Packaging and Bundle

The Silverstone MS05 is supplied in simple plastic packaging. The entire enclosure is visible and is sold in either silver or black. The basic features and approvals of the product can be found on the packaging, however the artwork is minimal and the protection it offers to the enclosure is very basic as well.

Inside the packaging, is a manual and the necessary screws for mounting, you will also find an USB cable for both data and power and an eSATA cable. The USB power cable is necessary only if you connect the drive through the eSATA cable, or if the drive is especially power hungry. If you are using the USB data cable most of the 2.5” drives currently available will not require the secondary connector in order to receive enough power. Finally, you will also find a 3.5” docking bay. You can attach this docking bay into a visible 3.5” device bay in your case and simply dock the enclosure whenever you want to use it. The bay is using a SATA port and needs power from a Molex connector. It is a great idea for people who want to use the drive mostly at home but need the ability to take it out and be on-the-go whenever that is necessary. Our only complaint could be the lack of some kind of door, as the bay leaves an ugly looking hole when the enclosure is not inserted into it.

The Enclosure

The body of the MS05 is almost entirely made out of brushed aluminum, however the front and rear parts of the enclosure are made out of plastic. The difference between the two materials is extremely easy to notice, however it is not aesthetically displeasing. On the contrary, the MS05 is one of the best looking 2.5” drive enclosures currently available.

The Silverstone company logo is printed on the top side of the enclosure.

At the rear of the enclosure you will notice only 3 cable connectors for the eSATA, USB and power cables. There is no on/off switch, so you cannot turn this drive off once it’s connected to a power source. When the drive is working, a blue LED will light at the front part of the unit and blink while the drive is accessed. The placement of the LED at the left side of the plastic stripe makes it look as if it is the eye of a robot while the enclosure is in use.

Installation

The installation of a drive inside the MS05 is extremely easy and requires only a simple Philips screwdriver. By removing the two screws from the rear of the enclosure, you can pull the front part and the tray will slide out of the aluminum body. Then all you have to do is slide the 2.5” SATA drive into position and use the 4 provided screws to secure it from the bottom of the tray. The anti-vibration material around the 4 mounting holes makes a nice bonus, reducing the noise that the drive vibrations might generate. Finally, you slide the tray back in the enclosure and secure it in place again from the rear with the screws you removed.