Didn’t expect this

[DK2]

Originally Posted by SugarJ

If you're going to use the system for HTPC use, you may have to have the volume up a tad. I have a 900, and while it is excellent for airflow and cooling, the Tri-cool fans are not the quietest.

I keep mine under my desk, and usually playing music or gaming so it doesn't bother me, but may be different in a home theater.

Well, that’s always been the problem. I got htpc case at the time because it fit my desk,
not because I wanted home theatre. I use it for everything but….

[Jack Rabbit]

That is not stupid. I am stupid for not checking my cable. I am just trying to spread the word. From the reviews I have read, shipping a single link cable is normal but a screen with lots of pixels will benefit from a dual link cable.

[Mysteryous]

Make sure your cables inside the pc are well organized so air flows properly. I've seen that rats nests of cables can bring a pc to its knees cuz air couldn't flow properly. And dust it out if it needs it. Dust is another heat inducing killer as it builds up on fans reducing their optimal capacity.

[DK2]

Originally Posted by Mysteryous

Make sure your cables inside the pc are well organized so air flows properly. I've seen that rats nests of cables can bring a pc to its knees cuz air couldn't flow properly. And dust it out if it needs it. Dust is another heat inducing killer as it builds up on fans reducing their optimal capacity.

Lol. it's messy.....
I got the new case, so if I get it all back together, I’ll post a before pic so you’ll see,
and as a warning to others.

[MpG]

You say you've got a Pentium D? What model number? Is it an old Prescott-based chip? If so, swapping in a dirt-cheap, bottom of the line Conroe would give you equal performance at worst, and make less heat in the process.

That aside, this is for an HTPC? Unless you really want the look of the 900, there are plenty of other (more compact and cheaper) cases that won't even break a sweat handling that system. My Sonata III is easily accomodating a quad-core at 3.2Ghz and an 8800GTS, with all fans below 1000rpm. And you get a decent PSU in the bargain.

[DK2]

The cpu is a 830 model, but I don’t like the idea spending money on an equivalent.
The Sonata III was my first choice even though I didn’t like the door on the front.
The 900 looks nice, and I like the top exhaust fan, so I went with that.
my son will get this system, so I didn’t want to make it look like I was just passing off my old crap, even though I am.

[DK2]

The old case


The new case


Brought to you by Labatt Blue


The max I can push the temps now is 65-66C. I dropped at least 15C if not more.



the bad;
The 900 case and things to PYO.
Not enough motherboard standoffs.
3.5 face plate included, no mounting bracket, missing?
Funky bay covers, screw in like devices.
meh, its a good case, but it ain't no Thermaltake Armor!
Heat damaged the NB heatsink, the plastic broke and the wire pressure brace had to be removed. Not sure what to about that…. Right now, f’it

Anyways, looks like I’m kinda back to normal.
The difference is amazing!