computer tower

The casing is the main part of a desktop computer. It is often referred to as Tower, chassis, enclosure or housing.

It is the enclosure that contains the main components of a computer. Cases are usually constructed from steel, aluminium, or plastic, although other materials such as wood, plexiglas or fans have also been used in case designs.

The tower refers to a computer in which the power supply, motherboard, Ram (or a computers memory as well as mass storage devices are stacked on top of each other in a cabinet. This is in contrast to laptop models, in which these components are housed in a more compact box.

The main advantage of tower models is that there are fewer space constraints, which makes installation of additional storage devices easier and allows for more options.

Computer cases usually include sheet metal enclosures for a power supply unit and drive bays, as well as a rear panel that can accommodate peripheral connectors protruding from the motherboard and expansion slots. Most cases also a power button or switch, a reset button, and LEDs to indicate power status, hard drive usage, and network activity. Some cases include built-in I/O ports (such as USB and headphone ports on the front of the case). Such a case will also include wires needed to connect these ports to the motherboard.

Through the late 1990s, most computer cases had rectangular shapes, and were often beige. Beige box designs are still found on a many budget computers assembled from generic components. Many computer users still prefer the traditional rectangular shape of a tower case.

The introduction of the groundbreaking Apple iMac led to greater enthusiasm for imaginative case designs. Apple has continued to lead in the area of computer aesthetics, and has produced several innovative computers in small cases. Companies like Shuttle and AOpen have tapped the demand for small but customizable cases. The influence of these designs has led major OEM computer vendors, such as Dell and HP, to sell computers in more eye-catching cases, which may feature rounded edges, engraved logos, and translucent materials—all of which were pioneered by Apple. As of 2007, many OEM computer cases have black or dark gray color, with metallic silver-colored accent.

The artistic styling of computer cases, often to draw attention to the use of advanced or unusual components. Since the early 2000s, some cases have included clear side panels or acrylic windows so that users can look inside while it is operating. Modded cases may also include internal lighting, custom paint, or liquid cooling systems. Some hobbyists build custom cases from raw materials like aluminum, steel, acrylic, or wood.

Stickers are common on computer cases. These may advertise the manufacturer's logo, a list of the computer's specifications, the intended operating system (for example, "Designed for Windows XP"), or the microprocessor used (such as Intel Inside).