Power Supply, Case, Misc

Thermaltake ToughPower 1000W Power Supply

Call me old, but I remember a time when 450W was more than adequate to power most computers, even with high-end CPU coolers and aftermarket fans. Of course, I’m so old I remember when SLI used to stand for Scan-Line Interleave, so that should tell you something. You kids these days with your quad-cores and dual graphics need some serious power to ensure complete system stability. This is especially true when overclocking and pushing frequencies and voltages to their absolute maximum. Thermaltake has built a name for itself in this department by developing performance power supplies that provide efficiency and stability for even the highest power drawing system. The ToughPower series is no exception and has been certified for quad graphics, SLI, and 80 Plus efficiency.

Thermaltake Spedo Advance Package Full ATX Case

Thermaltake is also known for their cases which have provided not only innovations in cooling, but in ease of use as well. The Spedo Advance Package is a full tower case that comes with support for up to 6 3.5” drives and 7 5.25” drives. The Spedo also features four 120mm fans, as well as two big 230mm fans, one directly on the side panel. For the drive bays, the Spedo utilizes a unique system of snap-locked trays that hold your drives hard in place, but also allow them to be easily removed with the push of a button. One of the best features is the cable management system which provides room behind the motherboard panel for the system wiring, including SATA and power cables. This helps alleviate airflow issues and ensure proper system cooling, preventing hot air build-up due to poor cable placement. CyberPower offers professional cable wiring as an option on all configured builds.

Our system got this treatment, and it goes to show just how serious CyberPower is about their level of service. All cables were expertly tied down and no loose wire was left dangling. The end result was a case completely free of any clutter, which should not only provide great cooling, but also work to soothe the obsessive compulsive person inside all of us. Also installed at the bottom bay of our system was a 12-in-1 card reader that supports just about every popular memory card format available, past and present.