Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Some PC manufacturers use custom cases for special purposes. For example, a PC that
is designed primarily to serve as part of a home entertainment system may be smaller than
a regular PC case and oriented fl at like a desktop case so it can fi t in an entertainment
center. Another common custom case is a
slimline
, which is thinner than normal and can
be oriented either fl at like a desktop model or upright like a tower.
Some cases are designed to optimize the airfl ow inside them and thereby dissipate heat
and keep things cool by the strategic positioning of air vents and fans. Such cases are called
thermally advantaged chassis
.
EXERCISE 4.2
Investigating Case Form Factors
1.
Use a search engine to locate a company that makes computer cases.
2.
At that company's site, locate examples of the following:
A full-tower case
A mid-tower case
A mini-tower case
A horizontally oriented desktop case
3.
For each of the cases, determine how many drive bays it has, both internally and exter-
nally accessible.
4.
Find two other sites that also sell cases, and repeat the exercise. Evaluate whether the
sites are consistent regarding how many drive bays a case can have to be considered
full tower, mid-tower, or mini-tower. Does there appear to be much standardization in
the use of those terms?
Unpacking a New Computer
When you're unpacking a new computer, open the box carefully. If you're using a sharp
knife to cut the tape holding the box closed, make sure you don't cut too deeply into the
box and cut any components.
When you're removing components from the box, do so with an awareness of possibly
having to repack them if the computer turns out to be defective. If there are Styrofoam
supports, make sure they don't get broken. Save all the packing materials, including any
plastic bags containing components, and save all the instructions and discs that come with
the computer. Store the instructions and discs in a safe place, because you may need them
tomorrow, next week, or next year.
