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Dell computer transferred into new case?

D

dunkindan

Limp Gawd
Joined
Apr 29, 2003
Messages
300
I have a dell computer with a case like the one shown on the right of this pic (desktop)

http://evas.com/images/systems.jpg


Have you heard of anyone taking out these computers and putting them in bigger cases with new power supplies? I want to just use the mobo and onboard stuff and get a case and power supply for around 100 bucks and use it for a file storage system. I need more bays which is why im looking to move the computer. Is it possible and what is the difficulty level like?
 
I'd just check the motherboard format and size, some companies use BTX while most computer cases are ATX...

If you match that, there should be no issue.
 
I got a Dell E310, the form factor is a BTX. I'm not sure about the older models.
 
For some time, Dell was known for using non-standard ATX PSUs, which had the right plugs, but different wirings. Real PITA. I think that one is new enough that it would be ok, but you should check yourself.

The main thing that will bite you is the front-panel connectors. Random cases have individual wires for each switch and LED. I think that one just has one big cable going to the motherboard, so you'd need to build a converter for it. Pretty easy if you can solder well, but time-consuming tracing them all.
 
dunkindan said:
I have a dell computer with a case like the one shown on the right of this pic (desktop)

http://evas.com/images/systems.jpg


Have you heard of anyone taking out these computers and putting them in bigger cases with new power supplies? I want to just use the mobo and onboard stuff and get a case and power supply for around 100 bucks and use it for a file storage system. I need more bays which is why im looking to move the computer. Is it possible and what is the difficulty level like?
Click to expand...

I always heard that Dell's also use non-standard motherboards as far as how they bolt into the case too. Not sure on power supplies, although always did hear the non-standard wiring was only for the motherboard connectors. Having said that, it might also be an oddball shape, and thus not let you bolt in it's PSU into a non-Dell case. I really can't answer it past that though.

PC Power and Cooling, if your system uses a non-standard PSU did sell ones they had built for use in Dells, so maybe they might be able to see you one. Or even call them up, explain your needs and see if they would do a custom job...that could be expensive, but they are noted for such.

Again, past that not sure. Maybe ask on Dell's forums? Another idea though, if drive space is your own issue with regards to that case is maybe buying an external hard drive mount, the cost of that might end up the same as a new case & PSU.
 
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