Video Perspective: Corsair Obsidian 550D case with unique features and $149 price

Subject: Cases and Cooling, Shows and Expos | January 10, 2012 - 08:26 PM | Ryan Shrout
Tagged: video, obsidian, corsair, CES, 550d

Corsair had a handful of new items on display at CES 2012, the most interesting of which to me was the new Obsidian 550D case that will be available in the next 3-4 weeks with a $149 price tag.  It offers the same cable routing system we are used to seeing on Corsair designs but adds an interesting twist with a dual-hinged front panel door and magnetic air intake filters.

PC Perspective's CES 2012 coverage is sponsored by MSI Computer.

Follow all of our coverage of the show at http://pcper.com/ces!

AMD Shows Off Trinity APU Die And Trinity Powered Notebook

Subject: Cases and Cooling, Processors | January 10, 2012 - 08:13 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: VLIW-4, trinity, piledriver, CES, APU, amd

Today at CES, the Consumer Electronics Show, we got to see a demonstration by AMD of an AMD powered computer running dual monitors. Only, it was not just a dual monitor pushing desktop computer. In a surprise twist, AMD took the side panel off of the desktop computer to reveal that it was actually a laptop computer using their next generation AMD Trinity APU that was driving the game on one display, and the windows desktop on the other display. Even more, on the laptop screen itself, it was playing a 720p video.

Here you can see the two displays that the Trinity powered laptop was driving with Dirt 3 on the left monitor and the Windows desktop on the right one where a video conversion was happening in the background. AMD did not get into any details regarding the transcode, however.

This is the "desktop" computer case that they opened up to reveal that it was, in fact, a Trinity laptop that was driving all the displays.

A die shot of the upcoming Trinity APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) sitting next to a USB flash drive. Specifications of the Trinity APUs have not yet been released by AMD; however, if this leak holds true the Trinity APUs will have either two or four Piledriver CPU cores and TDP (thermal design power) of 65 W, 100 W, and 125 Watts (depending on particular chip). Clock speeds will further vary between 2.2 and 3.8 GHz at stock speeds (will run a bit faster with Turbo Core 3.0). The GPU aspect will be clocked between 563 MHz and 711 MHz and is based on the VLIW4 technology of the Cayman graphics Cards (69xx). They estimate that it will deliver up to 30% more performance versus current Llano chips and will support all the fancy new X86 instruction sets like AVX and AES-NI. A nice boost and hopefully the real specifications will come close to this (or be even better, of course).

Update: Another interesting bit of information is that AMD will have a low power Trinity APU with a TDP of 17 watts and will supposedly deliver the same level of performance as the current Llano chips (that draw twice the power).

Update:  AMD has stated Trinity will deliver a 25% increase in CPU performance and a 50% increase in GPU performance versus current Llano APUs.  Stay tuned to PC Perspective for more Trinity info as it develops.

PC Perspective's CES 2012 coverage is sponsored by MSI Computer.

Follow all of our coverage of the show at http://pcper.com/ces!

CES 2012: EVGA parties like it's socket 2011 in Viva Las Vegas. Dual-socket SR-X mobo, UV Plus+ 39 video out for USB3, PSUs

Subject: General Tech, Motherboards, Cases and Cooling, Shows and Expos | January 10, 2012 - 07:22 PM | Scott Michaud
Tagged: evga, CES 2012, CES

There are most commonly three types of booths in CES: a display of one or more new and innovative products to hope to blaze their very own trail, a display of one or more intriguing iterations on existing product lines, or a display of some sort of pasta or alcoholic beverage. This year EVGA appears to fit mostly into the middle category; I hear they make good chips, however. The three major iterations this year quite possibly could not be more diverse: a new dual-socket Xeon motherboard, new power supplies, and an update to their UV Plus+ USB video adapter.

There’s something ironic about HDMI and DVI products by EVGA.

Dual-Socket 2011 SR-X Xeon motherboard

Not to be outdone by their old pizza box-sized components, EVGA announced their new SR-X motherboard to bring a product like the SR-2 to socket 2011. This time around they retain their 12 DIMM slots update their PCI-E slots to the third generation with 4-way SLI possible. You can also expect 8 SAS/SATA ports to connect a large number of hard drives at 6Gbps to your computer. It is clear that EVGA has aimed this PC motherboard at enthusiasts who want what they want and have the credit to get it.

1500W, 1000W, 750W power supplies

EVGA has made a few power supplies in the past so why not add a few more products to their portfolio? Partially pictured above is the 1000W unit that can provide 82A over the 12V rail -- which should be useful to pair with a Quad-SLI SR-X rig; and if not, there’s the 1500W one with a stated “customizable number of 12V rails” whatever that actually means.

