Component Installation

Included with the case is an instruction manual, assembly parts (various screws, standoffs, drive rails, etc) and a pair of keys that fits the lock on the side of the case. The removable side panel is shown below on the right.

Installing the motherboard is as easy as it gets with the removable motherboard tray. I should mention now that thumbscrews are found everywhere in this case...from the removable side panel, the motherboard tray, and all other places screws are normally found. This is a nice touch that makes assembly a snap. The middle pic shows the thumbscrew that releases the motherboard tray.

With the motherboard ready to go it was time for the internal connections to be made. The front control panel has multiple connections: Firewire, 2 USB, audio, and 2 temperature sensors for the LED display. Each group of wires are clearly marked and easy to connect to the motherboard. The connections to the front panel are pre-installed...so no worries with that. The temp switch you see allows you to select celcius or fahrenheit for the front LED display. The two sensors shown cycle on the front LED every 2 seconds for up-to-date temp stats.

Time for the drives to go in. Here is a major plus to the P160...the side-facing drive cage with removable drive trays. Each tray contains rubber mounting grommets that decrease vibrational noise and drive rattle. Notice the clean install possible with the drives facing outward. Cabling can be made virtually invisible if you choose to do so. The trays are also greased to keep removal and replacement easy.

The DVD drive is installed by removing the front bezel, attaching drive rails to each side of the drive, and then simply sliding it into place.

More pics of the DVD drive installed. The front panel of the case swings out when the drive is opened. I like how the smooth look of the case is maintained by the built-in color-coordinated CD-ROM and floppy bay drive covers.

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