Model:  PC3-720BK

Manufacturer:  Koolance

Provider: PCPowerZone

Reviewed By:  Miguel

Review Date:  03/21/05

    The interest in PC water-cooling has grown tremendously over the past year. Many new and established companies are quite aware of the growing trend and offer numerous options that cater to those enthusiasts who are primarily after one thing...a higher level of cooling performance at minimum noise levels.  While we have personally taken a look at a few of these options over the past year, it is quite surprising that their is still only one company that offers you a true "plug-n-play" package, including the case.  Koolance is well known for their unique water-cooled cases that are primarily designed to be easy to install and maintain.  We previously looked at their highly appealing PC2-650, which did impress in terms of features and performance. However, there were some minor things that we emphasized on regarding its design, such as the location of the fill plug and the rather unappealing temp display.  Fortunately, these minor gripes have been addressed with their latest model, the new PC3-720BK. With its top mounted fill plug, 700W heat dissipation capability, standard 3/8" tubing, and completely re-designed LED display panel, this new case is sure to turn heads as well as provide a higher level of performance.

Packaging & Contents

I don't usually like to go into detail regarding packaging, however, I do make an exception when it comes to cases.  I've received numerous damaged cases over the past few years and therefore, find this rather important.  Fortunately, PCPowerZone ships the new Koolance PC3-720 double-boxed to ensure it will arrive undamaged.  Koolance cases come with just about everything you need to get up an running, with the exception of the water blocks.  This includes a thorough manual, tube splitters (1/4" to 3/8"), new blue dye coolant, extra tubing, a fill funnel, PSU jumper and bag of installation hardware.

Design

Now, one thing that was quite surprising was the overall weight of the packaging.  Based on all the pictures I've seen, I was expecting quite a heavy package.  It turns out that unlike their previous PC2-650, this new model is made primarily out of aluminum and is substantially lighter.  The front and side have also been re-designed.  While I truly love the unique high-tech look of the PC2-650, the front of the new PC3-720 has a more conservative look and more suitable for server environments.  It still doesn't appeal as much as the frosted lighted circuit board design of the PC2-650.  The side panel window is also quite different, revealing much more of what powers and cools it inside.  While the rear of the chassis does look a bit different, you still have the same two optional 80mm fan slots for additional cooling.  I would have liked to see one 120mm fan slot here, but there has been a few other changes we will go over regarding cooling that was quite nice to see.

Specifications

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