what is a case in computer

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What Is a Computer Case?

A case keeps the computer's internal components safe and cool

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The computer case serves mainly as a way to physically mount and contain all the actual components inside a computer, like the motherboard , hard drive , optical drive , floppy disk drive , etc. They typically come bundled with a power supply .

The housing of a laptop, netbook, or tablet is also considered a case, but since they aren't purchased separately or very replaceable, the computer case tends to refer to the one that's part of a traditional desktop PC.

Some popular computer case manufacturers include CORSAIR , NZXT , Xoxide , and Antec .

The computer case is also known as a tower , box, system unit, base unit, enclosure, housing , chassis , and cabinet .

Important Computer Case Facts

Motherboards, computer cases, and power supplies all come in different sizes called form factors. All three must be compatible to work properly together.

Many computer cases, especially ones made of metal, contain very sharp edges. Be very careful when working with an open case to avoid serious cuts.

When a computer repair person says "just bring the computer in," they are typically referring to the case and what's inside it, excluding any external keyboard, mouse, monitor, or other peripherals .

Why a Computer Case Is Important

There are several reasons why we use computer cases. One is for protection, which is easy to assume because it's the most obvious. Dust, animals, toys, liquids, etc. can all damage the internal parts of a computer if the hard shell of a computer case doesn't enclose them and keep them away from the outside environment.

Do you always want to be looking at the disc drive, hard drive, motherboard, cables, power supply, and everything else that makes up the computer? Probably not. Hand-in-hand with protection, a computer case also doubles as a way to hide all those parts of the computer that nobody really wants to see each time they look in that direction.

Another good reason to use a case is to keep the computer cool . Proper airflow over the internal components is one more benefit to using a computer case. While the case has special vents to allow some of the fan air to escape, the rest of it can be used to cool down the hardware , which would otherwise get pretty hot and possibly overheat to the point of malfunction.

Keeping noisy computer parts, like the fans, in a closed space within the computer case is one way to reduce the noise they make.

The structure of the computer case is also important. The different parts can fit together and become easily accessible to the user by being compacted in a case to hold it all together. For example, USB ports and the power button are easily accessible, and the disc drive can be opened at any time.

Computer Case Description

The computer case itself can be constructed from any material that still allows the internal devices to be supported. This is usually steel, plastic, or aluminum but might instead be wood, glass, or styrofoam.

Most computer cases are rectangular and black. Case modding is the term used to describe the styling of a case to personalize it with things like custom internal lighting, paint, or a liquid cooling system.

The front of the computer case contains a power button and sometimes a reset button. Small LED lights are also typical, representing the current power status, hard drive activity , and sometimes other internal processes. These buttons and lights connect directly to the motherboard, which is secured to the inside of the case.

Cases often contain multiple 5.25-inch and 3.5-inch expansion bays for optical drives, floppy disk drives, hard drives, and other media drives. These expansion bays are located at the front of the case so that, for example, the DVD drive can be easily reached by the user when in use.

At least one side of the case, perhaps both, slide or swing open to allow access to the internal components. See our guide on opening a computer case for instructions, or see what the inside of a PC looks like .

The rear of the computer case contains small openings to fit the connectors contained on the motherboard, which is mounted inside. The power supply is also mounted just inside the back of the case, and a large opening allows for the connection of the power cord and use of the built-in fan. Fans or other cooling devices may be attached to any and all sides of the case.

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The Computer Glossary
Definition of Computer Case

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What Is Computer Case?

A computer case also commonly referred to as a chassis, tower, system unit, enclosure or cabinet is essentially a shell that holds and protects all the vital components of a computer such as the motherboard, CPU, graphics card, memory, and other hardware parts.

The manufacture designed cases specifically to support, protect and store the internal components of a desktop computer ensuring their proper alignment, ventilation, and safeguarding against static due to computer on carpet and other potential external factors.

Table of Contents

What Is Chassis In Computer Case?

The chassis in a computer is essentially the frame or body that holds all the internal components such as the motherboard, hard drives, and power supplies.

It acts as a protective cover that shields the internal components from external factors such as dust, debris, and moisture.

Moreover, the chassis also helps to dissipate the heat produced by the internal components through the use of fans and heatsinks if the thermal paste is proper applied. Thermal paste has a limited lifespan which can vary, so timely maintenance and replacement is crucial for optimal PC performance and longevity.

All of these factors play a crucial role in preventing hardware failures, reducing the risk of overheating, and ultimately prolonging the lifespan of a computer.

Therefore, the chassis not only serves as a structural component of a computer but also as a key factor in maintaining and protecting its internal components.

What Are The Functions Of Computer Case?

The primary function of a computer case is to protect and shield the critical computer hardware from external factors like dust, moisture, physical impact, electromagnetic interference, electrical interference and other forms of environmental hazards.

As computers generate a lot of heat, computer cases come with built-in fans or ventilation systems to ensure proper airflow and heat dissipation. It helps to prevent overheating, which can damage the system components, and ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Cable Management

Computer cases also play a vital role in proper cable management. They provide sufficient space and organization options for the cables, which helps to eliminate clutter, optimize and improve airflow and cooling, and make upgrades and maintenance more accessible.

Computer cases come in a range of designs and colors, which helps in the customization and aesthetics of your computer system. They are available in various shapes and sizes, including mid-tower, full-tower, and mini-tower, allowing the user to choose the one that suits their needs and preferences.

Aesthetics wise, you might want to consider investing in a transformer computer case with a unique design layout that sets it apart from other more common PC cases.

Noise Reduction

Many computer chassis come with thick, sound-dampening materials that help in reducing the overall noise generated by the system hardware components. It provides a quieter computing experience, especially for users working in shared environments like offices or homes.

What’s Inside the Pc Case? Computer Components

Inside the system unit, there are several computer components that work together to form the foundation of the computer’s processing power.

One of the primary components inside the system unit is the motherboard, which acts as the main circuit board that connects all the other computer components. The motherboard contains the CPU socket, RAM slots, and expansion slots for additional cards such as graphics or sound cards.

The CPU, or central processing unit, is the brain of the computer and is responsible for executing instructions and processing data. The CPU is typically mounted onto the motherboard and sits below a heat sink and rgb fans to keep it cool.

RAM, or random access memory, is the temporary storage that the computer uses to execute programs and store data while it is in use. The RAM slots are located on the motherboard, and the amount of RAM a computer has can affect its overall performance.

The hard drive is another critical component found inside the system unit. It is used to permanently store data and programs and is typically connected to the motherboard via a SATA cable. Cases comes with multiple internal drive bays that can be used for upgrading storage.

The power supply unit, or PSU, is responsible for providing power to all of the computer components inside the system unit. The Power supply is typically located at the back of the case and is connected to the motherboard and other computer hardware component with cables.

External bays are an integral part of computer cases that allow users to add or switch out various hardware components without opening up the case. These bays are located on the exterior of the computer case and can be accessed easily by the user.

Other hardware components can also be found inside the system unit, such as the graphics card, sound card, optical drives, and cooling fans. These computer components work together to ensure that the computer system unit functions correctly and provides the necessary power and performance for the user.

Computer Cases Form Factors :

Form factors are the physical dimensions and layout of a computer case. Different form factors are designed to accommodate different types and sizes of motherboards, power supplies, and other internal components. Here are some common form factors of computer cases:

1. ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended) : This is the most common form factor for desktop computers. It measures 305mm x 244mm and provides space for up to seven expansion slots.

2. Micro-ATX: This smaller form factor measures 244mm x 244mm and is designed to fit in more compact cases. It typically has four expansion slots.

3. Mini-ITX: This is the smallest form factor and measures only 170mm x 170mm. It is designed for compact and low-power systems, such as home theater PCs.

4. E-ATX (Extended ATX): This larger form factor measures 305mm x 330mm and can accommodate up to nine expansion slots. It is designed for high-end gaming and workstation systems.

5. BTX (Balanced Technology eXtended): This form factor was developed by Intel as a replacement for ATX, but it never gained widespread adoption. It features a rotated motherboard, which improves air flow and reduces heat buildup.

Overall, choosing the right form factor for your computer case model is important in ensuring that all the components fit properly and that your system runs smoothly.

Types Of PC Cases

The types of computer cases can be broadly categorized into two main groups: desktop computer cases and computer tower cases. Below are the key features and differences between the two types:

1. Desktop computer cases are typically smaller and designed to sit flat on a desk. They are often used for home and office PCs and have limited expansion options. They are also typically less expensive than tower cases.

2. Tower computer cases are larger and designed to stand upright on the floor. They are used for more high-end and advanced systems and offer greater customization and expansion options. They generally offer more space for additional computer components, such as larger power supplies, multiple hard drives, and multiple expansion cards.

3. Tower cases can be further classified into mid-tower and full-tower cases. Mid tower cases are smaller and more affordable, while full-tower cases are larger and offer even more expansion possibilities.

4. Some other types of computer cases include cube cases, SFF (small form factor) cases, and HTPC (home theater PC) cases. Cube cases are smaller versions of tower cases with a cube-shaped design. SFF cases are even smaller, designed to be compact and portable. HTPC cases are designed specifically for media center PCs and often resemble AV equipment.

5. The material used for construction are also different. Some computer cases are made of plastic, while others are made of aluminum or steel. Each material has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

In addition to the above points, it’s important to bear in mind that the choice of computer case will depend on personal preferences, intended use, and budget.

How has the design of computer cases evolved over the years?

Computer chassis have undergone numerous transformations both in terms of design and functionality.

Initially, they were bulky and served only as a protection for the internal components. Today, modern computers sleek designs with tempered glass, LED lighting, and better ventilation add to the aesthetics of the computer’s overall look.

With the evolution of technology, computer cases have also become more efficient, allowing for better cooling systems and faster processing speeds.

In short, computer cases manufacturers have come a long way from simple boxes to stylish and functional works of art.

Some popular computer brands have started implementing dust filter systems in their products, such as Corsair, Cooler Master, and Fractal Design.

With vast knowledge and research on how dust accumulates and affects the longevity of PC components, some of these brands now make it easy for users to clean and replace their filters regularly.

So, what is a PC case? A computer case is more than just a protective housing. It is an essential component that performs critical functions like cooling, proper cable management, noise reduction, and customization, among others. Choosing the right computer case is crucial to ensuring the optimal performance and longevity of your computer system.

In the context of computer components, “case” stands for “Computer Aided Software Engineering”. However, when referring to the physical enclosure that houses the PC components, “case” stands for “computer case”.

The most important characteristic of a computer case is its ability to protect the computer’s components from external damage, dust, and other harmful elements. This ensures the safe operation of the computer and prolongs its lifespan. Additionally, a good computer case should have adequate ventilation and cooling to prevent overheating, and enough space to accommodate all the necessary hardware components.