UV Plus+ 39 video out by USB 3.0

The general masses regularly ask for methods to connect their computers to their HDTV through their USB ports and are routinely shocked to find that it is not a simple cable solution. Ponder that, USB cannot do everything… or can it? EVGA updated their UV Plus+ 19 with their UV Plus+ 39 to add support for dual-monitor output and USB3.0 for higher bandwidth, though USB 2.0 is still supported. There is no word on whether the maximum resolution would be reduced in dual-monitor mode. If you are worried about graphics acceleration over a USB device, the driver created links to your real video card thus you still have access to your GPU for processing.

Now we just need to find out about their video cards.

PC Perspective's CES 2012 coverage is sponsored by MSI Computer.

Follow all of our coverage of the show at http://pcper.com/ces!

ThermalTake at CES 2012

Subject: Cases and Cooling | January 9, 2012 - 04:06 PM | Josh Walrath
Tagged: thermaltake, Power Supplies, Keyboards, headphones, CES 2012, CES, cases

Last year at CES, ThermalTake had a rather sparse room of equipment to show off.  This year, the room was much fuller in terms of new and interesting products.   ThermalTake is a company that is not afraid to jump into new categories, and in this case we are seeing two areas that are a bit foreign to most PC enthusiasts.

ThermalTake was one of the first companies that did not have a background in power supplies to actually move into that industry.  The first series of power supplies were actually quite impressive for the time, and they helped to set a new standard that would eventually be followed by the likes of Coolermaster and Corsair.  This year they are introducing some improvements in their design and component choices that should allow them to approach the quality and features of industry leaders like Silverstone and Corsair.  ThermalTake has the Platinum series which promises up to 93% efficiency and the platinum rating.  They are also offering slightly lower gold rated supplies that are now available in white.  ThermalTake is a rather fluid company when it comes to products though, and it will be interesting to see what actually gets delivered to market vs. what all was shown.  We will see the Platinum series and the white products, but some details may change as well as differences in cable choices.  They did show off the massive 1475 watt unit which is also able to power your arc welder...

Read more about this visit here.

PC Perspective's CES 2012 coverage is sponsored by MSI Computer.

Follow all of our coverage of the show at http://pcper.com/ces!

MSI Launches Military Inspired Interceptor Computer Case Series

Subject: Cases and Cooling | January 7, 2012 - 07:08 PM | Tim Verry
Tagged: msi, cases, atx, interceptor, raptor, CES

It seems to be "Diversification Season" here in the tech world, as Vizio adds computers to their portfolio and now MSI, a company most well known for motherboards and graphics cards, is launching a series of computer cases. The new MSI cases have a military inspired theme and have been dubbed the Interceptor Series. Currently, there are two mid tower ATX form factor cases in the lineup including the Raptor and Nighthawk.

Both the Nighthawk and Raptor cases are constructed of black steel , have included ball-bearing fans, and plenty of ventilation, tool-less drive bays and expansion slots, and a three year manufacturer's warranty. Also, both cases have seven expansion slots and can accommodate graphics cards up to 12.2" in length.

The Raptor is the least flashy of the two, though it still manages to look nice. The side panel has a large mesh ventilation area over the CPU and VRM area. Meanwhile, the front of the case features a blue LED fan behind a mesh grill with MSI logo, and supports three 5.25" drive bays. Further, the case comes with a 12-in-1 card reader accessible on the front panel as well as two USB ports, 1 USB 3.0 port and two audio ports (mic and headphone). Last up, the case is ready for water cooling radiators and has a bottom mounted PSU rack.

The Raptor

If the Raptor is the little brother, the Nighthawk is the big guns and the case is definitely more flashy in its military theme inspiration. The side panel has a larger mesh grill that breaks out of the case and has what may resemble bullet holes throughout. The front panel is more stylized as well with a large mesh grill minus logos to facilitate the most airflow with a blue LED fan behind it. The front panel support three USB 2.0 ports, 1 USB 3.0 port, and two audio jacks for microphone and headphones. This case also has the 12-in-1 card reader and the front of the case can hold up to four 5.25" drives. The case is a bit taller than the raptor and has larger feet so it sits higher off of the ground. MSI claims the case is ready to roll with liquid cooling solutions as well.

The Nighthawk

MSI says that the cases will be available for purchase by the end of December in North America. The Nighthawk has an MSRP of $79.99 while the Raptor has an MSRP of $59.99. Not a bad start, MSI. The cases may yet be something that Ryan and the crew will be able to see first-hand at CES.

PC Perspective's CES 2012 coverage is sponsored by MSI Computer.

Follow all of our coverage of the show at http://pcper.com/ces!

