8mm Forum: COMPUTER QUESTION

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Posted by Chip Gelmini (Member # 44) on May 07, 2009, 07:19 PM:

I'm going to ask this question even though it might be a dumb one. Because I'd like to be safe rather than sorry.

I have a small Tower based computer similiar to the E Machines model EL-1210-09 (google that for picture). Although it is designed as a smaller sized tower, it would actually be better at my setup if it was horizontal, rather than vertical.

My question is, would this be safe for the pc, motherboard, and other interior pieces.

We know a Tower is designed to be vertical likewise. But is it safe to lay it down. I've considered that it only has rubber feet on the bottom, and not on the side. But really, ins't that because it's supposed to stand up? I can build something to hold it laying down. I just want to know I won't kill the pc if I do this.

Thanks for any support.

CG

Posted by Osi Osgood (Member # 424) on May 07, 2009, 09:39 PM:

Thats a good question, Chip.

On one side of the argument, as long as the any air-holes (for ventilation, as all PC's kick up a lot of heat) are not blocked, it may be safe.

However, Laying it sideways could interfere with the performance of the CD, DVD drives.

As you said, if they design it to sit straight up, its probably best that it stays that way.

Posted by Christopher Way (Member # 1328) on May 09, 2009, 11:45 AM:

I have tried this in the past for reasons of space. Although the PC itself works fine, ie, motherboards, cards etc, and as long as you keep fan and ventilation holes open. However, it does cause problems for the DVD drives etc as pointed out, such as drag, or slip.

The newer smaller desktops which have side on drivers are designed for this with more stabilisers etc.

Regards, Chris

Posted by Martin Jones (Member # 1163) on May 09, 2009, 12:29 PM:

Chip,
If you need to reduce the height by turning a "tower" on it's side, have you considered re-casing it into a "desktop" case?
"Desktop" cases are not expensive, and accept most motherboards etc. The internal components have standard dimensions, so either style of case can be used.
Talk to your local "real" computer shop, or your local "Nerd". I built my own recently and horizontal layout was a requirement.

Martin

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