I am a PC enthusiast with a passion for gaming and all things tech. With years of experience building and customizing PCs, I have become a go-to source for PC case reviews and gaming insights. I am dedicated to researching and writing about the latest trends and developments in the PC gaming industry, with a particular focus on PC cases. From budget-friendly options to high-end builds, I have the expertise to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect case for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, my in-depth reviews and practical tips will help you make an informed decision.

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Computer Basics - Basic Parts of a Computer

Computer basics -, basic parts of a computer, computer basics basic parts of a computer.

Computer Basics: Basic Parts of a Computer

Lesson 3: basic parts of a computer.

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Introduction

The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case , monitor , keyboard , mouse , and power cord . Each part plays an important role whenever you use a computer.

Watch the video below to learn about the basic parts of a computer.

Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here .

Computer case

The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The front of the case usually has an On/Off button and one or more optical drives .

Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case.

The monitor works with a video card , located inside the computer case, to display images and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that allow you to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in speakers.

Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-panel displays . Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are much larger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.

The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to accomplish the same basic tasks.

Click the buttons in the interactive below to learn about the different parts of the keyboard.

Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause/Break

The Print Screen , Scroll Lock , and Pause/Break keys are at the top-right corner of the keyboard. The Print Screen key takes a picture of your screen (called a screenshot) that you can edit or save using a graphics program. Scroll Lock and Pause/Break are rarely used today, so some keyboards don't have them.

The Escape (Esc) key allows you to stop a function or action. For example, if a webpage is taking a long time to load, you can press the Escape key to stop loading it.

Function Keys

The function keys are labeled F1 through F12 . Some programs use these keys as shortcuts for common tasks. For example, in many programs, F1 opens the Help file.

The Tab key is used to create indents in word processing programs. Also, if you are filling out a form online, you can use the Tab key to switch to the next field.

Alphanumeric Keys

The main part of the keyboard includes the alphanumeric keys ( letters and numbers ) and the spacebar .

Ctrl, Alt, and Shift

The Control (Ctrl), Alternate (Alt), and Shift keys are designed to work in combination with other keys. Typically, you hold down Ctrl, Alt, or Shift and then type another key to perform a specific task. For example, in many programs, typing Ctrl+S will save a file.

The arrow keys are used for many different purposes, including moving the cursor, scrolling a document, and controlling a game.

Numeric Keypad

The numeric keypad resembles a calculator keypad. Many users find that it is easier to type numbers using this keypad. On some keyboards, these keys double as arrow keys.

Backspace Key

The Backspace key (also known as the delete key) erases the character to the left of the cursor.

The Enter key (also known as the return key) executes commands. For example, while on the Internet, you can type a website address and then press Enter to go to the site. It is also used to start a new line in word processing programs.

Home and End

These move the cursor to the beginning or end of the current line.

Insert and Delete

Insert : This switches between insert mode (which inserts new text without deleting anything) and overtype mode (which deletes text after the cursor as you type). Delete : This erases the character to the right of the cursor.

Page Up and Page Down

These scroll a document or webpage up or down.

If you want to learn how to type or improve your touch-typing skills, check out our free Typing Tutorial .

There are two main mouse types: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to work properly.

To learn the basics of using a mouse, check out our interactive Mouse Tutorial .

Mouse alternatives

There are other devices that can do the same thing as a mouse. Many people find them easier to use, and they also require less desk space than a traditional mouse. The most common mouse alternatives are below.

Trackball : A trackball has a ball that can rotate freely. Instead of moving the device like a mouse, you can roll the ball with your thumb to move the pointer.

/en/computerbasics/buttons-and-ports-on-a-computer/content/

Alternatively called the case , system unit , or base unit . The chassis is the housing that helps protect and organize all the components that make up a desktop computer. The picture is an empty computer chassis. Outlined below are some things to consider when choosing a case for your computer components.

Why do we need a computer case?

Components found inside a chassis.
Components on the case.
Types of computer cases.
Case colors.

What are computer cases made from?

Related information.
Computer case (chassis) help and support.

Most people overlook the computer case as only a box, but it does provide the below important features.

Structure - The case is what holds everything together in a compact and organized fashion.
Protection - Without the case, each of the sensitive components in the computer would be vulnerable to dirt, foreign objects, kids, animals, and EMI (electromagnetic interference) / RFI (radio-frequency interference).
Cooling - The case helps keep the air properly flowing over all components, which keeps everything cool and running properly.
Noise - Many computers and components have fans that generate noise. Having those components in a confined case reduces the overall noise.
Aesthetics - Although some may disagree, most people would rather look at the case instead of all the circuit boards, wires, and the computer components.

Components found inside a chassis

Below are the different types of hardware components you would find inside your computer chassis.

Expansion card
Heat sink and Fans
Internal drives (e.g., hard drive , CD drive )
RAM (random-access memory)
CCFL (cold cathode fluorescent lighting)
Motherboard
PSU (power supply unit)
CPU (central processing unit)

For a visual example of all above components, see: What does the inside of a computer look like?

Components on the case

A computer case may also have any or all of the following components as part of the case.

Power button
Reset button
LED (light-emitting diode)
Built-in card reader

Types of computer cases

There are many different motherboard form factors used for computers today that help decide the type of case you need. If you're building a computer, make sure you buy a case that is compatible with your motherboard.

Full-sized tower
Mini-sized tower and tower

Case colors

Cases are available in a wide array of colors. Below is a listing of popular colors and a brief description on each color if needed.

Black - Standard black case. Urban White - Offset white. Most desktop computers and computer hardware are this color. White - White or very light color case.

Also, there are computer and case manufacturers who make their products in blue, orange, pink, red, silver, and yellow. In addition to various available colors, there are also translucent cases with a semi-clear color look into the case.

The materials used to make or construct today's computer chassis are primarily metal and plastics. However, custom cases can be made from other materials like wood. For example, the first Apple I computer used a wooden box.

Related information

How to open a computer case.
Listing of computer case manufacturers.

1U , 2U , 3U , 4U , 5U , Bay , Bezel , Case , Case badge , Computer , Enclosure , Front panel , Hardware terms , Housing , System unit , Thumb screw

What Is a PC Chassis? A Basic Definition

A chassis (pronounced CHasē) is another word for a computer case, aka tower. The chassis holds most of a PC’s components. This doesn’t include peripherals like the keyboard, mouse or monitor . Additionally, chassis can refer to the framework of a machine in general, like a laptop's plastic chassis or a car's rolling chassis.

Different Types of PC Chassis

In terms of PC towers, chassis comes in different shapes and sizes. Some can even hold more than one motherboard . When shopping for the cases, you’ll see chassis identified by one of the terms below. This refers to the type of motherboard these cases are designed to accommodate; however, it also has implications for the chassis’ size as a bigger motherboard requires a bigger case (and vice versa).

Mini-ITX - Supports motherboards measuring 6.75 x 6.75 inches
MicroATX - Supports motherboards measuring a maximum of 9.63 x 9.63 inches
ATX - Supports motherboards measuring 12 x 9.63 inches (LxW)
XL/EATX - Supports motherboards measuring 12x13 inches (LxW)

Note that most cases can support smaller motherboard types. For example, many ATX cases can support Mini-ITX or MicroATX motherboards.

You might also see chassis categorized by the following terms. There are no exact measurements for these case sizes:

Desktop - Horizontal design. Sometimes monitors sit on top of a desktop chassis
SFF - Stands for small form factor. These are compact chassis for accommodating mini-ATX or smaller proprietary motherboards
Mini-Tower - Standard Vertical tower. No specific size but smaller than mid-tower and full tower.
Mid-Tower - Standard vertical tower. No specific size but bigger than mini-tower and smaller than full tower.
Full Tower - Usually 18 inches tall or more.

Different chassis also have different drive bays—2.5-inch for SSDs , 3.5-inch for hard drives or 5.25-inch for optical drives—different I/O shields for different ports and varying cooler support capabilities.

In order to get the best PC case , it’s important to note which parts you have or want in order to determine which size fits your needs. Note that building a PC is more challenging when working with a Mini-ITX chassis and that you probably don’t need an XL/EATX chassis unless you’re building a workstation (or just like the look of a big tower).

This article is part of the Tom's Hardware Glossary .

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Scharon Harding has a special affinity for gaming peripherals (especially monitors), laptops and virtual reality. Previously, she covered business technology, including hardware, software, cyber security, cloud and other IT happenings, at Channelnomics, with bylines at CRN UK.

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Different types of computer case sizes - explained

Many people struggle to select the appropriate computer case for their system. This guide will cover everything you need to know when selecting a case for your PC.

Okay, let's get started with the many types of computer casing - but keep in mind that they are the most common on the market. Computer casing can take on virtually any shape or form, and some people even DIY their own unique constructions.

A computer case, also known as a computer chassis or cabinet, is a small enclosure or box that stores all of a computer's primary components and accessories. Computer cases can be classified into two broad types. Each of them is discussed briefly below.

Each of them is characterized by its shape and size. This is because the motherboard's form factor must be compatible with the tower's in order to fit precisely. And, certainly, one of the most important components of any PC case is the cooling system. There should be enough room inside for air circulation and the massive radiators necessary for a powerful PC. To store data and software files, every computer system needs some kind of mass storage devices, such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD).

It must be realized that a PC case is a core component for shielding internal equipment from external influences. Along with qualities, it is vital to emphasize their size and execution style, which can be vertical or horizontal.

HTPC and SFF

The size of an HTPC can range from extremely small, like an SFF ( small form factor ), to extremely huge, like a mid-tower. As you can see, the primary distinction is that an HTPC is designed to act and seem more like a true home theater system. It can be tucked underneath the TV stand or hung on the wall. And this has more than enough computing power to play music and videos in any format that is now used. These cases were once regarded as quite a niche, but they have gained appeal in recent years due to the shrinking of powerful components that may fit inside them.

The HTPC is the perfect machine for your home multimedia enjoyment. You can put it under the TV table or hang it on the wall. And the computer power is more than sufficient to play music and video in any modern format. Also, such a PC will not create any noise, as passive cooling is commonly available.

SFF takes up little room. They might be a good alternative to laptops due to their small size and lightweight design. Some SFFs come with handles or customized bags to make transportation easier. Furthermore, the SFF has a considerable advantage over a laptop in that it has more power at a lower cost. Many SFFs include motherboards with cooling solutions that differ from those found in other types of computer cases.

This is because the video and sound on such motherboards are built-in, resulting in very small amounts of heat being generated. As a result, they don't require a lot of cooling. This layout also minimizes the size. SFF cases with Mini-ITX motherboards are ideal for people who work or play in small places. These are designed specifically for compact living rooms and offices. A desktop PC will also be far easier to maintain and improve than a laptop with portability. One disadvantage is that they are frequently limited to only one CD drive.

Conclusion: The four categories of PC cases discussed above are Full-tower, Mid-tower, Mini-tower, HTPC, and SFF. You can purchase any of them based on your demands and budget.