Cooler Master's fully controllable Silent Pro Hybrid 850W PSU

Subject: Cases and Cooling | January 4, 2012 - 02:18 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Silent Pro Hybrid 850W, PSU, modular psu, cooler master, 80 gold

Cooler Master's new Silent Pro Hybrid 850W PSU differs somewhat from your average PSU.  Like many it is fully modular and uses a single 12V rail which is becoming common for high wattage PSUs.  The 80+ Gold rating is a little rarer but what really makes it stand out is a faceplate that acts as a fan controller.  The controller allows a variety of speeds to be set for the PSU fan as well as three system fans and can even switch the PSU into fanless mode to make this PSU truly silent.  Guru3D put the PSU through its paces and were truly impressed by this ~$200 PSU, see why in the full review.

If you are looking for a little less power, Lee just wrapped up his review of the Corsair TX550M and TX750M PSUs.

"Cooler Master launched the new Cooler Master Silent Pro Hybrid PSU series. The end result as such is enticing alright, a very nice power supply rates 80+ gold, that comes with a modular design and one big massive 12V rail, which we all like so very much. Carrying a 80+ Gold certification (90% efficiency at typical load) , being modular, with included fan controller and having good looks yeah the Silent Pro Hybrid promises to be an excellent product series."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Thermaltake Smart 730W @ Funky Kit
• Corsair Professional Series Gold AX 650 W @ techPowerUp
• NZXT HALE82 650W Power Supply Review @ OCIA
• FSP Aurum CM 650w PSU @ XSReviews
• Super Flower GOLDEN GREEN 1000W @ RealworldLabs
• Rosewill HIVE 650 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• nermax Platimax 1200W Power Supply Review @ Real World Labs
• XFX ProSeries 1250W @ Tweaktown
• Thermaltake Toughpower XT Platinum 1275 W @ techPowerUp
• NZXT HALE82 750 Watt Power Supply @ Pro-Clockers
• Enermax MAXREVO 1350W @ OC3D
• Enermax Revolution87+ 850W Power Supply Review @ HardwareHeaven
• Thermaltake Dr. Power II Power Supply Tester Review @ ThinkComputers

Cooler Master invents a new form factor to handle their monstrous new Cosmos II Ultra enclosure

Subject: Cases and Cooling | January 3, 2012 - 02:25 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: cooler master, Cosmos II Ultra

Cooler Master has released the second version of their COSMOS case, which has grown so much larger in all dimensions that Cooler Master has decided to call it an Ultra tower.  The size has also increased the air capabilities of the case with larger and more numerous fans as well as providing space and tools for a bottom mounted reservoir.  They also focused on cable management features which makes sense when there are 13 drive bays in total.  The size of this case will accept XL-ATX motherboards, multiple GPUs of up to 15.1" and even extra long PSUs.  The only thing that Legit Reviews felt was lacking with the case were casters to move the 50lb monster.

For more visually focused individuals you can catch a video of Ryan reviewing the Corsair Carbide 500R and 400R cases.

"At first glance the COSMOS II looks very similar to the original case as it has the top and bottom rails still, but beyond that it is very different. For one thing it is bigger in all dimensions with the original Cosmos at 10.47"(W) x 23.54"(H) x 24.72" (D) but the new and improved Cosmos II Ultra Tower stands a whopping 13.5"(W) x 27.7"(H) x 26.1"(D). This is larger than most cases classified as a Full Tower which is why Cooler Master came up with the Ultra Tower category..."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Cooler Master Cosmos II Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Cooler Master Cosmos II @ Guru3D
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Ultra Tower Review @ OCC
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Ultra Tower Case Review @ Ninjalane
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Ultra PC Case @ Pro-Clockers
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Ultra Tower Case Review @ Hardware Canucks
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Computer Case @ Benchmark Reviews
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Review @ Neoseeker
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Ultra Tower @ Tweaktown
• Cooler Master Cosmos 2 @ OC3D
• Cooler Master Cosmos II Case Launch Review @ HardwareHeaven
• Cooler Master Cosmos II @ Kitguru
• SilverStone Precision PS07: Temjin For Less? @ AnandTech
• Thermaltake Level 10 GT Snow Edition @ TechwareLabs
• NZXT Phantom 410 Case @ Rbmods
• NZXT Phantom Case Review @ OCC
• In Win BUC 101 Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Danger Den Q20 Black Series "Shadow" Acrylic Chassis @ Tweaktown
• NZXT Phantom 410 Mid-Tower Case @ Bjorn3D
• Bitfenix Raider Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• EXUS Prominent R Silent ATX Mid Tower @ Bjorn3D
• Anidées AI-6 chassis @ Guru3D
• Antec P280 Performance One Case Review @ Ninjalane
• Antec Kuhler H2O 620 Liquid CPU cooler @ Funky Kit
• Zalman CNPS11X Cpu Cooler @ Rbmods
• Noctua NH-D14 CPU Cooler Review @ circuitREMIX

