The Jetart Xpanel DT5000 has many things going for it and one glaring thing going against it. As I said earlier, I do not understand why the accessory cables need to be routed through a PCI slot instead of being plugged directly onto the motherboard. Personally, this is something I'd like to see them address. Other than that, the only other thing I can think of that I'm sure some people would want to see is the ability to adjust the front panel light. Not that it's very bright or anything, but I know people like to be able to dim any light that is coming from their PC if they feel like it. Aside from those issues, I liked the DT5000 a lot and would recommend it to anyone looking for a front panel that monitors three different temps and fan speeds and can keep a HDD cool and that comes with the extra connectors. On my very next upgrade build of my main system, the Xpanel will be finding a new home in my case. At the moment, I believe you'll have to order it direct from the company at www.jetart.com as I couldn't find it at any of the usual on-line PC retailers.
Pros:
- HDD cooler
- 3 temps sensors
- 3 fan speed controllers
- High temp and low fan speed alarm
- Easy to use Digital control knob
- 2 Front USB ports
- 1 Front Firewire port
- Headphone/microphone ports
- Cool blue backlight
Cons:
- Cable routing to back motherboard panel through a PCI slot instead on the motherboard directly (major)
- Backlight cannot be adjusted (minor)
Till next time, this is Tolemac switching review mode OFF.
