Gateway Parts

Can I use an old HP tower to build a new computer?

I'm interested in building a computer. I have an old HP tower laying around. Can I just use that case instead of buying a new one? And can I use any of its other parts??

Public Comments

1. Yes, you could use the old HP tower case, about the parts, the one that's most likely to be still usable is the harddrive, because most new models doesn't support old peripherals anymore. for more help visit my website.. www.pcsolutionsexpert.com
2. You can build a computer around that case; although, the operating system registration key must be intact for you to use the current hard drive. you should also find a computer shop that can help you get it up and running after you put all the parts together. DO NOT USE BEST BUY ! Use a private computer business they will know how to do this without confusion or added expense.
3. Hi there, Of course you can use your old HP tower but you probably will not like the results. Or all the extra work involved to modify it for todays newer motherboards and ports. A new case only costs $40- to $50- for one with all the right equipment on it. My suggestion is to start with a barebones kit like the one in the link below. My experience: I wanted to use an old computer case that I had but the power supply was too small (and old) also it had no front USB ports and no Firewire (1394) ports in front either. The optical drive was a CD reader so I could not use that and I would have had to drill holes for the motherboard standoffs. Besides that the fan opening was only 80 mm (and I wanted a 120 mm fan) plus the main cutout in the back would not have matched the ports on any new motherboard. My advice; buy a barebones kit. You will be happy you did. Al
4. I have several times. You may be able to reuse the hard drive, optical drives and possibly the power supply. This will depend on the new components you choose. The one snag is with the front panel connections. Most likely the HP power switch and any jacks or LED lights will need to be adapted to connect to the new motherboard. This can be done.