5. Build Your Own Computer: PSU and Case

The computer case is where all of the components come together and fit.  Right now there are two standards. standard that is used.  The first and most common is ATX 2.03.  The other is BTX, a newer, much more efficient design.  Very few motherboards come in the BTX form factor today, but it is a good idea to buy a case that can support both ATX and BTX for future compatibility. Although, Intel has stopped pushing the BTX design as much as it did in the past, and AMD has been noncommittal on future BTX designs.

A good majority of cases these days come with a power supply, the power supply powers all of the components inside the case.  The PSU that comes with the case should have at least 400watts of power.  Contrary to popular opinion this PSU will probably suffice for your everyday needs.  Some believe that you should always buy a the PSU separately, however, this is only needed if you are upgrading, running a high-end system, or overclocking.  A good power supply will generally have two fans or more and clearly display the CE logo and it's rated specifications. Generally more fans allows them to run at a lower RPM, thus the power supply is quieter. Any PSU that hides its specs or has misspellings on the label is one to stay away from.

Make sure the power supply has at least four MOLEX connectors for things such as DVD drives and some hard drives, and the appropriate 24 or 20 pin ATX connector for your motherboard. If you get ATX 2.03 compatible systems you should not have to worry about this. Also, make sure the case has places for fans to be added (or comes with fans included).  These fans are to help bring in cool air and expel heated air from the case to help extend the life of your components. Also, If you are willing to spend some more money go for a case with a removable motherboard plate. This will allow you to easily service your computer in the future, especially when you are cleaning or upgrading the CPU. Finally, for most needs you should go with a mid tower case.  This is the standard size of desktop computers.  It allows good upgradeability, while not being a desk hog. 

You have essentially two other choices on size.  A SFF case, which will include a motherboard, and most likely other components.  These are the small form factor cases which are roughly cube shaped that are easily portable, but have almost no expandability. Unfortunately, they usually run hot, which will reduce the life of your components.  A Full-Size case used to be the standard, now it's mostly used for servers (where it is becoming rarer).  These cases have lots of space for at least 6 optical drives, and four hard drives. They can be extremely useful if you need good ventilation and don't need the desk space or portability. The most popular desktop case in use today is the Mid-Size ATX case as aforementioned.  It offers a good mix of size, expandability, and ventilation.  On average they have four open areas for optical drives, and four spaces for hard drives.  This mirrors the number of optical/hard drives that most motherboards support.  Mid-Size cases also are much more stable, my experience is that full size cases are sometimes dangerously top heavy. 

Remember always to look up your choices at major review sites such as www.tomshardware.com or www.anandtech.com. Thanks.

Kevin C. September 17th 2005 kcas88@gmail.com 
Updated - Oct. 7th 2005
Updated - Nov. 3rd 2005
Updated - Dec. 2nd 2005
Updated - Apr. 12th 2006

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