Review Date: 8th December 2002 Reviewed By: Michael "Hughesey" Hughes Product: Skyhawk Jupiter Aluminum Case Rating: 95% Manufacturer: Skyhawk Supplier: EYO Technologies

The Externals

Upon removing the case from the box, I have to admit, a tear did roll from my eye, this case was just so god dam sexy. So sexy in fact, that if it wasn't against the laws of both society and physics, I think I'd marry this case!

 

The front of the case consists of the four 5.25" drive bays, and two 3.5" drive bays which are covered perspex, which, when viewed from an angle, gives off an awesome purple glow. Below the drive bays lies this case's greatest feature, the LCD display.

This LCD display is truly ingenious. It has 7 different colored backlights (perfect for matching the neon/cold cathode you put inside it) and it is wired to a temperature sensor, enabling you to display the temperature of your choice (CPU, Video Card etc.) on the font of the case! The backlights to the LCD can be set to scroll, where it scrolls through the colors constantly (which can be a bit irritating), or set onto one colour.

Also on this front panel is a provision for front USB and audio ports, via the optional front port extender.

 

Moving around to the side of the case, we are greeted by an excellently designed window. This window sets the case apart from rivals such as LianLi with its intuitive design. Imagine all the lighting possibilities that could be implemented with this window! The window is made of the same perspex that is on the front of the case, albeit without the purple glow. The window is attached with rivets along the edges, preventing the need for any moulding, which also helps the professional appearance of the case.

Also on this side, is a pre cut fan hole. Skyhawk include a no-name see through fan, and standard grill, which is certainly better than a lot of other manufacturers who simply provide machine drilled holes, which not only decrease airflow, they increase noise due to turbulence. Once again, by adding a laser cut fan grille, this case side would be even more spectacular!

 

On the rear of the case, we see two items worth noting. First are the handles which are attatched to the sides of the case. Most manufacturers prefer to include some form of handle in the form of a bevel in the side of the case itself, but in an effort to increase the aesthetics of the case, skyhawk has decided not to make a dent in the side of the case, but rather to attatch the handles to the back. Great idea Skyhawk!!

Secondly, we can see that Skyhawk have been kind enough to equip their cases with thumbscrews. To me, this is a true sign that the company has the customer in mind when designing the case, and not just profits.