Airbox Overview
The Sunbeamtech Airbox is constructed primarily out of an attractive black brushed aluminum, and seems like it could take quite a physical beating while protecting your drive. Although there is no active shock deterrent such as rubber bushings on the drive mount, it seems to offer a bit of shock absorbency by it’s very design. As long as the drive enclosure wasn’t being kicked around the floor like a hockey puck, it should stay safe from shock in the Airbox.
The interior frame of the enclosure is mainly skeletal plastic. It holds the drive in place while keeping it cool via the substantial 1600rpm fan. Also within this frame is the data and power interface consisting of the power button, power port, eSATA interface, USB port, and the on/off switch for the internal fan’s blue LED. Drive installation is a snap. Just plug the SATA hard drive into the data/power interface and use the supplied screws and screwdriver to secure it to the frame. Afterward just slide the frame into the aluminum enclosure and secure the two housing screws and the install is done!
Once assembled and powered on, the Airbox really earns it’s name. The internal fan moves more air than any other hard drive enclosure I have ever used, and does an excellent job of cooling the drive, even under extreme use. Opposite the data/power interface end of the enclosure is a three inch long blue light that acts as the status indicator, giving a blink when the drive is active. The included stand gives you some flexibility on how the Airbox presents itself and is a welcomed accessory.
