When constructing a computer, effective cable management is crucial. It not only maintains order, which is nice, but it also enhances ventilation within your case.
Keep in mind that you need thermally resistant cables because heat will inevitably build up within the casing. It’s a good thing that modern cables, particularly specifically computer connections, can tolerate temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees Celsius. To obtain equal airflow, it is still advised that you use good cable management strategies.
Everything you might possibly need to know about how to cable manage a Computer like a pro will be covered in this post, including:
- Items you ll need to make cable management smooth and easy
- A detailed step-by-step guide detailing how to actually do the managing
What Do You Need?
It may sound difficult to do this properly, but as long as you have the necessary equipment, it shouldn’t be. Keep in mind that there isn’t a single answer to your cable management problems. Because of this, the tools you’ll need can change slightly.
The items you’ll need are listed below:
- Zip Ties or Velcro Straps Some cases come with either Zip ties and/or Velcro straps pre-installed. However, it s likely that there won t be enough included. As such, regardless of which you decide to use, make sure you get some beforehand.
- Wire Cutters We only recommend wire cutters if you re going to use zip ties. And if you don t have one, forget about using a razor blade as you risk slicing your fingers (trust me, I made this mistake more than twice already). Instead, use some scissors, or even a pair of fingernail clippers.
- Anti-Static Wrist Strap You ll be touching hardware components when routing and managing your cables. They aren t exactly necessary, but a $5 anti-static wrist equipment is worth ensuring your computer that s worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
- Adhesive Cable Clamps These are optional, especially since cases in 2019 usually already have built-in cable management features. But considering how well they keep the cables tidy, why not?
- Philips #2 Screwdriver It s not necessary but we felt the need to include this since you ll probably need it to remove pre-installed components.
That is all, and if money is extremely tight, rubber bands, twist ties, or hair ties can work. But keep in mind that rubber bands will certainly dry out and brittle owing to heat and ordinary use. However, it shouldn’t be a problem for short-term use.
It s Time to Wrap Them Up!
Let’s first discuss cable management advice and things to consider before beginning before moving on to the actual processes.
By planning ahead, you may create a structure that will hold up for the next two to four years, or until you need to start upgrading. At the same time, it’s a technique to make sure you’re following instructions correctly.
Choose the Right Case
Not every computer case is made equally. While some examples are large, some are minor (or even smaller). A few cases are divided into two distinct sections. And glass window panels are common in many cases today.
If you’re a beginner builder (welcome to the truemaster race), spare yourself the bother and headache by purchasing a case with adequate cable routing holes and space for all the cables.
Check the distance between the motherboard tray and the back panel, which is more critical. You will undoubtedly need a larger case and a roomy rear panel to route your RGB lighting and huge CPU cooler if you intend to fill your case with both of these components.
Component Placement
From case to case, different components are arranged and placed. While some components, like as the HDD, SSD, and graphics card, can be inserted in various locations around the case, some components cannot be relocated after they have been put in place.
For this reason, it’s crucial to examine all of the routing holes in advance to determine which ones the computer wires will pass through. Experiment about with the placement such that the cord runs as much beneath the tray as possible.
What Type of Power Supply Should You Get?
The PSU is a key factor in computer cable management because it is where the majority of the cables inside the chassis originate. You can purchase one of three different types of power supplies:
- Non-modular power supply have every cable pre-attached and cannot be removed. These are usually the cheapest, but also the most cumbersome.
- Semi-modular power supply also referred to as the hybrid PSU. These have the main power cables 24-pin ATX cable, PCIe cable, and 8-pin CPU cable pre-attached and are unremovable. The rest of the peripheral cables are modular.
- Fully-modular power supply these PSUs let you remove everything, including cables that are essential to running the system.
Fully modular power supply are undoubtedly the best option. Nevertheless, because they are more expensive and may not be ideal for the arrangement you want, this isn’t always the best option for consumers (ie a cheap one).
A non-modular power supply is a great choice for novice builders. As a result, you can construct without worrying about which cables you need and which ones you don’t. But, keep in mind that this will make managing your wires more challenging.
For the majority of users, a semi-modular power supply is the best choice. Due to the lack of unnecessary wires, you can get optimum aircooling potential without having to spend a fortune.
Use the Right Type of ESD-Compliant Ties/Tape
Plastic zip ties are quite acceptable, however they can’t be used as often as straps, sleeves, combs, Velcro straps, and twist ties.
But, there is one consideration you must make when selecting ties to organise your cables: they must be ESD-compliant (electrostatic discharge compliant).
Knowing that ESD can damage hardware components makes it worthwhile to spend a little extra money on security on ESD-compliant ties and tape. Also, the majority of these cables come in a variety of colour schemes, giving you the choice to select one that matches your setup or theme.
Proper Steps to Managing Your Computer Wires
1. Unplug everything from the PC
Unplug your PC from the wall outlet if you intend to organise the cables inside your old computer. In order to make PC wire management easier, we even strongly advise that you unhook everything from inside the case.
2. Ground yourself with anti-static equipment
You will touch hardware components from beginning to end, as was already said. For this reason, we suggest a $5 anti-static wrist band as extra protection to safeguard your several hundred or even thousand dollar PC.
3. Open your case
Similar to most cases, pry the case open by removing the thumbscrews from the back and sliding the covers. In some circumstances, a Phillips #2 Screwdriver will be required to remove the bolts from the case.
4. Separate the cables into groups
If your power supply is non-modular, make sure to group and separate the wires you’ll need from the ones you won’t. You will subsequently find it simpler to manage PC cords as a result of this.
Check which cords you’ll be using if you’re using a semi-modular power supply, and organise your PC cable management in advance.
Simply pick what you need and check which holes the cables should be routed to if you’re using a completely modular power supply.
5. Gather all the cables you need first
Check which cables you’ll need first after grouping and separating all the cables.
6. Route the cables
Make sure the cables are not overly bent or twisted when routing them.
7. Plug the cables in
Make sure the wires aren’t obstructing the airflow inside before plugging them in.
8. Plug in accessories such as fans, case USB, and case audio
After connecting the principal connections, connect the other wires from the case fans, case USB, and case audio to the motherboard, being careful to avoid obstructing airflow or positioning the cables in danger.
9. Gather up all the excess cables
After plugging in all the cables, gather the extra ones and secure them using Velcro straps, zip ties, and wire cutters. Use sticky cable clamps to tidy up the extra cords if you have any.
10. Use ties to secure cables and connectors to prevent excessive movement
Once everything is secured, tuck the extra cables away in a secure location that is also well concealed from view. If required, use Velcro straps or zip ties.
What About the Outside Cables?
The idea behind using zip ties and Velcro straps to organise the cables on your desk is the same. As an alternative, wrapping all of your cables in a spiral will keep them all together and out of sight.
Wrapping it Up
You must be patient if you wish to manage your Computer cords properly. Yet, if you follow the appropriate procedure as described above, you should be able to accomplish wiring that is both front and back that is uncluttered.
There are several wireless gaming peripherals now available online if you absolutely want a wire-free setup. Today’s wireless keyboards and mouse operate on par with or even better than cable peripherals than they did five years ago.