Antec P180, P180B, P182 & P182SE Manual - Comprehensive Installation Guide

At Antec, we continually refine and improve our products to ensure the highest quality. So it’s possible that your new case may differ slightly from the descrip- tions in this manual. This isn’t a problem; it’s simply an improvement. As of the date of publication, all features, descriptions, and illustrations in this manual are correct.

Disclaimer

This manual is intended only as a guide for Antec’s Computer Enclosures. For more comprehensive instructions on installing the motherboard and peripherals, please refer to the user’s manuals that come with the components and drives.

P180/P180B/P182/P182SE User’s Manual

This case comes without a power supply. Make sure you choose a power supply that conforms to the newest ATX standard and is compatible with your mother- board. Most ATX power supplies come with an on/off switch. Make sure you turn the switch to the ON (I) position before you boot up your computer for the first time. Normally, you won’t need to switch to the OFF (O) position, since the power supply includes a soft on/off feature. This lets you turn your computer on and off by using the soft switch on your computer case. If your computer crashes and you can’t shut it down using the soft switch, you can switch the main power to the OFF (O) position to clear the fault, then reboot.

Setting Up

1.Place the case upright on a flat, stable surface with the rear of the case facing you.

2.Remove the thumbscrews from the right side panel. Grip the panel at the top and bottom and slide it towards you to open the case.

3.Remove the screws from the left side panel. Grip the panel at the top and bottom and slide it towards you to remove the left side panel. Note: Do not use your fingernails to pry or lift the panels.

Inside the case you should see two separate chambers - the upper chamber for motherboard, external drives and hard drives; and the lower chamber for power supply and hard drives. You will also find some wiring with marked connectors (USB, PWR etc.), installed I/O panel, a box containing the top fan spoiler, drive rails for 5.25” drives and floppy disk drive, hardware screws, spare silicone grommets, middle fan brackets and standoffs.

Installing the power supply

1.With the case upright, remove the power supply-retaining cage by removing the screws fastening the cage at both sides.

2.With the power supply inside the cage, slide the cage with power supply into the case. Note: Do not fasten the power supply/cage to the case at this time.

3.Between the two chambers there is a plastic structure that lets you run the cables to the upper and lower chambers. It is a two-piece structure – one large and one small. Both pieces can slide back and forth to adjust the openings.

P182, P180, P182SE specifications

The Antec P182SE, P180, and P182 are part of Antec's celebrated Performance One series, which is designed to provide users with an optimal balance of form, functionality, and cooling efficiency. These models have gained a loyal following among PC builders and enthusiasts, thanks to their innovative features and user-friendly designs.

The Antec P180, first introduced in the mid-2000s, set the standard for quiet performance and thermal efficiency. Its layout was groundbreaking, featuring a dual-chamber design that separated the heat-producing components from the cooler regions of the case. This configuration helps to optimize airflow and reduce noise, a hallmark of Antec's commitment to silent computing. The P180 supports multiple cooling options, including space for large CPU coolers and dedicated areas for additional fans—all designed to keep temperatures in check while minimizing acoustic output.

Building on the success of the P180, Antec released the P182, which incorporated a few refinements and enhancements. The P182 features improved cable management with additional routing options, enhancing overall airflow and allowing for a cleaner build aesthetic. Moreover, it includes upgrades to the damping material, enhancing acoustic performance even further. With its ability to accommodate both standard and long graphics cards, the P182 remains a versatile choice for gamers and professionals alike.

The P182SE, or Special Edition, is a variant that doubles down on the original DNA of the P182 while offering a few distinctive upgrades. It retains the dual-chamber architecture but introduces updated fan configurations, allowing for even more efficient airflow. The aesthetic appeal of the P182SE is enhanced with a sleek aluminum front panel and an innovative door design that provides easy access to drive bays, while still offering noise-dampening benefits.

All three models support a variety of cooling solutions, including room for multiple 120mm and 140mm fans, while also being compatible with liquid cooling systems. Their support for larger PSU installations minimizes the need for restrictive sizes, giving builders more flexibility. Each case also allows for ample storage options, with multiple hard drive bays that can be configured to suit a user's storage requirements.

With a focus on performance, efficiency, and user experience, the Antec P182SE, P180, and P182 have established themselves as staples in the realm of PC building. Their combination of innovative design, robust construction, and thermal capabilities make them ideal choices for anyone looking to assemble a high-performance, silent system.