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Product:
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Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller |
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Price:
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$47(CDN) / $40 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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Scythe
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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January 10th, 2007
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Rating:
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller mounts like a standard optical drive and requires one free
5.25" drive bay. Once the unit has been secured using the mounting screws, there are several additional
connections that need to be made in order to make the unit functional. Consumers need to attach
each of the temperature probe cables as well fan extension cables for each of the fan channels. Finally
the last step is to attach the audio cable to any source card and power cable to any free 4-pin Molex
connector.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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In order to test out the Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller, I assembled a series of spare
components which included the following:
- AsRock P4i65G Motherboard
- Intel Pentium 4 2.4A Processor w/NT03 CPU Cooler
- Albatron Gigi FX5900XTV 128MB Video Card
- 2GB Kingmax PC-3200 DDR400 SDRAM
- 1 x Maxtor DiamondMax 9 60GB Hard Drive
- 1 x Maxtor DiamondMax 10 200GB Hard Drive
- LG 52x32x52 DVD CD-RW w/ SuperLink
- Kingwin Alpha Power AP-450 PSU
- SilverStone SG01 SFF Case
One nice aspect of the Kama-Meter is that it is a complete hardware solution and does not use or
require any type of drivers or application software.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The strength of the Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller is in its ability to customize its main display
screen with 7 different colour formats. By pressing the fan RPM knob consumers can select the auto
illumination mode which will cycle through 7 colour sections which include orange, red, purple, violet,
blue, sapphire and green.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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The overall display is easily readable and consumers are provided real time statistics if channel RPM
speeds are increased/decreased, volume levels adjusted and system temperature changes. There are
so many customizable options to suit anyone's personal preference. The only oddity that I found with
the device was in adjusting RPM speeds. While the RPM levels increase or decrease on any attached fan,
there is a slight 2-3 second delay in terms of updating the information on the front panel.
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Conclusion:
The Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller has certainly upped the ante in the fan controller market by
building on the success of first generation fan controllers and adding in improved must needed features.
By far the biggest benefit of the unit is the ability to handle four high performance fans, four temperature
probes and system volume control. Out of the box, the package is solid with its configuration options
allowing consumers to customize the front panel to suit the style of their personal case. The main
display area has been maximized offering updated statistical views of system performance. There are
different illumination modes which allow consumers to auto cycle through colour selection or individually
select the colour of their choice. Three distinct displays provide updated information for as long as
the system is powered with no software requirement. Initial installation of the required Kama-Meter
system cables can be a bit tedious and ultimately contribute to existing cable clutter. While the Kama-Meter
has several positive attributes the only issues I experienced with the unit during evaluation is the
delay 2-3 response of the unit as RPM, volume or temperature levels are adjusted. It would also be a
nice enhancement to include the option for controlling 12V options such as cold cathodes for internal
chassis lighting. Overall, I was extremely pleased with the Kama-Meter Multi-Functional Controller and
award MTB's Seal of Approval with a final rating of 9 out of 10.
If you have any questions regarding this review be sure to visit the Scythe
website for more information or discuss them in our forums.
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Pros:
- Professionally assembled and easy installation
- Great aesthetic appeal
- Interchangeable face plates
- 7 different colour formats and auto illumination mode
- Easily adjust RPM levels, temperature monitoring or volume control
- Cable extensions provided
- Price
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Cons:
- User manual could be improved
- Slight 2-3 second delay on display when configuration is adjusted
- Cabled not sleeved could contribute to additional cable clutter
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