Joined on 11/29/12
Works!
Pros: Got it to work after figuring out how to install. Requires installation of included bluetooth dongle and then pairing with the device by entering in the code on the keypad.
Cons: Instructions not very clear. Was going to RMA the item after having difficulty setting up.
Still Running Great - WiFi not so much
Pros: I've been using the board for about a month or so now and it has been rock solid as I expected. I installed all the utilities and updated the BIOS and all the drivers. The live update feature analyzes your build and helps you determine what to update... very useful and easy to do. The control center utility is interesting and allows you to monitor system settings, temperature, modify the fan speeds, etc.
Cons: The wifi works solidly most of the time. Sometimes, upon startup, it will find my router but doesn't getting internet access. I usually just have to reset my router and it works fine after that. I suspect my router or its configuration may be at fault because I have guests use my network and they can't get internet access sometimes unless we reset the router. If there is a problem with the wifi on board I'm hoping it is something that can be addressed by a driver update. I know that a more sturdy antenna is not going to make a difference in this case, however the antenna is very flimsy and the connection comes apart if you just breath on it too hard.
Overall Review: I'm really happy with the MSI board, it has been rock solid for several weeks now. No problems.
Bare Bones OEM Pack
Pros: Slim unit that reads and writes most media types. Construction seems decent. Installation is straightforward and discs runs relatively quiet. I incorporated this optical drive into a mini ATA build for a home entertainment computer.
Cons: Bare bones.... just the drive wrapped in bubble wrap within a small plain brown box. No documentation or any support, warranty or contact info. This is a slim drive and is not as sturdy as a standard sized optical drive. When the open button is pressed, the tray pops out and only slides out partially- much like a laptop drive (which it is). Care must be taken when installing and removing discs as the tray feels rather flimsy. Yes, it require a mini SATA adapter. It would have been nice to have this included but this is just an OEM pack, you get what you pay for. Doesn't write Blu-Ray discs either, but no deal breaker for me.
Overall Review: If you need an decent slim internal optical drive there aren't that many choices out there. If using this in a build for a child's computer make sure they understand that the disc tray is rather flimsy and care should be taken when putting in and removing discs.
Good deal!
Pros: Works perfectly, very low profile RAM. Looks good. Excellent customer service from Newegg.
Cons: None
Nicely Done
Pros: Well constructed and designed case. I love the smallish form factor. Had zero problems installing any of my components, including the drives. It can easily hold a 2.5 and 3.5 drive at the same time. The included fan is very quiet. Yes, a 3.5 inch drive installed slightly blocks part of the case fan. It's not a major issue.The case still has sufficient room for air flow after everything was installed and connections are not cramped at all.
Cons: The front panel LED's are too bright. I wish they would use low powered green or red LEDs instead. I know blue LEDs were all the rage a few years ago but I find them annoyingly bright.
Overall Review: Nice case. Would have preferred hand connector screws for rear case but these came with the Silverstone PSU i bought anyway.
Quality Power Supply
Pros: Put this into a Sugo SG05B case with an MSI Z77IA-E53 and Intel I3 core ..seems to be working fine. Generates very little heat. I mounted the fan facing the top of the case, in that configuration the fan seems a little louder. Probably would have been better to mount the fan facing downward as it would then also help push air out of the case. Otherwise I am always impressed by the heft and construction of these Bronze level, higher quality power supplies. Energy efficiency is good for the environment.
Cons: No cons