Spire DigiPanel II
4. Conclusion
Looking for easy access to your USB ports, a temperature monitor or an overheat alarm utility? No need to look any further, because Spire has released a solution that might suit your needs. The DigiPanel II is quite a useful gadget that will provide all of the above and more, like FireWire instant access as well as Headphones and Mic ports on the front panel of any PC case, along with a nice cool blue breeze look.
The DigiPanel II offers three pairs of monitors, for temperature and fan speed measurement, while it enables fan speed adjustment, all through the use of one button. And if the heat goes up, or the speed goes down, the Panel will warn you with the use of an alarm which features a distinctive sound that is sure to get anyone's attention. The DigiPanel II is an easy to use and install tool, and the manual included is a great help for those that don't have experience with gadgets and devices.
Unfortunately, the DigiPanel II does not offer an expansion USB or Firewire hub. It simply extends the existing motherboard ports, offering convenience since you don't have to search around the back of your PC for a port, bringing the connections to the front panel. The Panel offers good temperature monitoring, as long as the sensors are put in the right place as the manual indicates, while they are very sensitive and will instantly follow any temperature changes that might take place inside the case.
At the time of this review, the DigiPanel was priced on the e-market at approximately US$35.