Extended ATX Computer Cases
Building the perfect custom PC often requires selecting an appropriate case with the right feature set. The extended version of the ATX configuration provides computer enthusiasts a full tower with substantial space for components. Many brands design and make E-ATX cases in many different aesthetic styles as well as with a broad range of exterior and interior features.
What is Extended ATX?E-ATX stands for Advanced Technology eXtended, and it’s a motherboard configuration introduced by Intel to improve on the AT form factor, which had been the de facto standard. ATX defines mechanical dimensions, orientation of the I/O panel, connectors between the case, mainboard, and PSU, and so forth, and the extended version of ATX was introduced to provide more interior space for those who wanted more components than would fit in the standard approach.
What is the size of an E-ATX case?Form factor indicates the available interior space and not the actual size of the case overall. True E-ATX is 12 by 13 inches. However, the form factor is not a strict or enforced standard, and as consumer needs have become more defined, manufacturers have shaped the standard accordingly. Other measurements commonly used for E-ATX cases are 12 by:
- 10.1 inches
- 10.4 inches
- 10.5 inches
- 10.7 inches
No. Larger standard form factors can accommodate the smaller ones. Since this is among the largest mainboard form factors on the market, it’s suitable for any motherboard support. More specifically, a case of this size is able to house E-ATX boards as well as:
- ATX
- Micro ATX
- Mini ITX
There are three fundamental aspects of these cases made by Corsair, Thermaltake, and all other manufacturers: the motherboard mount, the PSU mount or tray, and the I/O panel. Most cases will have a rear and a front input-output panel, tempered design, and many chassis for gaming and other advanced purposes will have top-mounted and other I/O orientations. The mainboard mount provides a secure location for the board, CPU, and all other connected components, and the mount for the power supply unit is designed to support a part that is often the heaviest component in a PC.
What are some additional features that distinguish these cases?The full towers on the market available from Corsair, Thermaltake, and many other manufacturers all have different aesthetic styles and external feature sets. They make varied use of their internal space as well as use many approaches to airflow and heat dissipation, such as front fans, rear fans, and side panel windows. Some of the distinguishing features you can find on these cases include:
- I/O shields
- Dust filters
- Large case fans
- Internal bays
- Tool-free drive mounts
- Tempered glass windows
- Headphone port