does anyone know if you can put a normal atx mainboard into a desktop case or do you have to get a special mainboard to fit

dont quote me on it, but may or may not depending on the desktop case. the branded PCs (like ibm, hp, dell) use different screws location on the motherboard to the case.

will not be a branded case:D

if the case is ATX, then no problems. ATX motherboard will need ATX PSU as well.

:D