Case

Look and function are the two criteria to consider when choose a case. We will focus primarily on the function.

Years ago, cases were almost all the same and the choice was quick and easy. Now, it is a little more complicated. Number of hard drive spaces, cooling options, connectivity etc.Are options you will want to consider.

Number of hard drive space/DVD: As most people only use 1 or 2 hard drives it is almost a non issue, since all brands except the micro ATX case will allow for 2 or more disks. Most cases also provide more space for dvds than most people will be able to fill.

Cooling Options:  This is the most important thing to look at when you are buying a case. With CPU and hard drives producing a large amount of heat, you will need to have a good cooling system to keep the interior at a reasonable temperature. You should buy a case with a minimum of a 1 12cm exhaust fan. It will allow keeping the case cool while producing less noise than a smaller fan. If you can get one with 2 12cm it is even better.

Connectivity: Most cases will come with a USB port in front to be plugged to your motherboard and with a microphone and headphone plug to be connected to your soundcard. If your computer will be on the floor, try to find one with these connections on top to avoid having to bend down each time you want to plug something.

Types: ATX, microatx ,BTX are the 3  types you will encounter the most frequently. ATX and BTX will both allow any motherboard to be put inside. ATX has the power supply on the top and BTX on the bottom. BTX was supposed to replace ATX, but it seems now that it will not be the case. Microatx will only be able to accept microATX motherboard. Micro atx like its name implies, offer smaller motherboards.

Screwless: It is a fact of computer building that you will have to deal with a lot of screws. However, it is beginning to change with a screwless design that is a consideration for those who want a more simple design

HTPC cases are designed specifically for home entertainment. They usually feature from LCD display like a regular dvd player can come with a remote or even for the high end come with a 7” touch screen display. They are meant to blend into a media center with your dvd ,vhs, dvr, cable box …etc… They are more expensive than your average case but you do not want a regular case in your living room or want all the feature of a regular dvd/dvr box then htpc case are for you.

• Family/office computer: a case with 2 12cm fans and with a screw-less design starts at $45 go for it
• all around gaming computer: a case with 2 12cm fans and with a screw-less design starts at $45 go for it
• media center: a case with 2 12cm fans and with a screw-less design starts at $45 go for it , If budget allow see into HTPC case. They are more exepensive but would blend into your media center.
• gaming computer: a case with 2 12cm fans and with a screw-less design starts at $45 go for it