Posted: 12/11/2000
Written by: TronŽ
They're gonna have trouble shoving this one in your
Christmas stocking. But still, this is a nice little upgrade for someone. What
am I talking about? A new computer case of course! One with twin 120mm fans, and
a 330w power supply. And under $100. Interested? Read on...
A case is a pivotal purchase item for a successful performance enhanced PC. Often-times a decently built Mid-Tower sized case is what most people prefer, for size, practicality, and cost. Two of the areas that is usually just average in mid-tower systems, are power supplies, and case cooling. We wouldn't have so much interest in 300+watt power supplies, and case modifications otherwise. These are usually the first areas performance builders know that they need to rectify.
Your average mid-tower ships with a 200-250 watt power
supply. Often-times these are unbranded supplies, or have minimal specs printed
on them, so you're really not sure what you're getting. For a system with many
drives, or an Athlon box, the power supply is probably NOT going to be adequate.
Also, most cases have one 80mm sleeve bearing intake fan (assuming they included
one, which is a hit or miss situation depending on brand), and rely on the power
supply fan as your systems sole heat exhaust point. Some mid-towers do have 60
or 80mm cut-outs in the rear, but rarely are they populated.
Today we take a look at a value added alternative from Overclock Warehouse. Their GXT1212 Mid Tower, not only comes with two 120mm 88cfm intake and exhaust fans, but includes an Enermax 330w power supply, that itself has two 80mm fans!