New Case For Dell Computer

[wally1324]

I wanted to buy a bigger case for my computer so I can upgrade my psu and get a full size graphics card will my motherboard fit inside any standard case?

 

[bassfisher6522]

It should...but we need the specific details of you Dell PC. If you would fill in your system specs in you profile area then we can get a better picture of your needs.

 

[wally1324]

Heres the Motherboard
Dell 33FF6 Motherboard

 

[fireberd]

Depends on the Dell model. If its a recent model such as the Inspiron's you are OK. If its an older model such as the Dimension line, forget about it. In the Dimensions, Dell used a proprietary and undocumented front panel connector to the motherboard. Its possible to put these in a standard ATX case but you will have to trace out each connection to determine what it is. There have been a couple of breakouts of the Dell proprietary connector done by users but there is a problem there that it is not standard from one model to another, thus the posted breakout may not work.

With the older models you are also looking at customizing an I/O panel shield since the Dell's are proprietary.

Finally, if its one of the Dimension's (and XPS') that are BTX style you are faced with the Dell proprietary connections plus finding a case to house a BTX motherboard.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

This is an area which the OEM like to use, in my opinion for the sole reason of keeping you coming back to them for parts or to keep you from upgrading but to force a sell or scrape and buy new system. I would consider a mobo up grade along with the GPU, PSU and case. Or have us help you with a whole new custom build and then sell off this rig or use as a back up.

 

[bassfisher6522]

After checking your specs page at Dell, I have to concur with firebird and linnemeyerhere that your best option is just to build a custom PC and sell this one or keep as a backup.

 

[bobkn]

Heres the Motherboard
Dell 33FF6 Motherboard

As far as I can tell, it's a standard MicroATX board. I'd guess that there would be no trouble using it in a standard case, as long as Dell has stopped their old tricks with nonstandard power supply connections, rear I/O panels, and front panel connectors. (I think that they have stopped those practices, but I haven't been inside an Inspiron 580.)

As it's also a Socket 1156 board, I have to agree that it's probably not the best basis for a massive upgrade.

 

[essenbe]

I had a 580S and the connections are proprietary. Also, you will not find 1 molex power connector available inside. It is wired for exactly what they shipped with. I agree with the others. Do a completely new build.

 

[DeaconFrost]

How about an idea in the middle? If you don't want to build an entirely new computer, just add a new motherboard to your list of parts you plan to buy already. This way, you know for sure that it will work in the new case, as well as will be able to handle all of the carryover parts. You should already know what processor you have, and that will tell you what type of board to buy.