What is the purpose of the computer case?

Computer cases, often known as "PC towers" or "computer towers," are a visible component of modern computers. It is used to shield the remainder of the internal components, such as the motherboard, RAM, hard drive, cooling fans, and other expansion cards, from external effects.

What is the best PC case for gaming?

The full tower computer case is of reasonable size and weight, and it typically has greater internal cooling. Naturally, their prices are a touch high. As a result, full tower cases have always been ideal for gamers and enthusiasts who enjoy gaming and streaming on the internet.

What kind of PC case do I have?

Full-tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, and SFF (Small Factor Form)are the four categories of computer case sizes. You must first measure the size of the case to determine the sort of computer case you have. However, the Mid-tower is the most common and widely used computer case, supporting almost all types of motherboards with acceptable overall dimensions.

What size PC case should I get?

Only the computer case that fully meets your requirements should be purchased. Before purchasing the case, consider the size of the case in relation to the available space at your job or at home, as well as the internal components that you want to install within the case.

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What Are PC Case Types? PC Case Types 101

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There are several varieties of computer cases/cabinets readily available on the market, each with its own assortment of options and price ranges. When it comes to cases/PC towers for our personal computers, size matters. Their size impacts the ability to install critical components like video cards, RAM, hard drives, and sophisticated customized cooling systems.

Larger cases can hold larger motherboards , as well as additional components such as disc drives and graphics cards, as well as more powerful cooling systems.

Personal computer cases are often classified not only by orientation (e.g., tower, desktop) and form factor (e.g., ATX, mini-ATX), but also by application type (e.g. gaming, office). Server cases, on the other hand, are labeled with the number of rack units they will occupy (e.g. 2U, 4U).

I will discuss the many computer case types and their distinct qualities so that you may select the best case for your PC.

Table of Contents

What is a Computer/PC Case?

Computer cases , often known as PC towers and Computer towers, are a prominent component of modern computers. Its purpose is to act as a protection framework for the remaining interior components while they are being built.

There are several sorts of cases. Each of them is distinguished by its shape and size. This is because the motherboard’s form factor must be compatible with the tower’s in order to fit precisely.

And, undoubtedly, one of the most important components of any PC chassis is the cooling system. There ought to be ample room inside for air circulation and the massive radiators required by a powerful PC.

It must be realized that a PC case is a necessary element for shielding internal hardware from external effects.

Along with qualities, it is vital to emphasize their size and execution style, which can be vertical or horizontal. The computer case sizes and models available on the market are as follows.

What Are PC Case Types?

Here I will talk about 4 Different Types of Computer Cases/Towers for your PC or Computer

HTPC and SFF

These computer cases are created to take up such little physical space as possible while yet allowing for the installation of decent-sized graphics cards. The usual mini-tower measures 30 – 45 cm tall and 15 – 25 cm wide (they can sometimes be smaller).

Because their thermal enclosures are not the greatest on the market, you should install low-consumption components instead of high-consumption ones.

The Mini Tower casing is the smallest and least popular among computer manufacturers and suppliers due to its restricted space, which prevents the building of a more or less productive computer, and insufficient ventilation. A tiny body also limits the variety of attachments available.

In these computer cases, you can only install a microATX motherboard and a low-power supply. Mini Tower computers are often provided in their most basic form for use as back-office machines or network terminals.

Mini Towers are an increasingly popular alternative for typical home PCs since they are both affordable and powerful enough for standard video games. Given its restricted size and growth possibilities, their potential applications are relatively limited.

However, due to the limited area within, only a skilled or experienced person can arrange everything in its proper spot during assembly.

The most common and extensively used computer case format is mid-tower or ATX, which allows you to connect numerous discs and practically all types of motherboards with appropriate overall dimensions. The typical full tower measures 35-55 cm tall and 15- 25 cm wide.

There is additional space within the mid-tower case for mounting full-size equipment, such as most additional video cards over 300 mm long, and this case is ideal for employing 120, 140, or even 200 mm fans to improve air cooling.

Mid Tower is most likely the best choice if you want to create a typical gaming PC rather than a hardcore gaming PC. This case is approximately 31 cm long, allowing for the installation of a full-size video card and two to three expansion slots.

Furthermore, the Mid Tower’s components will receive appropriate cool airflow. Even under the most strenuous situations, the video card and CPU temperatures will never surpass 70-80 degrees Celsius if fans are used properly (and dust is removed on a regular basis).

You may design a productive PC with a sound ventilation system using these sorts of computer cases. It is regarded as a universal solution for desktop users since it can be configured in a variety of ways, including a low-power business computer, a home media center, and a gaming computer.

This category contains formats made for the tiny ITX standard as well as those designed for the micro ATX standard. As a result, this category includes all tiny computer cases, including several cube-shaped chassis or HTPC-oriented models.

A Full Tower case is used to house an E-ATX or CEB motherboard. This is highly crucial for high-performance servers that can employ many components of different sizes of motherboards, from high-end pricey to low-cost, including RAM, ROM, and other storage units, all at the same time.

The total height and width of the tower are 55-75 cm and 22-32 cm, respectively. It can accommodate 4 to 9 5.25-inch bays (for additional optical drive). Allows the installation of up to seven expansion cards, such as a sound card or a receiver.

This sort of computer case is the right size and weight for the job, and it generally has good internal cooling. Of course, their costs are quite expensive. That is why enthusiasts, admins, and dedicated streaming players have traditionally used complete Tower cases.

If you wish to create your own demanding, powerful gaming PC and use three monitors to play in 4K simultaneously then such a case will supply the essential room for your future PC.

Such a case allows you to design a customized cooling system with 230mm fans and provides greater cooling for two high-end graphics cards, several RAM bars, and a processor such as the Intel Core i9-9900K.

Purchasing a Full Tower is worthwhile if you require a big number of components or a high number of airflows to cool the powerful CPUs and GPUs.

One significant disadvantage of having a Full Tower is that it takes up a lot of room and is difficult to conceal. However, if you have enough free space, Full Tower may be the ideal option for your PC.

SFF refers to ‘Small Form Factor’ while HTPC is for ‘Home Theater PC.’ These cases were once regarded as quite specialized, but they have gained appeal in recent years due to the shrinking of powerful components that may fit within them.

HTPC is the ideal machine for your home multimedia pleasure. You may put it beneath the TV table or hang it on the wall. And the computer power is more than sufficient to play music and video in any current format.

SFF takes up minimal room. They might be a good alternative to laptops due to their tiny size and lightweight. Some SFFs come with handles or customized bags to make transportation simpler. Furthermore, the SFF has a considerable benefit over a laptop in that it has more power at a lower cost.

Many SFFs have motherboards with cooling solutions that differ from those available in other types of computer cases.

This is because the video and sound on such motherboards are built-in, resulting in extremely small amounts of heat being generated. As a result, they don’t require a lot of cooling. This layout also minimizes the size.

SFF enclosures with Mini-ITX motherboards are ideal for those who work or play in small places. These are designed specifically for compact living rooms and workplaces. It will also be easier to maintain and enhance such a PC than a laptop with a mobility function. One disadvantage is that they are frequently limited to only one CD drive.

Comparison of Different Computer Case Sizes

The mini tower is significantly smaller than the full and mid towers .

Length in Inches

The mini tower measures 12 – 18 inches tall and 6 -10 inches wide.

Motherboard

It is mostly compatible with Micro-ATX and Mini-ATX motherboards.

A mini tower case is ideal for basic functions including online surfing, web-based application access, audio/video playing, and document processing.

There are restrictions on additional cards and RAM and ROM slots.

Low-cost and inexpensive.

It is the most frequent size for most desktop users.

The mid-tower is 15 to 22 inches tall and 6 to 10 inches wide.

Mini-ITX, MicroATX, ATX, E-ATX, and M-ATX motherboards are all supported by the mid-tower.

It may be the ideal option for casual users as well as regular gamers. The best option for inexperienced desktop users.

If you attempt to fit more graphics cards inside the tower, cooling becomes a problem, and there isn’t much room for a customized cooling water system.

Available in the mid to low price range.

The full tower is the greatest size available to PC users among all computer cases.

The full tower is 22 – 30 inches tall and 9 -13 inches wide.

ATX, Extended ATX, Micro ATX, Micro-ATX, XL-ATX, Mini ITX, and SSI EEB motherboards are all supported by the full tower.

The full tower is great for professional and dedicated gamers who want to update their PC later since it has more slots and room for optical bays, ventilation units, and so on.

The enormous size and weight, takes up a lot of space and is difficult to hide and carry.

Extremely Expensive.

In comparison to other computer cases, SFF and HTPC are quite tiny and light.

The HTPC and SFF are 10 – 14 inches’ height and 5 – 8 inches wide.

Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards are supported by HTPC and SFF.

It is best used as a home media center, streaming videos and audio through a connected TV or monitor.

Modifying it to your wants/needs might be time-consuming. Upscaling is also a problem.

Depending on your requirements, it might be expensive or affordable.

In my opinion, purchasing a Full Tower is worthwhile if you require a big number of components or a high number of airflows to cool the powerful CPUs and GPUs. However, if you are interested in SFF cases, SFF cases with Mini-ITX motherboards are ideal for those who work or play in small places. These are designed specifically for compact living rooms and workplaces. It will also be easier to maintain and enhance such a PC than a laptop with a mobility function.

Now you are well familiar with the types of PC cases, the four varieties of PC cases are as follows: full-tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, HTPC, and SFF. You can purchase any of these products based on your demands and budget. Unfortunately, there are no defined specs to speak of, since differences abound from maker to manufacturer, and sometimes the option just comes down to which computer case is the greatest match.

Frequently Asked Questions: What Are PC Case Types?

What size pc case should i get.

What is the best pc case for gaming?

The full tower computer case is of reasonable size and weight, and it often has greater internal cooling. Naturally, their prices are a touch high. As a result, Full Tower cases have always been ideal for gamers and enthusiasts that like gaming and internet streaming.

What is the purpose of the computer case?

Computer cases, often known as PC towers and Computer towers, are a visible component of modern computers. It is used to shield the remainder of the internal components such as the motherboard, RAM, hard drive, cooling fans, and other expansion cards from external effects.

What kind of PC case do I have?

Full-tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, and SFF are the four categories of computer case sizes (Small Factor Form). You must first measure the size of the case to determine the sort of computer case you have. However, the Mid-tower is the most common and extensively used computer case, accommodating practically all types of motherboards with acceptable overall dimensions.

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I am glad you came over here. So, you want to know a little bit about me. I am a passionate digital marketer, blogger, and engineer. I have knowledge & experience in search engine optimization, digital analytics, google algorithms, and many other things.

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4 Different Types of Computer Cases/Towers for your PC or Computer

There are various types of computer cases/cabinets available in the market in different sizes with more options and ranges.

