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Computer cases may not be a vital component that plays a direct role in the performance of a PC, but they are still a crucial component to the overall system. Computer cases house and protect the components of the PC and they also influence airflow in the system to ensure that it runs cool.
There are many gaming PC case options, each featuring their own unique specifications relating to size, colour options, and several other components to consider. Get in touch with the PC International team for advice when you are unsure of what you need to look at when browsing computer cases for sale. When you buy a computer case online in South Africa, you need to ensure that you pick the best one for your needs, individual preferences, and at prices that will suit your budget.
For more additional PC components, you may also be interested in memory and in motherboards.
A computer case, also referred to as a computer chassis, tower, system unit, or a cabinet, is the enclosure that contains the vital components of a desktop personal computer, or desktop PC, excluding the display, keyboard, and mouse.
The computer case also allows for the computer to be transported easily and safety from one place to the other, without risking harm to the PC components. Computer components such as the motherboard, hard drive, power supply, and several others, are especially vulnerable to damage arising from dust and/or spills.
The case not only keeps the components dry and safe, but overall protected for optimum performance and function. There are many cases that contain vents which provide adequate airflow and subsequently keep the computer at the right temperature.
Many cases also allow for additional fans to be installed onto the case to add to effective cooling of components. Cases also have some user interface which includes a power button, access to the drives, and plugs for several peripherals.
Cases also help to standardise the safe installation of different hardware, each with their own specs and capabilities. There are also several light signals that are integrated into the case that provide the user with information regarding the functioning of the computer.
Where a “good” computer case is concerned, it is important to note that there is no single option that will suit everyone. Unlike laptops, PCs are situated in centralised areas of the user’s home or office. Gamers are known for showing off their RGB lighting and futuristic displays.
As a result, computer system cases are offered in a variety of shapes and sizes to suit the goal for which they are intended. The anatomy of a good computer case can be explored by focussing and exploring the various components including:
Larger cases can typically hold more hard drives and they also accommodate larger video cards more comfortably. There are two distinct computer case interiors that users can consider namely ATX and Micro-ATX.
ATX measures 12” x 9.6” while micro-ATX is 9.6” x 9.6”, most motherboard form factors are likely to be a micro-ATX, and users must ensure that the motherboard and the case are compatible with one another.
Smaller cases will use smaller power supplies and therefore the user must choose their internal components with great care by opting for hardware creates lower heat and subsequently employs less electricity.
Another factor to consider is the number of drive bays that are available on the computer case. Typically, the larger the case, the more drive bays there will be available. There are three distinct drive bay sizes that the user must consider, namely:
Cases are constructed from several materials including lightweight aluminium or metal. Lightweight aluminium is inherently lighter, more aesthetically pleasing, but it tends to be more expensive.
Decent computer cases are either made from a metal or they can be constructed for clear plastic that has some aluminium or glass for durability, style, and aesthetics.
Those who plan on moving their rig frequently may need to consider a lightweight aluminium case, providing enough protection for the components, making the increased price worth every penny.
Another option that users can consider is steel as it is cheaper than aluminium but more robust than plastic and glass. In addition to this, steel is also more soundproof and less likely to rattle. Steel cases are also less likely to scratch or dent when the computer is moved from one place to another.
Users who are likely to exchange their computer drives may want to consider a rail system as it does not require for the removal of both sides of the case panels. It also allows the user to easily add or replace the hard drives.
Cages often require that the user open the other side of the case to secure the hard drive in its place. However, there are cages which are designed to be removable, making the installation much simpler and more hassle-free.
There are some cases that do not provide much choice in the layout of components, however, there are many full-size cases that have a bottom-mounted power supply, several fans, and cable routing slots that allow for effective airflow in addition to offering a more aesthetically pleasing look to the overall setup.
It is important that the computer case accommodates the addition of fans to increase the cooling capabilities of the computer. Most cases typically feature an exhaust fan at the back along with intake fans on the front. In addition to this, users may want to add more fans, especially if they want to build a powerful, high-performance system.
When buying additional fans, users must consider buying one or two larger fans and several small fans.
A decent computer case will have several frontal USB 2 as well as USB 3 ports, audio jacks, and several others that make it easier for the user to interact with their computer. These ports can typically be used for wired and a range of wireless devices which includes keyboards, mice, biometric readers, and other input devices.
Other ports to consider on the case include HDMI, VGA, DVI, and output devices such as CRTs, LCDs, and data projectors, and more.
Another important feature that makes a good case, is the number of expansion slots featured on the case. Large ATX cases typically feature up to seven expansion slots while smaller Micro-ATX cases only have four.
These expansion slots are typically used for a range of things from PCI cards to video cards, sound cards, and several others.
This is a crucial feature to consider when choosing a computer case. The computer case may have a built-in power supply and in cheaper cases, the power supply is typically of low quality, and these will have to be replaced at some point. More expensive and higher-quality cases have better power supplies that will last much longer.
The PC International range of computer cases has a fit for everyone. Browse our Full Tower computer case selection with a varied number of internal bays to suit your needs and use the extra space for additional cooling fans. Opt for a shorter slightly wider Mid-Tower gaming PC case and choose how many bays you prefer. Our selection of Mini-Towers take-up minimal room while still being able to meet your computer housing needs.
Look into choosing a Slim Line case that can hold a monitor on top of it. Minimise the space you need for your computer needs when you select small form factor (SSF) PC cases. Browse the PC International online store and match your computer case with your choice of motherboard, how many drives you need (internally and externally) and what front-panel ports you plan to use. Showcase your internals by picking a computer case that has LED lightening and see-through panels.
Whether it's gaming, business, or home & office computer cases, we have it all! Amongst other our brands include, Corsair, CoolerMaster, Antec, Thermaltake, Raidmax, Gigabyte, InWin, and Lian Li.