A Closer Look

As mentioned previously, the Vertex comes wrapped in protective plastic to keep scratches and fingerprints to a minimum until the case is unwrapped. Upon unwrapping the case you will definitely notice the unbelievably shiny gloss, black in this sample, powder coat finish. The power switch is a very high quality Bulgin Vandal-style button that is lit with a red LED. The switch also functions as a reset switch when the machine is powered on. The case stands approximately 10.24" (26 cm) tall and is 16" (40.6 cm) square at the bottom. The case stands on four rubber feet to keep any vibration and noise to a minimum.


On the right side of the case you have a simple flush panel. On the left side however, you will find easy access to the typical "Front Panel" connections mounted flush in the side of the case.


In the rear of the case there is one of two 80 mm Scythe Kama-Flex 2000 RPM fans that aid in keeping the Vertex cool. The fan comes covered by a nicely chromed "Biohazard" symbol fan grill. You will also find a large opening to allow for access to the rear panel connectors as well as the power supply and any additional peripheral cards you may install, such as a video card. The bottom of the case houses the intake fan, again an 80 mm Scythe Kama-Flex 2000 RPM version. You might also notice several slots around the edges of the underside of the case. These slots are meant for any cables you may need to run for lighting or accessories such as an additional hard drive.


Another thing to note about the bottom of the case is that it houses the "slimline" laptop style CD, DVD, or BD-ROM drive of your choice. At this time an optical drive is not included in the price of the case. You will have to supply your own. The drive is held to the underside of the case by an aluminum bracket that holds the optical drive snugly to keep it in place. The manufacturer highly suggests utilizing a Serial-ATA optical drive for best cable management. Included in the accessories with the case is a mini Serial-ATA style cable for use with the slimline optical drive.