Because of Size Matters ! When it comes to cases/PC towers for our personal computers. Their size determines to install important components inside from video cards, RAM, hard drives to complex any custom cooling systems.

I will talk about the different computer case types and their specific characteristics so that you can choose a better case that suits your PC.

What is Computer/PC Case

The computer cases are a visible part of our computers called PC towers and Computer towers. Its function is to serve as a protective structure for the rest of the internal components where they will be assembled.

There are many different types of cases. The main feature of each of them is its form and size factor. This is due to the motherboard, whose form factor must be compatible with that of the tower to fit perfectly.

And yes, the cooling system is one of the main components of any PC case. There should be enough space inside for air circulation and large radiators that a powerful PC needs.

It must be understood that a PC case is an essential component for protecting the internal equipment from external influences.

Along with characteristics, it is necessary to highlight their size and type of execution, which can be either vertical or horizontal. The following are the computer case sizes and models available in the market.

4 Different Types of Computer Case

1. Full tower

Firstly, Full Tower is used to accommodate an E-ATX or CEB motherboard . This is very useful for high-performance servers that can use multiple components all sizes of motherboard from high end expensive to cheap units at once.

The full tower ranges between 55- 75 cm tall and 22 – 32 cm in width . It can have from 4 to 9 5.25-inch bays (for additional optical drive). Allows you to install up to seven expansion cards, such as a WiFi card with a proper cable management for display, peripherls, and power supply connectors .

This type of computer case comes with proper size and weight, which usually has better internal cooling. Of course, their prices are a little high. That’s why enthusiasts, administrators have always used full Tower cases, and hardcore streaming gamers.

If you want to build your separate uncompromising, powerful gaming PC and wanted to use three monitors and play in large sizes monitor like 4K togetherly? Then such a case will provide your future computer with the necessary space.

Such a case provides better cooling for two top-end graphics cards, multiple RAM bars, and a processor like the Intel Core i9-9900K and allows you to create a custom cooling system with 230mm fans.

Buying a Full Tower is worth it, but only if you need space for a large number of components or need a lot of airflows to cool the powerful processors with hyperthreading tech as well as bulky RTX or Ti GPUs .

Full Tower Gaming ⬇ Chassis

One big drawback to having a Full Tower is that it takes up a lot of space and is difficult to hide. But if you have free space available, then it is not essential for you, then Full Tower can be the best choice for your PC.

2. Mid Tower

Mid-tower or ATX format is the most popular and widely used computer case that allows you to use many drives and almost all types of motherboards with acceptable overall dimensions in it.

The average full tower ranges between 35- 55 cm tall and 15 – 25 cm in width.

Inside the mid-tower case, there is more enough space for installing full-size components, such as most extensive video cards over 300 mm long, and this case is capable of using 120, 140, or even 200 mm fans size for a positive effect on cooling the air.

If you want to build a regular gaming PC, not as hardcore gaming, then Mid Tower is most likely your right choice. This case is about 31 cm long, which is easy to install a full-size video card and two to three expansion slots thick.

Besides, the components inside the Mid Tower will receive adequate cold airflow. With proper use of fans (and cleaning from dust often times ), the GPU and CPU maintain good temp will never exceed 70-80 degrees Celsius , even in the most stressful conditions.

Using these types of computer cases, you can build a productive PC with a sound ventilation system. It is considered a universal option for desktop users because you can assemble a wide range of designs, a low-power office computer, a home media center, and a gaming computer.

This type of format includes both those developed for the mini ITX standard and those designed for the micro ATX standard. Therefore, you will find all the small computer cases in this segment, including many cube-shaped chassis or oriented for HTPC.

3. Mini Tower

These types of computer cases are designed to take up as little physical space and without installing decent-sized graphics cards. The average mini-tower length ranges between 30 – 45 cm tall and 15 – 25 cm in width (they can sometimes be smaller).

Their thermal enclosures are not the best on the market, so it is more convenient for you to install low-consumption components rather than high-consumption ones.

The Mini Tower chassis is the smallest in size and not very popular among computer assemblers due to the limited volume, which does not allow assembly of a more or less productive computer and low airflow. A small body limits the choice of types of accessories too.

You can install only a microATX motherboard and a low power supply in these types of computer cases. Typically, Mini Tower computers are shipped in the most basic configuration for back-office machines or network terminals.

Mini Towers are an increasingly common choice for regular home PCs – as a cheap gaming build which is enough for standard video games. Regarding their possible uses, given their limited size and expansion capabilities, their benefits are quite limited.

However, during assembly, only a specialist or experienced can beautifully arrange everything in its place as there is not much space inside.

4. HTPC and SFF

HTPC stands ‘ Home theatre PC’ for and SFF stands for ‘ Small Form Factor ‘. These types of cases were considered very niche, but in recent years they have gained popularity due to the miniaturization of powerful components that can fit in them.

HTPC is the perfect choice for the computer at your home multimedia entertainment . You can place it under the TV table, or even you can hang on the wall. And the computing power of this is more enough to play music and video in any modern format.

Also, such a PC will not make a sound – often, you can have passive cooling.

SFF takes little space. Due to their small size and lightweight, they can be an excellent alternative to laptops. Some SFFs are handy to come with handles or unique bags to make them easier to transport. Also, the SFF has a significant advantage over a laptop since it has more power at less cost.

Many SFFs come with motherboards by offering cooling options (silent) that differ from the standard noisy fans found in other types of computer cases.

This happens because the video and sound on such motherboards are built-in, leading to generating heat in a very tiny amount. As a result, they do not need powerful cooling. Also, this arrangement reduces the size.

SFF cases with Mini-ITX motherboard suits perfectly the people who work or play in tight spaces. These are specially for small living rooms and small offices . It will also be much easier to repair and improve such a PC than a laptop with the feature of portability.

It has one drawback that they are most often limited to only one CD drive.

Conclusion : The above are the four types of PC cases – Full-tower, Mid-tower, Mini-tower, HTPC, and SFF . You can buy any of these as per your needs budget. Share this with your friends also to make them know about different computer case sizes and types.

Comparison of Different Computer Case Sizes

Main components inside the pc case:.

Motherboard
Central Processing Unit (CPU chip)
Hard Disk Drive/SSD
Cooling Fans
Power Supply Unit
Graphic card
Other wireless network Adapter

Thus, the above components are needed to install inside the PC Case/Tower.

Related : 7 Tips to Have a Silent PC build
Also Read : Regular vs Gaming Monitor ( Differences in Features )

What is the computer case used for?

The computer cases are a visible part of our computers which are also called PC towers and Computer towers. It is used to serve as a protective structure for the rest of the internal components like motherboard, RAM, Hard drive, cooling fans, and other expansion cards from the external influences.

Which computer case is the best for gaming?

The full tower computer case comes with fair size and weight, which usually has better internal cooling. Of course, their prices are a little expensive. That’s why Full Tower cases have always been excellent for gamers and enthusiasts for playing games and online streaming.

What computer case do I have?

There are four types of computer case size; full-tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, and SFF(Small Factor Form). You need to measure the size of the case then you will get to know which type of pc case you have. However, the Mid-tower is the most popular and widely used computer case with almost all types of motherboards with overall dimensions acceptable in it.

What computer case size should I buy?

The computer case that fits perfectly as per your needs, only that kind of case you should buy. Before buying the case, You should consider the size of the case according to the availability of space at your workplace or at home and the internal components that you want to install inside the case.

Here the article ends with the different types of computer towers with their sizes and their features for the building PCs.

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10 Types of Computer Cases (With Pictures)

Welcome to a guide on the types of computer cases and motherboard form factors. Computers sure have gotten a lot smaller since the dark days, and the family of casings has gotten a lot larger. Just how many different types of computer cases are there in the market, what are their sizes, and which one should you get? Well, read on to find out!

Case types & sizes.

All right, let us get started with the various types of computer casing – But please take note that these are the common ones in the market. Computer casing can really take on any shape and form, some people even DIY their own custom builds.

1) SUPERTOWER

An unnecessarily large computer casing that is at least 26 inches (66 cm) tall. It is so big that you can actually fit 2 smaller motherboards, 2 power supplies, and a dozen hard disks in it. Just who would want this oversized beast? I have no idea… Maybe a super hacker interested in building a computer that can rule them all?

2) FULL TOWER

Full towers are not as big as the supertower, but it is still one large casing at about the height of 21 to 25 inches (53 to 63 cm). You will not have any trouble putting a large motherboard, and half a dozen hard disks in. This is a good choice for people who are planning to run a small server for a small home office.

3) MID TOWER

The more manageable and common casing at about the height of 17 to 20 inches (43 to 50 cm). This used to be the de facto standard size for desktops, but ever since the mobile boom, the mid-tower has kind of fallen into the “oversized” category. Still, this is a moderately sized casing for those who are looking for good ventilation plus spare slots for expansion.

4) MINI TOWER

Another common Joe casing size at about 13 to 16 inches (33 to 40 cm). If you need a casing for a simple computer – This will work just fine. Although it does not offer a lot of room for you to add more stuff for upgrades later.

5) SLIMLINE

Once upon a time in the stone age of computers, computer drives adopt a standard width of 5.25 inches. This is why computer cases are at least about 6 inches (15 cm) wide and continues to be so today.

But as the devices get smaller and more powerful with technology, some manufacturers completely ditched the support for 5.25 inches devices – Which resulted in the smaller slimline casings. Personally, I do not quite like these though. The components are all cramped in that small case, and you risk a meltdown if the ventilation fails…

6) SMALL FORM FACTOR (SFF)

These tiny little ones are usually about the size of a small box that you can carry with just one hand. The beauty of it is that you can mount these behind monitors, and totally hide them out of sight. SFF computers used to be pretty useless in the old days, but as mobile technology improves, these little ones actually pack quite a punch. They can pretty much do whatever a full-sized tablet can do.

7) HOME THEATER (HTPC)

The size of HTPC varies from small little ones like SFF to even larger ones like a mid-tower. The main difference, as you can see, is that HTPC is made to look and function more like a legit home theater device.

8) DUAL CHAMBER

The dual-chamber casing is a “descendant” of the “original” tower casing. After much thought has been put into the internal layout, a dual-chamber casing has 2 sides as the name implies. One chamber is “fully open” to display the “nice computer components”, while the other chamber is used to hide the ugly cables.

9) BENCH CASE

The bench case is more commonly known as an open-air skeleton frame. Some people like these minimal “computer case” as it allows open-air ventilation… But they are actually used by the tech geeks for all sorts of troubleshooting and testing.

10) SERVER RACK CHASSIS

This one is for the “hardcore” tech people. Before you buy a server rack chassis, you will need to buy an entire server enclosure to mount it in. Most server racks are pretty much a standard 19-inch (48 cm) wide, and 1 standard server unit (U) is 1.75 inches (44.5 mm) high. So if you buy a 2U server rack chassis, that is 89mm or 3.5 inches high.

