TechPowerUp is Hiring a Power Supply (PSU) Reviewer

TPU is looking to hire a PC enthusiast or professional to review PC power supplies (PSUs) full-time. Our current reviewer suvirintojas put out some great work with us since 2023, but has changes in his life that require his attention. We thank him for the wonderful work and hope we find a replacement of equal caliber. TechPowerUp PSU reviews tend to be highly technical, as we dive into the finer aspects of the PSU's switching performance, and quality of electrical output across various voltage domains. We also focus on noise levels and efficiency.

The PSU industry is in a state of transition toward newer standards such as ATX 3.1, PCIe Gen 5 CEM, and perhaps even ATX12VO, which means we'll never run out of new PSUs to review for at least the next few years. This is where you step in—we are looking for a PSU reviewer with fairly high availability for a significant output of reviews. We can help arrange as many PSU samples as you can handle.
Thursday, November 14th 2024

Today's Reviews

Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Keyboards
Monitors
Motherboards
Notebooks
SSD
Epomaker TH40 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review

Epomaker TH40 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard Review

Epomaker thinks small can be mighty with the new TH40, a 40% form factor keyboard with "only" 44 keys that forces you to re-think efficient keyboard typing. Featuring layers, extensive onboard controls, and VIA support, the TH40 is also one of the least expensive 40% keyboards ever made.
Quick Look: G.SKILL WigiDash PC Command Panel

Quick Look: G.SKILL WigiDash PC Command Panel

The G.SKILL WigiDash is a touch screen accessory for PC users, allowing you to not only monitor your hardware and real-time performance with the likes of AIDA64 and HWInfo, but also allows for widgets to control functions from volume/media playback to Twitch chat or even Spotify.

Transcend Introduces CFast Card With Write Protection for Enhanced Data Security

Transcend Information Inc. (Transcend ), a leading global manufacturer of memory storage solutions, announces the launch of its new CFX735 and CFX735I CFast cards. These cards feature built-in write protection technology, designed specifically for professional applications that require secure data storage and stable, high-performance write capabilities.

Leveraging 112-layer 3D NAND flash technology and a SATA III 6 Gb/s interface, this series offers exceptional read/write speeds and large storage capacities. Whether you're dealing with data-intensive applications or operating in demanding environments, these cards deliver reliable performance. The CFX735 operates in a temperature range of -5°C to 70°C, while the CFX735I is built for extreme environments, functioning reliably from -40°C to 85°C, perfect for outdoor and temperature fluctuating scenarios.

NVIDIA GeForce NOW Gets Farming Simulator 25 and Eight More Games

Grab a pitchfork and fire up the tractor - the fields of GeForce NOW are about to get a whole lot greener with Farming Simulator 25. Whether looking for a time-traveling adventure, cozy games or epic action, GeForce NOW has something for everyone with over 2,000 games in its cloud library. Nine titles arrive this week, including the new 4X historical grand strategy game Ara: History Untold from Oxide Games and Xbox Game Studios.

And in this season of giving, GeForce NOW will offer members new rewards and more this month. This week, GeForce NOW is spreading cheer with a new reward for members that's sure to delight Throne and Liberty fans. Get ready to add a dash of mischief and a sprinkle of wealth to the epic adventures in the sprawling world of this massively multiplayer online role-playing game. Plus, the NVIDIA app is officially released for download this week. GeForce users can use it to access GeForce NOW to play their games with RTX performance when they're away from their gaming rigs or don't want to wait around for their games to update and patch.

HighPoint Releases the RocketAIC 6542AWW With 500 TB of RAID Storage Capacity in a Compact Chassis

HighPoint's RocketAIC 6542AWW has established a new milestone for turnkey NVMe Storage. Despite the external RAID solution's tidy dimensions (it stands only 4.84 inches tall, 8.27 inches deep, and 9.25 inches in length), it is equipped with eight of Solidigm's D5-P5336 NVMe SSDs, and provides an astonishing 491.52 TB of enterprise storage capable of delivering 28GBs of real-world transfer speed; ideal for Edge Applications that demand fast, high-density storage solutions with small hardware footprint.

