|
Product:
|
Nikao Fusion II mATX Case |
|
Price:
|
$59 (CAN) / $44 (U.S)
|
|
Supplied By:
|
Nikao/Tradex
|
|
Author:
|
DrMobius
|
|
Date:
|
January 23rd, 2004
|
|
Rating:
|
|
MODTHEBOX would like to thank Jeffrey from Nikao/Tradex Information Technology Incorporation
for sending the Fusion II mATX Case for review.
Introduction:
Most case manufacturers have been busy the last few years focusing on producing mid and full tower cases.
With the HTPC trend growing over the last year, attention is being given to the even smaller Micro ATX
cases. Nearly every case manufacturer now has at least one Micro ATX or HTPC case in their product line.
As such, the challenge for the consumer is no longer finding a mATX based case; but finding a mATX case
that is both attractive and functional. Today in the MTB Labs, we will be evaluating the new Fusion II
mATX Case from Tradex Information Technology Incorporation.
Specifications:
The Nikao Fusion II mATX case is designed in such a way where it can either be used standing vertically or
laying horizontally. The case includes a 200w power supply and an illuminated LCD temperature display.
Here are some specifications taken directly from the manufacturer’s website:
|
Nikao Fusion II mATX Case - Key Specifications:
|
| Nikao Fusion II mATX Case: Manufactured by Nikao |
| Dimension: 350mm (L) x 135mm (W) x 350mm (H) |
| Construction: Steel Metal with Heavy Chrome Coating on the Front Panel |
| Main Board Size: mATX |
| Input Voltage: 115/230 VAC |
| Hard Drive & Power LEDS: Included |
| Number of slots: 4 |
| Power Supply: 200W Power Supply Included |
| External Bays Available: 1 x 5.25" (external), 1 x 3.5" (external), and 1 x 3.5" (internal) |
| Front USB & Audio: 2 x USB / Sound Audio Port |
| Ventilation: One extra 60mm Case Fans included |
|
Click image for larger view
|
Click image for larger view
|
|
The Nikao Fusion II mATX Case came shipped in a brown double-walled corrugated cardboard box with a
line drawing of the Fusion’s bezel printed on the face of the box. The case was packed securely
between two pieces of polystyrene to prevent damage during shipping and was also wrapped in a
large plastic bag.
|
|
Click image for larger view
|
Click image for larger view
|
|
Additional plastic was taped to the case for added protection against scratches, however the tape
used to secure the plastic to the case didn’t come off cleanly and left some sticky residue. Once
the case was unwrapped, my initial impression of the case was positive. The edges of the Fusion II’s
front bezel were rounded while the bezel itself had a nice concave curve to it. The design of the
front bezel reminded me of a semi-retro 50’s diner look, minus the pink and green colors.
|
|
Click image for larger view
|
Click image for larger view
|
|
A closer inspection of the front bezel reveals the sliding door that covers the temperature LCD.
The first thing I noticed while observing the layout of the LCD was it was positioned vertically
while the text printed on the case was printed horizontally. Although the case can be used standing
vertically or lying horizontally, neither of the positions would have all aspects of the front bezel
properly aligned; you’d either have the text printed the wrong way or the LCD characters displaying
the wrong way. Next to the sliding door that covers the LCD display are the oversized power button
and the miniature reset button. These buttons have a nice chromed finish which adds to the 50’s
retro design of the case. Running length wise across the case is the single stealth 5.25" drive bay
with a spring loaded door. The button to open the 5.25" bay has a spacer attached to it in order to
press the button on any standard 5.25" CD drive.
|
|
