Where Do the Extra PSU Cables Go?

Bulldog17

Distinguished
Sep 27, 2005
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I'd like to replace my OEM power supply. Replacement PSUs come with long cables, and my OEM (Dell) case is relatively small. Where does all the extra cable go?

I could buy a modular PSU, but there are more non-modular PSUs to choose from and they generally cost less.

I know that I can wrap the unused cables with a cable tie, but where do I stick that wrapped up bundle of cables? I can't just leave them hanging inside the case, can I? I have an unused drive bay in my case; perhaps I can tuck the cables there?

In addition, the motherboard and CPU cables are typically very long - where does all the slack go?

It's not simply a matter of neatness. I'm also concerned about not interfering with the airflow inside the case.
 

spdragoo

Splendid
Ambassador
Depending on the Dell model you have, you may not need to worry about it. Unless you've added a lot of extra cards inside, you should have plenty of space to coil them up over the PCI slots.

If space truly is at a premium, then either go for a PSU with short cables, or pony up the extra cash for a modular PSU. Personally, I think the modular would probably work out better, since you only need to plug in the cables you absolutely need.