The compact external storage chassis' integrated power supply and powerful cooling system enable the NVMe media to be completely isolated from the host hardware platform. Not only does this free up interior space for the host server or workstation, it can significantly improve reliability and efficiency by offsetting power consumption and ensuring that waste heat generated by the SSDs never enters the computing environment.

Razer Launches its USB 4 Dock for Gaming and Productivity

Razer, the leading global lifestyle brand for gamers, further expands its line-up and affirms its foothold in PC accessories with the announcement of the new Razer USB 4 Dock. Engineered for superior performance, this dock represents a leap into the future of connectivity, combining high-speed data transfer and dual-display functionality to meet the demands of high-stakes gaming and intensive productivity.

"With the Razer USB 4 Dock, we're unleashing the next level of high-performance docking," Travis Furst, Head of Notebooks and Accessories at Razer. "This powerhouse is engineered to deliver blazing-fast data transfer and stunning dual-monitor 4K display output, all through a single cable solution to the laptop, making it the ultimate tool for gamers and professionals alike."

AMD Claims Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Outperforms Intel Core Ultra 7 258V by 75% in Gaming

AMD has published a blog post about its latest AMD Ryzen AI 300 series processors, claiming they are changing the game for portable devices. To back these claims, Team Red has compared its Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor to Intel's latest Core Ultra 7 258V, using the following games: Assassin's Creed Mirage, Baldur's Gate 3, Borderlands 3, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Cyberpunk 2077, Doom Eternal, Dying Light 2 Stay Human, F1 24, Far Cry 6, Forza Horizon 5, Ghost of Tsushima, Hitman 3, Hogwarts Legacy, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Spider-Man Remastered, and Tiny Tina's Wonderlands. The conclusion was that AMD's Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, with its integrated Radeon 890M graphics powerhouse, outperformed the Intel "Lunar Lake" Core Ultra 7 258V with Intel Arc Graphics 140V by 75% on average.

To support this performance leap, AMD also relies on software technologies, including FidelityFX Super Resolution 3 (FSR 3) and HYPR-RX, to unlock additional power and gaming efficiency. FSR 3 alone enhances visuals in over 95 games, while HYPR-RX, with features like AMD Fluid Motion Frames 2 (AFMF 2) and Radeon Anti-Lag, provides substantial performance boosts across thousands of games. The company has also compared its FSR/HYPR-RS combination with Intel's XeSS, which is available in around 130 games. AMD claims its broader suite supports 415+ games and is optimized for smoother gameplay. The AFMF 2 claims support with thousands of titles, while Intel's GPU software stack lacks a comparison point. Of course, these marketing claims are to be taken with a grain of salt, so independent testing is always the best to compare the two.

VLDL and Team17 Announces Epic NPC Man Nice Day for Fishing

Viva La Dirt League, FusionPlay and Team17 Digital have teamed up to bring you the first official game set in Viva La Dirt League's world of Azerim! Bust out those fishing rods and prepare to face ultimate evil. Then take 'em down: hook, line and sinker!

Epic NPC Man Nice Day For Fishing will have you step into the waders of Baelin, to defend Azerim and help out the beloved characters from the Epic NPC Man series. Unlock spells, fight powerful aquatic adversaries and experience the ultimate in fishing-based combat! Also, you get to collect hats, who doesn't love a hat collection.
Epic NPC Man Nice Day For Fishing releases 2025.

Amazon Launches Mini LED TVs Targeting Gamers with 144 Hz Refresh Rate and FreeSync Premium

With over 250 million devices sold globally, Amazon expands its Fire TV lineup with a brand-new Omni Mini-LED Series and refreshed 4-Series—plus, the new Soundbar Plus Series.

Since launching Fire TV 10 years ago, we've been on a mission to make TVs more intelligent, accessible, and connected. Our approach is unique: We put content—not apps—at the center of the experience, and make it incredibly easy to find something to watch, including with just your voice. What started with the first Fire TV device in 2014 has evolved into a versatile lineup of devices, from Cubes and Sticks to smart TVs made by some of the world's strongest TV brands including Panasonic, Hisense, Toshiba, and TCL. And it's no understatement to say customers love Fire TV—customers around the world have purchased well over 250 million Fire TV devices.

