Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
(GPUs). And of course there's the personal opinion of what looks attractive.
Let's take a closer look at these attributes to help us choose an ideal case.
PC-Parts Container
When choosing a case, the most important consideration is the types of
components it will house. Our PC will contain a powerful CPU, a decked-out
motherboard, and a huge graphics card, along with sticks of RAM, two hard
drives, a sound card, and possibly a few other internal peripheral add-ons.
While we could attempt to shove all that hardware into a small box, doing so
would be painful. It would also concentrate heat buildup to levels harmful to
the expensive components we will be installing.
A large case will make it much easier to install, work on, and swap out com-
ponents. But its bulky size will also make it less than ideal for lugging to LAN
parties or using in other portable scenarios. If this is your first time building
a PC, give yourself the space and airflow to afford getting acquainted with the
process.
Case Airflow
Besides being zapped by static electricity, the other environmental killer of
expensive computer parts is heat. With the billions of transistors on CPUs
and GPUs, along with the variety of other sensitive electronic parts on the
motherboard, heat builds up rapidly once the power starts flowing. The first
sign of heat stroke is typically random lock-ups and weird visual glitches. If
fans are working and temperature controlled, they will be operating at their
maximum revolutions per minute (RPM). The smaller the fan, the louder it
will sound. If the system doesn't cool down, permanent component damage
could result.
To combat the effects of heat buildup, you need a case that will provide ample
space for air to move along an escape route. So in addition to a large open area
inside the case, you want a case with plenty of fans or areas to mount fans.
The fans should be positioned so they maximize the outflow of hot air from the
case. However, having too many fans can make the computer unbearably loud,
even when it is idle, with a static image on screen. Some motherboards come
with software that can regulate the fans based on internal case temperature.
If silence is the most important factor, you can opt for the more expensive
and far more elaborate use of water cooling coupled with an external radiator.
But that's an advanced topic that requires a bit more skill and financial
resources than traditional air cooling. So for now our computer will be air
cooled via conventional fans fitted onto the case.
