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Product:
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Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower Case |
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Price:
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$66 (CAN) / $51 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Nikao/Tradex
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Author:
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Shennon
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Date:
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December 26th, 2003
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Wesley & Jeffrey from Nikao/Tradex Information Technology Incorporation
for sending the Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower for review.
Introduction:
Computer mods can be very costly and when trying to work from a limited budget. Some consumers would rather concentrate
a large portion of their budget towards hardware components instead of an expensive case chassis. A budget case is a
great way of getting a stylish case without breaking the bank and at the same time can be a decent starting point for
a modification project. We have seen a wide range of budget cases here at MTB, each offering something different
as far as design options and features. Our friends at Tradex Information Technology Incorporation have added few new cases
to their ever-expanding product line. The unit that we have in house for this particular review should appeal more to the
female population this time. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the Nikao F-1, a mid-tower case that features
Twin Bubble Lamps and a front chrome emblem with a centered pulsating heart.
Specifications:
The Nikao F-1 is the latest mid-tower case available from Tradex Information Technology Incorporation and features a side
panel window which includes a tri-coloured LED fan. The case is available in an alternative black colour and is compatible
with ATX, Micro ATX, ATX, AMD, Pentium III & IV motherboards. The Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower can hold a total of seven 3.5" devices
both internally and externally. Here are some features and specifications taken directly from the Tradex website:
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Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower Case - Key Specifications:
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| Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower: Manufactured by Nikao/Tradex Information Technology |
| Dimensions: 475mm (L) x 233mm (W) x 530mm (H) |
| Weight: 18 lbs |
| Housing Material: Steel metal with heavy chrome coating on the front panel |
| Main Board Size: ATX, Micro-ATX, P4 and AMD |
| Drive Bays: 11 (4 x 5.25" external, 2 x 3.5" external, 5 x 3.5" internal) |
| Expansion Slots: 7 |
| Power Supply: N/A |
| Front USB & Audio: 2 x USB / Sound Audio Port |
| Fans: 4 (1 x 80mm front, 1 x 80mm side, 2 x 80mm rear) |
| Tool-less side panel entry |
| Universal ATX I/O shield |
| Special features: Dual Bubble Lights, Stealth Drive Bays, Chrome Lighted Heart Decal, and side window with Tri-color LED fan included |
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower Case arrived in a red and black double-walled corrugated cardboard box. The case was sealed in protected
plastic with two pieces of polystyrene located on the top and bottom. Out of the box, my initial impressions of the F-1 were
positive. The Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower is a gray steel case that weighs in at 18 lbs, which is consistent with most steel cases.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Right on top of the front bezel is the chromed light button, which is the ON/OFF for the two bubble lamps, which runs down
either side of the case. Each end of the bubble lamps are capped with chrome plastic caps that hide the blue LEDs underneath.
The Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower features four stealth bay covers, as seen on most Nikao cases. The stealth bay covers give the case
a uniformed look when used, but are not mandatory. To effectively use the stealth drive faces, you first must remove your
existing CD/DVD-ROM faceplates. The stealth bay covers include a chrome plastic CD/DVD-ROM button which will reach the
original drive's own eject button and a clear plastic bar to allow the status LEDs to shine through. The use of this design
may pose a problem for those who have a slot loading drive. The Nikao F-1 Mid-Tower provides a total of four external 5.25"
drive bays, which are ready for use. The floppy drive bay covers do not use the same stealth bay cover, which some users
would appreciate since the 3.5" floppy drive is becoming obsolete. These standard looking floppy bay covers could be used
for fan control devices or small temperature monitoring units. If a floppy drive is needed, it would have to be dyed to
match the case if a uniform look is important.
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