Fractal Design thinks small with their Define Mini MicroATX Tower

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 15, 2011 - 01:00 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: fractal design, Define Mini, MicroATX, SFF

SPCR has reviewed a case for those designing mATX cases, a shrunken version of the Fractal Design Define R3, the Define Mini.  The case is 210mm x 395mm x 490mm (8.3" x 15.5" x19.3") and places the PSU at the bottom which in this case made add stability to the design.  Careful attention was paid to the acoustical qualities of the case, with the stock fans cooling the system it produced 16dBa which should easily be drowned out by background noise.  Even in such a small case there is still room for six easy-to-access hard drives, six large fans, large CPU heatsinks, long graphics cards and the cable management holes will help make your build tidy.  No wonder this case received a recommendation from Silent PC Review.

"The Fractal Design Define Mini is a smaller version of the popular Define R3. It might just be the answer to those looking for a solid microATX tower with all the trappings and conveniences of a modern ATX case."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Streacom FC5 OD & Streacom ST-150WP @ techPowerUp
• Antec Solo II @ XSReviews
• Antec Eleven Hundred Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Diablotek Legend Computer Case Review @ TechwareLabs
• Raidmax Seiran Mid-Tower Computer Case @ Benchmark Reviews
• NZXT Tempest 210 @ techPowerUp
• Antec Eleven Hundred Mid Tower Gaming Case Review @ ThinkComputers
• Rosewill Blackhawk-Ultra HPTX Computer Case @ Benchmark Reviews
• Case Labs MAGNUM M8 Case Review @ Legit Reviews
• ATX System Cases from Ascot, InWin and Scythe @ X-bit Labs
• BitFenix Merc Alpha @ Computing on Demand
• Antec Kuhler 620 WC kit @ XSReviews
• octua Focus Flow 120mm NF-F12 PWM Fan Review @ Legit Reviews
• Noctua NF-F12 PWM Fan Review @ Hi Tech Legion
• Noctua NF-F12 PWM 120mm Fan @ Funky kit
• NZXT Havik 140 Cooler Review @ Tweaknews
• Coolermaster Hyper 612S cooler @ Hardwareoverclock
• 4-Way Aftermarket CPU Cooler Roundup @ Techspot
• Thermalright Macho CPU Cooler Review @ Hardware Secrets
• NZXT HAVIK 120 CPU Cooler @ Tweaktown

Another unfortunately named PSU from SilverStone; the fanless 500W ST50NF

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 12, 2011 - 05:19 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: Silverstone, Nightjar ST50NF, Fanless Power Supply

SilverStone have updated their NightJar series with a new model, the ST50NF, which is a 500W PSU that relies on passive cooling and so operates in complete silence.  With a claimed 80 Plus Silver rating this PSU is perfect for mid-range systems and servers, which you either need to operate silently or to use in dirty environments where fans can bring in enough dirt to cause shorts.  The design challenges that SilverStone faced when developing this PSU is obvious in its $200 price tag, which may discourage some.  [H]ard|OCP takes a good look at the newest NightJar from SilverStone here.

"SilverStone is back on our test bench today with a fully silent and fanless 500 watt computer power supply that is making some very impressive "Silver" efficiency claims. Beyond that, terms like "noiseless," "dusty environments," and "mission-critical" are thrown around. Now to figure out what a "Nightjar" is."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Enermax Platimax 1000W Super Overclock Edition Power Supply Review @ Hi Tech Legion
• NZXT Hale82 850W @ Kitguru
• NZXT HALE82 850W Power Supply Review @ Real World Labs
• Huntkey X7 900 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Be Quiet! Straight Power E9 580W @ kitguru
• XFX ProSeries 1000W @ Tweaktown
• Thermaltake Dr Power II PSU Tester Review @ Ninjalane

Do you agree these are the top 3 cases of 2011

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 9, 2011 - 12:18 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: roundup, corsair, thermaltake, cubitek

2011 has been a busy year for enclosures with an enormous amount of models hitting the stores, ranging from the bare bones $50 case to impressively engineered high end cases costing over $200.  Some new players have expanded their lines and the older players have been putting those years of design experience to good work.  Think Computers has winnowed the long list of cases they've reviewed this year down to the top three models of 2011.  As you have probably guessed, the Thermaltake Level 10 GT is indeed on the list but you will have to follow the link to find out the other two cases.

