[SOLVED] How can I tell for sure if my case will take a full ATX mobo

[prn]

I have a PC that I want to upgrade with a new mobo. It currently has a micro ATX , but it also has about 2.75" or so space below the current mobo and a pair of standoffs with internal threading. This makes me suspect that it would actually fit a full-size ATX mobo, which would give me some more options for replacements. The standoffs are (by eyeball) 2" below the bottom edge of the micro ATX that is in there now. There are also only 2 of them, although they appear to be directly below what appear to be the screws holding the current mobo in place. How can I confirm that those standoffs are there to accommodate a full-size ATX mobo?

(Note: I bought the PC off the shelf and this is my first try at building/rebuilding, so I'm not real sure of what else I should be asking. Please assume I'm a complete idiot. Thanks.)

 

[kanewolf]

I have a PC that I want to upgrade with a new mobo. It currently has a micro ATX , but it also has about 2.75" or so space below the current mobo and a pair of standoffs with internal threading. This makes me suspect that it would actually fit a full-size ATX mobo, which would give me some more options for replacements. The standoffs are (by eyeball) 2" below the bottom edge of the micro ATX that is in there now. There are also only 2 of them, although they appear to be directly below what appear to be the screws holding the current mobo in place. How can I confirm that those standoffs are there to accommodate a full-size ATX mobo?

(Note: I bought the PC off the shelf and this is my first try at building/rebuilding, so I'm not real sure of what else I should be asking. Please assume I'm a complete idiot. Thanks.)

The best way is to find the manufacturer's website for the case. That will list what motherboard sizes are supported.

 

[geofelt]

Count the number of rear expansion slots that your case allows.
A M-ATX case has only 4.
A full ATX case will have 7.

 

[prn]

Thanks, guys! Kanewolf's suggestion is obviously a good idea. Unfortunately for me, I already tried it and couldn't be sure I found it. (I may have.) Geofelt's suggestion seems good also. The case does have seven spaces in back for expansion cards. I think that probably answers my question.
So Thanks!

 

[Alabalcho]

One more think to check is whether you have stand-offs (or threaded holes) on the bottom plate where the two extra support pads on full-size ATX will go.

 

[prn]

I'm not sure what you mean by "two extra support pads"? I do have two unused standoffs in the area where a full-size ATX motherboard would extend, and they do appear to line up with the attachment holes in the micro ATX board that is in there now. Is that what you mean?