A stripped
ATX case lying on its side.
A computer case is the enclosure that contains the main components of a
computer. Cases are usually constructed from
steel or
aluminum, although other materials such as
wood and
plastic have been used. Cases can come in many different sizes, or
form factors. The size and shape of a computer case is usually determined by the form factor of the
motherboard that it is designed to accommodate, since this is the largest and most central component of most computers. Consequently, personal computer form factors typically specify only the
internal dimensions and layout of the case. Form factors for
rack-mounted and
blade servers may include precise
external dimensions as well, since these cases must themselves fit in specific enclosures.
Currently, the most popular form factor for desktop computers is
ATX, although
microATX and
small form factors have become very popular for a variety of uses. Companies like
Shuttle Inc. and
AOpen have popularized small cases, for which
FlexATX is the most common motherboard size.
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