A-Top Technology XPlode Gaming Case
Performance:
Although there wasn't as many screw/tool-less features as we'd enjoy, the installation process went fairly smooth. All of the components installed painlessly, encountering no troubles along the way with any of the front panel connectors, or cutting our hands on any sharp edges. The removable motherboard tray also worked great. Below are the components we ended up installing in the A-Top Technology XPlode.
Hardware Components | |
Processor: | Intel Pentium 4 2.4C @ 2.55GHz |
Motherboard: | ASRock P4S55FX+ |
Memory: | 512MB Mushkin PC4000 |
Graphics Card: | Power Color ATI RADEON 9250 |
Hard Drives: | Western Digital 80GB (w/ IDE to SATA) |
Optical Drives: | Asus QuieTrack 52x CD-ROM |
Add-On Devices: | Scythe LCD Master |
Cooling: | Antec VCool & Cooler Master AAF-B12-E1 |
Power Supply: | Antec TruePower 430W |
Below are some pictures of the included XBlade PSU, before we had replaced it.
Conclusion:
As this was our first case from A-Top Technology, we were quite impressed with the stylistic approach of the case and with its great features. The use of all the very fine mesh is definitely the first approach we've seen going as far as using it to cover the 5.25" drive bays. However, the metal mesh allows for improved ventilation. The LCD display was attractive although its functionality was rather limited, only being able to monitor a single probe. The paint quality was also extremely sharp. At about $70 USD for the A-Top XPlode, the case isn't the cheapest but including a 450W PSU and CCFL, it's a relatively good deal for gamers and enthusiasts a like. It will be interesting to see what other exciting offers can come out of A-Top Technology.
Pros:
· Attractive Appearance
· Paint Quality
· LCD display
· Mesh - improved ventilation
· Removable motherboard tray
· Lightweight
· PSU and CCFL included
Cons:
· Lack of tool-less features
· LCD only monitors one probe
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