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Product:
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I-Star S-8 Storm Series ATX Case |
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Price:
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$50 (CDN) / $45 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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I-Star USA
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Author:
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clsGrinder
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Date:
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June 25th, 2006
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank May from I-Star USA
for sending the I-Star S-8 Storm Series ATX Case for review.
Introduction:
There are more companies pushing mid-sized tower cases than you can shake a wireless mouse at. Shift your price range
to the value section and the choice is even more daunting. I-Star USA has a couple tricks up its sleeve to help it
“crow bar” into this tight sector. It has a long history to draw from, building cases in other form factors (like server
chassis and rack mount chassis), and it also introduces a clean more refined look compared to rival offerings. The Storm
Series of mid sized tower cases looks to make a splash. Today in the MTB Labs, we be evaluating the new S-8 ATX Case.
Specifications:
The I-Star USA S-8 is from the S Storm series of PC tower cases. It is a mid-sized tower featuring a tool-less design
and 120mm cooling options. Here is a list of specifications taken from the I-Star USA website:
| Model |
I-Star S-8 Storm Series ATX Case
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| Dimensions |
8.2" x 20.2" x 17.8" |
| Colour |
Black |
| Drive Bays |
5 x 5.25", 2 x 3.5", 3 x 3.5"(internal)
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| Motherboard Size |
12" x 10"
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| Front I/O Connector |
2 x USB 2.0, 1 x IEEE1394, 1 x Line out, and 1 x Microphone
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| Cooling |
Optional: 2 x 120mm, 1 x 80mm
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| Material |
0.8/0.6 SECC/SGCC and Aluminum
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| Switches |
Power ON/OFF, System Reset
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Features |
- Tool-less Thum Screws
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| - Front Access Access I/O Panel
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| - Aluminum Dash Plate
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| - Optional 120mm Cooling Fan
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| - Meets CAG1.1 Intel Thermal Standard
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| - Optional iStarUSA Mini Redundant Power Supply
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There is also a wide assortment of options available for the S-8. Consumer grade power supplies in a wide assortment of
wattages, as well as industrial grade and redundant power supplies. Cooling options and hot swap drive cages can also
be included. There are way too many to list here, so please feel free to checkout the I-Star USA
web site for more details on these add-on accessories.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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First impressions of the S-8 are good. The case is well illustrated on the outside of the box, with info and specifications
printed along the sides. A handy carry handle makes transport of the big box less awkward, and the corrugated cardboard
keeps the case nice and safe inside. The standard two pieces of polystyrene keep the case secure inside.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Out of the box, the I-Star S-8 Storm Series ATX Case looks quite attractive. While beauty is in the eye of the beholder,
I’ve never been one for lights, bells, whistles or sirens. The front plastic bezel is textured with vertical lines, and
brushed aluminum dash plates are a very nice touch. Ventilation holes are strategically stamped along the side panel of
the case. In back we note the 120mm exhaust fan location which is also compatible with 90mm and 80mm sizes
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Here we take a closer look at the front I/O panel. Power and Reset buttons are clearly marked at the top of the panel,
with each respective LED offset to the left. A pair of USB 2.0 headers, IEEE 1394 plug, and audio input/output jacks
makes the quick-connect panel complete.
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