Want a device that can do much more than a simple switch or fan bus, but less complicated than a Digital Doc? Well, it's finally here! Vantec has just introduced a new device called the Nexus Multi-Functional Panel that is easy to use and has more features than any other multi-functional panel I've seen! Vantec was nice enough to send a sample over for testing so let's take a look at what this baby can do for us!

     The Nexus is the most feature packed multi-function panals I have ever seen. Vantec has included just about everything but the kitchen sink on this one! Let's go over those features now.

• 3 Stylish interchangeable face plates

• Adjustable CPU fan speed control

• System Temperature Monitoring Switch & LCD Display

• Audio Alarm Warning

• 2 USB Ports and 1 IEEE1394 (Firewire) Port

     The Nexus comes with everything you need to get going; the Nexus unit, three face plates, three thermal sensors, cables, and screws. Installing the unit isn't very difficult at all because it installs just like a CD ROM. The only real difference is you have more cables to connect. Unfortunately, you do have to deal with a lot of wiring, but that's just the nature of such a device. Along with the power cables and thermal sensors, the Firewire and USB cables are routed out the back of the Nexus. The Firewire and USB cables are to be routed through the case and on out the back of the case. You then connect these cables to your Firewire & USB ports. With a little bit of patience, you can neatly rout these wires and still keep the inside of your case looking clean. Routing all those cables does pay off as you have easy access to three ports in the front; two for USB and one for Firewire. These ports come in very handy for devices like digital cameras and mobile hard drives.

     The Nexus also has the ability to monitor temperatures of thee devices; the CPU, hard drive and case. However, you are free to attach these temperature sensors to anything you like.

     The fan speed controller is pretty ingenious. The 3-pin CPU fan connects to Nexus and the Nexus has another cable that connects to the CPU fan header on the motherboard. With the Nexus connected to the motherboard, the Nexus is able to give fan speed feedback to the motherboard. The large knob you see on the front is the CPU fan speed controller. The knob is electronically controlled so it takes about a second for the Nexus to adjust the fan speed. As you adjust the fan speed controller, the LCD screen displays the CPU fan speed as well as the temperature. Very cool... I love the look and feel of the Nexus as it reminds me of a home stereo!

Conclusion

     The Vantec Nexus is the best and most feature packed multi-functional panel I've seen! I love everything about this device. It's extremely user friendly and easy to install. It even installs easily in Chieftec cases that use the rail system to hold the drives in place. There was one small thing that I did not care for, and that was the short 4-pin power connector. The power connector needs to be about 6 inches longer to make it easier to connect to the power supply. However, this is just a small issue and has no effect on the device itself.

     Overall, the Nexus is a great device and it has solved several of my computer issues such as monitoring temps, RPMs and ability to adjusting the CPU fan speed at the same time. Once again, Vantec has done a superb job at bringing us an extremely useful device with excellent quality! Definitely another ClubOC recommended device!

Available at CoolerGuys.com!