







Brand | ZALMAN |
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Model | HD503 |
Type | ATX Media Center / HTPC Case |
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Color | Black |
Case Material | Aluminum / Plastic / Steel |
Motherboard Compatibility | ATX, Micro ATX |
Side Window | No |
Expansion Slots | 7 |
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Front USB Ports | USB 2.0 |
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Front Audio Ports | Yes |
Front eSATA Ports | Yes |
Remote Control Module | Yes |
Front Display | Yes |
80mm Fans | 2 x 80mm rear fans |
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Height | 6.69" |
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Width | 17.72" |
Depth | 17.91" |
Weight | 17.64 lbs. |
Date First Available | November 27, 2009 |
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Pros: This case is one of the most solid cases I have ever received. The outside of the case is really attractive and solid. The two latches are the push and then fall open type. The portion where you open to get to the inside is fairly rigid and sturdy. The back is just as attractive and looks just as well made as the rest of the case. Has room for 4 HDD or 3 HDD and one SDD. 1 Optical Drive. Interior has room for the largest of Graphics Cards so really well designed. Room for four fans, all can be installed to the onboard fan controller that has two settings: fast and slow. The internal Hard Drives are easy to install and cable management appears to be simple. Pretty much everything appears to be well made except for the Hard Drive Hot. Installation will be a simple exercise. Room for double slot Graphics Card was suprising. More room than most Mid size Towers and soime full.
Cons: The Hard Drive Hot swap I can see getting broken fairly easy. Definatly not something you want just anybody to play around with. Once the Hard Drive is placed not to much of a worry but before that it's definatly a worry (I have kids). Not really idiot proof either. I can see many people just pulling on it and breaking it. Needs a simple sticker pointing to the bottom of it and a "Do Not Use Force Dumb A$$" sticker. The other issue is the actual hinge mechanism. These wear out kind of fast given much use. I'm already worried about it.
Overall Review: I haven't installed anything into it yet because I like to get the cases first before I pick out the rest of the equipment. My wife walked in and it was love at first sight. I'm kind of worried now so I'm keeping my eye on it and her. No way am I letting them drink together. All in all it's a very attractive case and well worth the money. I've been wanting this one since I first saw it and when I saw it on New Egg it was an instant buy. Same great New Egg service.