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Cheap Computer Cases:
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Computer cases (sometimes known as computer chassis or computer enclosures) are cheap and they dont just come in boring old beige and grey. They can be a great cheap way to make your computer stand out, or blend in.

Computers are increasingly being used as media centers in living rooms, connected to televisions and hi-fi's. Computer cases are now available in sizes and styles to complement most rooms of the house, as well as cases that make the computer an integral part of your home entertainment system.

There are several sizes and standards of computer cases, the common cases are discussed below.

ATX computer cases:- The most common modern computer case is the ATX form factor mid tower computer case. This case will accept any recent motherboard, and has plenty of room for adding extra cards, drives etc. ATX computer cases are the easiest case for the computer builder to use as they are the largest and therefore allow easiest access.

Cheap Computer Guy recommends ATX computer cases to any computer builder who has the room to accomodate one on or under their computer desk. Because ATX computer cases are the most common computer case, they are also the cheapest to buy, and come in a large range of styles. ATX computer cases are an excellent base for custom computers - you can buy cases with perspex windows and add neon lighting to make your computer look super-cool! ATX computer cases generally accept ATX and micro ATX motherboards.
Flex ATX computer cases:- Another standard form factor is flex ATX. Flex ATX motherboards come with video, audio and LAN built in, and can be used in an ATX computer cases, however Flex ATX cases can only be used with Flex ATX motherboards.

AT computer cases:- Other mid-tower computer cases include AT form factor (pre-ATX standard; you will probably only come across an AT case if you are working with an old computer), these computer cases accept AT and baby-AT motherboards.

NLX computer cases:- NLX is another discontinued computer case form factor. You should only need to know about NLX computer cases if you are working on or upgrading an old computer system. NLX computer systems had mainly integrated components (video, audio, network etc.) and are therefore difficult to upgrade anyway.

Mini Tower computer cases:- Mini tower computer cases are an excellent space saving solution, although they can compromise the amount of cards and drives you can build in to your computer system. Mini tower cases generally take Micro ATX and Flex ATX motherboards, although some take ATX and older cases may take an AT motherboard. These cases are an excellent solution for those wanting an unobtrusive computer in the living room.

Desktop computer cases:- Desktop computer cases are the traditional under-monitor type of computer case which has fallen out of favour in recent years, although many secondhand and off-lease computers coming to the market today will have them. They take all sizes of motherboards, be careful when buying one of these computers that you know what you are getting.

Full tower / Server tower cases:- Full tower computer cases are generally reserved for power users such as network administrators who need loads of room for loads of devices, such as tape backup units etc.

Rack mount chassis:- Space saving solution for servers that allows many computers in one rack or cabinet. Not for the hobby user.

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