ASUSTOR Launches Flashstor Gen2 NAS Series Featuring AMD Quad-Core Ryzen Embedded CPUs

Following the enthusiastic market response and positive reviews of the revolutionary Flashstor series NAS, ASUSTOR Inc. has released all-new all-M.2 SSD NAS, the Flashstor Gen2 series, which includes both the Flashstor 6 Gen2 and Flashstor 12 Pro Gen2. The Flashstor Gen2 series brings radical hardware upgrades to meet the demands of enthusiasts and professionals. The Flashstor Gen2 series brand new hardware to achieve ultimate performance. The new Flashstor Gen2 series is powered by AMD's 6 nm Quad-Core Ryzen Embedded V3C14 which clocks up to 3.8 GHz. This new CPU delivers efficient, yet high performance, which along with high-speed I/O connectivity enables you to make the most out of your ASUSTOR NAS.

The Flashstor Gen2 series come with 10-Gigabit Ethernet, dual USB4 ports in an ASUSTOR first. USB4 is so fast, that it helps to fully unleash the high speeds offered by the M.2 SSDs. The USB4 ports are also compatible with Thunderbolt devices, as well as direct attach technology, extended possibilities that surpass the imagination of professionals and creators.

ASUS Presents All-New Storage-Server Solutions to Unleash AI Potential at SC24

ASUS today announced its groundbreaking next-generation infrastructure solutions at SC24, featuring a comprehensive lineup powered by AMD and Intel, as well as liquid-cooling solutions designed to accelerate the future of AI. By continuously pushing the limits of innovation, ASUS simplifies the complexities of AI and high-performance computing (HPC) through adaptive server solutions paired with expert cooling and software-development services, tailored for the exascale era and beyond. As a total-solution provider with a distinguished history in pioneering AI supercomputing, ASUS is committed to delivering exceptional value to its customers.

Comprehensive line-up for AI and HPC success
To fuel enterprise digital transformation through HPC and AI-driven architecture, ASUS provides a full lineup of server systems that powered by AMD and Intel. Startups, research institutions, large enterprises or government organizations all could find the adaptive solutions to unlock value and accelerate business agility from the big data.

AEWIN Releases New Storage Adapter Cards to Offer Two Hot-Swappable E1.S Trays for Scalable NVMe SSDs

AEWIN is glad to introduce our latest storage adapter cards, RS110A and RS118A. Each card has two hot-swappable E1.S trays while RS110A in a Standard PCIe x8 FHHL form factor and RS118A is in AEWIN Expansion Module form factor. RS118A can be installed in current AEWIN platforms with AEWIN expansion module bays while RS110A is suitable for platforms with standard PCIe slots for flexible storage expansion. With RS110A and RS118A, two E1.S NVMe SSDs with Maximum 9.5 mm and 15 mm height can be applied to existing systems for excellent scalability.

Market researchers have reported that the E1.S form factor is projected to become the most widely adopted small form factor for enterprise SSDs of data center in the coming years. E1.S NVMe storage features better thermal management solutions and can utilize bigger power consumption of 20 W which can overcome the scaling issue that M.2 is having. In addition, E1.S storage has hot-swappable features to minimize downtime and perform easier maintenance for replacement or capacity upgrade of the servers.

Apacer Unveils NOX RGB DDR5 Gaming Memory for Pro Gamers

Apacer, a global leader in digital storage solutions, today announced the official release of its flagship NOX RGB DDR5 Gaming Memory, specially designed for the world's most demanding gamers and aesthetics. Engineered for unprecedented speed, stability, and stunning visual effects, the NOX RGB DDR5 is the ultimate upgrade for those seeking top-tier performance.

Peak Performance Redefined
With its overclocking capability reaching up to 8000 MT/s, the NOX RGB DDR5 Gaming Memory is built to deliver cutting-edge performance in the most intense gaming environments. The inclusion of the latest overclocking technologies, such as Intel XMP 3.0 and AMD EXPO, makes it easier than ever for gamers to achieve peak performance with just a single click.

