CoolerMaster ATC-SPW Case Window
CoolerMaster, not to be left behind, have produced their own pre-made window in the form of the ATC-SPW-xxx replacement side panel with window designed for their ATC-101/ATC-110 range of cases.
CoolerMaster sent me a giant pizza box. "Yummy", I thought, "I will eat this in the garden".
Imagine my surprise when opening the box revealed not a massive margarita, but a very securely packaged windowed side panel. The panel is obviously made from aluminium to match the ATC-1xx range of cases.
The window I received was designated ATC-SPW-VX1. The VX1 meaning it is the "Verdant", (green), version. Presumably CoolerMaster plan on producing a range of colours which will follow their naming convention. AX1 being "Azure", (blue), etc.
The window cut-out is a 300mm x 300mm square with radiated corners. It sits almost dead center on the side panel with a bias of about 10mm towards the rear of the panel.
The window "glass" is made from very high quality 5mm thick green tinted acrylic attached to the outside of the panel with twelve chromed hex screws. The same type as used on the case facias. The acrylic overlaps the cut-out by 15mm on each side and has a chamfered edge. This give a pleasing "border" effect to the window.
I replaced the standard side panel on my ATC-101 and found the new panel matched the case's finish perfectly. The optical clarity of the acrylic window is superb with no distortion what so ever.
Subjectively, given the internal construction of the ATC-101 case, I would say the window dimensions are just about right. Giving maximum visibility without showing too much internal case structure.
Since the acrylic is screwed to the side panel, there is no reason to stop it being reverse mounted inside the panel for a less "chunky" look.
The screws holding the acrylic window thread into the aluminium panel and so produce burrs. These will have to be filed flat first of course and a 3mm nut used on the screw since the holes in the acrylic are a clearance fit for the screws. Of course alternative screws of your choice could be used instead.
So there you have it. The first pre-made window from CoolerMaster. If you own an ATC-101 or ATC110 case, want a window and can not or do not want to make your own then this is probably for you. The quality and finish is up to the usual CoolerMaster standard and anyone who buys one will not be disappointed.