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Product:
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Thermaltake Xview Kit |
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Price:
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$25 (CAN) / $19 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Thermaltake
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Author:
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Shennon
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Date:
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June 12th, 2003
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Rating:
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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For Xaser III Case owners, a second EL sheet is included in the package which would sit vertically in
the lower portion of the front bezel. The Thermaltake’s Xview Kit includes seven pre-made inserts
(shown on a sheet of white paper) to start off, however, with the included software, one can chose from
a selection of about 330 different samples. The sample CD also includes an Adobe Acrobat file that details
the process of making a custom insert.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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I didn’t notice that the insert was backwards when I put the unit back together, but it didn’t take away from
the overall glow both pieces produced and the pictures gives you the idea. One item I noticed is that the
brightness for this kit is not adjustable which common with EL sheeting.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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On the included CD, there is about 330 different graphics that one can print out using a standard printer and the
included sheet of transparency paper as well as instructions on how to format a graphic in Acrobat reader format.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Installation of the Thermaltake Xview is straightforward. Simply secure the Xview into a spare 5.25" drive bay and
hook it to a spare PSU connector. The EL strip connects to one of the clip connectors and once you select the effect
and sensitivity, power up the computer for an nice illuminated effect.
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Conclusion:
The Thermaltake Xview Kit is a new twist to an old idea, specifically the MultiPlayCity EL Badge Kit, which allowed
the consumer to print unique badges and backlight them. The main difference between the two, though, is that the
Xview allows larger and clearer graphics on transparency sheets. The Xview is much brighter than the original
MultiPlayCity EL Badge Kit, which I have had for about six months. The Thermaltake Xview is a neat idea for most
cases, but few would utilize the second EL sheet to get the same effect as it would have in the Xaser III Case, which
I believe, is the general idea behind the Xview, as a replacement to the Xaser III's stock LEDs. Overall, I'm
rating the Thermaltake Xview Kit an 7 out of 10 and
would recommend this product for those individuals who want to personalize their front bezels which a decorative
custom graphic. If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the
Thermaltake website for more information or
discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Wide variety of available inserts
- Instructions to make a custom insert
- Installation can be completed in 30 minutes
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Cons:
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