Winn L. Rosch Hardware Bible, Sixth Edition

Cases

The final aspect of your computer's infrastructure is what truly holds everything together—its case. Although it appears to be nothing more than a box, the simple case has several complex functions. It is both the foundation for your computer and a protective shell that guards against both physical and invisible dangers. More importantly, the case is the one part of your computer that you see all the time. It is your pride and joy. The case is the physical embodiment of your computer.

In fact, the case is the body of your computer. It's a housing, vessel, and shield that provides the delicate electronics of the computer a secure environment in which to work. Cases come in various sizes, shapes, and effectiveness at their protective tasks ...