nMedia HTPC200BA

Introduction:

    We are a little over a month past Christmas, and I know some of us received some really good computer hardware. So what does that mean for the other hardware that was replaced, but is still good? It means it's HTPC computer building time! One of the first things to having a good looking HTPC is the enclosure, and that's where this review fits right in. In the review we have today, we will be going over the HTPC 200BA from nMedia. The enclosure comes in two colors: BA for black, and SA for silver. The HTPC 200 enclosures have several nice features. Let's get on with the review to check them out.

Specifications:

Packaging:

Retail Top	Specs
Model#	Protection

    The HTPC 200BA comes in a simple, brown box with some some information about the enclosure contained inside. No fancy graphics or colorful pictures here. Interior protection is done with Styrofoam, then the enclosure is covered in bubble wrap and finally wrapped in plastic. A lot of measures have been taken to protect the enclosure from being damaged.

Outside:

HTCP200BA	Front	Power button	DVD door
LCD	A/V plugs	Card reader	Front panel plugs

    The nMedia HTPC200 comes in two color choices of Silver (the 200SA) and Black (the 200BA.) The unit I received was the 200BA. Let's start with an overview of the entire enclosure, beginning with the outside at the front bezel. The front bezel on the HTCP200 resembles that of a stereo receiver. Starting left and working across to the right, there is a large, round power button surrounded by a clear ring that glows blue from an LED. In the middle is the optical drive door with DVD stamped on it. On the left is the LCD panel that displays CPU and Case temperatures, as well as CPU fan speed. The lower half of the bezel has a door across the front that hides some front I/O connections; the door uses the push-to-lock/unlock device. These connections from left to right are Audio and Video ports, 9 in 1 Card reader, and USB2.0/Speaker/MIC and IEEE ports.

3/4 Left	3/4 Right	Rear
Top	CPU Intake	SPDIF

 Working our way around to the side panels, the left and right panels have some vents towards the back. The rear panel is set up for an M-ATX motherboard and has four PCI expansion ports. Near the motherboard I/O panel are 2 60mm fan openings with preinstalled fans. Next to that is the opening for the power supply, and above the power supply opening is a SPDIF connection. The top panel has vent slots on each side and towards the back is a opening for a 90mm fan.