Page 2 - Physical Look - Outside
The full front mesh cover of the SilverStone Primera PM01 is different from previous cases I have reviewed, but I must say I like it. Hiding behind the mesh cover are three 140mm fans with filters, which we will be talking about more later in the review. The mesh cover optimizes the air intake at the front, while also looking great. I really like the pointed look found at the top and down the mesh cover, as well as the ridge along the top of the case. It creates a more refined but modern look compared to the typical rectangular computer tower. On the top, moving toward the back, the Primera PM01 angles upward and more towards the middle to form the ridge line. It has a very clean appearance on all sides, because of the absence of 5.25'' drives and the front input/output ports, which are found at the top instead. Both of the side panels are flat, and the entire exterior is black, except for the large window on the left side panel. The dimensions for the SilverStone Primera PM01 comes in at 220mm in width, 571mm in height, and 560mm in depth, with a net weight of 9kg. This makes it a big case, ensuring that there will be enough room for all the components. The dimensions along with the weight make it hard to move around, but I cannot imagine anyone using this for LAN parties. However, if you do not mind lugging around a massive computer, then be my guest. After all, nerds need to work out, too.
The front I/O is found on the top, and one button found on most cases is missing: The reset button. Although there is no reset button, there are quite a few USB ports. There are two USB 2.0 ports as well as two USB 3.0 ports. Also, found on the right side of the top panel are two 3.5mm audio jacks for microphone in and headphone out. There is a little button with the letters "LED" engraved on it that adjusts the preinstalled red LED lights. The button cycles through four different brightness levels. On the right side of the top panel is the power button, with a small red LED to indicate the power status.
The top panel can easily pop off after removing the side panels and unscrewing a few screws on each side. The top can house up to three 120mm fans or two 140mm fans. There is no dust filter, but should not be an issue if you have the fans exhausting hot air out the top. The top panel covers any dust from entering if the computer is in one position for long periods at a time. Even still, it would have been nice to see some mesh filters here. The biggest issue I had with the top is cable management for the fans. There are quite a few screws to remove another piece of the top, and trying to route the cables through the same hole as the top I/O cables is a bit of a chore.
The back of the SilverStone Primera PM01 is fairly standard, with a rear motherboard I/O found on the right side, and the rear exhaust on the left. There are seven expansion slots found here. All of these expansion slots and their surrounding areas are kept well ventilated to allow for better airflow. The rear exhaust can also house up to a 140mm fan, but one is already included. The bottom houses the power supply, which is also standard for most cases on the market today. The big difference for the back of the case is along the top, where there is some mesh, and the top is pointed where the ridge line ends. The back is also completely black to better blend with the rest of the chassis, and it is definitely appreciated since any other color would probably drastically change the overall look and feel of the tower.
The bottom of the SilverStone Primera PM01 is pretty standard as well. There is a big PSU opening for air intake, as well as a dust filter to prevent dust from clogging up your PSU. It is also not just a cheap dust filter, but one with a plastic frame, and it is on rails for easy removal and cleaning. There is also a difference on the surface, from glossy plastic to the metal finish found on the inside. I am not sure why this difference is found along the bottom, but if it does bother you, do not fret, since it will not really be seen at all. There are elongated and rounded feet at each corner with some rubber pads that will provide grip, as well as lifting the case high enough to allow airflow on carpeted surfaces.
Page Index
1. Introduction, Packaging, Specifications
2. Physical Look - Outside
3. Physical Look - Inside
4. Installation and Conclusion
