Several attempts to re-install Ubuntu 6.06 later, I was forced to conclude that something was wrong with my power supply. Since it was an integrated power supply from Antec and I don’t feel like giving them any more business, it was time for a new case.
I picked an X-QPack, which is a microATX case. It’s available in several colors, but the Langley NCIX had only black and blue in stock, so blue it was. (I have something of a hatred for black PCs. It has always struck me as the trendy way to avoid beige for the clueless.)
It’s slightly larger than my Antec Aria was, but this is both good and bad. Bad, because it’s slightly too large for my desk. Good, because it’s much easier to work inside and seems to do a better job of keeping components cool.
The X-QPack offers a 420watt power supply (compared to, I believe, 300watt). Oddly enough, there doesn’t seem to be a fan on the power supply.
The case is actually remarkably well thought-out; the motherboard mounts on a drawer that slides in and out. There’s an carrying handle integrated into the front panel, and has knock-out panels for two 5.25″ devices and a single 3.5″, plus space for two internal 3.5″ drives. Despite the small space, there’s room to screw everything in on all mounting points. If I was going to describe this case in just a few words, it would be “tabs into slots mounting hardware.”
It’s a good thing it was well designed, or I wouldn’t have figured it out. There was no documentation at all.
The downside to this case is that all the sides are clear plexiglass (or something), and the rear fan has an integrated and bright blue LED. Not a big deal until you combine it with how ugly the inside of my PC is. At least I’ll know if someone steals my hard drive.
I’m largely back up and running now, and trying the 6.10 upgrade again (but this time, through the GUI). I think this is the very last piece of adhoc hardware I will buy. My next purchase is going to be a Mac mini, even if it is to replace my PC.