Appearance

GMC sent us the silver version of the AVC-M1, and it is quite the looker. After first unpacking it, even my girlfriend said it looked more like a DVD player than a computer. This makes for a perfect HTPC!



On the front of the case, I can clearly see an optical drive door, multimedia controls, and a push-down door that reveals the USB, FireWire, and audio ports. What I don't see is the two-line VFD, and this is because it resides behind the mirror finish that lines the middle of the case.



The case is slightly smaller than your average desktop Micro ATX case, and looking at the rear, I can see why. The AVC-M1 utilizes a Micro ATX power supply, instead of a full-size ATX power supply. This could be troublesome if I opt for a higher-end videocard in our setup.



Taking the top panel off was a bit of a challenge. Sure, the screws in the back came out easily enough, but there was nothing to grip while take the case off. It was slightly difficult to pull off. An addition of a embedded or portruding handle would be a very welcome addition. When the panel is removed, I found a duct leading from the location of the CPU to the side of the case, just to direction the air coming to and from the CPU's fan.



Now that the side panel is off, let's take a peak inside and begin installation.