Streacom, in collaboration with the Open Benchtable team, recently announced a new and improved version of their popular open test bench chassis – the BC1 version 2 and BC1 version 2 Mini. According to Streacom, the BC1 v2 offers “the most significant update to the design since its inception”. If you’re into benchmarking or you simply prefer an open chassis for your system, the BC1 v2 might be what you are looking for. But you’ll have to wait a little bit since it won’t be available until Q1 of 2022. In the meantime, check out more details about the BC1 v2 from the official news release below.
Meet the BC1 Version 2 Open Test Bench Chassis
It’s been quite an amazing collaboration and journey from our first conversations back in June 2015 at Computex, developing the prototypes used during the 2016 HWBOT World then releasing the BC1 to the world later that year, but that was just the start. The BC1 has gone on to pick up many awards and become the go-to bench table not just for overclocking but across the entire scope of the industry.
There is Always Room for Improvement
During our many interactions over the years with supporters, PC DIY enthusiasts, industry partners, and system builders around the world, we have learned so much about everything that makes the BC1 great and all the things that could be improved.
With that background introduction out of the way, let’s get to the exciting part, introducing the BC1 V2, a familiar form factor but with a huge engineering re-design that is nothing short of spectacular. It aims to be more robust, more versatile, more functional, more practical, and easier to use than ever before.
Design Continuity
Although it has undergone a significant re-design and most parts are not backward compatible, it was important to stay true to the winning formula and maintain design continuity. The footprint, size, look and solid construction will feel entirely familiar to existing users but provide a more refined experience. Thankfully the ingenious pushpins and other mounting screws remain the same, so they still work on all versions.
Improved Storage & Assembly
We have completely redesigned how the feet attach in the stored position, with the same threaded holes used in the assembled state. They also feature a locator notch, as do the brackets, making them easier to fit and ensuring they are more securely held in place. The feet are now symmetrical, so you no longer need to make sure they are installed facing the right way for correct PSU mounting. Many other small tweaks and adjustments make for an improved assembly experience such as the accessibility and placement of screws.
Improved Foot Stability
The feet rubber pads received a huge upgrade, they are now considerably larger and are positioned closer to the edge giving a wider footprint and better stability. The thumbscrews used to attach them to the table have also changed from M3 to 6#32 thread which allows for higher torque when fitting.
More Robust Fastening
There are no longer any threaded holes tapped directly into the aluminum body of the table, instead, steel inserts are embedded at the motherboard and PCI standoffs locations. The brackets employ a similar solution but with removable threaded nuts, allowing them to be positioned as needed. This provides improved wear resistance and the ability to withstand higher loads.
More Versatile Brackets
Not only have the brackets been completely redesigned but there are now twice as many thanks to the interlocking twin design. This feature allows for a variety of new and interesting options as they can be used as a set, locked together or open at a single mounting location or fully separated and used individually at different locations.
Added SFX PSU Support
We have always been committed to SFF and whilst the BC1 could always support a Mini-ITX motherboard, you were limited to powering it with a full ATX PSU. Additional mounting holes have now been added to the feet that allow an SFX PSU to be fitted, giving the BC1 true SFX support.
Added Switch Support
The BC1 was originally designed for use with overclocking-focused motherboards that typically include onboard power/reset switches. With its more mainstream appeal, it became important to cater to all types of motherboards and applications, so two dedicated holes have been added that support optional standard 12mm panel mount switches.
Added Vertical/Display Mode
It has always been possible to balance the BC1 vertically and there are even printable accessories to enhance this but we have now implemented an out-of-the-box option. In ‘Vertical/Display’ mode, the feet are mounted in an alternative orientation so that together with the edge of the table they form an angled tripod stance. The PSU also shifts to the bottom, lowering the center of gravity to further improve stability.
Added Additional Handle Cutouts
The handle has always been a distinctive design feature, an affirmation of the focus on portability and by adding two more, we have made the BC1 more grippy. It’s now comfortable to carry in the horizontal orientation but more importantly, it’s now much easier to handle in general since you can lift it from the center of gravity. As a bonus, the extra openings provide additional routes for passing cables and reduce the weight.
Easier to Differentiate M3 & 6#32 Screws
Thanks to the wonderful world of international standards, PC components use both M3 and 6#32 screws so we have always provided thumbscrews for both, but it’s now easier to identify which is which. The updated 6#32 screws feature a crosshatch design making them easily distinguishable from the M3 ones that retain the original parallel line design.
Built to Last
As with all Streacom products, the BC1 has longevity in mind and that applies to every aspect of its design. From the use of Aluminium to the timeless design to the fact that we continue to support all our products with upgrades and spare parts well into their life. This also contributes to our push to be thoughtful towards our environment as reducing products that prematurely end up in landfills is an often overlooked yet important contributing factor.
Reduced Packing Waste
The packaging has been re-designed to drastically reduce the amount of protective EVA foam and the primary materials are recycled. As we announced earlier this year, we are committed to not only reducing material waste but also trying to offset its use by planting trees. The BC1 will be the latest product to join this initiative, so every unit sold will be contributing a portion of the proceeds to planting trees with Eden Reforestation Projects.
Don’t Forget the MINI (because SFF needs love too)
The BC1 Mini also gets a refresh with all the same improvements, just scaled down to the ITX form factor.
Whilst we couldn’t implement a vertical mode, add more handles or make space for an ATX PSU, most of the BC1 V2 changes have been mirrored to the Mini including the improved storage and assembly procedure, better SFX PSU compatibility, upgraded feet, more versatile brackets, power/reset switch mounting holes, new screws, more robust build and the new packaging that also contributes to planting more trees.
BC1 V2 and BC1 V2 Mini Pricing and Availability
Depending on location, the BC1 V2 is expected to be in stock with retailers by mid-January 2022 and will retail for ~ 159EUR / $179 USD. Meanwhile, The BC1 V2 Mini is expected to be available with retailers in early March 2022 and will retail for ~ 129EUR / $159 USD.
