n a
standard desktop ATX case there is plenty of extra space to go around. In a
small form factor chassis, there is a lot less room to work with. With that in
mind, it's really critical that manufacturers organize the layout of internal
bays, the power supply, and motherboard components in the most efficient manner.
Add to that the need for reasonable cooling systems and accessibility, and you
can understand that SFF PCs are graded on a much sharper curve.
As we
undo the thumbscrews of the Soltek QBiC Mania and remove its plastic/aluminum
cover, it will be accessibility and ease of installation that we look for first. Even if
a SFF PC looks as cool as ice on the outside, what real use is it if
you can't easily install or upgrade components inside?
Looking
around inside the Soltek QBiC, it's clear that most (but not all!) of the sharp
edges are rounded over, which makes installation easy on the hands.
The
Soltek QBiC is a slightly larger SFF PC, but its internal layout is not the
most user-friendly. For example, to install memory or system drives users have
to remove the CD-ROM/HDD rack entirely.