Sharkoon Launches OfficePal C10 and OfficePal C20 Chairs

The OfficePal C10 is the ideal companion for long hours in the office or working from home thanks to its various adjustable elements, such as the chair height, the tilt angle, and the 3D-adjustable headrest and lumbar support. The combination of the mesh backrest and the upholstered seat base ensures an especially comfortable sitting experience, even after hours of use.

Comfortable Sitting Experience
The sturdy mesh backrest of the OfficePal C10 makes it particularly comfortable to use, whatever the temperature or humidity, and is complemented for extra comfort by the soft, padded seat base.

Microsoft Releases Official ISO for Windows 11 on Arm

Microsoft's Windows-on-Arm (WoA) project has been going through an expansion phase, with the recent range of Snapdragon X SoCs powering many laptops. However, as we are about to get bombed with WoA devices in 2025, Microsoft has prepared an official ISO image of the Windows 11 operating system, available for users to download on the official website. The download size is about 5 GB and requires an Arm-based system to work, as expected. The need for Windows 11 ISO image for WoA comes from the increased number of desktop builds shipped to developers worldwide based on Arm. There are many workstations like the ones offered by ODMs, with an Ampere Altra or Altra Max processor inside.

This is also good news for enthusiasts waiting for the NVIDIA-MediaTek collaboration to drop its first goodies next year, and we expect to see some interesting solutions arise. With Microsoft investing its developer resources into producing Windows 11 Arm builds, it signals that the adoption of Arm-based devices is about to get much higher interest from the consumer standpoint.

Microsoft Plans "Windows Intelligence" Rebrand for AI Features

Suppose you were following the announcement of the newest Windows 11 features like Recall and Copilot. In that case, you questioned Microsoft's approach to these new features regarding security, real-world usage, and, least likely, naming scheme. If the latter is the case, you are in for a treat. According to the latest round of reports, Microsoft is reportedly preparing to converge its AI features under a new brand name—Windows Intelligence. This move comes as the tech giant expands its AI integration across the Windows platform to give customers more reassurance in its AI features. However, the company has yet to confirm the official rebranding initiative. Recent discoveries by tech enthusiasts have fueled speculation about this upcoming change. In October, researcher Tero Alhonen uncovered options for AI-enabled applications, while X user Albacore recently spotted a placeholder settings page for Windows Intelligence in a Windows 24H2 build.

"Windows Intelligence" isn't entirely new to Microsoft's ecosystem, as it was previously used in security-related updates. However, this broader application signals a shift from its earlier security-focused context and appears to replace the "Windows AI" designation spotted in Group Policy earlier this year. The rebranding seems to follow a trend set by Apple, which has branded its AI features as "Apple Intelligence." However, Microsoft's approach with "Windows Intelligence" suggests a focus on creating a unified hub for AI features within its operating system rather than just a clever play on the "AI" acronym. While controversial features like Recall and the recently redesigned Copilot are expected to retain their current branding, Windows Intelligence could serve as an overarching framework for managing AI permissions and data usage across the platform.

EKWB Expands Compatibility of Cooling Products to LGA 1851 Socket

EK a leader in PC liquid cooling solutions, is pleased to announce full compatibility of our high-performance cooling products with newly released Intel LGA 1851 socket, supporting their latest generation of Arrow Lake processors. As a part of EK's commitment to future-proofing hardware and maximizing longevity for its customers, our current LGA 1700 compatible products, including Velocity², Magnitude, and Nucleus, will now seamlessly support the LGA 1851 platform without requiring additional brackets or modifications.

Through extensive testing and design optimizations, EK's LGA 1700-ready coolers have been verified to meet the demands of Intel's LGA 1851, ensuring that users can transition to the latest Intel processors with confidence and ease. Our cooling solutions are engineered to provide superior thermal management, delivering enhanced performance even under the increased thermal demands of next-gen CPUs.

