Picking the right computer case?

Question

I am looking to purchase a new case for my hp pavillion763n. The reason not enough hard drive slots. What do i need to know for buying a new case?

Answer 1

After-market cases are usually universal in most aspects, unless its a small form-factor case or something gay like that. Just buy a mid-tower case and you'll be fine. It comes with little brass stand-offs that you screw into the proper holes of the case to match up with your motherboard. There are multiple holes to accomodate the different types / sizes of motherboards. Your HP probably has a standard ATX or micro ATX motherboard. 99.3% of all after-market cases should work fine.

The new case will come with everything you need except for the back plate... I/O shield... whatever you wanna call it... thingy. Actually, it will come with a back plate, but it wont fit your motherboard. If your back plate comes off of your current HP case then you're in business. If it doesn't then you'll probably end up with a big gaping hole in the back around where all the plugs are unless by some miracle you can find one that fits that particular motherboard (doubtful).

Okay, the case might not come with EVERYTHING you need... get one that comes with a power supply. Your power supply might not fit into the new case. It might, but just buy a case with a power supply anyway because they cost the same as a case without one and then you get a new power supply.

Edit: Just wanted to add one more point. I know those silly HP cases only have a space for one hard drive, but instead of a new case, what if you just put one really large hard drive in it to hold all of your stuff? You can even partition the one hard drive into several different drive letters if you wanted to. Just a thought. I suppose a new case IS cheaper than a new (big) hard drive though and if you already have two or more hard drives then you might not want to buy ANOTHER one. I just know that you're probably gonna run into problems with that stupid back plate thing. I have about 100 times before. If you're real handy with tools, you could build your own little hard drive shelf inside the case. I've done that before too.

Answer 2

Price is not all. I would look first of all the compatability with your current motherboard. Some HP mothearboards don't have the screws in the standard place, or the shape may be different, especially where all the ports go. Your current power supply may also not perfectly fit. I think those are going to be your main concerns. A good mid size ATX should be okay as long as it comes with its own power supply so you don't spend extra and wouldn't have to worry about it. If you live in a hot place make sure your case has good ventilation in and out. When you buy your case, make sure you save your receipt in case something doesn't fit and have to return it. :)

Answer 3

The first thing you must figure out is what type of motherboard form factor you have. Once you find out the particular form factor for your motherboard you will be able look for a case with that same form factor.

Good luck though!!...Even if you match the form factor of the motherboard and the case together doesn't mean everything is going to fit inside it fine and dandy. I have a Dell Dimension 8300 and all of the components including the motherboard are highly proprietary. Meaning that the manufacturer makes their products so that it fits in THEIR machines only.

My best advice to you is to first figure out who makes your motherboard. (Its possible that HP did not make the motherboard for your system) If a third-party company has made your motherboard than it is very possible you may find a case that will fit that particular form factor motherboard.

Answer 4

an finished tower case can carry fairly a lot any type of motherboard, so that you need to be nice with a micro ATX motherboard, only make certain you get the finished fixings for the case to abode your Motherboard.