THE SUMMARY

As most tower cases are at least 5.25 inches wide, I will just omit that in the table below…

FORM FACTORS

Now that you have a good idea of the types and sizes of the computer cases, let us now move into something very closely related – The motherboard form factor. Yep, motherboards also come in standard sizes, and we cannot fit a giant circuit board into a tiny casing.

WHAT IS ATX?

Invented in 1995, ATX is Intel’s baby and it stands for A dvanced T echnology e x tended. In a nutshell, ATX is a technical specification for motherboard sizes, where the mounting points should be placed, amount of power, and connector interfaces. It is the de-facto industry standard, and computer cases are pretty much built around this specification.

STANDARD ATX

Measuring 305 x 244 mm (about 12″ x 9.6″), this is the “standard size” for most computer motherboards in the market. Also commonly known as “full ATX”. Fits into a super tower, full tower, and mid-tower casings.

EXTENDED ATX (EATX)

A joke among some techies as EAT-X… But this is a slightly larger version of the standard ATX, measuring at 305 x 330 mm (about 12″ X 13″). These motherboards offer more expansion slots for upgrades, and will only fit into the larger cases – Super tower and full tower.

This is a smaller version of the standard ATX measuring 244 x 244 mm (9.6″ x 9.6″), the faceplate for the micro ATX will line up exactly with the standard ATX – It fits comfortably into super towers, full towers, mid-towers, mini-towers, and slimline casings.

Measuring 284 x 208 mm (11.2″ x 8.2″), the mini ATX is a slightly longer version of the micro ATX. It fits comfortably into the large supertower, full tower, and mid-tower casings. But you will have to be a little more careful and check if smaller mini-tower, slimline casings will fit one of these.

The flex ATX is derived from the micro ATX measuring 229 x 191 mm (9” x 7.5”), and it should fit right into any tower casing – Super tower, full tower, mid-tower, mini-tower, and slimline.

WHAT IS ITX?

ITX is short for I nformation T echnology E x tended, invented not by Intel, but by VIA Technologies this time. Mini ITX is first introduced in 2001 to cater to “palm-sized” computers. In the subsequent years, Nano ITX, Pico ITX, and Mobile ITX were introduced for the “even smaller” computers.

Measuring at 170 x 170 mm (6.7″ x 6.7″), these palm-sized motherboards are supposedly compatible with the ATX casings – Technically, the mini ITX has screw hole positions that line up with ATX, and even the faceplate matches up nicely. So yep, you can probably fit this little board inside a super tower casing… But we usually house this inside small form factor cases instead.

At only 120 x 120 mm (4.7″ x 4.7″), Nano ITX motherboards are so small that they are used for devices such as TV boxes, car entertainment systems, and other embedded devices. No standard casing will fit these boards, and they probably come with their own custom builds.

At even smaller 100 x 72 mm (3.9” x 2.8”), Pico ITX devices also have their own custom build cases.

The smallest form factor with a size of 60 x 60 mm (2.4” x 2.4”). Fits right into your pocket, and the custom case builds.

The ATX and ITX are 2 popular form factors but know that there are others such as DTX, HPTX, and SWTX – Always check the form factor of your motherboard, and if the casing will properly house it.

USEFUL BITS & LINKS

That’s all for this guide, and here is a small section on some extras and links that may be useful to you.

LINKS & REFERENCES

Computer Case – Wikipedia
Desktop Computer Case Sizes – buildcomputer.net
Computer Case Size Explained – hackint0sh.org

Thank you for reading, and we have come to the end of this guide. I hope that this has helped you to better understand the different types of computer cases, and if you have anything to share with this guide, please feel free to comment below. Good luck and happy computing. May the cyber force be with you.

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Useful, thanks!

Thanks W.S. I got my first home computer in 1983 and I’m constantly amazed at how much there is to learn.

What is a computer case, and why do we need it?

by Rustam Iqbal

The computer case is an enclosure for holding all components to form a proper system. All parts, like the Central Processing Unit (CPU) , motherboard , hard disk, graphic and video cards, and cooling solution units , are connected through different cables and form a complex structure.

Its complicated circuitry structure requires an efficient frame unit to hold all these parts and reduce complexity. It helps in organizing and protecting all of the system units. So, if you are wondering what a computer casing is and why it is used, this article will explain your queries.

It is an enclosure that holds all the hardware circuitry components and is often called a chassis and base unit. Usually, they are made up of steel or metal. The edges of metal computer frames are very sharp, so be careful while working with them. The chassis depends on the form factors that determine its size.

In this article, we will help you understand what is computer case. Size consideration is significant when purchasing a new one. It should be compatible with the form factors of motherboards and other parts. Multiple companies like NZXT, Xoxide, and Antec are constructing high-end frames.

Why Do We Need A Computer Case?

Although we can assemble a PC without a PC case, but it will not look like a proper computer system. Remember that modern casing is more than a room to hold all the modules. So, consider all of its features before buying it.

Structure: According to the form of the case, all internal parts are organized. So, its build should be able to hold all of them in a compact design. Complex circuitry should be housed in an organized way, so you can effectively use them. There should be multiple USBs and other slots to connect peripheral devices effortlessly.

Protection: A basic need is to keep the system’s internal parts safe from all external damage. Protecting all of the elements is the main reason to get a frame. Dust, humidity, or some animals like mice, cats, and bugs can damage the internal parts. So enclosing it in hardcover is very important to avoid damages that the external environment can do. So get a system casing that offers you extensive protection against all odds.

Cooling: Cooling of the system is necessary. A computer is an electronic device that produces a lot of heat. There are special cooling units that are designed to cool down the system. However, it must provide efficient airflow to enhance the cooling performance. Some computer frames are designed to improve the airflow by containing venting holes that drive away the warm air from the system. Modern frameworks now offer more cooling by offering built-in fans.

Noise: Some internal hardware components, like fans, produce a lot of noise. So, enclosing them in a sealed cover reduces the noise level and offers you a noise-free experience. You can perform your activities and operations without worrying about annoying sounds.

Aesthetics: The casing is vital in delivering a unique aesthetic look for your system. You should buy a computer body that is aesthetically pleasing to your eyes as you will look at it for the whole day for a long time. So don’t ever buy an ugly one that delivers a dull look. The modern mounting structure offers you different looks with a classical style that upgrades the look of your system from boring to cool. They are available in different colors and some different stylish designs.

What Components Go Inside A Case?

The chassis holds multiple components that are the following:

Motherboard: It is a baseboard that holds all the components together and allows communication among them. The motherboard’s position depends on the system casing orientation and form factor. It is often attached to the bottom or side of the chassis. Its positioning is crucial as all elements must be directly linked. So before buying a mounting body, ensure its positioning is advantageous.

Central Processing Unit (CPU): The computer’s brain controls and manages all computer operations. It is a circuitry chip that contains an ALU and a control unit. Arithmetic and the logical unit perform all the mathematical functions, while the control unit is the supervisor of the system that controls all the actions. It usually lies on the motherboard.

Cooling Unit: All modern systems must contain a specially designed cooling unit that helps maintain the system temperature. These unit coolers include heatsinks and fans to draw the air away from the casing. So, there should be adequate room to mount them.

Internal Drives: There are multiple internal drives like hard drives, compact disk drives, etc., so it should have spacious space to mount them. There should be 2.5 inches, 3.5 inches, and 5.25-inch bays to mount the hard disks, floppy disks, optical drives, and other storage media. Usually, expansion bays are at the front side of the frame so they can easily reach out to the user, like CD drives.

RAM: Random Access Memory (RAM) is the primary storage. The data in processing is stored in this memory. During booting, the operating system is loaded on the memory. Different types of RAM are included in the frame related to system performance. RAM with a larger size offers increased performance.

PSU: The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is a module that provides power to all parts inside the carcass. This unit is responsible for converting AC to DC. It is usually located at the top back of it. In tower casing, it is positioned at the bottom back, and All-in-one is at the right back or left back of the frame.

Expansion Cards: These cards are known as adapters added to provide some additional capabilities like Video Graphic Adapters to deliver high-definition videos. Multiple expansion cards include interface cards, sound cards, network cards, etc.

Types Of Computer Cases!

The motherboard of the computers has different form factors that help determine the type of system chassis. So before buying a mounting body for your system, ensure it is compatible with the motherboard. These are the following types, so choose them accordingly.

Full Tower-ATX: It is one of the bigger form factors with a size of 24 inches. There is ample room to hold 6 to 10 drive bays and 11 PCI slots. It is one of the giant frames available nowadays and is also known as the full-tower. These can accommodate high-end motherboards and are primarily used for server systems.

Mid-Tower-MicroATX: It is a typical structure widely used for mainframe systems. These sizes vary from 18 to 24 inches and can contain 2 to 4 internal bays and 7 PCI slots. There are some additional 2 to 4 external bays used for peripheral devices.

Mini-Tower-Mini-ATX: The size of the mini-tower ranges from 12 to 18 inches. It can carry 1 to 2 internal bays with 3 PCI slots. There is little space to mount all the parts, so it has limited choices of component mounting.

Case Colors

The colors give a very modern and cool look to the system. They are available in colors like white, black, or other colors. The one with black color has a stylish and appealing look and is famous among gamers. Professionals use white color frameworks to give their system an elegant and sophisticated look.

Some users want a bright, colorful environment, so there are manufacturers to fulfill their needs. Computer bodies are also available in bright colors like blue, orange, pink, red, silver, and yellow.

What Are Computer Cases Made From?

The mounting structure is used to hold all of the delicate and complex elements. So, the chassis should be made of a specially designed material that fulfills its purpose. Usually, a hard substance like plastic and metal is used to make them. The customization option is also available, and you can customize the system frame of your desired material. There is an Apple I structure that is made of wood.

A computer is an electronic device that helps to perform actions efficiently. It is a complex structure comprising a CPU, hard disk, RAM, PSU, expansion cards, etc. They are all connected via various cables. Its intricate circuitry structure necessitates a robust casing unit that can accommodate all these parts while simultaneously reducing complexity.

The chassis’s size is determined by its form factors. It should be compatible with the motherboard and component form factors. Several companies, like NZXT, Xoxide, Antec, etc., make high-end structures. Different cases are available, like E-ATX, ATX, mini-ATX, and micro-ATX. You can choose your chassis according to your requirements.

However, remember that the motherboard and other components should be compatible with the case. You can also create a sophisticated look by choosing a colored casing with RGB lighting. Gamers and graphic creators widely use these types of frames.

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What is CPU Case? Lifespan, Types & Works & More

In This Article

What is CPU Case?

A CPU case, also known as a computer case or tower, is an enclosure that houses the internal components of a computer , including the motherboard , central processing unit (CPU), power supply, storage devices, and other components.

It is designed to protect these components from damage, provide a secure environment for the components to operate in, and facilitate proper airflow to prevent overheating .

