AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel Review

Installation and Usage
Installation is fairly easy for the device, but if you have any problems don’t try resorting to the Manual because it’s utterly useless. It’s easier to install the device, especially if you have other drives near to the panel, if you attach the cables prior to installing it. Once you’ve got the cables attached just slide it into an empty bay on your case and attach it either via the four screws included with the CoolPanel 3 or your cases screwless attachment. Then attach your fan connectors and wire your temperature sensors to their desired locations.

AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel

The cables are labeled so it makes wiring the cables easier and makes it easier to understand once your case is closed.

AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel

The usage is pretty self explanatory. The LCD display shows the three fans, with labels, and their fan speeds. If a fan isn’t connected or it isn’t running the display will show four zeros as the speed. The three temperature sensors are displayed in full degrees and can be switched by pressing down both of the buttons at the same time.

AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel

A nice little addition to this LCD display is the audio sensor which can let you know simply how loud your PC is or you can check out the sound levels of your PC whenever you’re playing games or music.

AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel

In the dark it’s easy to spot light bleeding from the LCD panel through the CF slot. While I don’t find it a big deal someone else might.

AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel AeroCool CoolPanel 3 Color LCD Multi-Function Panel

When attaching cards beware that they don’t go in completely into the panel, so it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to use this panel for Vistas’ ReadyBoost or using a card for extended periods of time because you just might brush up against it and break your card.