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Aerocool GateWatch 2


Author:  Jason Jacobs
Date:  2008.04.12
Topic:  Peripherals
Provider:  AeroCool
Manufacturer:  AeroCool






Aerocool GateWatch 2

Testing:

The GateWatch 2 comes with the ability to configure up to 4 different alarms that can be based on a temperature or lack of sensing fan rpm input. As for the temperature settings you can set these for C or F and they can be set to range from 25 to 90C at which point the reading will flash and an audible alarm will sound. These alarms were very reliable although the alarm itself only lasts a few seconds before it silences itself. The reading will continue to flash on the front display for a while longer before it too will stop. The alarm is more of a warning that something is not correct with the system more than an actual prevention device as the GateWatch 2 cannot power down your system if an alarm is tripped.

Usability:

The GateWatch 2 comes with 2 USB ports as well as extensions for audio output as well as microphone input. These could be extremely useful for someone with a case which lacks such extensions to the front of their case. It should also be considered that while some cases put these input/outputs on the front of the case they are not always in a logical position or useful position. The GateWatch 2 would place these firmly dead center on the front panel of your case in an adjustable location depending upon your installation.

Issues:

While no product is perfect we did have issues with the readability and fan rpm settings. The GateWatch 2 allows only a fan speed rated between 700-1000rpm which is a bit of a disappointment. We would have preferred a wider range of allowable settings to truely define how much airflow or quiet we wanted to run the system. Even set at a full 1000rpm our 120mm fans were barely pushing any air. As for readability the GateWatch 2 can be set to one of three positions: Hi- lo- Off.

At a setting of Hi we were clearly able to read the device even at distance of 10 feet away, the problem is you have to be looking at it dead on. Viewing the GateWatch 2 display from any side or top down angle is difficult. The plastic magnification lens included helps but not much as it distorts the image. It does look cool and come in two colors, clear and blue.

Conclusion:

Aerocool produces a bunch of these type of peripherals which all have unique functions while looking cool. The GateWatch 2 is definitely an attention grabber while its functionality seems to come in second. We had issues mainly with the way it functions as a fan controller as nothing beats a simple knob. As for its expandability, it certainly can add to the functional nature of your PC through the USB and audio ports. We suggest you take a look at the PowerWatch which includes all the functionality of the GateWatch 2 plus a media card reader and powered USB ports as well as having a multi-colored LCD display.

 



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