The case typically includes openings for peripheral devices , such as USB ports , audio jacks, and expansion cards . The size and design of the case can vary depending on the intended use and the size and type of components being used.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The CPU case not only holds the CPU but also the hard drives , motherboards, optical drive and others.
There are different types of it available such as full tower cases, mini tower cases, mid tower cases, and small form factor .
A CPU case is not involved in the functioning of the computer directly but holds and protects the components inside, and, depending on the design, adds to the aesthetics of the system as well.

Understanding CPU Case

According to the dictionary, a CPU case is a cabinet that contains all important components of a computer.

These include the power supply, memory, chipsets , motherboard, disk drives , several cards and all other peripherals along with a lot of data and SATA cables.

If you follow Wikipedia, a computer case will also be referred by different names such as:

Computer chassis
System unit
Cabinet, and even simply,
CPU, when it is referred to as a whole unit and not as the processor only.

This enclosure holds everything of the computer apart from the keyboard, mouse and display units and output devices.

A computer case is generally made from aluminum or steel. This steel is often called SECC, which stands for Steel Electrogalvanized Cold-rolled Coil.

However, you may also find CPU cases made from other materials, especially in the home-built ones, such as:

Lego bricks
Glass and even

These computer cases or enclosures can have different form factors based on their layout and internal dimensions.

Out of all these form factors, the blade servers and rack-mounted ones come with detailed external dimensions.

This is because these cases are meant to fit inside particular enclosures.

For instance, if the case is designed to hold the power supply and an ATX motherboard , it may have a number of external forms such as:

Flat desktop
Vertical tower or a

The full-size tower cabinets have more volume in comparison to the desktop computer cases.

This allows more room for the expansion slots and the drive bays .

However, the most popular cases in the business settings, where space comes at a premium, are the desktop and mini-tower cases that are just about 46 cm in height.

The Different Types

There are different types of CPU cases available on the market. You will see a lot of these when you conduct an online research.

All these have their own merits and demerits and may even vary in their ability to perform different functions.

This is due the variance in the features that these CPU cases come with.

Therefore, you will be better off when you know about the types of CPU cases and their differences. It will help you to decide which one of them is best suited for your needs.

If you look at the broader classification of the computer cases, you will see that there are only two types of it namely, the desktop and the tower case.

The desktop cases are considered to be the most popular and basic cases that you will see in most of the homes and offices.

It will come with the most basic features. The main purpose of these cases is to hold all the components of the computer inside it, and, at the same time, maximize the available space.

Gamers and computer builders usually find these cases not as useful as those who use computers for basic purposes and have no plan to expand their system.

Tower cases are preferred by the computer builders and gamers as it allows easy upgrades, as and when required. These CPU cases are further classified into four sub-groups namely:

Small Form Factor

These SFF cases are the smallest ones in the tower cases category.

This is suitable for holding a Mini-ITX board, which further means that it will limit your choice for motherboards.

This compact case will have only two expansion slots. However, these cases are highly portable, which is why gamers prefer it because they can take it to the LAN parties.

Mini Tower Cases

This is a perfect case for you if you want a case that is portable and at the same time do not want to compromise with the expansion capabilities.

These cases come with four expansion slots and can support both Mini-ITX as well as a Micro-ATX motherboard , making it a better option than the SFF tower cases.

Mid-Tower Cases

These cases are most preferred and commonly used due to its special design that enables it to support any type of motherboards including ATX, Mini-ITX, and Micro-ATX.

In addition to that, depending on the particular brand you choose, these cases usually come with seven to eight expansion slots.

Moreover, these cases also offer cable management possibilities, a feature that is liked by the builders who want a clean and organized look inside the cabinet.

However, these cases are not as portable as the other case types but are still liked by gamers as well as the builders because it supports all types of graphics card and still leave a lot of space for additional expansions.

Full Tower Cases

The server admins all over the world as well as the gamers prefer this CPU case because it comes with several useful features and has the ability to support four specific types of motherboards such as ATX,

Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX, and the EATX. It can also hold as many as ten expansion slots inside it. All these features make these cases the most versatile ones.

However, these cases are heavy and therefore not portable as the other computer cases. Moreover, these cases are also vulnerable to heat, especially if it does not have a well-crafted airflow design.

What Do Many People Prefer?

When it comes to choosing a type of CPU case, most people go for the mid-tower cases but that does not mean this is the best.

In fact, there is nothing called ‘a perfect computer case.’ It all depends on your needs.

Therefore, keep researching till you find one that has enough space and features you need.

About the Lifespan

As such, a CPU case can last for several years. It all depends on the location, how you handle and other hindrances that may damage the external body of the case.

Made from steel and aluminum material, these cases are strong and durable enough to last for years. The non-corrosion and rust-proof properties of aluminum and steel adds to the lifespan of these computer cases.

This means that, if you do not drop the cabinet from a height, it will last for several years but the same cannot be said about the various components that it holds inside it.

Ways It Works

A computer case is not directly involved in the functioning of your computer. However, that does not mean this is an aspect that you can ignore.

Its design will play a significant role in fixing the particular motherboard you wish, the expansions you want to make in it, and how clean the inside will look after you build your computer.

The CPU case helps in holding all the different components of the computer in one place making it easy for maintenance and repairs.
It protects the components and keeps the data and SATA cables safe inside it, protecting them from the rodents chewing away.
It also keeps them dry and dust free, as much as possible, and therefore, helps in maintaining the performance level.
It helps in keeping the inside of your PC cool more effectively through the channel airflow. This prevents overheating which may, in turn, damage the internal components.

Moreover, the specific design of computer case you choose will add to the aesthetics of your computer, making your computer build complete.

Questions & Answers:

How pc cases are made.

The manufacturing process starts with the designing of the CPU cases. When the CAD files are received by the factory, they follow the next steps which includes preparing the raw materials, laser cutting or making punch-outs of the metal sheets, grinding, flattening, washing, welding, and finally, anodizing.

What is inside the CPU box?

Inside the computer case you will find the motherboard, different cards, the power supply, a lot of cables, cooling systems such as fans and heat sinks, memory, hard disks and other disk drives. Few cabinets may also have LED light strips to enhance its aesthetics.

Does a PC case matter?

Yes, of course. When you have a strong CPU case, it will protect the internal components from shocks and vibrations. A good CPU case will ensure proper airflow to prevent heat buildup inside the case that may damage the components. It will also help in cable management for a cleaner look.

A CPU case is the external shell of a computer that contains and protects all the important components, including the power supply, motherboard, hard drives, optical drives, and others.

It does not directly affect the computer’s functionality, but it does play a crucial role in providing physical support, organization, and aesthetics.

There are different types of CPU cases, such as full tower cases, mid tower cases, mini tower cases, and small form factor cases, each with their own unique features and suitability for different purposes.

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Computer-aided software engineering (CASE) is the implementation of computer-facilitated tools and methods in software development. CASE is used to ensure high-quality and defect-free software. CASE ensures a check-pointed and disciplined approach and helps designers, developers, testers, managers, and others to see the project milestones during development.

CASE can also help as a warehouse for documents related to projects, like business plans, requirements, and design specifications. One of the major advantages of using CASE is the delivery of the final product, which is more likely to meet real-world requirements as it ensures that customers remain part of the process.

CASE illustrates a wide set of labor-saving tools that are used in software development. It generates a framework for organizing projects and to be helpful in enhancing productivity. There was more interest in the concept of CASE tools years ago, but less so today, as the tools have morphed into different functions, often in reaction to software developer needs. The concept of CASE also received a heavy dose of criticism after its release.

CASE Tools: The essential idea of CASE tools is that in-built programs can help to analyze developing systems in order to enhance quality and provide better outcomes. Throughout the 1990, CASE tool became part of the software lexicon, and big companies like IBM were using these kinds of tools to help create software.

Various tools are incorporated in CASE and are called CASE tools, which are used to support different stages and milestones in a software development life cycle.

Types of CASE Tools:

Diagramming Tools: It helps in diagrammatic and graphical representations of the data and system processes. It represents system elements, control flow and data flow among different software components and system structures in a pictorial form. For example, Flow Chart Maker tool for making state-of-the-art flowcharts.
Computer Display and Report Generators: These help in understanding the data requirements and the relationships involved.
(i) Accept 360, Accompa, CaseComplete for requirement analysis.
(ii) Visible Analyst for total analysis.
Central Repository: It provides a single point of storage for data diagrams, reports, and documents related to project management.
Documentation Generators: It helps in generating user and technical documentation as per standards. It creates documents for technical users and end users. For example, Doxygen, DrExplain, Adobe RoboHelp for documentation.
Code Generators: It aids in the auto-generation of code, including definitions, with the help of designs, documents, and diagrams.

Advantages of the CASE approach:

As the special emphasis is placed on the redesign as well as testing, the servicing cost of a product over its expected lifetime is considerably reduced.
The overall quality of the product is improved as an organized approach is undertaken during the process of development.
Chances to meet real-world requirements are more likely and easier with a computer-aided software engineering approach.
CASE indirectly provides an organization with a competitive advantage by helping ensure the development of high-quality products.
It provides better documentation.
It improves accuracy.
It provides intangible benefits.
It reduces lifetime maintenance.
It is an opportunity to non-programmers.
It impacts the style of working of the company.
It reduces the drudgery in software engineer’s work.
It increases the speed of processing.
It is easy to program software.

Disadvantages of the CASE approach:

Cost: Using a case tool is very costly. Most firms engaged in software development on a small scale do not invest in CASE tools because they think that the benefit of CASE is justifiable only in the development of large systems.
Learning Curve: In most cases, programmers’ productivity may fall in the initial phase of implementation, because users need time to learn the technology. Many consultants offer training and on-site services that can be important to accelerate the learning curve and to the development and use of the CASE tools.
Tool Mix: It is important to build an appropriate selection tool mix to urge cost advantage CASE integration and data integration across all platforms is extremely important.

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What is a computer case?

Published by JP Novak on February 8, 2021 and last updated on September 18, 2021

The computer case is the enclosure that contains the various components of the computer. Formerly the functionalities of the case were often privileged to the detriment of its aesthetic; this is no longer the case in 2021 and manufacturers offer models for all tastes. Some people choose the case of their computer mainly for its aesthetic appearance, but the possibilities it offers inside should not be neglected because they determine the components that can be used. We should therefore choose the case according to the use we will make of the computer.

What are the main characteristics of the case?

