Vantec Nexus Multi-Function Panel

Manufacturer: Vantec
Supplied by: Sidewinder Computers
Price: $35.00

By Brian Tiller (2/3/03)

Introduction

Let's all give a big round of applause to Sidewinder Computers for sending this sharp looking jobber over for a look-see. Today, we have the much vaunted Nexus Multi-Function panel from Vantec up on the workbench. Having just reviewed the Nexus Fan Controller, I am expecting some good things from this unit. As it's name implies, the Nexus Multi-Function Panel is an all in one doo-hickey. With it you can monitor temperatures, control fan speed, and have front panel access to USB and FireWire connections.

What you get

As you can see the unit comes attractively packaged in a cardboard box proudly displaying Vantec's colors, as well as listing all the functions on the back of the box. Also take note of the damage to the box, thanks to those wonderful folks at the shipping company that handled this for us. I was concerned at first that something inside might have taken a beating as well. But thankfully when I opened up the box to peer inside, I saw that Vantec had packaged everything very nicely to help prevent such damage.

   

Included with the panel itself were a multitude of items. One of these was the installation guide, which I thought was outstanding. Next up are the 3 temperature probes. As you can see, these are the thin tipped probes instead of the bulbous type. This allows you stick these buggers practically anywhere. Vantec has labeled the probes as well to help you determine where to place them. Their suggestions are for the CPU, case and HDD. Next we take a look at the USB and FireWire cables. The ports and cables for the USB support USB 2.0, but will also allow support for 1.1. The drawback that I find with these cables is that you have to plug them into existing USB and FireWire ports instead of the motherboard headers. I know that the older motherboards don't have these headers, but it would be nice to have the option.

   

Since the panel not only monitors your case temperatures but controls the fan as well, there are also 2 fan wires. Now you're asking since the unit only controls one fan, how come 2 wires? Simple. It not only controls the fan, but also gives you a readout of the fan speed as well. So while one wire hooks into the fan, the other goes to the motherboard. Nice job Vantec.