"It is December now and that means the end of the year is upon us. This past year we have reviewed quite a few products, but I think we have reviewed cases the most. Cases are such an important part of your system, it is the first thing someone looks at when you are at a LAN party. We have decided to make a list of the best cases of 2011. Keep in mind these are drawn from cases that we have reviewed so if you do not see a case in this list that is why. Read on to see what our favorite cases from 2011 were."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Xigmatek Midgard II @ techPowerUp
• Antec SOLO II Mid-Tower Chassis Review @ Techgage
• Lian Li's PC-A05FN: Alternative Thinking at a $99 Price Point @ AnandTech
• Thermaltake Spacecraft VF-I PC Case Review @ Real World Labs
• Thermaltake Commander MS-I USB 3.0 @ techPowerUp
• Cooler Master Storm Trooper Full Tower Case Review @ Legit Reviews
• Cooler Master Storm Trooper Case @ techspot
• Maingear EPIC 180 Liquid CPU Cooler @ Tweaktown
• Mounting a LGA1366 waterblock on a LGA2011 Motherboard @ Ninjalane
• Thermal Compound Roundup - December 2011 @ Hardware Secrets
• ProlimaTech Panther CPU Cooler with Nano Aluminum Thermal Compound Review @ TechwareLabs
• Noctua NH-C14 'C-Type Top-Flow' Heatpipe CPU Cooler Long-Term Review @ Modsynergy
• NZXT Havik vs Noctua NH-D14 @ OC3D
• Rosewill Blackhawk Ultra Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Cooler Master Hyper 212 Evo Review @ OCC
• Two Pounds of Pure Efficiency: Zalman CNPS12X Super Cooler @ X-bit Labs
• New Leader: Phanteks PH-TC14PE Super-Cooler @ X-bit Labs
• Coolermaster Hyper 212 Evo @ OC3D
• 2011 CPU Cooler Roundup: Highlights (and Not-So-Highlights) of the Last Two Years @ Hi Tech Legion

Antec Will Support USB 2.0 Motherboards In Eleven Hundred and P280 Cases

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 7, 2011 - 09:38 AM | Tim Verry
Tagged: p280, gaming, eleven hundred, cases, antec

While it is not often that users upgrade their computer cases without also updating the internals (at least compared to the opposite scenario), Antec still has you covered. If you purchase an Antec P280 or Eleven Hundred gaming case to house your trusty computer components that are only up to USB 2.0 compatible the two USB 3.0 ports are useless as the internal connector will not be compatible. Fret not; however, as the company has listened to user feedback and will now ship users a free adapter so that the front panel USB ports will be compatible with your motherboard (though only up to USB 2.0 speeds, of course).

Antec has been quoted by Maximum PC in stating that “We have hear the feedback you and your readers have given us regarding the USB 3.0 internal connector.”  The further detailed that the specific compatibility issue is with the internal header connection, which would not work with older motherboards.  As of today, users in such a predicament can visit the Antec website’s support page here or call 1-(800)-22ANTEC in the United States to request an adapter. The adapter is free; however, an invoice or other proof of purchase showing you bought one of the affected cases will be required.

The Antec P280's front panel USB 3.0 ports

I have to say that this is quite good on Antec’s part and it shows that they are really listening to customer feedback. For more on the company, why not check out the latest Inside Perspective interview with Antec?

Phanteks' first enthusiast heatsink has been well received

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 5, 2011 - 01:28 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: phanteks, PH-TC14PE

According to their website Phanteks have been in the cooling business for 20 years, though obviously not the enthusiast market as the PH-TC14PE seems to be the first cooler to undergo a trip through the review circuit.  It is one to keep an eye on as the reviews have been quite positive.  It is a dual tower design which allows the use of two 140mm fans, which are included with the heatsink.  It weighs in at 1250g when the two fans are attached and stands 159mm x 140mm x 171mm so you will not be sticking this into an mATX case but it is shorter than some competitors models.  OCC was blown away by the effective performance of this air cooler and were also impressed at the four available colours of heatsink and matching fans.

