The desktop chassis (or case) is a horizontal housing which holds the internal components of the computer's system unit. It is meant to rest on a desk top and usually supports the |monitor|. Components of the chassis can include one or two disk drive bays, activity lights, air vents, the power switch, a chassis lock, and sometimes turbo and reset buttons. Desktop cases come in several sizes and shapes. The early, smaller XT style case, and the later, AT style case which is larger and has more drive bays.
The desktop chassis usually is slid open by removing the back panel retaining screws and sliding the housing forward. This reveals the horizontal array of internal components. Other cases open as a clam's shell or automobile hood, with the top of the chassis folding up to allow access to the inside.
