Noobie Questions: Building a *Very* Custom Case

[BukkY]

I am new to case modding, new to PCs even, being a long time mac user.
I want to build hot XP box for games and a few programs not available on
mac. Please help me build the case of my dreams for my *future* custom
PC. I'll post a picture of it here when I'm done.

I plan to find any old ATX case, rip the plastic sides off, and build my cust-
om case around the metal frame. I have a vision for the way the case will
look. It will be built entirely from thick metal and look really mean. I have
some metalworker friends who can help.

My custom case will take much time and money to make. This is why it
needs to be as upgradeable as possible and I also want to make it right the
first time.

I have most of the details planed out but what I need to know now is this.
((1)) If I put a mother board in my stripped down metal "frame", then build
the case so that it has the proper opening in the back for the PCI slots and
such. Now if I replace the mobo with an newer motherboard later will the
opening in the back still be right?

((2)) Also should I be picky about the case I start with (to use the metal
frame). Do most cases some with power supplies? Will every power supply
have the power plug in the same place? See I'm familiar with the parts and
most the terminology but have never built a machine being a mac dude
most my life.

Any other tips would be well appreciated. I gather people here are fans of
Asus mobo's and Athlon64s


Thanks,
-Bukk

 

[DrPizza]

Probably the best tip I can provide: Try the cases and modding forum... look at the links to the left.
You'll probably find more knowledgeable people in there.

 

[Calin]

Some cases have a replaceable metal shield, and mainboards with "non-standard" connectors usually come with their own metal shields.
Also, power supplies have a standard opening, with place for the power plug, and place for the 4 screws.

 

[Howard]

You are planning to put something over the back, too? If not, you can just leave the stamped steel back panel.

To answer your question, though, all ATX mobos [should] adhere to the ATX spec, which allows the use of any ATX motherboard in an ATX chassis.