Lesson 1: Computer Case CP310L1

Computer Case

 It is made up of the material frame and a cover which is usually constructed of metal or hard
plastic.
 It housed the internal component and protects them against dust and damage.
 It is usually comes with the power supply needed to supply to the computer and the installed
components
 It is usually made up of plastic, steel and aluminium.
 Computer Cases are designed to keep the internal components cool. Case fans are used to move
air through the computer case. As the air passes warm components, it absorbs heat and then
exits the case. This process keeps the components of the computer from overheating.

The size and layout of the computer case is called a form factor. There are two main basic form
factors of the computer case: desktop and tower models.

o Desktop model sits on a desk horizontally in which the monitor can be set on top of it.

o Tower models stand upright in a vertical position that allows easy placement on the
floor.

Mid-tower Full Tower

Mini-tower

CP310L1: Computer Hardware Fundamentals Page 1

Lesson 1: Computer Case CP310L1

Front View of Computer Case

2 5

1. 5.25 Drive Bays are large bays where the 5.25 wide devices such as CD-ROM Drives, DV-
ROM Drives can be installed.
2. 3.5 Drive Bays are small bays where the 3.25 wide devices such as Floppy Disk Drives and
Hard Disk Drives can be installed
3. Cover Panels are attached to cover all the parts of the PC
4. Power Button is used to turn on and off the PC
5. LED Indicators are used to indicate the current status of the system such as the power
status, floppy drives status and hard drives status.
6. Front Cover Plate provides the place for the LEDs , buttons, air intake control and an
aesthetic pleasing look of the PC

CP310L1: Computer Hardware Fundamentals Page 2

Lesson 1: Computer Case CP310L1

Inside View of Computer Case

11
7

12
8

9
13

10

14

15

7. Power Supply Mounting Area is the area for mounting the power supply
8. Fan Slot is the mounting area for the motherboard fan
9. Back Plane is the area for mounting the motherboard
10. Expansion Card Bays are bays for the expansion cards attached to the motherboard
11. 5.25 Drive Bays are large bays where the 5.25 wide devices such as CD-ROM Drives, DV-
ROM Drives can be installed.
12. Frame defines the size and shape of the computer
13. 3.5 Drive Bays are large bays where the 3.25 wide devices such as Floppy Disk Drives and
Hard Disk Drives can be installed
14. Button, Speaker and LEDs Connector connects the button , speaker and LEDs in front of
the case to the motherboard
15. Feet provides stability on the uneven or slick surfaces

CP310L1: Computer Hardware Fundamentals Page 3

Lesson 1: Computer Case CP310L1

Rear View of a Computer Case

16. Power Connection is used as connector for AC power cable

17. Fan Exhaust is used to ventilates the interior of the PC
18. I/O Template provides access holes to the Motherboard peripheral connectors
19. Vent Holes are holes that insure the correct airflow within the case
20. Expansion Card Bays are bays for the expansion cards attached to the motherboard

16

17

18

19

20

Factors to consider in purchasing a computer case

 Motherboard form factor supported

 Motherboard mounting mechanism
 Power Supply form factor supported
 Power Supply included or separate
 Number of 3.5 drives bays
 Number of 5.25 drive bays
 Number and size of cooling fans supported
 Ease of disassembly
 Front Panel USB supported

CP310L1: Computer Hardware Fundamentals Page 4