NVIDIA B200 "Blackwell" Records 2.2x Performance Improvement Over its "Hopper" Predecessor

We know that NVIDIA's latest "Blackwell" GPUs are fast, but how much faster are they over the previous generation "Hopper"? Thanks to the latest MLPerf Training v4.1 results, NVIDIA's HGX B200 Blackwell platform has demonstrated massive performance gains, measuring up to 2.2x improvement per GPU compared to its HGX H200 Hopper. The latest results, verified by MLCommons, reveal impressive achievements in large language model (LLM) training. The Blackwell architecture, featuring HBM3e high-bandwidth memory and fifth-generation NVLink interconnect technology, achieved double the performance per GPU for GPT-3 pre-training and a 2.2x boost for Llama 2 70B fine-tuning compared to the previous Hopper generation. Each benchmark system incorporated eight Blackwell GPUs operating at a 1,000 W TDP, connected via NVLink Switch for scale-up.

The network infrastructure utilized NVIDIA ConnectX-7 SuperNICs and Quantum-2 InfiniBand switches, enabling high-speed node-to-node communication for distributed training workloads. While previous Hopper-based systems required 256 GPUs to optimize performance for the GPT-3 175B benchmark, Blackwell accomplished the same task with just 64 GPUs, leveraging its larger HBM3e memory capacity and bandwidth. One thing to look out for is the upcoming GB200 NVL72 system, which promises even more significant gains past the 2.2x. It features expanded NVLink domains, higher memory bandwidth, and tight integration with NVIDIA Grace CPUs, complemented by ConnectX-8 SuperNIC and Quantum-X800 switch technologies. With faster switching and better data movement with Grace-Blackwell integration, we could see even more software optimization from NVIDIA to push the performance envelope.

BIOSTAR Introduces MT-N97 Fanless Computer With Intel Alder Lake N SoC

BIOSTAR, a leading manufacturer of motherboards, graphics cards, and IPC solutions, is pleased to introduce the MT-N97 industrial computer. The BIOSTAR MT-N97 industrial computer is a compact, fanless powerhouse designed to meet the high demands of modern industrial applications. Tailor-made for system integrators, AIOT development, automation, edge computing, human-machine interfaces (HMI), and digital signage, the MT-N97 combines robust performance with unwavering stability, providing a reliable foundation for critical operations across various sectors.

Equipped with advanced specs that make it an ideal choice for high-performance, industrial-grade applications, the MT-N97 draws power from an Intel Alder Lake N SOC Processor (Intel N97, 4core, up to 3.6 GHz, TDP 12 W). It combines efficient performance with low power consumption, enhancing reliability and cost-effectiveness for continuous operation. The MT-N97's fanless design ensures quiet, noiseless performance, making it suitable for environments where minimal disruption is critical.
Wednesday, November 13th 2024

Today's Reviews

CPU Coolers
Desktop PC
Keyboards
Memory
Motherboards
Mouse
Notebooks
Other
PSUs
Speakers
Beelink GTi12 Ultra Mini-PC + EX Dock (Intel Core i9-12900H) Review

Beelink GTi12 Ultra Mini-PC + EX Dock (Intel Core i9-12900H) Review

Beelink brings innovation and standout features with the GTi12 Ultra mini-PC and EX Dock. Performance is top-notch, and the EX Dock offers the added advantage of using a desktop graphics card, allowing it to deliver its full potential thanks to a dedicated PCIe connection leagues better than any USB4 or Thunderbolt-based eGPU solution.

AMD to Cut its Workforce by About Four Percent

According to CRN, AMD is looking to make some cuts to its workforce of approximately 26,000 employees. The company hasn't announced a specific number, but in a comment to the publication AMD said that "as a part of aligning our resources with our largest growth opportunities, we are taking a number of targeted steps that will unfortunately result in reducing our global workforce by approximately 4 percent". In actual headcount numbers that should be just north of a thousand people that the company will let go. It's not clear which departments or divisions at AMD will be affected the most, but the cutback appears to be a response to AMD's mixed quarterly report.

AMD's statement also doesn't make it clear on exactly what the company will be putting its focus on moving forward, but CRN seems to suggest that the embedded and gaming business is where AMD is struggling. That said, it's not likely that AMD will put an increased focus on those businesses, but instead the company is more likely to invest more into its server products, least not to try and catch up with NVIDIA in the AI server market. According to CRN, AMD has also seen a strong demand in AI PCs, such as the Ryzen AI 300-series of mobile SoCs, so it's possible AMD will put an extra effort into is mobile product range. The Ryzen 9000-series is thankfully also doing well, so it's unlikely there will be any big cutbacks here. We already know that AMD is not going after NVIDIA with a new flagship GPU to compete with NVIDIA's GeForce RTX 5000-series flagship SKU, so it's possible that the company will cut back on some people in its consumer GPU team for the time being, but this should become clear come CES in January.

