Skeleton Open Air Case from Antec

Author: Toni 'HaoKi' Siik Published: 30.10.2008 Manufacturer: Antec Product Group: Computer Case In English Suomeksi

Finished Installation

Here you can see my setup in the Antec Skeleton. As you can see I'm using a Corsair Nautilus to cool the CPU, so the tubes are just run out of the back of the case to the Nautilus.

note the small clearances with the fan

Is this the next big thing?

Its great to see that even big companies do think outside of the box from time to time. The Antec Skeleton really is something that we haven't seen before... But is the Skeleton something that every computer enthusiast should have?

I had really high hopes for this chassis, and I can't but feel a little let down. Sure, many features work like a charm, but there are just too many little design flaws for this chassis to be a great product. In addition to the short wires and crowded lower compartment of the chassis, depending on the setup, the users may face serious clearance issues with the support structure and large fan. The high-end heatsinks for the CPU may or may not fit inside the chassis. If your out of luck, the heatsink will just hit the support-frame when the tray is slid back inside the frame.

The same issue is duplicated with the graphics cards as even with the Sapphire HD4850 Toxic, there really isn't too much space to play with. The card clears the fan by just two centimeters so you can forget about using larger heatsinks on the graphics cards if you're not willing to fiddle around with them. The same issue is also present with cards that have the power connections facing up from the card.

This chassis really is targeted towards a really small group of people, as not everyone wants a computer chassis that collects every bit of dust and its not hard to imagine someone destroying their whole setup by spilling something inside the chassis. Antec intends to bring optional panel kits to the market so that users can shield their hardware a little better.

Conclusion PROS  Innovative design Fast changing of parts possible Great airflow for the motherboard Fairly quiet 250 mm fan Motherboard tray design CONS  All the small design flaws Clearance issues The tight lower compartment The external drive bays Bronze Award! Antec has taken a bold move and produced a chassis that is both innovative and stylish. Even if I've found several features of this chassis to be lacking, I love how a big company has the courage to wander this far out from their comfort-zone. Antec is one of those rare companies that actually listens to their customers and improves on their products based on customer demands and wishes. They have succeeded in producing a very interesting chassis, that has great potential. Its not good yet, but it can be, if Antec takes the necessary steps to improve it. I really can't recommend this chassis just yet, but after Antec irons out the design flaws, this case could be perfect for enthusiasts that are pushing their limits. Of course you can iron out the flaws yourself if you feel like your up to the task. ;) I really would love to give this product a golden medal for the innovative approach, but all the flaws puch the score down to a bronze medal. I'm realy looking forward to seeing what Antec will do with this concept in the future.

Additional Information

Past related articles in Metku.net Lian-Li Tyr PC-X2000 Antec Gamer Cases - 300 vs. 1200 Silverstonetek SUGO SG03 & Nitrogon NT06-Lite Project: Passive

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