|
Some of the more familiar case styles
found are the desktop designs. Desktop units are designed to sit
horizontally on the desktop. Note that the first IBM computers, the
original IBM-PC, XT, and AT designs, use this case style. Most desktop
cases today come either the slim-line or regular size.
There are two important considerations in choosing a desktop
case style for a computer:
- Available desktop space – Generally the computer would have to share
the desktop with the monitor and other peripherals, so space must
be allowed. Avoid buying the slim-line because these are generally
small and designed for business environments. They have little
room for expansion.
- Form factor – Cases come in different form factors. As
mentioned previously, the form factor simply describes the general
layout of the computer case, the positioning of the slots in the
case, and the type of motherboard the case will accommodate. The
baby AT form factor, which accommodates the baby AT motherboard,
has been the most popular for the past few years. However, the
newest form factor, and the one most often encountered, is the ATX.
It accommodates the ATX motherboard, which has integrated I/O
ports and is designed for easier access to the common components
as well as better airflow. If selecting a desktop case, choose the
ATX form factor.
|
|
