Hello,

I'm in the process of assembling my new PC but the location of the optical drive has given me pause. Can I ask the question, then: In an Antec P180/2, of the four 5 1/4 bays, which is the recommended mounting position for the optical drive? (Lite-On LH-20A1S12C SATA)

My initial thought was the top for ease of access, but for that matter the bottom bay is no more difficult to reach from a seated position. I'm most concerned about heat and vibration.

It seems to me that if I mount the drive in the upper most bay, I'd be most affected by heat. But if I mount in the lower most bay, there might be an increased risk of vibration because the drive would sit on the bottom of the (metal) drive cage--or would this be a BETTER option because the drive would be better supported?

Any thoughts, suggestions or experiences would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Hmm, unfortunately I can't comment on the P180, but in my experience the location of the optical drive is more a matter of reach and aesthetics than of heat and vibration issues. That being said, I thought about it for a bit and came up with the following:

At the top of the case, the drive might be more prone to heat, but optical drives in general aren't too prone to heat related issues, so I doubt the raised temps found at the top of your case would make any difference as far as the drive is concerned.

The bottom mount places the optical drive in the middle of the case, which, while yes it might be right on top of the metal tray at the bottom, it would actually be less likely to cause vibration there. That spot is much closer to the center of the case's gravity, and that should make the drive more stable. Plus, having the drive in the bottom bay gives you room above it to mount an extra 120mm intake fan or to use that space for cable cleanup and storage.