How Cable and Wire Management Affects Aesthetics and Performance - Tip 3: Short, Direct and Fewer Cables
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People always whine about cables being too short or being too long. The length of the cables is a very important factor that must not be overlooked. People tend to think longer is better than shorter. This mindset is perhaps okay, because at least you can set up your cables and wires. But I've heard a lot of people complain that their PSU came with overly long cables and such. It's very annoying when you literally can't do anything; you can't hide your cables because of their length.
Case fan cables are best organized and covered in heat shrinks but often should be of a custom length. If you don't feel like modding and building your own custom cables then don't look further than a computer shop that specializes in custom length cables. You just measure the necessary lengths exactly, tell them what you need and they will build those cables for you. When you route your cables always keep in mind that you want the shortest but clearest route towards the target. If there is something in the way then just make your way near/around it. Also look around at the rest of your case; if you have two or more different cables going to the same destination, tape them. That helps get the job done easier.
I've noticed that there are some "tips" over the Web; for example, to route cables and wires behind a motherboard's tray. Even if this is possible with your setup I wouldn't advise it without being very cautious. There is not much space behind a motherboard to hide your cables. Plus, the motherboard's back is full of small solder points which are sharp and can very easily penetrate your wires, ultimately resulting in a defective cable that can make contact and short-circuit something --screwing up your whole system. Also, there is already limited airflow between the motherboard's back and the case. So be aware of the issues.
As an addition to the above discussion, you can still use the technique, especially if you're cautious and you know what you're doing. For example, you could pick up some plastic-like bolts which would function as motherboard risers, ultimately resulting in much more space between the motherboard and the case. If you need to use more risers then you can use a dremel to make holes on your case to fit those risers. In this way you can route your cables and be safe.
No, let me ask you something: do you have a floppy disk drive inside your computer? If yes then how often do you use it? If the answer is never or almost never then you don't need it. I don't want to persuade you to remove your old floppy drive but if you seriously don't need it then do so. Don't be lazy about removing it. You will get rid of its ribbon cables also. Less cable is always such a relief.
We can't forget about extension cables either. Check out your local shops for power supply lead extensions and also whatever else you might need to extend.
Next: Tip 4: Cable Caddies >>
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