A huge assortment of computer components necessitated the creation of uniform standards for their production. True, the standards concern only a few dimensional parameters and form factors, among which the ATX specification. And first of all, when choosing accessories in accordance with this format, you should focus on the platform in which the remaining working components will be placed. In other words, the ATX computer case should be the starting point for the selection of other components. Of course, this does not mean that the "filling" should depend on what the external shell will be, but the choice of each element, from the motherboard to the power supply, must be consistent with the characteristics of the case.
ATX Features
The ATX standard at one time replaced the obsolete AT form factor, but today it is pretty serious competition for formats such as mini-ITX and micro-ATX. The advantages of these architectures include the possibility of a more optimized and compact placement of devices. On the other hand, the advantages that the Micro ATX case possesses are expressed precisely in its versatility. This form factor allows you to install almost all modern power supplies and motherboards (with rare exceptions). Advantages are also noted in the form of a large number of slots, suggesting future expansion of the system's functionality. True, with the development of technology in the field of computer technology, there is also a lag in the ATX form factor. This, in particular, is already manifested in the problems of combining the internal design of cases with 2.5-inch drives.
Key Features for ATX Enclosures
For the case, one of the most important parameters is size. In order to simplify, manufacturers here also use the well-established classification, which provides for the separation of blocks into Micro, Midi, Mini and full size. It is important to note that the differences in these sizes refer only to the case itself, and its internal architecture is determined precisely by the ATX specification. Further, it is important to note the power supply capacity, which can be supplied with the design already in the basic configuration.
For example, for a productive "filling" it is worth initially focusing on the ATX 500W chassis, which can be in the Miditower format. This option should be chosen if the “filling” will include a high-frequency processor, a powerful graphics card and several memory modules. In other cases, for simple everyday tasks, computers are equipped with cases with a power supply of about 200-300W. In addition, the characteristics of the housing capacity should be taken into account. This refers to the number of bays into which you can integrate hard drives, wireless modules, sound devices, and video cards.
Fractal Design Define R5 reviews
In the middle segment of ATX cases, this is probably one of the most successful options. According to the owners, the unit is notable for good opportunities for future expansions, it has a built-in reobas, it comes with quiet fans, and it also provides good protection against dust with noise insulation. In the long term, the reliability of component parts with connecting nodes does not overshadow this picture. Even before a direct working acquaintance with this model, one can appreciate the external advantages. This is a very original ATX case, which stands out from the general row with an unusual and bright design. As for the shortcomings, the owners note the lack of a compartment that allows for the rapid replacement of drives. However, such an opportunity in classic cases is, rather, an optional character. Also, the disadvantages of this block include a rather high cost, which in the domestic market varies from 8 to 10 thousand rubles.
Reviews about the model Zalman Z9 Plus
The Korean company Zalman is also famous for quite successful models of cases, and in different segments. The Z9 Plus modification is good in that it can be considered both as a budget option for equipping a gaming computer, and as a multifunctional solution for a home or office PC. The advantages of this case, users consider high-quality assembly, the presence of a reobass with a thermometer, the original design, the presence of built-in filters on the inlets, as well as the ability to install up to seven coolers. But there are also disadvantages that the ATX Zalman Z9 Plus case has. The fact is that during operation, the backlight of the fans does not turn off. In addition, the installed reobas controls the speed of only two coolers, so its function can be considered limited.
Reviews about the model Gigabyte GZ-G1
Gigabyte presents a good version of the single-volume MidiTower case, which provides a lower location for the power supply. In the basic configuration, a power device is not provided, so it will have to be purchased separately. Moreover, the design is deprived not only of the power supply. Users generally note the poverty of the filling and the modest appearance of the model. However, these shortcomings are overlapped by the quality of the main task that falls on the ATX MidiTower chassis in the GZ-G1 version. This is an opportunity to arrange all components in their places with maximum reliability and rationality in terms of saving space for fans. Enough to note the space for nine hard drives. True, for many owners, the fact that there is no regular ability to install at least one 2.5-inch drive is unpleasant.
Crown Model Reviews
The task of finding a compromise between price, functionality and performance in the segment of computer technology is most acute. Crown proposes to lighten it with the CMC-SM162. The technical "stuffing" of the case is quite modern and is filled with two USB connectors, operating status indicators, a wide list of drive bays and hard drives, as well as a 500W power supply. At the same time, the Crown ATX case can be attributed to budget models, since its cost is an average of 3 thousand rubles. Users note that in practice, this case also demonstrates good performance, coping with both thermal loads from productive fillings and mechanical stresses.
How to choose the best model?
First of all, attention should be paid to the general requirements for the system in terms of power. This will make it possible to determine what characteristics the “filling” will have, the number of components, power requirements, etc. Also, for ease of operation, it is worth considering the additional features that the ATX case is endowed with in modern versions. The most useful features relate to the indication of the operating states of the computer. Do not ignore the aesthetic qualities of the design. Cases differ not only in operational properties, but also in design, allowing you to organically complement the interior with a system unit.
Conclusion
If the selection of a processor or motherboard is subject to fairly stringent criteria, from which the buyer can’t move away, the ATX case is quite flexible in terms of choice. Unlike the Mini and Micro standards, this form factor provides the least layout restrictions. Usually they depend on the manufacturers, although the developers themselves strive not only to expand the capabilities of users, but also to introduce fundamentally new additions and improvements to the ATX configuration.