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May 8th, 2006 13:00

Case replacement

Hi,

I want to replace my case, so my question is, does a Dell motherboard fit into a standard ATX case?

Thanks in advance ^^

EDIT: I have a Dimension 8300

Message Edited by KillerSponge on 05-08-200609:56 AM

59 Posts

May 8th, 2006 14:00

 Hi Killer.  I have read, and been told, that the answer is no.  Dell uses a proprietary motherboard, along with some other components.  You would have to do some cutting and fabricating to make it fit.  Really more trouble than it's worth (in my opinion).  Of course, maybe you are more motivated than some of us :smileyvery-happy:!  Good luck with your decision, and let us know how you do.

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May 8th, 2006 17:00

Dell also has a proprietary front panel Power switch connection (undocumented) and another issue.

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May 8th, 2006 17:00

Aw, man. Ah well... No new case for me then. :(

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May 8th, 2006 19:00

KillerSponge
 
Both Dell motherboards and cases have proprietary features. You may have problems installing Dell motherboard into a ATX case, or an ATX motherboard into an Dell case.  

The rear IO panel may not line up correctly, so you could have to modify that.  Non-Dell cases and motherboards don't have the same front wiring connnectors that Dell use.

Dell uses a proprietary ribbon connector to the front panel, whereas standard ATX cases use Molex style connectors, you'll have to figure out how to rewire the front I/O panel and USB ports, because Dell has never published the details of the pin-outs.
 
You will require a new CPU fan, heatsink and motherboard retention bracket, because Dell's are proprietary units.
 
Bev.

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