LANCOOL Metal Boned K7

Testing

Methodology

We use a unique strength test that is a little simplistic and all it requires is my weight on the top and observing the bending etc. that the case exhibits. The ‘test’ is explained more here.

For the temperature and noise output testing, we use the same PSU in every test and observe the noise output and give you a relative reading on our scale.

The temperature results are taken from the ambient temperature of the case, the CPU and the chipset. We now also test the temperature of the HDD under a full low-level scan via SMART. All of these results are taken without a graphics card (our motherboard has on-board). The temperatures are taken at load and at idle for the processor using OCCT to load the cores. The stock AMD heatsink is used with Artic Silver 5 with an AM2 6000+ CPU at stock underneath.

Ambient temperature is 19C.

Results

If you’ve read any of our other case reviews, you know that I like to stand on things. This is a fairly archaic test, but it gives a basic insight into how well the case is constructed; any failings and I’ll fall through. Fortunately I didn’t end up with a steel/aluminium boot and the case scored the maximum marks meaning that the LAN part of its name is well deserved.

For the temperature results, the case performs slightly better than the NZXT Alpha which is expected as this case comes with a larger compliment of fans. During operation, it’s not loud, but definitely not silent or even near to mulnaz.

Once you press power, the case lights at the front are red and blue for power and HDD respectively. They are quite subdued compared to the overall matt black flat front. In order to liven up the display, I decided to chuck a couple of blue LED fans at the front which worked quite well. If LANCOOL could improve this case, LED fans are definitely the way to – with them shining through the dust filters it looks pretty cool.

Click to enlarge

Cases