Question about custom cases

[ROCKINREDNEK]

I have a boring looking HP computer. I want a custom case. I would like to know if I buy a custom case can I take everything out of the HP and put it in a new case? If so, would any case work or is there a specific brand I should be looking for? Ok one more....if all this won't work I at least want a clear side panel (if they even make one) so I can put some lights in it...if that even possible.

Its a HP a6130n

Thanx for any help

Gary

[jdbnsn]

Welcome Gary,
Always like seeing new faces here. From what I have seen in this forum and this group, nothing is impossible. A clear side panel is great way to start learning how to mod. It's not simple but not too difficult and will get you comfortable with hacking those damned beize stock cases to pieces and making them into art! Have a look around at the many projects in the forums and you'll see lots of different way to do what you want to do, learn from them and then just jump in.

-Jon

[Spawn-Inc]

WELCOME to the forums!

here (http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c01077676&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=3436817&lang=en) is the hp link to your systems motherboard which tells us its a Micro-ATX form factor. you can transfer your computer to any case that supports/uses MicroATX. the hard drive(s), cd/dvd roms/burner(s), floppy drive(s), etc can all be transfered over as they are universal.

if you really like a case that doesn't support micro ATX you can always mod the motherboard tray and drill your own mounting holes. just take the motherboard out and place it on some sheets of paper (enough to cover the entire motherboard) then simply trace the mounting holes that hold down the board. then just drill holes in the motherboard tray on the case you want using an appropriate drill bit size, just a bit smaller then the motherboard stand off's. just make sure the motherboard lines up with the i/o shield and pci slots(on the case).

hope that helps, you should be able to find a microatx case as its a relatively common form factor, here (http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010090007+1054808291&name=MicroATX+Mini+Tower) is a list of cases on newegg that support them. but keep in mind that most full atx towers and mid towers will support various form factors.

[Airbozo]

I could be wrong (happens from time to time), but wouldn't any regular ATX case support a mATX board? (little to no experience with the mATX boards, but I am spec'ing one now.)

[tinker]

Yea. almost all atx cases support micro atx as well.

Redneck if you are looking to get one I would suggest looking at www.newegg.com and www.tigerdirect.com Both of these site have hundreds of cases to choose from. And it the detailed specs you can see if the case supports microATX.

[Zephik]

Yup, if you don't want to modify your current case to your liking (such as making a window, adding lights, etc etc), then head on over to Newegg.com and take a look through their computer case selection. When/if you find one that you like, feel free to ask us if your current PC will be able to fit into whichever one you find. Most likely, you'll be able to transfer over into just about any case, since your PC is using a microATX motherboard.

Newegg.com also has a nice selection of "modding" products. ...well, they have a nice selection of just about anything, lol but you can find lights and LED case fans and cable sleeving kits and PC tool kit kits etc etc.

You can also try taking a look at Xoxide.com. That was my first "modding" website that I came across way back in the day. Pretty well known website, although most people prefer newegg for their amazing service and great prices. I like to check Xoxide.com, find something I like, then head on over to Newegg.com and see if I can find the same thing. Just because newegg is usually cheaper and has better service.

Anyways, if you have any other questions to ask, don't be shy!

-Zephik

[SgtM]

Welcome aboard Gary! My advice would be to mod the hell outta that HP case. Go grab a really cheap case off of newegg or somewhere, and get to cutting. Maybe the following link will provide some inspiration. BTW, don't ever be afraid to ask quesitons around here. There is absolutely no one here that will reply with something like "omfg what a friggen newb". We've got a really good crew. Have fun with your new addiction.

http://www.thebestcasescenario.com/forum/search.php?searchid=316197

[Drum Thumper]

Gary,

Be sure to check out the wiki that's accessible from the top of any forum page. All sorts of good stuff in there, and it's updated constantly!

Welcome to the TBCS and to your new addiction!