MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews

Click image for larger view

BeanTech International has done a decent job in terms of simplifying the process of keeping the Perspex window place. At the top and bottom portion of the front bezel sits a series of metal hinges which have two sets of threaded hex screws secured directly to the chassis. A small push and locking mechanism allows the swing out front panel door to stay in place and can be easily opened with a slight pull on the front bezel.

Click image for larger view

The BeanTech Igloo 11 Aluminum Case features 4 x 5.25" drive bays, which are suitable for the installation of storage racks or optical devices. I did note during my inspection that there is about a 1-1.5" gap between the Perspex window and the drive bays. Consumers interested in mounting a Fanbus, Baybus or Rheobus will have to measure accordingly before contemplating installing any type of fan controlling device. Underneath the 5.25" drive bays sits two external 3.5" drive bays suitable for a card reader or floppy drive.

Click image for larger view

An oversized power button is located to the right of the 3.5" external drive bays. Two activity LED's exist for the stock Power and Hard Drive which have been mounted into the aluminum front bezel. Finally, one small reset switch is available which is standard on most cases of this size. On the right side of the Igloo 11 is the location for two front mounted USB 2.0 ports and one IEEE 1394 Firewire port, absent from the configuration is any type of Audio port. Each port is connected using a series of extender cables that must be connected to the appropriate motherboard headers prior to use. Consumers will be required to check their motherboard manual or the Igloo 11 user's manual that is bundled in the package for the proper instruction for attaching each cable.