SilverStone FP32S Aluminum 3.5-Inch Drive Bay with USB X 4 + E1394
Posted by admin | Posted in Computer | Posted on 15-09-2010
4
- Compact and lightweight
- Simple installation via grouped connectors
- 4x USB, 1x IEEE 1394, 1x Audio, 1x MIC
- Fits 3.5 Drive bay
Product Description
The FP32 is a convenient I/O ports kit for the new generation of computers. At an easy to integrate size of a 3.5” drive bay, it is available in either silver or black aluminum finish. By providing connections for four USB 2.0 ports (also compatible with version 1.0 & 1.1), one firewire IEEE 1394 port, and two audio ports compatible in AC97 and High Definition audio (Azalia) standard, the FP32 is also excellent upgrade for any aluminum case…. More >>
This panel is very well-made with solid aluminum/steel construction.
The installation is a little tricky mainly from the number of connections that you have to make with the MB.
The instruction can be improved, but I installed on two different machines without too much problem. Nonetheless, it can be for some.
The microphone and headphone connections confer the newer standard (forgot the name, Amelia or something to that tone) as well as the older AC97.
Four front USB is more than enough for average people since there are typically four more in the back of MB nowadays.
Rating: 5 / 5
This has just the ports I was looking for and better spacing so you could fit multiple, larger USB devices in without the crowding as in some other products.
The finish is a matte light/bright silver which is noticeably brighter than a similar SilverStone 3.5″ panel that it replaced. The older one matched much better to my aluminum case. The new one is almost light gray in appearance and is somewhat of a disappointment.
In case you were wondering, the USB ports do face up. That is one of my pet peeves when manufacturers make the USB ports upside down or mixed. Then you have to fumble to insert devices which is a particular problem with some really tiny flat USB drives. Also, the LEDs on some USB drives face up, so this is nicer.
Overall, though, it generally fits the bill. I cannot give it 5 stars knowing it is just some plugs. It is not a hub. It is just connectors on the ends of wires. (It does not require power.) Considering that you can get an entire motherboard for $50 these days, the price seems steep. For the price, the finish could be better or it could be brushed aluminum or something nicer. Finally, some of the motherboard connectors at the end are a loose jumble of individual sockets rather than one connector, so connection is a little more tedious than necessary.
Rating: 4 / 5
Well made, from the case to the connectors.!!! Has more value than the actual cost. I am very pleased.
D Atlas
Rating: 5 / 5
Easy installation; works great with my GA-P35-DS3P motherboard. Saves me from having to move and reach behind PC to attach my camera and Ipod.
The only thing that would make this outstanding would be a control for the audio volume on the unit but that is a minor issue.
Rating: 4 / 5