MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller Review

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The PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller measures 1.45mm x 41.5mm x 62.5mm and weighs in at 150 grams. The front portion features the System Maxx name and branding to the left along with the PcToys logo on top right side portion. A series of 4 control knobs run along the center of the unit with each knob labeled Fan 1 through 4 with "LO" and "HI" speed indicators. A series of small graphics also accent the control knobs and front portion. The control knobs are a comfortable size and ensure the ability to close the front door on the Antec/Chieftech/Chenming line of cases.

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As previously mentioned, the PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller is a plug and play solution. All that is required is to simply plug in the included power and fan cables at the rear of the unit and attach the desired fans. A total of four mounting screws are used to secure the unit into a vacant 5.25" bay. With all the cables attached, the rear PcToys System Maxx Fan Controller still maintains a clean cable layout. One of the clear benefits of using the fan adapter cables is that it’s not necessary to cut off and splice the end in order to use the fan with the fan controller. The above photograph further demonstrates the rear workings of the previously discussed backlit control knobs.

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Upon powering of the PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller, the illuminated control knobs emit a soft blue glow around the perimeter of the knob. This feature is in the constant ON state. Unfortunately, the illuminated control knobs are not capable increasing or decreasing in luminosity depending on the voltage being supplied to the attached fan. In order to test the PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller, I attached 4 Sunon KD1208PTB1 80mm fans and ran them at various speeds for a 12-hour period after which the PCB remained cool to the touch. One aspect I did note is the unit emits a buzzing noise when fans are ran at the lowest speed setting of 7 Volts, this will be inaudible due to the noise produced from other components in a computer.

Conclusion:

The PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller is a well constructed product which incorporates a few new design concepts not found on similar products. The pre-assembly coupled with the plug and play design of the System Maxx Fan Controller provides a fast and easy to use product for those wishing to adapt a fan controlling solution into their cases. I was pleased to see that all the necessary fan adapter cables were included in the package. The aesthetic standpoint should appeal to many users yet the illuminated knobs are only available in the ever-popular blue color. The ability to have 18 Watts per channel is impressive and rivals limits found on similar fan control devices. While the PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller carries its own set of strong aspects, the lack of complete fan control options lower than 7 Volts may detour some consumers looking for a more definitive fan control unit. The buzzing emitted at lower voltages is hard to pick out yet is an issue that may leave the longevity of the potentiometers in question. The illuminated control knobs are an excellent addition yet do not work in conjunction with the control knobs themselves for a functional lighting purpose. Overall, I’m rating the PCToys System Maxx Fan Controller an 8 out of 10 and would recommend this product to users seeking an aesthetically pleasing pre-constructed fan control unit with slightly greater control over a conventional Baybus. If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the PCToys website for more information or discuss them in our forums.

Pros:

Pre-assembled

Backlit control knobs

Aesthetics

18 Watts per channel

Included cable adapters

Plug and Play

Cons:

7 volt minimum

Slight buzzing noise at lowest voltage setting

No functional use of lighting