Overclocker AKM breaks DDR5 Memory World Record with V-COLOR XFinity at 12264 MT/s

V-color Technology Inc. has announced a new world record in DDR5 memory speed, reaching 12264 MT/s with its DDR5 XFinity memory module. This accomplishment was led by overclocker AKM, using the ASRock Z890 Taichi OCF motherboard and Intel Core Ultra 9 Arrow Lake processor. The record, confirmed on HWBOT, solidifies v-color's position as a leader in high-performance memory technology. The ASRock Z890 Taichi OCF motherboard is designed specifically for overclocking, with advanced power phases, reinforced DIMM slots, and a BIOS optimized for extreme performance. Its robust design allowed AKM to push the DDR5 XFinity memory to record-breaking speeds, making it a top choice for overclocking enthusiasts.

The CPU-Z Validation can be accessed here, and the HWBOT page here.

Xbox Handheld Confirmed To Join Mobile Gaming Fray — Don't Hold Your Breath, Though

Microsoft has long been rumored to be working on a gaming handheld to compete with the likes of Valve's Steam Deck and the ASUS ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, but all we've had to go on until now is unfounded rumors and leaks. Now, Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Gaming, has confirmed that the software giant is actively working on a Steam Deck challenger, although details are scant, and the timeline is unclear at best.

In a recent interview with Bloomberg, Spencer confirmed that Microsoft is working on an Xbox handheld, although he was very careful to not overpromise or provide any firm release dates, going so far as to confirm that an Xbox handheld is still years away from release. Spencer reiterated in the review that Microsoft was still looking to grow its presence in the gaming industry, which is one of the company's motivations for getting into the gaming handheld market, in the first place. He also confirmed that Microsoft will be pursuing further mergers and acquisitions in the future as part of its gaming push—a move that might not be looked upon favorably by many gamers and regulatory bodies.
Ayaneo has been making Windows gaming handhelds for years.

Other World Computing (OWC) Launches New 240 GB Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A Memory Cards

Other World Computing (OWC), a trusted leader in delivering high-performance, secure, and sustainable technology solutions that enhance and extend the life of Macs and PCs, today announced the general availability launch of the latest addition to its OWC Atlas Pro family of memory cards - the 240 GB OWC Atlas Pro CFexpress 4.0 Type A Card. Based on popular demand, this new capacity option combines the rocket-fast speeds users expect from OWC with a more accessible price point, making it the ideal choice for Sony users who require professional-grade performance without the need for maximum capacity.

OWC CFexpress 4.0 Type A Atlas Pro cards are perfect for pro filmmakers and extreme action photographers who want to dramatically speed up their offloads while retaining full compatibility with existing devices. Users experience double the speeds of CFexpress 2.0 cards with 1850 MB/s read speeds through OWC Atlas USB4 CFexpress 4.0 card reader while providing 1700 MB/s write speed for current and future cameras that can take advantage of such performances. OWC's Atlas CFexpress 4.0 Type A cards are VPG200 certified, ensuring they work seamlessly with all existing Sony camera modes.

Phison Unveils Pascari D-Series PCIe Gen 5 128TB Data Center SSDs

Phison Electronics, a leading innovator in NAND Flash technologies, today announced the newest addition and highest available capacity of the Pascari D-Series data center-optimized SSDs to be showcased at SC24. The Pascari D205V drive is the first PCIe Gen 5 128 TB data center class SSD available for preorder to address shifting storage demands across use cases including AI, media and entertainment (M&E), research and beyond. In a single drive the Pascari D205V offers 122.88 TB of storage, creating a four-to-one capacity advantage over traditional cold storage hard drives while shrinking both physical footprint and OPEX costs.

