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Product:
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ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case |
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Price:
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$101 (CAN) / $69 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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ClearPC
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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March 27th, 2003
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Frank from ClearPC
for providing the ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case for review.
Introduction:
Acrylic computer enclosures have gained a level of acceptance amongst computer enthusiasts for the uniqueness
and alternative chassis design available for platform computing. Originally used as a means for educational
purposes, the standard acrylic case has come full circle moving away from the traditional DIY approach to
pre-manufactured cases for the consumer market. A few years ago, ClearPC based out of Victoria, B.C. was one
of the first in Canada to pioneer and specialize in designing and manufacturing its own brand of consumer based
acrylic cases. Capitalizing on the success of the original ClearPC, the company has since focused its attention
on expanding its product line by offering a variety of add-on accessories and pre-modified case options. Today
in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case, one of the world's first mini acrylic
enclosures designed exclusively for the Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX platform.
Specifications:
The Micro ATX Acrylic Case is the second of two different enclosures offered by ClearPC and is
available in stock or pre-modified form. The original ClearPC was based on a mid-tower configuration
and was able to accomodate an assortment of system configurations. The Micro ATX Acrylic Case utilizes
some of the same attributes but is approximately 50% smaller than the original design. Here are some of
the case specifications taken directly from the ClearPC website:
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ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case - Key Specifications:
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| ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case: Manufactured by ClearPC |
| Case Dimensions: 13 1/8" x 8 1/8" x 13 11/16" (D,W,H) |
| Drive Bays: 3 (1 x 5.25 external, 1 x 3.5 external, 1 x 3.5 internal) |
| Expansion Slots: 4 |
| Chassis: 3/16" Cast Clear Lucite |
| Form Factors: Micro ATX and Mini-ITX |
| Fans: 2 (1 x 80mm rear exhaust and 1 x 80mm front intake) |
| Power Supply: None included |
| Special Features: Pre-assembled and includes all mounting screws and cables |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case was shipped in a standard double-walled corrugated box with the case
manufacturer's logos printed on the top portion of the package. Packaging inside the box was good, with the
unit itself enclosed in plastic protective wrap surrounded by a good portion of polystyrene peanuts. The
original ClearPC case used a series of styrofoam blocks which were situated in such a way as to provide
3" space all around the box. The blocks helped keep the case stationary and switching the polystyrene peanuts
also offers good insulation and protection during the shipping process.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Out of the box, the ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case is very well constructed and manufactured using 3/16" clear
cast Lucite. The structural integrity of the Lucite is impressive and the focus of this miniature design is an
almost replica of the original mid-tower version. The case measures approximately 13 1/8" x 8 1/8" x 13 11/16"
(DxWxH) and only supports Micro ATX and Mini-ITX motherboards. ClearPC has marketed this specific product to
appeal to consumers utilizing small form factor components, which are suitable for LAN events or HTPC (Home
Theatre PC) style applications. The ClearPC Micro ATX Acrylic Case does not come equipped with a stock power
supply and consumers will be required to purchase this item separately. Absent from the package was any sort
of instruction manual or reference diagrams. For users who need some assistance, ClearPC does provide some
assembly instructions on its website but
the guide applies to the original ClearPC Mid-Tower Case. Regardless, some of the techniques used in the
guide should assist most users with the installation of system components.
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