Dave Perry <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
> My question to the list concerns ATX cases. I've only built two computers
> so far, both of them were AT form factor. It looks as if I may get the
> opportunity to build a Pentium II soon and as they require an ATX board and
> ATX Case I was wondering whether anyone has any tips or tricks in using
> these cases. Are construction techniques radically different to AT
> building. I've heard that you need to take of the front cover of an ATX
> case. Is this true. Is it difficult. I intend using Chenbro Value cases if
> that makes any difference to anyone.

I just finished putting together two P-II 400 systems this last weekend. These
are the first slot 1 / ATX systems I have done (I have put together many AT /
socket 7 systems before).

Everything went very smoothly. I used Abit BX6 motherboards, with boxed P-II
400Mhz processors and an AGP video card. The Case was by Evercase. I was
impressed by the ease of installation. The MB screws to inserts that are slid
into case. This is different than what I was used to for AT style cases where
you screw standoffs into the case. I like this new style better, it seems to
support the MB much better.

Everything came up perfectly the first time. Windows 98 installed without a
hitch. One system has a scanner, I chose the Agfa 1212u USB scanner. This WAS
truly plug 'n play, in that I plugged in the scanner, Windows 98 recognized it
right away, and asked for the driver CD. The scanner works perfectly. I also
used Creative Modem Blaster modems, which also was 100% PnP. It was so PnP in
fact, that when I originally installed the modem, and it came up as com3 (I/O
3E8) IRQ 5 automatically (no conflicts), but later realized some software (old
DOS mode program) would only work on com2, so I removed the modem from control
panel, turned off the onboard com2 port in the CMOS, then rebooted. The modem
automatically re-configured as com2, and all is well.

Overall, I think these were the easiest systems I ever put together.


--
Russ Poffenberger               Engineering Specialist
Schlumberger Technologies ATE   DOMAIN: [log in to unmask]
1601 Technology Drive
San Jose, Ca. 95110             Voice: (408)437-5254  FAX: (408)437-5246

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