Closer Look: Sentry LX

The Sentry LX SEN-001LX arrived to me double boxed. Inside the shipping box was a very attractive full color box. The simple box layout clearly described exactly what was inside and exactly what it does. Notice the simple blue boxes near the top that easily and clearly list the Sentry LX features.

Aside from the very nice looking box, it's what's inside that really matters. Inside the box is this gorgeous front LCD panel display. The front is black anodized brushed aluminum. This would match perfectly with many NZXT aluminum cases. It also matches very nicely with Lian-Li black anodized aluminum cases. The LCD comes with a clear protective screen. You'll want to remove this before using. My unit made it to me with zero damage and came out of the box looking perfect. You'll need two open 5.25" external bays to install this controller unit. This unit will screw into place exactly the same as any standard CD/DVD ROM.

The entire unit structure is made of aluminum. Along the left side are the controls for the unit. The LCD is an odd shape. I think NZXTs goal here was a little bit of a futuristic look. I think they pulled it off quite well. The LCD has two distinct parts to it. On the left is the clock with calendar as well. To the right are the 5 fan indicators and 5 temperature indicators. Read on to see the unit fully lit up and running. It's quite attractive. Of course beauty is in the eye of the beholder but I think this design is appealing enough without being too over the top. Next shot is the profile.

As you can see pictured above the Sentry LX will use the lower of the two CD/DVD mounting holes in your case. This should work fine in most screw less/tool less designs as well but for this I'd suggest using screws. It's not heavy but you don't want any wiggle when pushing buttons during fan/clock adjustments. Although the Sentry LX takes up two external 5.25" bays it's worth mentioning that it is not as deep as a CD/DVD drive.

The accessories bundled with the Sentry LX are quite sparse. Included are: 4 mounting screws, one CR2032; this is a standard motherboard battery so it will be easy to find when it needs replaced, and orange tape. The tape is used to fasten the temperature sensors to your various heat sources. Honestly what more would you really need for a control unit like this? I can think of one thing. I get into that later on. Read on.

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