While the exponential data-deluge continues to strain data center infrastructure, organizations face a tipping point to maximize investment while remaining conscious of footprint, cost efficiency and power consumption. The Pascari D205V read-intensive SSD combines Phison's industry-leading X2 controller and the latest 2 Tb 3D QLC technology engineered to enable unequaled 14,600 MB/s sequential read and 3,000K IOPS random read performance. By doubling both the read speeds against Gen 4 as well as the capacity against the 61.44 TB enterprise SSDs currently available on the market today, the Pascari D205V allows customers to upgrade to larger datasets per server, top-tier capacity-per-watt utilization and unparalleled read performance.

AMD Unveils the Versal Premium Series Gen 2 Adaptive SoC (FPGA) with PCIe 6.0 and CXL 3.1 For Next-Gen, I/O Rich Applications

AMD on Tuesday released its flagship FPGA series, and possibly its most important product launch after the company's Xilinx acquisition, the Versal Premium Series Gen 2 SoC. It's hard to call this an FPGA, much in the same way as it's hard to call a modern processor "a CPU," there are many integrated devices, platform interfaces, and application-specific accelerators, and much in the same way, the Versal Premium Series Gen 2 is marketed as an "adaptive SoC," rather than a really powerful FPGA. Speaking of I/O, this is AMD's first product to implement PCI-Express Gen 6 and CXL 3.1.

There's no host platform that currently support these standards—neither EPYC "Turin" nor Xeon 6 "Granite Rapids," but it goes to show that the chip is future-ready and can put the new I/O standards to use. The chip is designed to be implemented as a standalone SoC, and so it supports both DDR5 RDIMMs and LPDDR5X, giving end-users the flexibility to go with the two vastly different memory standards depending on what their application is. These capabilities make the Versal Premium Series Gen 2 well-suited for demanding applications in sectors like data centers, communications, test and measurement, aerospace, and defense, where high-speed data processing is critical.

HPE Expands Direct Liquid-Cooled Supercomputing Solutions With Two AI Systems for Service Providers and Large Enterprises

Today, Hewlett Packard Enterprise announces its new high performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure portfolio that includes leadership-class HPE Cray Supercomputing EX solutions and two systems optimized for large language model (LLM) training, natural language processing (NLP) and multi-modal model training. The new supercomputing solutions are designed to help global customers fast-track scientific research and invention.

"Service providers and nations investing in sovereign AI initiatives are increasingly turning to high-performance computing as the critical backbone enabling large-scale AI training that accelerates discovery and innovation," said Trish Damkroger, senior vice president and general manager, HPC & AI Infrastructure Solutions at HPE. "Our customers turn to us to fast-track their AI system deployment to realize value faster and more efficiently by leveraging our world-leading HPC solutions and decades of experience in delivering, deploying and servicing fully-integrated systems."

IBM Launches Its Most Advanced Quantum Computers, Fueling New Scientific Value and Progress towards Quantum Advantage

Today at its inaugural IBM Quantum Developer Conference, IBM announced quantum hardware and software advancements to execute complex algorithms on IBM quantum computers with record levels of scale, speed, and accuracy.

IBM Quantum Heron, the company's most performant quantum processor to-date and available in IBM's global quantum data centers, can now leverage Qiskit to accurately run certain classes of quantum circuits with up to 5,000 two-qubit gate operations. Users can now use these capabilities to expand explorations in how quantum computers can tackle scientific problems across materials, chemistry, life sciences, high-energy physics, and more.

Solidigm Launches D5-P5336 PCIe Data Center SSDs With 122 TB Capacity

Solidigm, a leading provider of innovative NAND flash memory solutions, announced today the introduction of the world's highest capacity PCIe solid-state drive (SSD): the 122 TB (terabyte) Solidigm D5-P5336 data center SSD. The D5-P5336 doubles the storage space of Solidigm's earlier 61.44 TB version of the drive and is the world's first SSD with unlimited Random Write endurance for five years—offering an ideal solution for AI and data-intensive workloads. Just how much storage is 122.88 TB? Roughly enough for 4K-quality copies of every movie theatrically released in the 1990s, 2.6 times over.

