MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case Review

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My first impressions of the SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case after removing the packaging were extremely positive. Out of the box the case speaks volumes in terms of aesthetic design and craftsmanship similar to the type of build quality found on Cooler Master cases. The case measures approximately 502mm (W) x 200mm (H) x 590mm (D) and weighs 8.1kg. SilverStone has taken a simplistic approach towards the overall design of the Nimiz SST-TJ03 by eliminating any pre-modified case options. The look is very classy and sophisticated with beveled edges and sleek anodized aluminum external panels. Towards the top portion of the case is the embossed SilverStone logo in white lettering. The SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case supports mATX, Full ATX and Extended ATX motherboard formats and does not ship with an included PSU. Consumers have the option of selecting from SilverStone's SST PSU models which range from 300W to 460W.

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The top portion of the SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case has a series of pre-drilled ventilation holes to assist a top mounted 80mm fan with any removing trapped hot air. The ventilation holes cover the circumference of the fan blades and should not hamper air circulation. The top mount 80mm fan is standard 80mm ball bearing fan that is powered by a 4-pin Molex connector. The middle portion of the case features countersunk Power and Reset buttons as well as Power and HD activity LED's. The Power and Reset buttons are crafted and polished from solid aluminum blocks as well as feature chrome-like rings that are created meticulously with a expensive diamond cutting process. This feature is standard on all the SilverStone Temjin and Lascala series of cases. In previous reviews of the SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case, a few reviewers has complained about a sticky Power and Reset button. During my evaluation, I did not run into this problem and can only assume that it was corrected by SilverStone Technology prior to this case being sent for review.

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The bottom portion of the SilverStone Nimiz SST-TJ03 Aluminum Case includes another set of ventilation holes located on the left and right side of the front bezel. The ventilation holes compliment a front mounted 120mm fan which acts as the central front intake. Underneath the ventilation holes is a front port expansion panel that is hidden by a quick release door. The front port expansion panel is excellent and includes 4 x USB 2.0 ports, 1 x 1394 Firewire, 1 x Earphone, and 1 x Microphone jack. The ports are connected via a series of extender cables which reside inside the case and must be connected to the appropriate components prior to use.