Thermaltake SwordM Case

Thermaltake runs the gamut when it comes to enthusiast level DIY computing products. Enclosures, cooling, power supplies, and more recently, server and industrial based solutions are all part of Thermaltake's repertoire. With its eye on the future, Thermaltake looks to provide hard core enthusiasts with a new chassis solution that is aimed squarely at the "must have at all costs" crowd: the Thermaltake SwordM full tower enclosure.

"Since the beginning of Thermaltake in 1999, it has been at the forefront of creating new and exciting products at a time where most computer users were provided little to no choices for components. With its comprehensive line of products available, Thermaltake's core customers enjoy a one-stop-shop experience. Customers are our greatest asset and Thermaltake does not take that for granted. That is why Thermaltake is the industry leading in customer service and customer support with around-the-clock automated product return service."  Read more...

When it comes to the higher echelon of computer enclosures, manufacturers love to include new features and gadgetry in their designs. This is not just to persuade enthusiasts to make a purchase, but to also validate the exorbitant cost of the chassis itself. With the introduction of the Thermaltake SwordM enclosure, can Thermaltake convince enthusiasts that the SwordM's high cost justifies its feature set? We take a close look at the Thermaltake SwordM to find out if it can be successful in a hotly contested market segment.

Specifications

 Make and Model	Thermaltake SwordM (VD5000BNA)
 Colors Available	Black
 Dimensions	9.4" x 30.3" x 25.6" (W x L x H) 37.0 pounds (net weight)
 Drive Bays	6 x External 5.25" 0 x External 3.5" 3 x Internal 3.5"
 Motherboard Size	Micro, Standard and Extended ATX
 Expansion Slots	Seven
 Front I/O	2 x USB 2.0 1 x FireWire 1394 1 x eSATA 1 x Audio and microphone jack (HD)
 Cooling	1 x 120mm front intake fan (blue LED) 2 x 120mm top cooling fans 2 x 120mm rear exhaust fans Optional placement for 4 x120mm side panel fans Optional placement for 2 x 120mm bottom fans

The accessory bundle of the SwordM is full of goodies such as zip-ties, a cable tie, a right angle power supply cord, and a couple of 7" aluminum external bay covers. We found the manual to be extremely well done, with great photos and clear, precise instructions. Also included are motherboard standoffs, a plethora of motherboard screws, as well as a plastic baggie full of thumbscrews for the 5.25" external drive bays. Not shown here are four plastic wheels which can be attached with four screws each to the bottom of the SwordM to increase its mobility. This is very important, as we will later see in the review that this is one beast of an enclosure.