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

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Out of the box, I was impressed by the style of the NMediaPC HTPC 200B, particularly the mirror finish noticeable through the plastic protection. The entire case is treated to a suitably high quality powder coating and paintjob. The 200B in black is entirely black, with an extremely high gloss face plate and bears a striking resemblance to many high end audio units. The case is slightly larger than my theatre cabinet with a footprint of 17" (W) x 15" (D), but still smaller than some I have seen. Personally, I find the Nmedia HTPC 200B rather attractive, despite its plain appearance and it is tastefully done and solidly constructed. A large plus to the looks of this unit is the black tinted blue LCD located on the upper left. When powered on, the display is easily legible, can be quickly setup, displays whatever temp in Celsius or Fahrenheit you route the internal sensor as well as displays a military clock. An internal watch battery (with an extra provided) keeps the time settings, even when unplugged.

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This case is remarkably accomplished when it comes to front panel connections since the lower flip down door conceals 2 USB ports, MIC/Headphone ports, 1 x Firewire IEEE1394 port, a 9n1 multi-card reader which includes most modern formats enabling easy access to digital camera pics, and the reset button. If desired, your video card outputs can be re-routed to the front panel as well, using an included circuit board and beefy cable. Personally, since my cables exit to the rear to keep down on clutter, and the PC isn't intended to move often, I am leaving this option un-installed, and using the normal outputs on the rear of the case. All of the internal headers are of appropriate length and easily installed with reference to your motherboard manual.

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As far as ventilation goes the NmediaPC HTPC 200B has a large duct that sits over the CPU heatsink and two 60mm fans at the rear to exhaust heat generated by the entire system. The case is perforated along the both sides to help with further cooling, although I would not consider this a highly effective method. Nonetheless, while running, the hottest my system got was 37°C, and that's on the CPU heatsink. The rear fans are extremely noisy, and no method is made available to control their speed. The smaller the fan, the louder they are when run at full speed and the ones provided with the HTPC 200B are no exception. Inside a cabinet with doors, perhaps the noise would be lessened, although I would have preferred a different cooling method altogether.