In the world of PC hardware, a PC case chosen with your desired hardware components in mind actually goes a long way thanks to improved convenience, cooling, and possibly noise reduction. Lian Li, one of the better known computer cases manufacturers, looks to bring these considerations to the world of console hardware with its first "chassis replacement" for Microsoft's Xbox 360. The newly launched PC-XB01 case supports the Xbox 360's internal hardware components, and is designed to address "heating issues from hot components", and dampens vibrations from the 360's optical drives (including the hard drive and DVD-ROM) for quieter performance.  Lian Li previously revealed the PC-XB01 at CeBIT 2008 in this past March.

At first glance, the PC-XB01 looks more like a PC case than a "chassis replacement" for the Xbox 360. Like many of its top-of-the-line PC cases, Lian Li's PC-XB01 is made from brushed, light-weight aluminum with rounded corners. The third-party 360 case measures 160 x 250 x 415 mm (W x D x H), and features a silent 120 mm exhaust fan for cooling. By comparison the current 360 console measures 309 x 83 x 258 mm depending on orientation and has two 60 mm cooling fans. Lian Li must have researched the 360 well, as the PC-XB01 will support the different hardware configurations of the console, including the "Elite" model featuring the HDMI output. It even supports water cooling installations if you really want to keep the components cool.  It doesn't feature a built-in proprietary power supply, so it will still rely on the 360's external power adapter.

Considering that early hardware iterations of the Xbox 360 were unfortunately notable for their overheating issues and failure rates leading to what is largely known as the "Red Ring of Death" (RROD), the PC-XB01 appears sound in execution. However, cracking open the existing hardware to move internal components to the aftermarket chassis voids the warranty on the console. With the chance of RROD still possible on various models of 360 hardware, the prospect of voiding your console's warranty for potentially better thermal performance is a rather risky one at this point in the game.  Remember that the manufacturer's warranty is your ticket to product service and replacement.

The Lian Li PC-XB01 is the perfect complement to the Xbox 360 to alleviate heating issues. The stylish exterior gives your product a sense of class and will fit in with almost any living room environment. Microsoft Inc is very strict on warranties, so it should be noted that you will not be able to return your product if you use the Lian Li PC-XB01 alternative. With that being said, you are less likely to have overheating.

The PC-XB01 is currently priced at $149 USD.  Make no mistake, the PC-XB01 appears to be geared to a select portion of the 360 userbase who have no fear in taking apart consoles for the sheer heck of it.  Unlike other forms of console... modding, you won't need a solder iron for installation, but you'll still need to have some Torx series screwdrivers which PC buffs will be more familiar with.  No tool-free installation?!?

Will Microsoft have something official to say in response to this aftermarket case?