Installation
Installing components in the Gladiator is fairly easy and quick. The installation went fairly smooth as I didn’t encounter any problems. The first step in the installation is the power supply, but before installing it you have the option to install the filter. The filter snaps easy into place on the bottom of the case.
The next step is to install the necessary motherboard standoffs on the motherboard tray and attach your motherboard. Both the standoffs and the screws needed to attach the motherboard are each in their own bag, so you don’t have to be confused which screws to use.
Cooler Master has implemented the same expansion card system as they have for other cases that we’ve reviewed like the Sileo 500. Each slot has a cover which locks to the bay and can only be removed by pressing on the clips on the outside of the case and pushing it inward. The tool-free clips secure them into position. To unlock the clips simple press down on the center portion of the clip until the clip can be lifted up. Once you install your card just push the clip back down and it will snap into place.
To install a 5.25″ drive you first need to remove the front panel by simply pulling out on the bottom of it and pulling away from the case. There are no cables attached to it, so it makes it a little easier to manage. Remove the designated slot cover(s) and simply slide the drive into the slot. You may want to put the front panel back on before latching the drive into position so you know exactly where to line the drive up. Then simply slide the locking mechanism on that bay forward so that the drive is snug in the bay.
To install a 3.5″ drive only requires two drive rails, which have rubber padding on them to reduce noise and vibration. Just attach them so the lip of the rail is facing towards the connection end of the hard drive, and then slide it into a bay until it clicks.
Like I mentioned before there are multiple loops to use to help you with cable management. Cooler Master provides a sufficient amount of zip ties to help you along.
Once everything is completed you can go ahead turn the computer on to see how well the case looks.
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