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Product:
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Chieftec Matrix Mid-Tower Case + Wireless Keyboard & Mouse Review |
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Price:
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$90 (CAN) / $62 (U.S) + Keyboard & Mouse Add-on $49 (CAN) / $34 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Chieftec USA
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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April 23rd, 2003
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Richard from Chieftec USA
for providing the Matrix Mid-Tower Case + Wireless Keymouse & Mouse add-on for review.
Introduction:
Pre-modified computer cases was a concept unheard of during the early years of case modification. Many
case modders sourced out materials from local shops and developed methods which were shared by a large
open community. Case modification is considered by most an art form of self expression which requires a
certain level of skill and access to equipment and tools. For consumers who lack the skill or do not
have access to tools, there has been a market developed by the case manufacturers where a stock computer
case can be purchased with the modifications already intact. One of the more popular pre-modified
case product lines has been developed by Chieftec. Originally based out of Taipei, Taiwan the company
has recently launched its USA based division and is currently retailing their products to the North
American market. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the Matrix Mid-Tower Case, a product
which combines dazzling aesthetics in an all-in-one pre-modified solution.
Specifications:
The Matrix Mid-Tower Case is one of seven consumer based cases offered by Chieftec USA and is available
in seven different colour options (Carbon Black, Sky Blue, Infinity Silver, Earth Green, Lightning
Yellow, Solar Flair and Planet Purple). The construction of all seven models is identical with the
exception of the colour variation. Here are some specifications taken from the Chieftec USA website:
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Matrix Mid-Tower Case - Key Specifications:
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| Matrix Mid-Tower Case: Manufactured by Chieftec USA |
| Case Dimensions: 8.1"(W) x 20.6"(H) x 18.6"(D) |
| Drive Bays: 10 (4 x external 5.25", 2 x external 3.5", 4 x internal 3.5") |
| Expansion Slots: 7 |
| Fans: 4 (2 x rear exhaust, 2 x front intake) |
| Universal ATX I/O Shield included |
| Form Factor: Supports all Flex, Micro, ATX, AT and is AMD/P4 certfied |
| Front Swing-out Bezel Cover with lock |
| Quick Release Clear Side Panel with lock |
| Wireless keyboard and mouse add-on package |
| Power Supply: Chieftec HPC-420-102-DF 420 watts PSU |
| Special Features: Large see through side window, large front panel vent, uses rail kit |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Chieftec Matrix Mid-Tower Case arrived in good condition and was shipped in cardboard packaging via
UPS Ground. The package was slightly heavy weighting in at 40 lbs and had no distinct markings other
than a small Chiftec USA logo and a packaging stamp. Upon opening up the packaging, the case is sealed
with protective plastic and secured by two pieces of polystyrene which is located on the top and bottom.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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My first impressions of the Matrix Mid-Tower Case after removing the packaging were very positive. The
case measures approximately 8.1"(W) x 20.6"(H) x 18.6"(D) and supports all AT, Baby AT, MATX and ATX
motherboards. The entire exterior is blue coloured with the main focus on the front bezel design and
pre-modified side panel window. The front bezel is very stylish with a great futuristic type look that
is replicated from the top portion of the bezel to the bottom. The "Matrix" moniker is taken from the
movie of the same name that uses a random pattern graphic which makes up a good portion of the design.
The highlight for this case is the inclusion of a pre-modified window on the left side panel which is
secured using a series of black plastic push pins. By default as a stand alone product, the case does
not ship with a PSU but can be purchased as an add-on option separately.
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