Case
A computer case is the metal and plastic enclosure (also called a chassis or system unit) that houses and protects a desktop computer's internal components, such as the motherboard, CPU, power supply, and storage devices. It provides physical security, organizes components, and facilitates cooling through vents and fan mounts for airflow. Cases come in various sizes and styles to accommodate different motherboards and levels of performance.
Function and Features
Protection: The case serves as a physical barrier, safeguarding internal parts from damage, dust, and other environmental factors.
Organization: It provides a structured housing for all the components, keeping them secure and organized.
Cooling: Cases are designed with vents and can support additional fans to promote airflow and prevent internal components from overheating.
Component Mounting: It includes bays and slots for mounting various hardware, including drive bays for optical drives and smaller bays for storage devices like SSDs.
Connectivity: An I/O (input/output) panel on the front, top, or side of the case provides external connectors for USB devices, headphones, microphones, and network connections.
Power and Reset Buttons: Many cases feature an on/off button, a power light, and a reset button on the front or top panel.