The dimensions of the case . Computer cases are sometimes classified into full towers, mid towers, mini towers or according to the format of the motherboards they can accommodate: EATX, ATX, micro ATX, mini-ITX … but there is no strict definition of the computer case dimensions and nowadays you can find them in many different shapes. Computer case manufacturers provide a list of motherboard formats that can be installed inside their cases, and it is definitively one of the criteria that should be taken into account. You should also check that the case has enough room to accommodate a large graphics card if you plan to use one, this is another information that is usually provided by the manufacturer. The size of the case also determines the dimensions of the power supply unit (PSU) : either ATX or SFX, two formats which are not compatible in dimensions.
Another important feature is the number of bays available to install hard drives or CD/DVD/Blurays drives. They exist in various sizes: 5.25″ (for CD/DVD drives), 3.5″ or 2.5″ (for hard disk drives). Some of these bays are available on the front of the case after removing a protection, they are then called external, others will require to open the case to access them and they are therefore called internal. Sometimes it is possible to use a bay of a certain size to accommodate drives of a smaller size by using an adapter (for example two 2.5″ HDDs in a 3.5″ bay).
The list of connectors that are available on the front or on the sides of the case. These are mainly USB connectors (they exists in different formats and speeds), connectors for speakers, headphones or a microphone, and more rarely other connectors like thunderbolt, firewire, etc.
The number of fans (and their sizes) that can accommodate the case. A well-ventilated case will lower the temperature of the computer components and improve their performance and their lifespan.
The presence of RGB LEDs or a bay window for those who wish to personalize the aesthetic appearance of their case.
The presence of a power supply by default . They are often supplied with low-end cases, but more rarely with high-end cases because the power of the PSU depends on the consumption of the different components of the computer.
The materials used for manufacturing, plastic items are often less expensive than those made from aluminum or steel. They are also lighter but absorb less noise and dissipate less heat than the latter.
The possibility of installing an all in one (AIO) watercooling kit . These kits are generally more efficient than a simple radiator and fan for cooling the CPU. They are recommended for high-end CPUs that consume a lot of energy. Users who want to lower the temperature of their CPU sometimes opt for these kits to improve the performance of their computer by increasing the frequency of the CPU (overclocking).
Weight: It will depend on the dimensions and materials used. The lightest cases weigh less than 5 kg (10 lbs) while the heaviest can exceed 15 kg (30 lbs).

Price and choice of a case

The choice of a case depends on the one hand on the use that will be made of the computer. A full tower case should be used if you want to have the possibility of installing lots of expansion cards, hard drives or to have enough space for a large graphics card for example. A small case that does not occupy much space is certainly a better idea if you use your computer mainly for web browsing and office applications. On the other hand, the choice of a case also depends on its aesthetic, its silence, the connections it offers or its weight if you want to be able to move it easily. In 2021, you can find computer cases in all sizes, shapes and colors. You will therefore be spoiled for choice.

The cheapest cases cost only a few tens of euros or dollars and they will do the job when the computer does not need a very advanced cooling solution, many possibilities of expansion or when its aesthetics is not too important. More advanced cases will offer more expansion and cooling possibilities, better materials but can cost several hundred euros or dollars.

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Lian Li Lancool 216 RGB Black Steel/Tempered Glass ATX Mid Tower Computer Case,2X 160 mm ARGB Fans Included - LANCOOL 216RX Black

216 Black RGB
216 (Non RGB)
216 Black RGB (with RGB fan controller)
216 Black RGB + Lancool 216 RGB Controller
216 White RGB
216 White RGB (with RGB fan controller)

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About this item.

Mid-tower chassis configurable for air cooling and water cooling
Airflow optimized front, top and PSU shroud side mesh panels
Equipped with 2 x front 160 PWM fans ARGB and 1 x rear 140mm PWM fan
Supports 360 radiator at the top, front and a maximum of 10 fans
Includes rear PCIe fan bracket

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Lian Li Lancool 216 RGB Black Steel/Tempered Glass ATX Mid Tower Computer Case,2X 160 mm ARGB Fans Included - LANCOOL 216RX B

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Product Description

MODEL : LANCOOL 216 RGB Black DIMENSIONS : (D) 480.9mm x (W) 235mm x (H) 491.7mm COLOR : Black MATERIAL: Steel / 4.0mm Tempered Glass MOTHERBOARD SUPPORT: E-ATX (Under 280mm)/ATX/Micro-ATX/Mini-ITX FAN SUPPORT: Top: 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm PSU Cover: 2 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm (Air Cooling mode) Front: 3 x 120mm / 2 x 140mm / 2 x 160mm Rear: 1 x 120mm / 1 x 140mm PCIe Fan Bracket: 1 x 120mm RADIATOR SUPPORT: Front: 360 / 280 / 240mm Top: 360 / 280 / 240mm Bottom: 240mm PSU SUPPORT LENGTH: ATX (Under 220mm) GPU LENGTH CLEARANCE: 392mm (max) CPU COOLER HEIGHT CLEARANCE: 180.5mm (max) DRIVE: Drive Cage：2 x 2.5” SSD + 2 x 3.5” HDD PSU Cover：2 x 2.5” SSD Behind MB tray: 2 x 2.5” SSD EXPANSION SLOT 7 I/O PORTS: 1 x Power Button 1 x Reset Button 2 x USB 3.0 1 x USB Type C 1 x Audio INCLUDED FANS LANCOOL 216 RGB Front: 2 x 160mm ARGB Fans Rear: 1 x 140mm PWM Fan

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Protesters in London in 2017 demanding the decriminalisation of abortion.

The women being prosecuted in Great Britain for abortions: ‘Her confidentiality was completely destroyed’

Between 1861 and November 2022, only three women were convicted of having an illegal abortion. But since December 2022, one woman has been convicted and six people are awaiting trial. Why the sudden rise?

W hen Hampshire police found a human placenta in woodland in Southampton this summer, officers contacted the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) . The force wanted details of anyone who had been seen but turned away at a BPAS clinic because they were over the limit at which they could have an abortion – and anyone who had “disengaged having initially made inquiries to seek a termination”.

“That was potentially hundreds of women,” wrote Claire Murphy, the chief executive of BPAS, in her reply to the police. “We owe our clients a duty of confidentiality. If this is information you want, you’ll have to get a court order.”

The police deny making this approach, which is bizarre, as a paper trail seen by the Guardian shows the same request being made multiple times to BPAS branches in Bournemouth, Portsmouth and Southampton. There has been no further contact from the force.

However, these emails are representative of a striking acceleration in the prosecution of women who have had abortions beyond the 24-week limit . Scores of women have found themselves criminally investigated after losing a late pregnancy.

Until now, prosecutions have been vanishingly rare. Although abortion law was updated with the Abortion Act 1967, the 1861 law (the Offences Against the Person Act) was not repealed. That means parts of it still apply – including some relating to when a woman has an abortion after the 24-week legal limit.

In 2014, the Medical and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency reported record numbers of abortion pills being imported to the UK

Between 1861 and November 2022, three women in Great Britain were convicted of an illegal abortion (the Abortion Act was never extended to Northern Ireland). One was a refugee, in 2012, who was given a community order. The other two, in 2012 and 2015, were given jail sentences. Since December 2022, six women have been charged. They are awaiting trial.

The Abortion Act did not legalise abortion in England, Scotland and Wales. It partially decriminalised it, providing strict conditions were in place. One of these was confirmation from two medical practitioners that the pregnancy had not exceeded 28 weeks. This was reduced to 24 weeks in 1990. Any abortion that does not meet these conditions is a criminal offence and can be prosecuted, either under the Offences Against the Person Act or the Infant Life Preservation Act 1929. The maximum sentence is life imprisonment.

Carla Foster pleaded guilty to administering poison with intent to procure abortion in June. Her case is shocking . Foster obtained mifepristone, an abortion pill, by a remote consultation during lockdown, when she was over the 24-week limit. She had a stillbirth at home in May 2020. She was sentenced to 28 months in prison, which resulted in outrage from MPs, medical bodies and charities.

In July, an appeal judge halved the sentence to 14 months, suspended, meaning Foster would be released, concluding that it was a “very sad case” that called for “compassion, not punishment”. Another woman, whose identity has been protected, had her case dropped in Oxford last December; the judge said he was “flabbergasted” to see it in court.

Elliot Benham and Sophie Harvey, both 24, are due to go on trial next week for a pregnancy loss that happened in 2018, when they were teenagers. Another woman, Bethany Cox , will go on trial early next year for child destruction and procuring her own miscarriage when she was 19, using the abortion pill misoprostol. She denies the charges. Experts in the field know of two more cases due to come to court in the next few months.

Jonathan Lord, the co-chair of the British Society of Abortion Care Providers, says: “Just being accused is life-changing. Everyone is hard-wired to feel shame and stigma when a late pregnancy loss happens; they lost this healthy baby and it’s their fault. To then get called in by the police and interviewed under caution on suspicion of murder, to start going down the route of child destruction [which carries a life sentence], it just destroys people’s ability to cope and heal. We’ve had several reports of patients with quite severe PTSD – not from the pregnancy loss, but from the police investigation afterwards.”

Dr Hayley Webb, a GP who also works in an abortion clinic, is chair of Doctors for Choice . “It’s really disheartening that a lot of these women came to be where they are because they were reported by health professionals,” she says. This represents a fundamental breach of patient confidentiality. While there are circumstances in which breaches are justified – “where there’s a real risk to someone; a child, for instance,” Webb says – a late pregnancy loss is not one of them.

Most people don’t think this reporting is due to a new anti-choice tendency among medics, although Andrew Copson, the director of the British Humanist Association , asks: “Who could deny that there is anti-choice social conservatism in the air at the moment in this country?” In any event, the rules are clear. “If there is an anti-abortion motive, healthcare professionals thinking: ‘This is a viable foetus, therefore it’s got rights, therefore I need to report it,’ in law, that is absolutely not true,” says Lord. “It has rights when it’s out of the mother’s body and taken its first breath. In the obstetric world, we’re all taught: ‘If you know that you have to do a C-section or the baby will die, the mother must consent.’ We’re taught that. We know that.”

Lord and Murphy believe the greater awareness that abortion pills can be obtained, online and informally, means that more medical staff are coming into contact with those who have taken the drugs. In 2014, the Medical and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency reported record numbers of the pills being imported. Of those medics reporting women to the police, Lord says: “Although it’s not impossible some of it may be from anti-abortion sentiment, I think that’s relatively unlikely and will be sporadic. Most of the time, it is down to that ‘upright citizen’ attitude – ‘I’ve been told about a crime, it’s my duty to call the police.’

“What they don’t do is then make the next step, which is: ‘I am a healthcare professional, I’ve got confidential information about a patient.’ They’re never making that leap. In a couple of cases, I have spoken to the professional involved – they genuinely hadn’t thought about confidentiality. Had they read the General Medical Council code? What bit of that had they not understood?”

If women can’t reasonably presume trust when they access reproductive healthcare, the implications are profound. A huge amount of abuse, from domestic violence to child exploitation to sex trafficking, is picked up in an NHS setting. “If women hadn’t been able to trust us, we would never have identified it,” Lord says. “We can transform not only their lives, but also their entire families’ lives if we can bring them into the healthcare system and give them the support they need.”

