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OVERHEATING PROBLEMS, motherboard specifications and the multiple array of components vendors and build-to-order VARs are including in PCs are causing a quiet transformation in the computer case industry.
The importance of the computer chassis or enclosure is being magnified by the dictates of new and faster components, reseller's speed and ease-of-integration requirements, and buyer preferences.
"The chassis doesn't ordinarily get a lot of attention," said Brian Soucy, director of strategic marketing at Enlight Corp. USA, a Whittier, Calif.-based case manufacturer. "But it's a major component of the machine. Its design can impact a sale, as well as system cost and reliability," he said.
Santa Clara, Calif.-based Intel Corp.'s motherboard specifications are the chief determinant of chassis design, as most case and motherboard manufacturers meet these requirements, industry executives said.
The four designs on the market-AT, ATX, LPX and the new NLX-generally come in baby- and full-size. These specifications determine the size, form factor and specific features of a case's design.
Motherboard specs do not address every factor. While mounting hole locations are the same across, for example, ATX motherboards, that is not true of drive bays' hard-disk drives and other internal components.
"We have to communicate with chassis manufacturers to ensure development of a compatible case design," said Danny Hsu, director of product...