MODTHEBOX.COM - Canada's Premier Case Modding Source - Reviews - E-Compuvision Maelstrom Rheobus Kit Review

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The Maelstrom Rheobus Kit requires 12v from a standard PSU for power and includes a "Y" bypass molex splitter with one female and two male connectors. To simplify mounting the Maelstrom Rheobus correctly an acrylic template is provided and already pre-drilled with the mounting holes for the potentiometers. Adhesive double stick tape has been placed on all the knobs and I am under the assumption that this is to assist in sealing the bond of the Maelstrom against the drive bay plate during installation.

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One of the impressive features of the Maelstrom is the size of the heatsinks used on the LM317T voltage regulators. The voltage regulators take the minimum and maximum output voltage specifications for a fixed value (i.e. 12v) and regulate the voltage from 0v all the way to up 11.25v. This added benefit allows you to change the voltage on a regular 12v fan and adjust the RPM speed by turning the potentiometers clockwise or counter clockwise. Next to each heatsink is pair of screw terminals for connecting the red (12V) and black (ground) wires for the fans.

Maelstrom acrylic template ready to be drilled

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The assembly of the Maelstrom Rheobus kit requires some additional tools, which must be supplied by the user. A high-powered drill and 1/4" drill bit are recommended as well as a small flathead screwdriver, dremel (optional) and drive bay plate. To drill out the mounting holes for the potentiometers, you must first use the two rubber bands included to secure the acrylic template to the 5.25" drive bay plate. Drilling time was approximately 5 minutes and once the Maelstrom Rheobus is mounted behind the drive plate all that remains is attaching the aluminium knobs using the hexagon allen key. I opted not to use the double stick tape, which is included in the kit because the Maelstrom itself remains stationary when attached to a 5.25" drive bay.