminum vs Steel Computer Cases Which is Better?

Choosing a gaming computer may be overwhelming, but most people have a lot of fun with it. When
you shop with a company that custom builds their own systems, its even more exciting to be part of
the process because you can add the features you want, omit the ones you dont and customize the
exterior design.
While youll likely be bogged down with things like motherboards, CPUs, processors and graphics
cards at some point in your search, one of the first questions that may pop up is,What type of
computer case is best: aluminum or steel? Its an agelong question that has varying opinions.
Pros and Cons to Steel
Both aluminum and steel have their benefits, and usually gamers are in favor of one over the other.
Those who prefer steel cases do so because of their durability and sound proof qualities. Steel is far
less likely to scratch and dent compared to aluminum. With its thickness and durability, it also keeps
noise levels and rattling to a minimum. Steel is also cheaper than aluminum, a benefit if you plan on
building a system of your own.
The drawbacks to steel computer cases is that they are heavy and clunky. Theyre not ideal for
people who take their boutique gaming PCs with them to school or work or those who game in
groups. Some say that steel isnt a good heat conductor, but this isnt fact. How cool the computer
stays is more dependent on how efficient air is moved through the fans.
Pros and Cons to Aluminum
As for aluminum, the biggest advantage is that its lightweight, making it a popular choice for people
who move their computers around a lot. LAN party fans especially appreciate this feature. Aluminum
is also more aesthetically pleasing compared to steel. Its sleek, elegant and modern, bringing the
same qualities to the body of the gaming computer.
The trouble with aluminum is that its more expensive and more of the material is needed to get a
strength that is comparable to steel. To keep costs down, manufacturers try to use as little aluminum
as possible. This is what ends up making the cases fragile and more prone to scratches and dents.
The thin material also creates more noise and rattling from the internal parts.
Is There a Better Option?

At Velocity Micro, we appreciate aluminum cases because they are more conducive with the way
people use computers today and what aesthetics buyers are looking for. The difference is that we
dont skimp on the integrity of the material. Our made in USA gaming PCs are constructed of solid
aluminum. Buyers are offered the best of both worlds: exceptional thermals and durability coupled
with a sleek, lightweight design.
The next time youre shopping for a new gaming system, dont feel like you have to dig through the
forums to determine whether steel or aluminum is the better choice. Both have benefits, but when you
use quality, solid aluminum, you can enjoy a sophisticated, lightweight computer that offers supreme
durability even on the road.

Case Materials Should you go with Steel or

Aluminum?
When you look at your cases material you are sure to see a variety of things including SECC cold rolled sheet
steel, ABS plastic made of acrylonitrile, butadiene, and styrene, SGCC Steel which is galvanized steel sheet, and
for modded cases youll see just about any material used including wood and of course legos.

Steel and aluminum and ABS plastic are commonly used together for construction. There is a rumor going around
that aluminum keeps your internal components cooler due to increased heat dissipation. According to most serious
overclockers this simply isnt the case. The biggest advantage of an aluminum case is with its lighter weight.

Computer Case Terms to Know

Motherboard Compatibility: One of the biggest questions we get about computer cases is whether or not a certain
card will fit within a certain case. Mostly all mid to full-sized towers are compatible with ATX and micro ATX
motherboards. Check with your manufacturers specifications for any questions on GPU size.

ATX Motherboard: ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended and is a standard form designated by Intel to
help make motherboards and computer parts standard and interchangeable. An ATX motherboard, for example is 12
x 9.6 inches or 305 by 244 millimeters.
Micro ATX Motherboard: In order to accomodate a smaller size motherboard the micro ATX standard was
designated as 11.2 x 8.2 inches or 284 by 208 millimeters.
Mini ITX Motherboard: Mini ITX cases are designated as 6.7 x 6.7 inches in order to accommodate even smaller
motherboards for use with some HTPC (home theater) builds and other small builds. Most Mini ITX motherboards
are not going to be compatible with cases that are meant for ATX motherboards. If youre looking for a small case,
then be sure to go with one that fits the mini ITX standard.

