With all of the efforts made by manufacturers to introduce unique and interesting computer cases, it sometimes looks like they may be running out of ideas. Sure, cases aren't all clones of the beige box any more, but many of the budget oriented, pre-modded cases look the same from one source to another. The Codegen Group is one company coming out with inexpensive cases that actually manage to have a new look, and one of their latest offerings definitely fits this bill. The Codegen Group Briza-97 Mid Tower ATX Case is shown in the promotional image below, and it will be the subject of this review.
The Briza-97 case was provided for review by ClubIT.com, which may be a new name to even the most experienced online shopper. ClubIT.com is a new online retailer, having just opened their doors in the summer of 2005. They have a sharp website that is easy to navigate, and offer competitive pricing on a countless number of the latest and greatest in IT components. For example, the Briza-97 case to be reviewed is available from ClubIT.com for $47.99 with free shipping through the end of September. Free shipping is actually available on everything they sell through the end of September and then it continues on all items over $50 through the end of the October!
For a little more background information on ClubIT.com, here is a blurb from their "About" page:
"ClubIT strives to be the store of first choice for IT products by offering the most compelling combination of selection, value, service and convenience."
Consider yourself introduced, and let's get on with the review of the Codegen Group Briza-97...
Features and Specifications (taken from the Codegen Group website):
• Intel 775 socket Ready. ( 20+4 Pin)
• Extremely Cool Design.
• Perfect for Gamer and Enthusiast.
• Extremely quiet and excellent cooling.
• Model: Briza-97-CA
• Type: Mid Tower Case
• Motherboard: Micro ATX & Extended ATX (P4 Ready)
• Power Supply: 400W Fcc / cUL with 12cm Fan (20+4 Pin Socket 775 Ready)
• 5.25" Drive Bays: 4
• 3.5" Drive Bays: 1
• 3.5" Hidden: 4
• Expansion Slots: 7
• Side Open: 10,000 Vent Hole Side Panel with Air-Duct.
• I/O Interface: USB 2.0 x 2, Mic x 1, Aux x 1
• Cooling Fans:
• Front: 8cm x1 Blue LED (Included)
• Side: 8cm x1 Blue LED (included)
• Rear: 8cm x1 (Included)
• Top: 8cm x1 Blue LED (Included)
• Dimensions (DxWxH): 19.49" x 7.68" x 16.93"
From the details above, you can see that you not only get the case, but also a 400W power supply with a 24-pin motherboard connection, cooled by a single 12cm fan. Sounds promising, and as though this case has the latest systems in mind, as well as users desiring a quiet computer.
Another thing you will note is that the system comes with a cooling fan pre-installed in the front, back, top, and side of the case. Many cases today provide the mounting points for a fan, but cut corners a little and leave it up to you to populate those locations with your own fans. Although it is nice to see 4 fans included (3 of which are LED models), it is a bit of a downer to see that they are all 8cm models, considering how popular 12cm fans are now, and that the PSU actually has a 12cm fan.
