Changing the Case of a Pre-built Acer?

[Needtobelazy]

Hey guys, So first I'd like to say I've stalked Tom's hardware forum for a few years learning new stuff its amazing!!

However, I have a quick question. I own a Acer Aspire M3970. I've upgraded pretty much everything in the tower but the MB/CPU. Now I wish to upgrade my Video card to a more gaming video card.

The question is. Can I just change cases as I have hardly any room left within the computer? Is it possible to just change the case itself and use the same Motherboard and processor?

Yes I know about building one from scratch however, Money is a little tight. Can only slowly upgrade for now. Any pointers?

 

[datguy20]

Yes you can just change cases. Just make sure the case you're looking at will fit the size of your motherboard. Your motherboard is probably standard ATX size, although it's hard to know by the pictures.

When you buy a case, just make sure it says it supports the ATX motherboard size, and can fit the length of your intended graphics card. That's basically all there is to it. To put everything into a new case, you could just follow a "how to" on building a computer, do it in reverse, then follow the guide normally.

Also, make sure before you upgrade your graphics card that your power supply is strong enough to handle it. According to the specs, your power supply is 300W. That may or may not be enough depending on if you're going with an older budget graphics card, or a newer one. Most likely you'll also have to upgrade the power supply.

 

[Needtobelazy]

Yes you can just change cases. Just make sure the case you're looking at will fit the size of your motherboard. Your motherboard is probably standard ATX size, although it's hard to know by the pictures.

When you buy a case, just make sure it says it supports the ATX motherboard size, and can fit the length of your intended graphics card. That's basically all there is to it. To put everything into a new case, you could just follow a "how to" on building a computer, do it in reverse, then follow the guide normally.

Also, make sure before you upgrade your graphics card that your power supply is strong enough to handle it. According to the specs, your power supply is 300W. That may or may not be enough depending on if you're going with an older budget graphics card, or a newer one. Most likely you'll also have to upgrade the power supply.

I've upgraded my PSU to a 700 Bronze. I believe it is also a standard ATX Motherboard. However, With the motherboard shield plate thingy, (Forgot the name) I'm not sure if that can pop out of my old case without damaging it. Can it? Also the motherboard stands will be more of a pain but do able. Was thinking of a full ATX Case, So when money becomes less tight I can upgrade the MB/Processor.

 

[datguy20]

Just push on the "motherboard plate thingy" (aka the I/O shield), from the outside of the case, until it pops out. It's just a piece of metal that isn't even necessary for a running computer, so if it gets damaged it's not a big deal.

 

[Needtobelazy]

Just push on the "motherboard plate thingy" (aka the I/O shield), from the outside of the case, until it pops out. It's just a piece of metal that isn't even necessary for a running computer, so if it gets damaged it's not a big deal.

Awesome! Thanks alot!!