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CoolerMaster Sileo 500 Case Review
Author: Jim Manis
Published: Friday, November 20, 2009
Case Layout & Features
The ways of controlling noise in a PC case can vary from sound deadening foam, isolating mounts and even heavier gauge materials to change the resonance frequency. The Cooler Master Sileo 500 utilizes all of these to a great extent. The main body of the case is built from heavy gauge SECC steel. The interior panels are also steel and are riveted together to form a very solid structure. The front bezel is brushed aluminum with plastic side caps. You will find cooling vents on either side of the front panel which feed the front mounted 120mm fan.
The case features five 5.25" exterior bays as well as two 3.5" exterior bays. One of the 3.5" bays is occupied by the included front panel featuring 2x USB 2.0 one eSATA port and HD audio mic and headphone plugs.
The front panel features buttons for power and reset. There is a blue HDD activity light at the bottom of the button strip.
The drive bays feature tool-free drive mounts with anti vibration features to help stop the sound at the source. The slide and lock method seems to provide a very firm mount point. Unfortunately these tool-free clips are only included on one side of the drive bay. For additional drive security you'll need to use screws on the other side which can easily transmit vibrations.
The drive bays feature tool-free drive mounts with anti vibration features to help stop the sound at the source. The slide and lock method seems to provide a very firm mount point. Unfortunately these tool-free clips are only included on one side of the drive bay. For additional drive security you'll need to use screws on the other side which can easily transmit vibrations.
Airflow in this case is good overall with the front bezel allowing fresh air to enter all along the front of the case. A 120mm fan mounted in front of the HDD bays help bring fresh air over the drives. In the back there is a very quiet 120mm fan. The mounting also can acept 92mm or 80mm fans if desired, the largest fan option is our recommendation.
