How do you integrate the Back Panel I/O from motherboards into your chassis?

Question

I am looking into purchasing the P5N32-E SLI or Striker Extreme motherboard from Asus, but can someone please first tell me how I am supposed to fit it into my chassis? Does it require cutting?

I have already looked on the Asus website, and noticed the back panel I/O that comes with the motherboards. It was because of their odd shape and design that made me wonder if they would be compatible with any chassis without cutting?

Answer 1

I don't have those motherboards. Generally, the motherboards come with their own I/O back panel. I get the impression that you are looking at the OEM version, which does not come with all the extras. One of those extras is the back plate designed specifically for your motherboard. Most, if not all, PC cases come with a default back plate, but they are generic and only fit with a small number of motherboards.

I am looking through the Newegg website and I've noticed that a lot of the descriptions do not describe if the mobo's come with a backplate! Hmm... Very interesting, especially for Newegg. But, I do not have much time to go through each mother board due to the fact that I have to scoot off to work shortly. So I have posted the links to the motherboards on Newegg so that you can go through them later.

What I suggest you do is to contact Asus and try to purchase a back plate if your motherboard that you purchase does not have it. The back plate is important because it does protect your motherboard from stray electrical impulses. (Static electricity, improperly shielded speakers, cell phone transmissions, etc.)

Answer 2

Is your original chassis OEM or did you buy it as a complete computer from Dell, HP, etc.?

If the chassis is a Dell or otherwise, you are better off getting a new chassis to go with the new motherboard. The manufacturers tend to modify their components so that you are pretty much stuck buying from them only at a higher price.

The motherboard's spec page should tell you the size and type (ATX, micro-ATX). Just be sure your motherboard and case are the same type before you buy. While you are on the spec page, make sure you have the correct RAM and your power supply (old or new) has enough power to do the job.

Good luck!