Chieftec BT-02B
Like most of its competitors, the BT-02B also offers support for regular size 3.5” hard drives and 5.25” optical drives. The two USB ports and audio in/out are pretty much the bare minimum when it comes to connections, but at least they are easy to access at the top of the case. The case comes with a 180 W PSU called Chieftec PSF-180MP.
Considering its width of 13.5 cm, the BT-02B sure gives the impression of a case well prepared for the installation of Mini-ITX boards with large CPU coolers. However, a quick look inside reveals that even the standard Intel cooler just barely fits. The huge stabilization bar is the problem, as it cuts off some of the available height and makes the installation of hardware more difficult. Mini-ITX motherboards with slightly larger heat sinks cannot fit inside the Chieftec BT-02B. And if you are going to equip the system with an additional card (graphics for example), you must make sure that they do not exceed the maximum length of 19 cm. That is as much space as you get with this case.
Conclusion: Inexpensive, No Configuration Options
The Chieftec BT-02B has its strengths and weaknesses. It costs just $60 and its 180 W PSU is properly dimensioned, but it takes last place among the tested cases in terms of exterior design. Using a Mini-ITX motherboard with a big heat sink is impossible due to the stability bar inside the case. Apart from that, you get a proper and solid case for little money.
| Chieftec BT-02 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Mini-ITX case |
| Mainboard-Typ | Mini-ITX |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 135 x 295 x 240 mm |
| Material | Steel, front made of plastic |
| Color | Black |
| Connections | 2 x USB 2.0, Audio in/out |
| PSU | 180 W |
| Support for expansion cards | Yes, maximum length 19 cm |
| Drives | 1 x 3.5" hard drive, 1 x 5.25" optical drive |
| Ventialtion | No fans installed, 1 x 80 mm (front) und 2 x 60 mm (back) optional |
| Weight | 2.85 kg |
| Price | Around $60 |
