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If there is one thing in the market today in abundance its HDD enclosures.  They are convenient and provide a backup expansion option to your existing main drive(s).  Keeping your data safe and cool should be the top priorities for a external HDD enclosure.  The Antec MX-1 is a lightweight actively cooled Sata hard drive enclosure which fits the description. The MX-1 features a blower fan to keep your drive running cool, allowing you to operate the enclosure continuously. You don't need to install any drivers; simply install your drive, connect it to your computer USB 2.0 or eSata port and start transferring your data. The MX-1 is made with a special dual layer design that reduces noise and is lightweight for maximum portability.

For this review PCWizKid's test system uses the latest AMD Dragon II System. This consists of a AMD Phenom II processor, a AMD 790FX based motherboard, and a new ATI HD Radeon 5800 series graphics card, specifically the HD5850 reviewed here earlier.

PCWizKid's Test System configuration
- Phenom II X4 955 Overclocked to 3.83 Ghz 
- Gigabyte MA790FXT-UD5P Motherboard
- Diamond ATI HD5850 Video Card
- WD Caviar Blue SATA II HDD 500GB
- Tuniq Ripper 1000 Watt Power Supply
- Cooler Master Scout Case
- Cooler Master V10 CPU Cooler
- Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit
- Ambient room temperature 21C or 70F

Video Review

Features and Specifications

• Dual output interface - USB 2.0 and eSATA (external Serial ATA) allows you to transfer data up to 480Mbps or 3Gbps respectively
• Supports up to 2TB SATA hard disk drive
• Unique HDD cooler brings fresh air in and around the HDD for maximum cooling to protect your valuable asset
• Two-layer (plastic with aluminum) structure with upper and lower covers to absorb HDD and fan noise
• Carbon-glass filled frame to reinforce the strength of the whole enclosure
• Built-in silicone pad to absorb HDD noise
• Included USB cable, eSATA cable, and eSATA bracket to convert internal SATA to eSATA
• Stand included
• Very quiet fan operation - under 22 dBA
• Noise level: 20 dbA with the blower on inside the enclosure
• Supports Windows 2000, Windows XP,Windows ME, Windows VISTA™, Windows 7
• Product dimensions:
  • 8.6"(H) x 5.7"(W) x 2.2"(D)
  • 21.9cm(H) x 14.6cm(W) x 5.7cm(D)
• Package dimensions:
  • 10.4"(H) x 10"(W) x 3.3"(D)
  • 26.5cm(H) x 25.5cm(W) x 8.5cm(D)
• Weight:
  • Net: 1.4lbs / .65kg
  • Gross: 2.6lbs / 1.2kg

Conclusion

Antec has proven that the MX-1 is a reliable high performance storage device.   PCWizKid loved the lightweight construction with the hidden fan which was barely audible and completely unnoticeable doing the job keeping airflow going through the enclosure. Installation of a drive is easy to assemble and a snap to use.  Another positive aspect is its flexibility for either using USB 2.0 or eSata outputs which is not always the case in many HDD enclosures.  The performance of the eSata connection demonstrated exceptional results and proved the enclose is a well rounded device of features and support. PCwizKid's Tech Talk give the Antec MX-1 a Recommended Award.

Click here for the latest pricing on the Antec MX-1 External Enclosure