Some basic case questions

[HansBbans]

Hi,
two really quick questions on cases from a newbie currently shopping for a case for a new rig.

1. On certain cases, there are front access usb/firewire ports? how exactly does this work? do i need to get additoinal cables/wires?

2. is it a hassle to put extra case fans in after putting in the normal components? Or should i just get it over with and due it in the beginning.

Thanks for all your help.

 

[SuperPickle]

The front USB ports are connected to a header on the motherboard (pins). Many boards come with this port/cable combo thing but I can only assume cases that have this feature would also be equipped, although I've never bought one like this, so I can't say for sure.

As far as fan install timing. It's a personal preferece and it would probably depend on the specific case. I like to install in the order of:
PSU--mobo--fans--drives--cards just so I can cleanly route the cables. This is only my oppinion though...it really doesn't make that big of a difference.

 

[farmercal]

Just bought an Antec 1080B case with this feature and the wires are already connected to the ports ready to be plugged into the motherboard. As far as the fans are concerned before or after makes little difference when you are talking about a case with plenty of room like the 1080 but with a case with little room to maneuver might warrant mounting the fans first. I haven't put my new system together yet (waiting on XP chip and hard drive) but I have mounted all the case fans. One intake fan is located in front of where my hard drive will mount but since my hard bay comes out by just moving a lever, installing it later would not been a problem. I also have a Fong Kai 320B and putting fans in that case was quite bit more work and a little tricky for the font one. I hope this helps you out. Sorry about lengthy reply.