"When the results from the first test I ran (Overclocked Load) started to take shape, I could only describe the look on my face as "WOW". In disbelief of these numbers demolishing the NH-D14, I grabbed my infrared thermometer and checked the floor next to the computer (to verify ambient temperature) — it was right where it was supposed to be. I looked back at the RealTemp display and stared at the temperatures for the next few minutes (after already running for 45 minutes), and they didn't budge. This cooler has thrown up some astounding results and has blown me away."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Spire Gemini Rev. 2 Review @ OCC
• Corsair H100 Extreme Performance Liquid CPU Cooler Review @Hi Tech Legion
• Prolimatech Lynx CPU Cooler @ Pro-Clockers
• Phanteks PH-TC14PE CPU Cooler @ Tweaktown
• Jou Jye BW-1238B-PWM High Power 120mm Fan @ Funky Kit
• Noctua NF-F12 Focused Flow fan @ Hardwareoverclock
• SilenX EFX-12-12 120mm Fan @ Bjorn3D
• Jou Jye BW-1225P-LV Low Voltage 120mm Fan @ Funky Kit
• Antec Kuhler H20 920 @ XSReviews
• Intel RTS2011LC CPU Water Cooler Review @ Legit Reviews
• Another Step Forward: Antec KUHLER H2O 920 Liquid Cooling System @ X-bit Labs
• Fractal Design Core 3000 Mid Tower Case Review @ ThinkComputers
• BitFenix Merc Alpha PC Case Review @ Real World Labs
• Corsair Carbide 500R Case @ Rbmods
• BitFenix Merc Alpha Mid Tower Chassis @ Tweaktown
• NZXT Tempest 410 PC Case @ Pro-Clockers
• SilverStone Precision PS07 Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Lian Li PC-Q25 Mini-ITX @ techspot
• CaseLabs MAGNUM M8 @ techPowerUp
• BitFenix Outlaw Case Review @ Neoseeker
• Raidmax Blade Case Review @ Ninjalane
• BitFenix Outlaw PC Case @ Pro-Clockers
• NZXT Phantom 410: The Boutique Favorite Goes On a Diet @ AnandTech
• Enermax Fulmo GT Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• NZXT Phantom 410 @ techPowerUp
• Thermaltake Overseer RX-I @ techPowerUp

Corsair's single 12V rail HX1050, there's a new Professional in town

Subject: Cases and Cooling | December 2, 2011 - 03:57 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: PSU, kilowatt, modular psu, corsair, hx1050

Over at [H]ard|OCP you can catch a review of Corsair's new HX1050 Professional PSU, the same model that Lee handed a Silver Medal to.  The big change to this member of Corsair's Professional series is that this model sports a single 12v rail unlike the dual rail design on the HX1000.  That single rail can handle 87.5 amp, which is why there are a half dozen 6/8 pin PCIe connectors.  This PSU has owners of multiple GPU systems in mind.  By the end of the review [H] could not call this PSU better than the HX1000 but did like many of its traits; likely why it walked away from that review with another Silver Medal to show off.

"Professional Series power comes to us this time from Corsair in the form of its new HX1050. It is boasting over 1 kilowatt of solidly efficient power for the computer hardware enthusiast with a semi-modular cable system. We will see if this PSU is fit for enthusiasts and if it lives up to its efficiency statement."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• bequiet! Straight Power E9 CM 680 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Seasonic Platinum 1000W Power Supply Review @ HardwareHeaven
• PC Power & Cooling Silencer MK III 400 W @ techPowerUp
• NZXT HALE82 850 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Be Quiet! Pure Power L8 630W @ kitguru
• NZXT HALE82 750 Watt Modular Power Supply Review @ Hi Tech Legion
• Four Power Supply Units with 1200 W Capacity @ X-bit Labs
• Kilowatt of Platinum: Seasonic SS-1000XP Active PFC F3 @ X-bit Labs
• Thortech PSU Roundup 800-1200w @ XSReviews
• Seasonic Platinum 1000 Watt PSU Preview @ Madshrimps
• NZXT HALE82-850-M 850 W @ techPowerUp
• Kingwin Stryker STR-500 500W Fanless Power Supply @ Tweaktown
• Thermaltake Dr. Power II Universal ATX PSU Tester Review @ Hi Tech Legion

The understated 1100 Chassis from Antec

Subject: Cases and Cooling | November 25, 2011 - 01:41 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: antec, antec 1100

It is nice to see a return to simple enclosures that focus on functionality after the market spent several years attaching a multitude of lights and using bright colour schemes.  The Antec 1100 is exactly that, a mesh pattern dominates the front of the case and is repeated in the many fan positions on the top, back, bottom and side of the case.  USB and audio connectors are easily accessible at the top of this mid sized case.  You can have up to 9 fans in total cooling this case, or take advantage of the grommets for watercooling with an external radiator.  Drop by OCC for a close look.