Types of Cases
Desktop case types that we feature on this website include micro, Mini, Mid-sized, and full-sized. Micro and mini
cases are generally around 16 inches, mid at 18 inches, and full towers at 22 inches. In general, the larger the case
the more external drive bays.
Its always a good idea to choose your motherboard first before your case so you know what type of case you need.
Standard ATX motherboards will fit in both mid and full-sized cases.

Cooling
If you plan on overclocking, then youll probably need to use your cases additional cooling. Your cases specification
page should show you exactly how many fans come with it, how they are interchangeable, what they can be
replaced with, and how many optional fans that your case comes with.
Case fans generally come in 40-200mm sizes (some larger fans exist on full towers). Liquid cooling may also be
necessary for extreme overclocking.

Expansion Slots
Expansion slots for normal-sized cases generally go up to 7 and sometimes 7+1 with an additional expansion slot
on the side. Some full-sized desktop towers go to 10 or more expansion slots for enthusiast PC builders. Because
your GPU will generally be installed in an expansion slot its always a good idea to check the manufacturers web
page for the maximum width GPU for these slots, especially if you plan on using todays top modern dedicated
graphics cards which can be as long as 12.2 inches. Its always a good idea to make sure you have an inch or two
to spare.

Drive Bays
External Drive bays are on the front of your case and most cases have between 3-6 of them. These drive bays may
be used for 5.25, 3.5, or 2.5 drives depending on the case and some are interchangeable. Similarly, Internal drive

bays typically consist of 3.5 or 2.5 drives. If you plan on installing a solid state drive, then its generally a good idea
to see if your case naturally supports it.

Power Supplies:
Power supplies for cases are typically top or bottom mounted. Most modern cases mount the power supply on the
bottom to add additional stability to the case and be able to efficiently vent out air from the rest of the case through
the rear exhaust fan.

SPCC vs. SGCC vs. SECC steel for computer cases

July 28, 2011

Q.

For computer casings, there's 3 types of material, which are SPCC, SGCC &
SECC. Can anyone help to explain to me what is the difference for these 3 types? In
terms of what are their differences?
Wee Ming Low
IT Distributor - Malaysia
July 29, 2011

A.

Hi, Wee.

Unfortunately, acronyms become detached from their source and then people don't even
agree about what they stand for, especially when the original source is in a different
language :-(
But, we have a thread that says:
- SPCC is "commercial quality, cold rolled carbon steel" per Japanese standard JIS
G3141, so you might want to obtain that specification.
- SGCC is probably hot dip galvanized. Although some say that the "CC" stands for
chromate coated, I disbelieve that and assume it means "cold rolled, coil" or "cold rolled,
commercial quality".
- SECC probably means electrogalvanized (zinc plated).
So it sounds like SGCC would be appropriate for parts that you are going to paint or plate
yourself, SGCC would be for maximum corrosion resistance (unlikely for typical
computers), and SECC would be for sheet metal that you won't further treat. Good luck.
Regards,

Ted Mooney, P.E. RET

finishing.com
Pine Beach, New Jersey
August 11, 2011

A.

Dear Mr. Wee,

All of them are based on the Japanese Industrial Standard for flat steel. SPCC is for cold
roll steel commercial quality. For computer casing it should be SPCC-S.
SGCC is hot dip galvanized steel sheet commercial quality annealed.
SECC is electro galvanized commercial quality annealed. You will have a problem painting
SGCC.
YKVoo
Kwee Voo
- Karachi, Pakistan
March 30, 2012

Q.

Hello
We are asked for a quote where material is described: "SECC E16/E16 or SGCC"
Aren't those two qualities different (electrogalvanized and hot dip galvanized)?
What would be an alternative materials according to EN standard?
Thanks
Jovtika Dali
- Lithuania