Vantec Nexus Multi Function Panel (2)

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Vantec Nexus Multi-function Panel NXP101 (2)
Overclocker 25 Dec 2002

The package comes with 3 temperature probes, faceplates, cables to interconnect the USB and Firewire ports.

Installation of the NXP101 is quite straightforward if you read the documentation that comes with it. If you are lazy just like me, my advise to you is that you hook up all the ports that you would be using, e.g. USB 2.0 connectors, the temperature probes for the CPU, HDD and Casing temperature. The reason is because it is more difficult to fix them up if you have installed the panel onto your PC.

When I first install it, I just hooked up the USB 2.0 connectors and run it across to the backplate of the PC and connect it to the USB ports. I then plug out the CPU Fan's connector and hook it up to the JP7 as indicated in the diagram, (JP6 is for system fan). I also connect the HDD probe and ignored the CPU and Case probe since I do not intend to monitor them. Next, I hooked up the power port and I am done.

When I power on my machine, I hear constant beeping and it is annoying. I sense it could be due to the CPU probe. I powered down and I attached the probe to the jumper labelled CPU and power up the machine. The alert sound went off. I reduced the RPM of the CPU FAN by moving the knob anti clockwise and I am now a happy camper, with a quiter machine than before. Everything is done within 20 minutes.

With the Vantec NXP101, I now fix my 2 USB connections through the front panel and I can monitor and adjust the CPU FAN accordingly. (as well as HDD, Case Temp).

It is a pity though that there is no trigger built in which sends a signal to shut down the machine if the CPU is overheated. Furthermore, there is no documentation on how we can set the threshold value to trigger the alarm. It would also be better if the connectors be connected directly to the mainboard then to connect to the back panel. How about a panel to tell us the FSB/PCI/AGP of the system for overclockers ? How about integrating bluetooth, Smart media reader on the same device ?

Overall, this is an innovative product which I find it pretty useful especially in brining the USB and Firewire to the front. The CPU Fan Speed Control is definitely a cool thing to reduce that noisy CPU Fan in your machine. Highly Recommended!

Highly Recommended

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