Computer Reviews

The X-plorer is aimed at the mid-range custom computer case market. At around 60 dollars of so it lacks a few of the features of its more expensive brothers and sisters. It’s still a good case for the money, but as you will see it has a few issues that might stop it from becoming a true winner.

It’s basic features are…

• Standard ATX size
• 80mm fan at top and front included
• 5 fan speed controller
• Temperature display
• Good paint job

Of all the Aspire computer cases, this one disappoints a little in terms of things that needed to be thought about.

One of the most notable omissions in the lack of a simple guide to installation of parts. Seeing as the guide is aimed at the mid range, there is a good chance that someone who buys it is attempting their first case upgrade. You can find instructions on the Aspire website.

The case has been cleverly designed upon Intel’s Air Guide Design Guide. Intel basically specifies some things that need to be on a case to make it have good airflow.

Well the cases overall airflow is okay. There is space for 2 80mm fans at the front (not included) and space to upgrade the back 80mm fan to a 120mm.

The case still looks good and does do a good job in terms of styling. As with other Aspire computer cases it has a removable motherboard tray, making installation a snap.

So although the case might make it in the looks department, you are probably better off with one of their other cases, which are fantastic buys.

An ATX sized offering the range from Aspire computer cases, this case has a retro feel with a lot of good features. Some only cosmetic, but some useful ones too.

Aspire PC cases have established themselves as good reliable cases, but as well as that they actually do appeal to the markets they are trying to. The X-cruiser is aimed at the computer case modder, or those who want to upgrade to a slightly more custom job.

Included features…

• Cool colors
• 3 cool dials at the front
• Front USB, audio and firewire connectors
• 4 DVD sized slots, 2 floppy drive sized and 5 internal hard drive sized
• Removable motherboard tray
• Roomy inside

Overall the case does a good job. The colors are cool, and the construction is done well. There are no sharp edges inside, so you won’t get any cut fingers. There are a few spots for fans inside so you shouldn’t have trouble choosing which spots to use.

The 3 dials at the front are a VU meter, for sound level measurements, one for temperature and the bottom for fan speed. There are dials on the side to adjust the sensitivity of the VU meter, and the speed of the front fan.

A few complaints about the fan are that it only comes with a small 80mm fan at the back, although there is space to install a 120mm. There is space for 2 80mm at the front. There is a vent onto the CPU and a chimney vent at the top.

Installation should be a cinch, and detailed instructions can be found at the Aspire cases website.

So if you like the looks, the performance won’t disappoint, the case is suitable for anyone looking for that something unique.

Aspire mini cases have made lots of improvements since the incarnation of the Antec Aria. The X-Qpack packs in a whole host of useful and useable features that probably make it one of the better buys when considering a microATX case.

The Aspire X-Qpack makes up the microATX sized range of the Aspire computer cases range. It comes in a variety of colors too, which is a cool thing for those who want it to match something, or just for something cool. These Aspire cases can make a great case for an entertainment system in your home.

The list of features for this case include…

• small size
• 420Watt power supply
• 120mm exhaust fan
• Clear sides with blue LED fans inside
• Space for 2 DVD or CD drives or equivalent

The whole case is nicely colored and has smooth lines. The insides are visible from clear panels on every side of the case. These are enhanced by blue LED lights on all of the fans.

There is an blue LCD display at front which displays CPU and Hard drive temperatures. And they actually work. With the little connectors they give a fairly accurate guage of how hot things are getting inside.

Airflow is strong due to the large fan at the back. There should be no overheating concerns with a standard non-overclocked setup.

Two more noteable things are the removable motherboard tray and the handle. The removable motherboard tray makes installation of a motherboard in a computer which is tight on space easy. So no more lost skin with this one. Also there is a handy dandy handle on the front for ease of carrying.

Go to the Aspire cases website at http://aspireusa.net for a closer look.

Overall a very easy to work with case that looks good and doesn’t cost much. A great buy.