Posted 12/19/2008 at 12:29:56am

Just got that case from NewEgg, waiting on a 500w 'earthwatts' PSU coming on another UPS shipment. This is for my first new PC build in 7 years, (had an eMachines then an Acer that I bumped the PSU, ram and video on in the mean time)

The 300 appears to be a nice but generic case. Won't draw attention, but looks pretty good. Some notes:

-Both side panels come off with thumbscrews but no removeable mobo tray. Side panel on my Acer is sturdier than these, they can flex a bit. despite the panel being able to be removed. No sharp edges from initial inspection.

-PSU installs at the bottom of case, preinstalled fans blow air out from top and high on rear of case. Can add a 120mm on the left panel grill to cool the video, and two 120mm fans to the lower front panel for more intake of air over the drive bays. Should have no issues with airflow on anything resembling a normal build.

-No 3.5" external bay, need an 5" to 3" adapter for a card reader. Has USB & audio connectors on front of case above 5.25" drive bays, cables may get in the way of drive trays when ejected. Tons of screws supplied, which are needed for securing drives. (i'm spoiled by tool-free locking of my Acer drive bays)

On first glance, I give it a thumbs up for a sedate but good looking case with room for lots of fans and hard drives. May be overkill for a $500-800 dollar rig, but allows plenty of room to expand. Could be better, but for the price seems fine.

Posted 11/28/2008 at 09:50:00pm

Great article. I've got friends doing overnight shifts and I was just thinking of a way to make DVDs from stuff I have on the PC for them to watch on porable players. Thanks!