Webb thinks many professionals have misunderstood their role in confidentiality. “They think that if they suspect a law has been broken, they have to report it. That is not true. If a patient is telling us they take class A drugs, we wouldn’t pick up the phone and call the police.”

Should the police investigate, the process is the stuff of nightmares. Lord describes a case of a teenager who had a stillbirth. She had a large number of risk factors, not least that she was very young, but it took a coroner more than a year to determine the pregnancy had ended due to natural causes. “She had her confidentiality completely destroyed – everything was being done while she was pregnant to make sure that nobody knew she had a progressing pregnancy, because of the community she was from, and then [after the stillbirth] the police raided the house. It was horrific. Everyone in her family, everyone in the community, knew.”

The girl’s phone and all her electronic equipment were seized, even though she was never charged, which meant that none of the agencies who had been supporting her during the pregnancy could reach her. It left her “completely isolated”, Lord says: “When you lose your phone and your computer, you lose all your social support.”

Another woman had all her electronics seized, including her work computer: “What do you tell your work?” Lord asks. “‘Oh, by the way, I’ve just been arrested and they’ve taken my computer’?” He is also concerned about period-tracker apps, which, to his knowledge, are yet to feature in any cases, but represent a very powerful data source. “A lot of the defences are going to be: ‘I thought I was 20 weeks, but I was actually more than that.’”

Abortion rights campaigners protest outside the royal courts of justice in June.

Women who already have children are terrified that their kids will be taken from them and placed into care, which makes those mothers especially vulnerable during an investigation; desperate to be seen to be agreeable, they often incriminate themselves unnecessarily. It was noted during Foster’s appeal that, without her testimony, there would have been no evidence and no case against her. You have to wonder how much her disclosure and cooperation were down to the fact that she had three children at home, the youngest of whom is autistic and dependent on her care. What career paths, what family connections, what futures have been closed off to those who face prosecution, let alone conviction?

In July 2022, a large number of stakeholders – from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Midwives to human rights organisations including Amnesty and Liberty, plus numerous barristers – signed a letter to Max Hill, the director of public prosecutions (DPP) for England and Wales. The letter asked for urgent guidance to “stop the prosecution of women who end their own pregnancies, with immediate effect”. “Everyone is very clear now that the moral imperative is to remove women from the criminal law,” says Murphy. “In Northern Ireland, all criminal penalties around women and gestation were removed in 2019 .

Hill replied: “I hope that you will appreciate that parliament makes the law and the role of my prosecutors is to apply that law objectively to the facts of any case referred to them by the police.” Webb says “it could be read as a call to action”, but others found it weak.

It is true that the DPP merely enforces laws, but “you definitely want the DPP to be producing clear guidelines saying: ‘No one should ever be prosecuted for this’”, says Copson. “When Keir Starmer was DPP, guidelines on assisted dying made it very clear” when a prosecution should be considered in the public interest; the answer was “almost never”.

To look at this in the round: rape convictions are so low that the crime has been effectively decriminalised in the UK; and six women in one year are due to appear in court under a law that is out of step with most modern abortion frameworks. It would be fascinating to hear whether Hill is anxious about how women’s rights are intersecting with the justice system under his eye. He declined a request for an interview.

In the end, the solution lies with parliament: “A lot of people are just not aware that abortion remains a criminal offence in this country,” Webb says. “From a practical point of view, we need to get decriminalisation.” The situation as it stands is not evidence-based; it restricts care, preventing nurses and midwives from having a role in abortion even though they perform similar roles in miscarriage; it prevents people making commonsense decisions; it strips women of autonomy, needing two doctors to sign off on a termination; and it doesn’t lead to safer outcomes.

Moreover, “it feels wrong”, Webb says. “You feel patients needing to validate themselves and you want to say: ‘This is your decision; this isn’t my decision to make for you.’ But, right now, the primary reason to decriminalise is to stop any other woman being sent to jail for ending her pregnancy.”

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CFM is a measurement used to quantify the volume of air that can be moved or circulated by a device, such as a fan or an air conditioning system. It indicates how much air a device can push or pull in a minute.

How does CFM relate to computers?

In the context of computers, CFM is often used to describe the airflow generated by computer fans. The CFM value of a fan determines how effectively it can cool down the internal components of a computer by dissipating heat. Higher CFM values indicate greater cooling potential.

Can CFM affect the performance of a computer?

Yes, CFM can impact the performance of a computer. When the internal components of a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU), generate heat during operation, a high CFM value ensures efficient cooling. Insufficient airflow due to low CFM can lead to overheating and result in performance issues or even hardware damage.

What factors determine the CFM required for a computer?

Several factors determine the required CFM for a computer, including the power consumption of the components, the level of overclocking, ambient temperature, and the size and layout of the computer case. Generally, it is recommended to have higher CFM values for gaming or high-performance systems compared to regular desktops.

Should I prioritize CFM or noise level when choosing a computer fan?

The choice between CFM and noise level depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize cooling performance and have a system that generates a significant amount of heat, a fan with a higher CFM but slightly more noise may be suitable. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter system and have lower heat generation, you can opt for a fan with a lower CFM and lower noise level.

How can I calculate the required CFM for my computer?

To calculate the required CFM for your computer, you need to consider the power consumption of your components and the thermal design power (TDP) values of your central processing unit (CPU) and graphics processing unit (GPU). You can use online calculators or consult with computer cooling experts who can help determine the appropriate CFM for your system.

Can CFM affect the temperature of a laptop?

Yes, CFM can have an impact on the temperature of a laptop. Laptops typically have built-in fans that help dissipate heat generated by the components. A higher CFM value ensures better airflow, resulting in lower temperatures and improved overall performance.

Is CFM a factor in tablets and smartphones?

In the case of tablets and smartphones, CFM is not directly applicable as these devices typically do not have user-replaceable fans. Instead, they rely on passive cooling methods or small internal fans that are not measured in terms of CFM.

Can I increase the CFM of my computer fan?

Yes, you can increase the CFM of your computer fan by either replacing it with a fan that has a higher CFM rating or by using multiple fans in your system. However, it's important to ensure that your system has adequate power and proper airflow management to handle the increased CFM.

Are there different types of computer fans with varying CFM ratings?

Yes, there are different types of computer fans available on the market, such as case fans, central processing unit (CPU) fans, and graphics processing unit (GPU) fans. Each type may have different CFM ratings based on their size, design, and intended purpose. It is essential to choose fans that are compatible with your system and provide sufficient air flow.

Does CFM affect the battery life of a laptop or tablet?

CFM does not directly affect the battery life of a laptop or tablet since these devices typically rely on passive cooling methods. However, insufficient cooling due to low CFM can lead to higher temperatures, which can indirectly impact battery life by causing thermal throttling or reduced performance.

How can I ensure proper airflow in my computer or laptop?

To ensure proper airflow in your computer or laptop, you can follow a few guidelines. Keep the vents and air intake clean and free from dust and debris. Ensure that there is adequate space around your device for air to circulate. Consider using additional case fans or cooling pads to enhance airflow if necessary.

What are some signs that indicate poor airflow in a computer or laptop?

Some signs that indicate poor airflow in a computer or laptop include unusually high temperatures, frequent overheating, loud fan noises, and reduced system performance. If you notice any of these signs, it may be a good idea to check the airflow and consider improving it by cleaning or upgrading the cooling components.

How does CFM relate to liquid cooling systems?

In liquid cooling systems, CFM is still relevant as it refers to the airflow generated by fans used to dissipate heat from the radiator. These fans help cool the liquid that passes through the system, providing efficient cooling for central processing units (CPUs) and graphics processing units (GPUs). Higher CFM fans are often preferred for liquid cooling setups to ensure optimal heat dissipation.

Can I use an external fan or cooling pad to improve CFM on a laptop or tablet?

Yes, using an external fan or cooling pad can help improve airflow and indirectly enhance CFM on a laptop or tablet. These accessories provide additional cooling by increasing air circulation around the device. However, it's important to choose a cooling solution that is compatible with your device and suitable for your specific needs.

What is the ideal CFM for a computer case fan?

The ideal CFM for a computer case fan depends on various factors, including the size of the case, the components inside, and the desired level of cooling. Generally, for a standard mid-tower case, a case fan with a CFM ranging from 50 to 100 is considered adequate. However, it's recommended to consider the specific thermal requirements of your system when choosing a case fan.

Can I replace my laptop's fan with a higher CFM model?

In most laptops, the cooling system is specifically designed for the fan that comes pre-installed. Replacing the fan with a higher CFM model may not provide the desired results and could potentially lead to compatibility issues or inadequate cooling. It's generally recommended to stick with the recommended fan for laptops or consult a professional technician if you are considering upgrading the fan.

This glossary is provided for reference purposes only. It serves as a helpful resource to understand commonly used terms and concepts. However, if you require specific support or assistance regarding our products, we encourage you to visit our dedicated support site . Our support team is ready to help address any questions or concerns you may have.

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The women being prosecuted in Great Britain for abortions: 'Her
In July, an appeal judge halved the sentence to 14 months, suspended, meaning Foster would be released, concluding that it was a "very sad case" that called for "compassion, not punishment".
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What is the ideal CFM for a computer case fan? The ideal CFM for a computer case fan depends on various factors, including the size of the case, the components inside, and the desired level of cooling. Generally, for a standard mid-tower case, a case fan with a CFM ranging from 50 to 100 is considered adequate.

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How has the design of computer cases evolved over the years?

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Computer Basics - Basic Parts of a Computer

Computer Basics: Basic Parts of a Computer

Introduction

Computer case

Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause/Break

Function Keys

Alphanumeric Keys

Ctrl, Alt, and Shift

Numeric Keypad

Backspace Key

Home and End

Insert and Delete

Page Up and Page Down

Mouse alternatives

Why do we need a computer case?

What are computer cases made from?

Components found inside a chassis

Components on the case

Types of computer cases

Case colors

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Different Types of PC Chassis

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Different types of computer case sizes - explained

Many people struggle to select the appropriate computer case for their system. This guide will cover everything you need to know when selecting a case for your PC.

HTPC and SFF

What is the purpose of the computer case?

What is the best PC case for gaming?

What kind of PC case do I have?

What size PC case should I get?

What Are PC Case Types? PC Case Types 101

What is a Computer/PC Case?

What Are PC Case Types?

HTPC and SFF

Comparison of Different Computer Case Sizes

Length in Inches

Motherboard

Frequently Asked Questions: What Are PC Case Types?

What is the best pc case for gaming?

What is the purpose of the computer case?

What kind of PC case do I have?

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4 Different Types of Computer Cases/Towers for your PC or Computer

What is Computer/PC Case

4 Different Types of Computer Case

1. Full tower

2. Mid Tower

3. Mini Tower

4. HTPC and SFF

Comparison of Different Computer Case Sizes

What is the computer case used for?

Which computer case is the best for gaming?

What computer case do I have?

What computer case size should I buy?

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