Updating, new case warranted?

[mevensen]

I am looking to update my system significantly in the next couple months.

I am moving from a Pentium (R) 4 CPU 3.2 GHz, eVGA 7800GS (AGP) system, which is basically an upgraded 3+ year old Gateway system 700XL system. This system runs fine, and the case seems to keep everything pretty cool (added one additonal rear fan to the stock setup, and upgraded to a Thermaltake 500W PSU about a year ago).

I am moving to (roughly) a C2D E6600 (probably) with an 8800GTX video card. I expect to use on board sound from the new mobo I will need. I will keep most other components (2HDDs, DVD, CD-ROM, 3.5 FDD, keyboard, mouse, monitors, etc.).

My main question is if there's any good reason to get a new case. I don't expect to OC, if I do, it will be very modestly. I don't really care what it looks like, as it is housed in an enclosure in my desk (properly ventilated). I wouldn't mind a quieter system, but I'm not sure that the cost for that would seal the deal.

[bd1886]

I wouldn't for now. Wait till you absolutely feel the need. As stuff starts shaking down in the cooler/smaller direction, their is going to be changes in the architecture of components and what air movement channels are going to be required. Sounds like things are going to be a lot different in as little as 4 years. The system your upgrading into, is going to carry you into that time frame. If looks aren't a consideration... Just stick with what you have!

[Katreat]

The 8800GTX card is 10 1/2 inches long. This is about an inch and a half longer than other top end cards. This has been a problem with some cases, so take the time to measure from the back of your computer to the HD bays and see if it will fit. Then take your best guess how it will impact airflow.

[blue60007]

The case is from a Gateway system? It's probably a microATX setup, and Katreat made a good point there - a 8800GTX is a MONSTER card and will need plenty of room to fit...I doubt the Gateway case is going to be anywhere near large enough. I thought it was larger than 10.5", but regardless, it's larger than other high end cards.

Also the Gateway case isn't designed to handle lots of heat. While the E6600 sips power compared to your P4, the 8800GTX guzzles power and puts out the same in heat.

[newbuilder14]

Agree with Blue, if you can get a new case that is bigger and more user friendly. The Antec Sonata II is a great mid-tower and it is steel.

[glc]

You are going to have to get a new power supply unless that Thermatake is ATX 2.0 spec with a 24 pin main connector.

[mevensen]

I believe that the PSU is ATX 2.0 with a 20+4 pin connector, but I'll have to check that to be sure.

The case is definitely not a microATX. It measures about 22h x 8w x 16d, but I am concerned about potential airflow issues and cooling the GPU properly. Also, I'll have to crack the case and measure that 10 1/2 inch length issue.

[flanzig1]

Most of those 8800 video cards exhaust the hot air directly out the case.
One thing to check on that Gateway case is to see if the I/O shield is removable or part of the back panel of the case.

[glc]

You also have to look at the front panel connectors. if it's a unitized connector it may not match up properly with the new motherboard posts.

[mevensen]

Good call on the front and rear panels, it does not look like they are too amenable to alternate configurations.



I guess my budget just got bumped a bit.

Any other suggestions aside from the Antec Sonata II?

My components will include 2HDDs, DVD, CD-ROM, 3.5 FDD, multicard reader, video card. I will use onboard sound and networking. I do like a nice, spacious area to work in.

I am concerned about the 8800's size, is there anyone who has a case with one installed that can make a recommendation?

[Alaron]

We recommend the Sonata because it is both a solid case and a quality power supply. But if you're looking for a new case, you can choose any type you like. It is the power supply that is important. I would look at Antec, Thermaltake and Lian Li towers.

[andper10]

What kind of Hard Drives do you have there? If they are from an older Gateway, I am guessing that they are IDE, not SATA. If they are IDE, you will have to buy a PCI IDE controller in order to run them because all of the Core 2 Duo Motherboards only have 1 IDE Channel, and you will need that for the Optical Drives. I would get a new case. The Gateway is probably proprietary to an extent, meaning that if you put a new motherboard in it, the PCI slots might not all have corresponding openings in the back, or the motherboard might not be supported well, and plus you would have to do some jerry rigging to get the power switches right. I would recommend just choosing a case that you like the look of, and then buying a PSU seperately. Can you give us the exact specs and/or model number/link of the Thermaltake PSU that you put in? If you are just looking for a basic budget case, I like this Rosewill: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16811147045 . It has 2 120mm fan slots (intake and exhaust), and a sliding HD system. If you get a few Yate Loon 120mm Fans in there, it should be near silent. Enjoy your build!

[mevensen]

Their HDDs are both SATAs.

I've pretty much given up recycling the case now, given the access issues.

Also, looking more closely at the 8800's power requirements, it states 28-30A on the 12V rail. That's pretty hefty. I'm not sure if they mean all of that to go to the card, but it looks like I'll be in the market for a good PSU as well now.

Thanks, and happy holidays.

[flanzig1]

That requirment is for the total 12v/ add up the different +12v rails.

[glc]

There are no cases on the market with preinstalled power supply that is safe to use with an 8800, not even the Sonata.