Lian Li PC-37A Mini-ATX Aluminum Case
 

Manufacturer: Lian Li
Supplied by: Hampton-Technology
Street Price: $95

By Dean Barker (8/29/2003)

Introduction

Lian Li has long been known as a maker of superior computer cases.  Their attention to detail and quality is the yardstick which everything else is measured to.  In addition to high quality cases, Lian Li is known for having a variety of case sizes and styles available.  Today we are fortunate enough to have a look at the new Lian Li PC-37A Mini-ATX case courtesy of Hampton-Technology.  Hampton Technologies are one of the North American distributors of Lian Li products.  Upon our being contacted about reviewing the PC-37A, we were intrigued right off the bat for a couple of reasons.  To begin with, this is the first high end Lian Li case I have seen hit the market with a street price of $100 (US).  Secondly, the PC-37A is more of a server type mini case.  You’ll understand exactly what I mean in just a second.  Let’s start off with some specs then dive right in.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 490 (D) x 210 (W) x 365 (H) mm

• Size: Mini Tower

• Material: Aluminum Alloy

• Observed weight: 4kg

• Drive Bays 5 x 5.25"; 1 x 3.5"; 2 x 3.5" (Hidden)

• USB x 2 front accessible ports

• Firewire x 1 front accessible port

• Mic In / Speaker Out port

• Case Fans: Single 80mm Case Fans

• Slide Out Motherboard tray

• PSU: none included

A Look Around

Almost immediately when you see the PC-37A you will find yourself cocking your head sideways and asking “This is a mini-tower?”  It is only from the standpoint of its squatty 365mm height.  Other than that it has all the features you would associate with a larger mid-tower.  Five, count em’, five 5.25” bays provide plenty of expansion room.  The top most bay has a small door to conceal a CD-ROM drive.  This door is very well made and my only complaint about it is I can’t find them available as a stand alone accessory.

     

(8/29/2003) Correction: The CD-ROM Bezels seen above ARE available as accessories.

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