Recommend an inexpensive case?

[Sparky Lang]

I just finished upgrading my desktop (new mobo and CPU) and I just realized I have enough parts left over to build a spare computer. All I need is another case (I don't need a power supply.) Anyone know of a good deal? I'm a sucker for "free after rebate!"

[The Lodge]

Your best bet would probably be newegg or something. Do a search for cases under 30 bucks. Throw the ps that comes with those cheap cases in the closet, if it comes with one.

[Bovon]

Let me throw my 2 cents worth in here too.

If you get a case that has the motherboard stand offs already there (stamped out of the backplate, drilled and tapped for the mounting screws) please insulate the motherboard from these mounting stand offs.

This can be done by placing some tape over the stand offs, or by gluing some fiber or plastic washers to the mobo or stand offs.

The reason for this is, many times the diameter of the mounting surface of the stand offs are large enough to come in contact with near by circuit traces on the back of the board.. this will cause the board to not work..usually does not damage the board, but renders it in operable until the shorted circuit is discovered and corrected.

Lotsa people have burned much *midnight lamp oil* and left piles of hair on the floor by doing just what I have mentioned.

If you are concerned about grounding the board, don't be..it will be grounded by the mounting screw head from the top side of the board.

[crapyking]

http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProduc...129-121&depa=0

I've seen the error of my ways! you buy a $20-$30 case the power supply WILL DIE within a year. get the antec w/ a good power supply. I just got this model last week

http://www.newegg.com/app/viewproduc...129-117&DEPA=0

very nice except you may have to repin 1 side of the usb cable

[The Lodge]

Wow. They actually have cases that have the standoffs stamped out of the mobo tray. Glad I've never had to work in one of those. I would suggest taking a good look at the pictures of cases before you buy.

[Bovon]

I just looked at several of the lesser brands at Newegg, and found one that I could tell it has the stamped standoffs, a couple others I *think* so, but could not be absolutely sure.

The ones I had to work on were a little cruder and there were six of them..one for each hole on the motherboard. No motherboard requires that many grounding standoffs...one is really enough, but need at least two or three to keep the board square and stable.

This case is the Rosewill Silver/SilverBlue ATX Mid Tower Case, and from the looks of these standoffs, they are better than the 2 I have worked on...so, maybe the case industry is learning. The little brass standoffs are more expensive by maybe .50 cents..but its well worth the use... they are tried and proven devices, made to not overlap the designed grounding area of the motherboard.

See the "case" image below.