Introduction

I would like to thank Lian Li and CaseKing for the review sample.

Lian Li is entering the bench table market with a few different models soon. We reported about the traditionally shaped ones, as well as the Spider PC-T1 just last week, during our stay at CeBIT. The PC-T1 supports system board in the mini-ITX form factor. Lian Li and Case King were kind enough to arrange for a sample right away, thus we are proud to present you the first review of the most unique test bench - ever. The unit we got is almost the final version, with most of the features set in stone. Lian Li did mention that they are looking into fitting a normal 5.25 inch bay intstead of a slim-line drive on the PC-T1.


Just like many other Lian Li enclosures, the PC-T1 will be available in black (PC-T1B) and red (PC-T1R). We received the latter one for review.

Packaging & Contents

Due to the fact that this unit is not the final version, we received the testing station in a simple white cardboard box, with one of its main parts included separately. The above picture should give you a good idea about the compact size of the retail package, as all but one part easily fit into the box above. Each piece is separately placed in a plastic bag and all needed screws and small items can be found in a seperate, clear plastic bag. You will most likely receive more accessories with the PC-T1 chassis, which should include zip ties, possibly a mainboard speaker and an instruction manual. The case is nothing any of us are used to in terms of the assembly process and even I had to figure some parts out by trial and error. So, if you have troubles putting together IKEA furniture, then you should get one of your buddies to give you a (hopefully) helpful second pair of eyes.

Parts

Even though the PC-T1 looks very elaborate when finished, Lian Li has managed to keep parts to a minimum. There are three major pieces, one of which holds the mainboard, hard and optical drives. It also sports the large company logo - maybe a tad too big for some tastes. To gain access to the slim-line bay, you have to unscrew the tray from the underside of this part.


The centerpiece is where everything comes together. Our sample already had part of the legs loosely attached, but the retail version will be shipped all separated. You will also find the power & reset buttons on here, but Lian Li has chosen not to include any I/O shield anywhere.
Considering the elaborate design and aim of minimal clutter, such an omission is understandable. Having to adhere to the usual standards, you will find that the mainboard cables for power, reset and both LEDs are of the standard variety. The power LED leads have been separated to assure compatibility with all modern boards on the market.


The actual spider legs have been shaped out of bent aluminum sheets. They feel very sturdy and Lian Li has placed rubber covers at the very end, so you won't have to worry about scratches on your furniture or table.


While it may not look like it, the PSU bay is simply created with the help of two aluminum plates, which are screwed to either side of the power supply itself.