Packaging and Hardware:

     The packaging is more than adequate but not fancy.  There's nothing worse than paying for expensive box art and packaging.  CoolerMaster decided to keep it simple.

     There really isn't a whole lot to expect when it comes to additional hardware for a case.  Especially a case that has thumbscrews that hold the sides on, screwless optical drive bays, screwless PCI mounts and screwless HDD mounts.  The only thing you need screws for is the motherboard.  However,  there are plenty of screws provided along with the screwless drivebay mechanisms.  Also included is a 5.25" to 3.5" adapter cover, power cord for the included power supply and a quick reference manual.

External View:

     The case has sleek lines with the stark contrasting red mesh front.  As you can see from the picture, there are two ventilation areas on the side, but only the bottom one is designed to accomodate a fan.  You have the option of installing an 80, 90 or 120mm fan.

     This is a steel case and pretty heavy duty.  The front is metal mesh which helps with the weight and allows for greater air flow.  It also looks very cool.

     The mesh in the front is perfect for a large intake fan.  The USP 100 comes with a 120mm red LED fan in the front and the whole case can accommodate 4, 120mm fans.  The power switch is pretty clever.  It's actually the "CoolerMaster" logo pictured above.  With a power button, hidden in plain site, and no reset button the USP 100 has a very clean look.

    The top of the case features the power light.  It's a red strip across the top.  This light is stationary and does not cycle from left to right like the car in Knight Rider or a Cylon from BSG.  On some geeky level I'm disappointed that the like does not cycle, but I think it would get annoying if it did.  I'm glad that Cooler Master designed the light like they did.

     The I/O panel is located on the top of the case, which makes for easy access if the case is going to sit on the floor, next to your desk.  The I/O panel has 2 USB 2.0 ports, headphone and mic jacks, and the HDD activity light.  The case was released before USB 3.0 so it's excusable not to have any USB3 ports.  However, firewire and eSATA would have been a welcomed edition.