Get the entire book!

One very handy feature that some cases include is front panel USB ports. This allows you to plug a USB device, such as a keychain drive, from the front of your computer. No more reaching around back to plug in your devices!

If your case includes these front panel USB ports you will have to connect them to the motherboard. Figure 3-27 shows the wire, from a front panel USB port, connected to the motherboard.

Figure 3-27: Connecting a Front Panel USB Port

Of course, if you choose to use a case that includes front panel UBS ports you must also purchase a motherboard that includes ports to connect the USB port. Most motherboards include this feature, but if this is an important feature for you, you might want to check the motherboard statistics to make sure USB connectors are provided.

The motherboard is now completely installed. Now lets examine some of the areas of the motherboard.