Conclusion:
Software based fan controllers seem like a great idea, but work needs to be done to refine various aspects. The
Sunbeamtech Theta TP-101 device shows great potential, as it has the hardware portion well designed to be able to control up to 8 fans and monitor up to 8 thermal probes. You'd be hard pressed to find many people to complain about the number of channels this thing offers, considering most hardware based controllers handle somewhere between 2 and 7 fans.
The software has a decent layout, although it does not appear to be particularly modern (the install portion was a bit reminiscent of Windows 98). I had minor issues when initially trying to set up the software, but I can't say I haven't experience similar things with other USB devices.The ability to skin the software is a nice touch, and including 4 skins allows people to select the style that best suites their tastes.
The general operation of the software worked as it should, and it appears that the hardware/software interface was fairly well done. The problems generally arise when you throw the Theta TP-101 something out of the ordinary.
Unplugging the USB cable and having all of the fans stop was quite an unpleasant surprise. The power is being supplied by the 4-pin Molex connector, which was still connected, so some sort of logic needs to be worked out that turns all fans to full speed instead of off. The issue with closing the software and losing control of the device once it was restarted was also frustrating. Say you turned off a fan accidentally and then closed the software, or perhaps the software crashed. To not be able to restart that fan, despite restarting the software is not a very comforting thought.
The one issue that occurred during normal operation involved turning the speed down to around 50% of full power. The resulting speed surges were undesirable, and something I hadn't experienced with a hardware (resistive) fan controller. Although LED fans may have flickering lights at lower speeds, the pulsing as shown in the move clip was new (and annoying).
The Theta TP-101 isn't readily available for purchase just yet, but keep your eye out for it to show up at the usual places sometime soon. As with most
Sunbeamtech products, expect the price to be pretty attractive. Perhaps by the time you see the Theta TP-101 available in stores we will also see a new revision to the software.
Overall I give the
Sunbeamtech Theta TP-101 Fan Controller a final score of 3.5 out of 5 stars, based on the potential the device has. I am hopeful there will be software updates that will continue to improve the device, and eventually we might see something worthy of a much higher score.
Final Rating (3.5 out of 5 stars):
Pros:
• Great concept
• Easy installation
• Control 8 fans and monitor 8 thermal probes
• Software has a nice, customizable interface
Cons:
• Disconnecting USB cable turns off all fans!
• Shutting down software removes control even when restarted
• Lower speed settings result in an unsteady fan speed
Special thanks to
Sunbeamtech for providing the Theta TP-101 Fan Controller to BigBruin.Com for review!
