Packaging

Cooler Master once again has hit a homerun with packaging and artwork used on the CMStacker 832 shipping carton. From the customary black, white and aqua color of the Cooler Master badge down to colorful area showing a perspective view of the CMStacker 832, Cooler Master has designed a colorful but not gaudy shipping carton that will cause a stir when seen.  Also making good use of the front panel we can find the specifications for the enclosure; thus providing the type of information the prospective customer will find of great value.

The rear of the carton has been put to good use as well, as you have an exploded look at the CMStacker and individual pictures of all of the cases main features which once again will be a huge help in allowing the customer to make and informed decision when it comes time to decide if this is indeed the right enclosure for him or her.

A Look at the Outside

The initial thought when I first saw the case out of its shipping carton was how well made it appeared. The case is constructed of heavy-gauge aluminum which has then been painted a semi-gloss black in color.  The paint and finish is susceptible to some finger printing which can be readily wipe off with a soft cloth.

The version of the case we are reviewing does not come with side-panel windows, but instead it has shield shaped vents that cover most of the area on both left and right side-panel.  The side-panels are slid on and off the case by pulling straight back on them after the release lever has been positioned to the unlocked position.  You can see that centrally located on each side-panel are the words CMStacker.

 

The door has a total of sixteen slots cut into it to allow air to pass into the case via the screen covered bay covers used on the case.  The door can be positioned on either the left or right side of the enclosure and when opened it moves approximated 90 degrees.  The door is also held shut with two large magnets.  Also worth mentioning is the fact the bottom of the door has been scalloped to allow more air into the case. Located in the center of the door is the customary Cooler Master logo.

Located slightly above the door you will find two sets accessory connection points.  The first one is facing the front of the case, it contains two USB 2.0 connector, headphone and microphone jacks and a single Firewire connection point. 

The second set of accessory connector is located on the front top portion of the enclosure.  Here you will find two additional USB 2..0 connector, a "Reset Button" and a shield shaped "Power Button" with the letters "CM" stamped on it.  There is also a small opening toward the back of this area that allows you to store small items or use it as a hand-hold when you need to move the case a small distance.  By the way you will not be using this case at your next LAN Party unless you live on a diet of Steroids or the Clean. (If you are unfamiliar with this last line ask Barry Bonds he can explain it)

The idea of four USB connectors on the front of your case may seem a bit over the top yet when I stopped and thought about it there have been occasions when that many connectors might very well get used. A game controller, camera external hard drive and connector for my MP3 player.