"Taking a look at the sides, I’m quite happy. Personally, I love chassis with large windows – I like to show off my running hardware, even when it isn’t all that impressive. On the Eleven Hundred, the window takes up over half the side panel in width and nearly the full size in height. It also includes two pre-drilled 120 mm fan spots for the addition of your own fans and aid cooling without hampering the view too much. The other panel behind the motherboard tray has a single 120 mm fan location for cooling from the back. This is perhaps one feature that most chassis still don’t provide today. It’s a simple addition and placing a fan here should bring your temps down even more."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Antec Eleven Hundred Mid-Tower Gaming Case Review @Hi Tech Legion
• Antec Eleven Hundred Computer Case @ Benchmark Reviews
• Antec Eleven Hundred Midtower Gaming Case @ Legit Reviews
• Antec Eleven Hundred @ Hardware Canucks
• Antec Eleven Hundred @ Overclockers.com
• Antec P180 Mini @ Rbmods
• Fractal Design Define XL Black Pearl Case Review @ Legit Reviews
• CM Storm Trooper @ OC3D
• CM Storm Trooper Full Tower Chassis Review @ eTeknix
• Rosewill Blackhawk Ultra Super Tower Case Review @Hi Tech Legion
• Silverstone Raven 2 Evolution USB 3.0 @ techPowerUp
• Lian Li PC-TU200 Mini-ITX @ Tweaktown
• Cooler Master Storm Trooper Case Review @ Madshrimps
• Cooler Master Hyper 212 EVO CPU Cooler @ Pro-Clockers
• Rosewill Ranger Mid Tower ATX Computer Case Review @ Tweaknews
• CM Storm - Trooper Case Review @ HardwareHeaven
• Thermaltake V9 BlacX Edition PC Case @ RWLabs
• Zalman CNPS12X CPU Cooler Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Prolimatech Panther CPU Cooler @ Pro-Clockers

A six pack of 600+ PSUs

Subject: Cases and Cooling | November 23, 2011 - 06:06 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: antec, Enhance, Hiper, scythe, PSU, modular psu

X-bit Labs assembled a number of PSUs to compare; the Hiper M600 650W, Scythe's Stronger 600W, Antec's Neo ECO 620C 620W, Enhance's EPS-1280GB4 800W and the Scythe Chouriki 2 850W.   Most of the models are modular and several have 80+ ratings but unfortunately none stood out as shining examples of a PSU in their particular wattage.  Still, it is nice to see a quick comparison of common PSUs found in prebuilt systems, such as the Antec Neo ECO which was pulled from an Antec Sonata IV.  Check it out here.

"In this roundup we will discuss six power supply units that offer sufficient capacity for a home computer system. These are the products from Antec, Enhance, Hiper and Scythe."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• PC Power & Cooling Silencer MK III 600 W @ techPowerUp
• LEPA G700-MA 700 W @ techPowerUp
• OCZ ZT Series 650w Modular Power Supply Review @ OCIA
• TiVECO TVPS450 Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• XFX Pro 1250W Black Edition Full Modular Power Supply Unit Review @ HardwareHeaven
• PC Power & Cooling Silencer Mk III 600 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• XFX Pro 1250W Black Edition Modular @ kitguru
• PC Power & Cooling Silencer MK III 600W @ kitguru
• Thortech Thunderbolt Plus 1000W PSU @ Tweaktown
• Thermaltake Dr. Power II Review @ Neoseeker @ Neoseeker

A new choice in the sub-$100 case market

Subject: Cases and Cooling | November 21, 2011 - 04:49 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: fractal design, Core 3000

If you lean more towards the understated and relatively inexpensive side of the case market as opposed to the type who look at the Thermaltake Level 10 and can't wait until they can pick one up, then check out The Tech Report.  They've just wrapped up a review of Fractal Design's Core 3000 enclosure which you should be able to pick up for less than $70.  Outwardly it recalls the Antec Three Hundred, especially the bottom mounted PSU and it sports a similar price.  Inside you will find decent air cooling, the mounts can accept 120mm or 140mm fans, with a pair on top, bottom (one is for the PSU) and front with one on the left panel as well.  The Tech Report did find the size of the case a little restrictive when installing wires and cards, even though it can fit a full ATX board and large coolers.  Head over to see the full review.

"Fractal Design has a new budget enclosure that costs just $65. We take a closer at the Core 3000 to see if it warrants a spot on your list of candidate cases."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Antec P280: Performance One Refresh @ SPCR
• Corsair 500R Mid-Tower Case Review @ OCC
• NZXT Source 220 @ techPowerUp
• Antec P280 Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Lancool PC-K57 @ Overclockers Online
• Corsair Carbide Series 500R Mid Tower Case Review @ Hardware Canucks
• Cubitek Tattoo Pro @ Overclockers Online
• Antec Performance One P280 Midtower Case Review @ Legit Reviews
• Antec P280 Review: When Enthusiasts Are Engineers @ AnandTech
• Antec Performance One Series P280 @ Tweaktown
• Evercool Transformer 4 Plus @ kitguru
• Aqua Computer Aquaero 5 XT Review @ Real World Labs
• Corsair H100 Liquid Cooling @ Rbmods
• NZXT Sentry Mix Fan Controller Review @ TechwareLabs
• Thermal Compound Roundup - November 2011 @ Hardware Secrets
• Nexus Prominent R Case Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Antec P280 @ techPowerUp
• Antec Solo II Mid Tower Case Review @ ThinkComputers
• NZXT Tempest 410 Elite @ kitguru
• Corsair Hydro H100 CPU Cooler Review @ Madshrimps
• Alpenföhn K2 CPU cooler @ Hardwareoverclock
• Enermax ETS-T40 CPU Cooler @ OC3D
• GELID GX-7 CPU Cooler @ X-bit Labs

