Product Listing

Antec Fusion Media Center Case

By Vincent Chang - 3 Nov 2006

Conclusion

Conclusion

The thermal isolation idea has worked quite well in the Antec P180 and it seems only logical to apply it to a HTPC casing, where heat and subsequently noise are important design considerations. However, this is not merely about shrinking the P180 into the dimensions of a HTPC enclosure and leaving it at that. What Antec perhaps did not consider adequately for the Fusion was space requirements and proper cable management, which resulted in a big hassle for installation. HTPC like SFF casings are notoriously cramped and we can accept that, but the separation of the chambers lends a new meaning to the word claustrophobic. Having to thread multiple cables, especially the wide IDE cables, can be an exercise in patience and the cable organizers included by Antec are only helpful once you get everything nicely routed. We would appreciate having certain power cables pre-installed and factory routed, especially since Antec has included their own quality 430W PSU with the Fusion.

Hidden behind that cool and sleek bezel is an enthusiast's sweat and tears. The features of the Antec Fusion places it on par with the competition but be prepared to work a little bit harder during installation.

Having said that, the determined enthusiast may find the Antec Fusion worth the hassle. The generous air vents coupled with two adjustable 120mm TriCool system fans mean that once the interior has been cable-tied decently, air flow should be smooth and unimpeded. The plastic air diverter also helps to focus the movement of air past the CPU and out of the enclosure via the TriCool fans. The thermal isolation chambers should keep the heat of the PSU within its own compartment while ensuring that the rest of your components stay relatively cool. Meanwhile, the hard drive cage has all you can expect, from the noise dampening grommets to sufficient ventilation. It just lacks the tool-free mechanisms we have grown so used to.

Design-wise, its HTPC credentials are solid, from its unmistakably 'home theater' exterior to the inclusion of a VFD and volume control knob. Its dimensions mean it supports microATX motherboards only and you may have a problem with longer graphics cards but the HTPC segment is more forgiving of these expansion limitations as long as it can blend into the living room and this is what the Antec Fusion does well. At around US$185, it may not be as affordable as your conventional enclosure but that price comes with the HTPC territory. If you have the patience and don't expect to upgrade your system soon, the Antec Fusion is a good alternative to the other HTPC enclosures available now.

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