SilverStone Fortress FT02

Titan Of The Case World

By Kevin Boey

[Image of the SilverStone Fortress FT02 PC Case, featuring a circular badge with 'EXTRA HIGH VOLTAGE GAME UNWIRED' text and a lightning bolt symbol.]

The last time anyone made a serious effort into improving a mere computer case in terms of thermal management was Intel with the short-lived BTX movement. Until recently, case manufacturers have implemented thermal ducting with various successes. One of the very few innovators in this realm of thermal ducting, SilverStone, has always initiated the more interesting thermal solutions – a trait that can be seen in its latest Fortress-series case, the FT02.

All access to your ports and I/O devices is made at the quick-remove top. For those who lament the loss of portability and quick USB swapping, this is not a LAN party enclosure; it weighs 15 kilos when empty! Although it is made from aluminum and a wee bit of steel, the uni-body construction adds significantly to its weight. This robust construction is why SilverStone is praised for their over-the-top engineering. The case is built to last, withstanding flexing for at least the next 20 years, though the plastic studs on the top lid might break off sooner.

Once the side panels are removed, it is easy to see why this case is innovative. The vertical orientation of the motherboard makes the evacuation of hot air all the more easier. Although motherboards have not evolved to accommodate such a unique placement, SilverStone has made the FT02 highly accommodating, allowing even the latest ATI Radeon HD 5970 ample headroom in its cavernous space.

Cooling and Airflow

Cooling is handled by three massive 180mm fans which draw in cool air from the bottom of the case and a standard 120mm fan on the top near the processor. PSU cooling is handled by a separate duct, and there are numerous ways to manage power cables.

Fan speed controls are really accessible

[Image showing internal fan speed control knobs on the top panel of the case.]

Three huge 180mm fans keep the interior cool and comfy

[Image showing the three large 180mm intake fans located at the bottom of the case interior.]

Noise Reduction and Features

Apart from the massive amounts of cooling, the case comes with defensive features to keep the noise down. Hard drives are muffled in their hot-swappable cages, and the case includes a layer of noise-repelling foam. Users seeking quieter computing can control the 180mm fan speed settings, located on the top of the case. Keeping the case and your components clean are all-round filters which are washable and removable, and even the PSU is well-protected. If air-cooling is not preferred, the FT02 includes grommets for watercooling, making it extremely easy to adapt a kit.

What We Say

Besides being a splendid case to house your workstation or ultimate gaming rig, the Fortress FT02 is both tough and full-featured for any component mixture you can throw at it. Boasting massive airflow, drive space, and ample interior space for all your hard drives and gadgets, this case excels in both versatility and aesthetics with its uni-body construction. For both beauty and functionality, the SilverStone Fortress FT02 is a highly recommended choice.