The SilverStone Strider Gold 750W deserves its name, but for the wrong reason

Subject: Cases and Cooling | November 16, 2011 - 03:17 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: modular psu, 80 gold, Silverstone, strider gold 750w, 750w

The SilverStone Strider Gold 750W offers good performance but unfortunately demands a premium price.  Overclockers Online had a hard time getting around that fact when they reviewed this unit.  There is nothing bad about the PSU, the solid performance of the single 12V rail at 62A will keep most users happy as will the amount of SATA and PCIe connectors.  The 5V rail does vary by about 3% but is still well within specifications.  Still, there are competitors out there delivering the same performance and charging less money for their units. 

"The Strider Gold 750W does have a quite a bit of good points going for it and a few excellent ones, namely: efficiency and some pretty decent line regulation on the 12V rail (which reasonably, we care quite a bit more for than the 5V rail). The unit is also built extraordinarily well, inside and out. Still, while we can hardly discount the fact that the Strider Gold 750W is priced just a wee bit higher than it should, that decision is for the individual and despite priced a tad higher than other units, the Strider Gold is still a solid power supply."

Here are some more Cases & Cooling reviews from around the web:

CASES & COOLING

• Enermax ENM750AWT @ Rbmods
• Diablotek UL Series 575W Power Supply Review @ ThinkComputers
• Enermax NAXN 82+ 550 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• Thermaltake TR2 700 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• SilverStone Nightjar 500 W Power Supply Review @ Hardware Secrets
• PC Power & Cooling Silencer Mk.III 600W Power Supply Review @ HardwareHeaven
• Rasurbo Real & Power 550w Modular Power Supply @ Funky Kit
• Enermax NAXN 650W Power Supply Review @ Hi Tech Legion
• Corsair TX750M 750W Modular Power Supply Review @ eTeknix
• In-Win Glacier 900W Power Supply Review @ Real World Labs
• eXtreme Power Supply Calculator Update
• Thermaltake Dr. Power II PSU Tester @ OCC
• ThermalTake Dr. Power II PSU Tester @ Funky Kit

Antec Announces P280 Enclosure

Subject: Cases and Cooling | November 16, 2011 - 12:01 PM | Jeremy Hellstrom
Tagged: antec, p280

Fremont, CA – November 15, 2011 – Antec, Inc. is proud to announce the P280, the newest member of the award-winning Performance One Series.

The P280 reflects the sophisticated appearance and Quiet Computing engineering of its Performance One predecessors, while offering a new set of features at an attractive price for users building with current- and next-gen hardware.

Continuing the legacy of Performance One enclosures, the P280 integrates quiet technologies such as sound-dampening steel / polycarbonate side panels, a triple-layer front door and hard drive trays with preinstalled vibration-reducing silicone grommets. Its understated aesthetics will appeal to gamers and enthusiasts who prefer a stylish, functional appearance.

Every feature in the P280, from the enlarged internal layout to the air filters & fan mounts, is included to accommodate high-end systems. Supporting up to XL-ATX sized motherboards and four-way GPU configurations, it offers a new level of expandability in the Performance One series.

Understanding the importance of convenience and ease-of-use, the P280 includes tool-less optical drive bays, 3.5” drive trays that are also compatible with 2.5” drives, 30 mm of cable routing space behind the motherboard tray and six total cable routing holes, four of which are grommet-lined. The front & PSU intake filters can be removed without taking off the side panel or tipping the case.

“Performance One has always had a special place in the hearts and minds of our customers,” said Mafalda Cogliani, Global Marketing Director at Antec. “With convenience & ease-of-use coupled with an attractive price point, we expect P280 to introduce customers new and old to the next generation of Performance One.”

The P280 reaches store shelves and online retail outlets in late November for North America and early December for Europe with a MSRP of $139.95 and € 139, respectively.

For more information on the P280, please visit the product page at http://www.antec.com/PerformanceOneP280 and the product overview video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=resILqGJTnc.

Also keep your eye out on the front page for a video review of this case from Ryan in the coming weeks.