Looking for a New Computer Case?

The life expectancy of a computer is highly dependent upon the type of case you choose. This may be a bit confusing, so I’ll explain as thoroughly as possible. Size, heat and dust are often killers of computer cases.

I don’t generally mention a specific case or deal this close to the beginning of an article. But honestly, the Antec Twelve Hundred is worth the special mention.

Heat

Computer components create heat. The more heat created, the more likely problems will arise. An overheated graphics card will cause bluescreen errors, otherwise known as BSOD or Blue Screen of Death. A good case can prevent overheating with proper fan placement. My Antec Twelve Hundred computer case has more fans than any case I’ve ever owned personally. It’s extremely quiet, even when I go all crazy with it and turn every fan on high.

Dust

A great case helps prevent dust collection by circulating the air quickly. Dust should be on the outside of the computer case, not the inside. I’ve had my Antec Twelve Hundred for 3 months and only had to use compressed air on it once so far. That’s impressive!

Why is dust so bad? Dust can help transfer static charge from one component to another. Do we really need to discuss how bad that could get? Oh the horror, smoke and flames shooting from the computer case!

Room for Components

Case sizes vary from mini to full towers. The Antec Twelve Hundred is an extremely impressive case. Check out my other article with pictures of the day I transferred everything from my old case to my upgraded case.

My graphics card is huge compared to standard, run-of-the-mill graphics cards. It fits easily and comfortably behind the hard drives in this case. Needless to say, every computer upgrade in my house within the next year or two includes this case. Seriously, if you have the cash for a computer upgrade right now, take advantage of Newegg’s offer I posted above.

USB and Other Ports

Nothing beats the convenience of having all necessary ports on the top or front of your computer case! Digital cameras, MP3 players, web cams and most other peripherals now use a USB connection. Some cases require you to get on all 4′s and find the USB ports in the back of your computer case.

When you’re looking for a computer case upgrade, be sure to look at the overall style and convenience.

Updating Your Existing System

The very first thing to take into consideration is whether or not all of your existing components will fit into the case. Make sure your motherboard will fit properly. Larger graphics cards require a long case, make sure the case will support your graphics card, hard drive and all other drives comfortably.

Dress that old PC with a new case from Newegg.com