External Examination (continued):

I just mentioned that it appears that there are eleven 5.25" drive bays, but there are really only seven. With the drive bay covers removed, the 5.25" drive supports are visible. I like that there are drive supports, however during the installation I found that they are slightly larger than other drive supports. This caused an issue which I will discuss when I get to the installation portion of the review. There are no integrated 3.5" drive bays; you will need to use an adapter to install a 3.5" device.


It was mentioned that there are not many unusual features of the exterior of this case, but here is one major feature which impressed me. At the top of the case there is a little door which swings up and towards the back. Behind this door we find the standard front panel connections along with some rather new ones, all arranged in to two rows. The first row has a Firewire port, four USB 2.0 ports, a microphone jack, and a headphone jack. The second row only contains two e-SATA connections. Having four front USB 2.0 connections is a very nice addition; however the inclusion of two e-SATA ports is the most welcome addition. Never being completely satisfied, I'd like to see some form of power outlet up in this area.


Below the front ports are a few other items of interest. In the middle is a large X which acts as the power button. To the left of the X is a small HDD activity LED, and to the right of the X is a small reset button. While a little difficult to see in this picture, along the front edge of the case there are two blue spots which look like eyes.


While looking at the front connections, I noticed the top of the case looks quite similar to the front of the case. While the front of the case is a hinged door, the top is actually a sliding door. Sliding the top of the case to the back, reveals a little accessory tray. This tray can be removed so you can install the optional liquid cooling kit.