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Product:
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E-Compuvision Maelstrom Rheobus Kit |
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Price:
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$69.95 (CAN) / $46 (U.S)
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Supplied By:
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E-Compuvision
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Author:
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Hi-TEK
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Date:
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February 19th, 2002
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Rating:
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MODTHEBOX would like to thank Ralph from E-Compuvision
for sending the Maelstrom Rheobus Kit for review.
Introduction:
Heat has always been a common denominator with computer enthusiasts who have either purchased or custom built their own
computer systems. It is no secret that stock cooling in most cases is adequate but yields poor results when hardware is
either added or upgraded. The solution to the problem is to deploy a unique cooling solution to keep the ambient
temperatures of a computer system at a reasonable level. Air-cooling is one of the easiest methods for controlling
system temperatures and works by strategically positioning intake and exhaust fans throughout a computer case.
Today in the MTB Labs we will be taking a look at E-Compuvision's Maelstrom Rheobus Kit, a controller that uses
potentiometers and voltage regulators to adjust fan speed.
Specifications:
The Maelstrom Rheobus Kit is pre-assembled and includes all the necessary components for installation. Here are some of
the specifications taken directly from the E-Compuvision website:
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E-Compuvision Maelstrom Rheobus - Key Specifications:
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| Maelstrom Rheobus: Manufactured by CaseETC |
| 1.5A per channel, four channels |
| 11 Watt Heatsinks |
| Custom designed PCB |
| LM317 voltage regulators |
| Voltage Range 0-11.25 volts DC |
| Warranty: Covered by manufacturer |
| Special Features: Kit includes acrylic drilling template, four aluminum knobs, Y Cable, and Allen key
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E-Compuvision Maelstorm Rheobus Package
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Click image for larger view
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The Maelstrom Rheobus Kit arrived sealed in a packing tube with a thin sheet of polystyrene wrapped around the unit.
My initial impression after removing the packaging is that the Maelstrom Rheobus speaks volumes in terms of quality
assembly. All the circuits on the PCB have been evenly laid out and sized to fit perfectly into a 5.25" drive bay.
A one page sheet of instructions is included in the package and details step by step how to put the kit together.
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Click image for larger view
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Click image for larger view
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Inside the package was also an assortment of accessories, which included the following:
- 4 x aluminium knobs
- 2 x rubber bands
- Hexagon key
- Double stick tape (already applied)
- Acrylic drilling template
- "Y" molex cable
There are a few Rheobus Kits on the market and one outstanding issue has always been the quality of aluminium knobs
included in the packaging. E-Compuvision/CaseETC addressed this issue with the Maelstrom Rheobus Kit and consumers
will be happy to know that a hexagon allen key is also included to assist tightening the knobs when putting the kit
together.
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