Photos Part Three: Hardware Installation and Testing
Now for the important stuff:
- Maximus V Gene
- Intel i7 3770k
- Evercool Venti
- Patriot Viper 2x4GB 1600mhz memory
- Visiontek Radeon 7950
- Silverstone 700w modular power supply
- Seagate 500gb hard drive
- Thermaltake Chaser A31
I think at this point it should be obvious that installation is a snap and a great convenience for PC builders of all skill levels. Fortunately, the A41 doesn’t require that you remove the front bezel in order to access the drive bays; however, there is a catch, so to speak. While the drive bay covers are simple squeeze and pull mechanisms, there’s a fair amount of resistance that can wear on your fingers and thumbs, so I wouldn’t recommend changing out your disc drive very often.
Alas, the external bolt system has returned. As I’ve said before, I know it may seem innovative in that it’s supposedly easier to access, but it just feels like an extra, unnecessary step. But that’s just me, and maybe most people like it better this way. Either way, I suppose it really isn’t a big deal and I’ve accepted that it’s probably here to stay.
A definite advantage the A41 has over the A31 is the added 200mm top-mounted fan. These are particularly nice when you need a good breeze over each of the components and helps with airflow. Of course, it is a bit more difficult to clean the inevitable dust build-up and it can be a little bit on the loud side, but I think it’s worth it.
