Packaging:
The packaging for the
Rosewill RX-358-S-SLV is rather simple, but it gets the job done. It provides an image of the unit, a list of the basic features, and indicates that in addition to the silver model provided for review that there is also a black version available (part number RX-358-S-BLK).
Inside the box, the components are adequately protected with cardboard forms and thin foam sheeting. In addition to the drive enclosure and other accessories to be discussed later, a brief user's manual is provided to help with the installation and operation of the RX-358-S-SLV.
The Basics:
The enclosure itself is constructed of a steel inner frame, plastic sides, and top and bottom covers made of aluminum. The two covers are held on by four screws each, and the top one ships uninstalled to allow you to drop your drive in without extra work. On the top cover there is a well finished opening for the 80mm cooling fan. The air is drawn in through the top, blows onto the PCB side of the drive, and can then exit the chassis through perforations on the front of the enclosure. This orientation is a bit odd, as the fan is fighting the natural effect of heat rising and it is blowing onto the side of the drive that generally seems to stay cooler.
The backside of the drive is shown in the above right image, and features well labeled connections and controls. There is the power connection, USB 2.0 connection, a fan power switch, a drive power switch, and an eSATA connection. I was very pleased to see both switches, as some units do not include a power switch for the drive, and being able to turn the fan off is definitely desirable, too. Many enclosures do not include a fan, but the extra cooling may come in handy for some. In general I prefer to have things as quiet as possible, so if a fan doesn't seem necessary I appreciate having the ability to turn it down or off.
