Computer Assembly Series Part 3 Case & motherboard
Case Selection
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The computer case is an important component as it is the structure that houses and protects all the components of the system. Choosing the right case ensures that components are properly mounted, cooled and protected. Here are the main issues to consider when choosing a case:
Case Types and Sizes
Computer cases come in a variety of sizes and types, each catering to different needs. Here are the most common case types and sizes:
Full Tower:
Size: 22 inches or greater in height.
Features: Large internal volume, lots of expansion slots, many drive bays, generally suitable for high-performance systems and water cooling systems.
Usage: Advanced gaming PCs, workstations and high-performance systems.
Mid Tower:
Size: 18-22 inches in height.
Features: Sufficient internal volume, suitable for most ATX motherboards and components, usually two or three expansion slots.
Usage: Widely used, gaming PCs and general purpose systems.
Mini Tower:
Size: 12-18 inches in height.
Features: More compact design, suitable for micro-ATX or mini-ITX motherboards, limited expansion and drive bays.
Usage: Small form factor PCs, office PCs.
Small Form Factor (SFF):
Size: less than 12 inches.
Features: Ultra-compact design, suitable for mini-ITX or smaller motherboards, limited expansion and cooling options.
Usage: HTPC (Home Theater PC), media centers, portable computers.
Cube Case:Size: Usually square or cube-shaped.
Features: Different design, suitable for mini-ITX or micro-ATX motherboards, more cooling and expansion options.Usage: Compact yet powerful systems, portable gaming PCs.
Case Cooling Systems
Chassis cooling systems are essential for the proper functioning and long life of components. A good cooling system expels hot air from inside the case and lets in cool air. Here’s what you need to know about case cooling systems:
Air Cooling:
Fans: Fans used inside the case to exhaust hot air and draw in cold air. They can be mounted on the front, back, top and side panels.
Fan Sizes: Common fan sizes are 80mm, 120mm, 140mm and 200mm. Larger fans generally run quieter and provide more airflow.
Positive and Negative Pressure: Positive pressure allows more air inside the case than outside and reduces dust ingress. Negative pressure is created by drawing more air in and can improve cooling performance.
Liquid Cooling:
Closed Circuit (All-in-One, AIO) Coolers: Ready-to-use, easy-to-install liquid cooling systems. Can be used for processor or GPU.
Custom Loop Liquid Cooling: Customizable and high-performance cooling system. Designed using water blocks, radiators, pumps and reservoirs.
Radiator Sizes: Radiators are available in sizes such as 120mm, 240mm, 360mm. Larger radiators provide better cooling.
Passive Cooling:
Passive Cooling Solutions: Coolers that dissipate heat without using fans or moving parts. Ideal for quiet operation, but generally suitable for low-power components.
Airflow Management:
Fan Placement: Fan placement is important for optimal airflow. Front and bottom fans provide air intake, while rear and top fans provide air exhaust.
Cable Management: Proper cable management is important to avoid obstructing the airflow inside. Keep cables organized by using a variety of cable channels and connectors.
Conclusion
Choosing a case is critical for the proper functioning and cooling of your computer’s components. By choosing a case that suits your intended use, your components and your budget, you can increase the performance and durability of your system. By paying attention to factors such as case dimensions, cooling systems and cable management, you can set up your computer in the most efficient way.
Parts Compatibility and Assembly
Assembling a comphttps://openclassrooms.com/en/courses/7132546-assemble-a-computer/7244226-choose-a-pc-caseuter is about choosing the right parts and putting them together properly. Parts compatibility and the assembly process are critical to the smooth operation of the PC. Here is detailed information on how to check parts compatibility and the assembly process of computer parts:
How to Check Parts Compatibility?
Checking the compatibility of computer parts is essential to ensure the proper functioning of the system. Here are some key factors you should pay attention to:
Motherboard and Processor (CPU) Compatibility:
Socket Type: The socket type of the motherboard and processor must be compatible (e.g. LGA1151, AM4).
Chipset: The chipset of the motherboard must support the specifications of the processor (for example, Intel Z390, AMD B450).
Motherboard and RAM Compatibility:
RAM Type: Check the type of RAM (DDR4, DDR5) that the motherboard supports.
RAM Speed: Check the maximum RAM speed supported by the motherboard and its overclocking capabilities.
Capacity and Number of Slots: Consider the maximum RAM capacity and number of slots supported by the motherboard.
Motherboard and Graphics Card (GPU) Compatibility:
PCIe Slot: The graphics card must be compatible with the PCIe x16 slot on the motherboard.
Physical Size: It is important that the graphics card is sized to fit in the case.
Power Supply (PSU) and Components:
Power Requirement: The PSU should have enough wattage to meet the total power requirement of all components.
Connectors: Ensure that the PSU has all required power connectors (for example, 24-pin motherboard connector, 8-pin CPU connector, 6+2-pin GPU connectors).
Storage Compatibility:
SATA and NVMe: Check the storage types (SATA, NVMe) supported by the motherboard.
Slots: Make sure the chassis has enough 2.5“ or 3.5” drive bays.
Chassis and Cooling Solutions:
Size Compatibility: Check the case dimensions (e.g. GPU length, CPU cooler height) to ensure all components fit in the case.
Cooling Compatibility: Make sure the case has sufficient fan slots and radiator mounting points.
Computer Parts Assembly Stages
Computer assembly is a process that requires care and attention. Here is a step-by-step guide to assembling a computer:
Case Preparation:
Remove Side Panels: Prepare the inside of the case by removing the side panels.
Cable Management: Prepare for cable management using cable trays and connectors.
Motherboard Assembly:
Install the CPU: Open the CPU socket cover and insert the CPU into the socket. Close and secure the cover.
Install RAM: Carefully insert the RAM modules into the slots on the motherboard.
Install the M.2 SSD: If you are using an M.2 SSD, mount it in the M.2 slot on the motherboard.
Install the Motherboard in the Chassis: Place the motherboard in the case and secure it with screws.
PSU Installation:
Install the PSU in the Chassis: Place the PSU on the bottom or top of the chassis (depending on the chassis design) and secure it with screws.
Manage Cables: Route and connect PSU cables to the motherboard, CPU, GPU and storage units.
Storage Installation:
Install HDD/SSDs: Insert HDD/SSDs into 2.5“ or 3.5” drive bays and secure with screws.
Connect SATA Cables: Connect the HDD/SSDs to the motherboard with SATA cables.
GPU Installation:
Prepare the PCIe Slot: Open the PCIe slot on the rear panel of the chassis.
Install the GPU: Insert the graphics card into the PCIe x16 slot on the motherboard and secure it with screws.
Connect Power Connectors: Attach the necessary power connectors to the GPU.
Cooling Solutions:
Install the CPU Cooler: Place the CPU cooler on the CPU and secure it. If you are using a liquid cooling system, mount the radiator in the case.
Install Case Fans: Mount the fans on the front, back and top of the case and connect them to the motherboard.
Organize Cables:
Cable Management: Keep cables organized by placing them in channels on the back of the chassis. Secure cables using cable ties.
Final Checks:
Check Connections: Make sure all connections are correct and tight.
Install the Side Panels: Reinstall the side panels of the chassis and secure them with screws.
Turn on the System:
Initial Startup: Start the system by pressing the power button. Make sure all components are working and the BIOS is properly loaded.
Result.
Component compatibility checking and computer assembly are processes that require careful planning and attention. Choosing the right components and carefully following the assembly steps will help you build a stable and efficient system. By following this guide, you can successfully assemble your own PC.
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