Data storage power, thermal and space constraints are accelerating as AI adoption increases. Power and space-efficient, the new 122 TB D5-P5336 delivers industry-leading storage efficiency from the core data center to the edge. Data center operators can deploy with confidence the 122 TB D5-P5336 from Solidigm, the proven QLC (quad-level cell) density leader with more than 100EB (exabytes) of QLC-based product shipped since 2018.

Drop Announces New Drop + Grell OAE1 Headphones

Drop, Corsair's community-driven e-commerce brand, today announced its latest Grell headphone collaboration, with the latest edition of the Drop + Grell OAE1. Building on the momentum of the signature headphones that launched earlier this year, selling all 1,000 units in a short period of time, this new edition offers the same world-class engineering and immersive sound profile at a more accessible price.

Based on community feedback, Drop made key adjustments to the new OAE1 headphones to improve the listening and user experience. The OAE1s feature a lighter clamping force and single-sided 6.3 mm cable with an insert indicator for added ease of use, as well as a new all-black colorway with dark gray accents. The headphones, rooted in Axel Grell's three decades of audio engineering and audio product development, feature a driver-forward, open-around-ear structure to map to the human ear and achieve a more natural and realistic sound field.

Report: GPU Market Records Explosive Growth, Reaching $98.5 Billion in 2024

With the latest industry boom in AI, the demand for more compute power is greater than ever, and the recent industry forecast predicts that the global GPU market will exceed $98.5 billion in value by the year 2024. This staggering projection, outlined in the 2024 supply-side GPU market summary report by Jon Peddie Research (JPR), shows how far the GPU market has come. Once primarily associated with powering consumer gaming rigs with AMD or NVIDIA inside, GPUs have become a key part of our modern tech stack, worth almost $100 billion in 2024 alone. Nowadays, GPUs are found in many products, from smartphones and vehicles to internet-connected devices and data centers.

"Graphics processor units (GPUs) have become ubiquitous and can be found in almost every industrial, scientific, commercial, and consumer product made today," said Dr. Jon Peddie, founder of JPR. "Some market segments, like AI, have grabbed headlines because of their rapid growth and high average selling price (ASP), but they are low-volume compared to other market segments." The report also shows the wide range of companies that are actively participating in the GPU marketplace, including industry giants like AMD, NVIDIA, and Intel, as well as smaller players from China like Loongson Zhongke, Siroyw, and Lingjiu Micro. Besides the discrete GPU solutions, the GPU IP market is very competitive, and millions of chips are shipped with GPU IP every year. Some revenue estimates of Chinese companies are not public, but JPR is measuring it from the supply chain side, so these estimates are pretty plausible.

Leak Exposes Seven New Intel Core Ultra 200S Processors, Including T & F Series

Intel is expanding its Core Ultra 200S lineup with seven new SKUs, a recent leak by @momomo_us shows. The leak gives details on non-K, T, and F versions across the Core Ultra 5 7, and 9 families. The top-end Core Ultra 9 285 will come in 65 W and 35 W versions. These match the 285K's 24-core setup but run at lower speeds. The 285T keeps the 4-core Xe built-in graphics.

The Core Ultra 7 series adds three models: 265 265F, and 265T. All share a 30 MB L3 cache being differentiated by different clock speeds. The T version has much lower base clocks. For the Core Ultra 5 series, the leak shows two models: 225 and 225F. Both have 10 cores running at 3.3/4.9 GHz (P-cores) and 2.7/4.4 GHz (E-cores), with 2 Xe GPU cores and a 65 W TDP. Unlike their higher-end models, this tier doesn't plan to have a T version right now.

NEC to Build Japan's Newest Supercomputer Based on Intel Xeon 6900P and AMD Instinct MI300A

NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) has received an order for a next-generation supercomputer system from Japan's National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology (QST), under the National Research and Development Agency, and the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS), part of the National Institutes of Natural Sciences under the Inter-University Research Institute Corporation. The new supercomputer system is scheduled to be operational from July 2025. The next-generation supercomputer system will feature multi-architecture with the latest CPUs and GPUs and will consist of large storage capacity and a high-speed network. This system is expected to be used for various research and development in the field of fusion science research.

Specifically, the system will be used for precise prediction of experiments and creation of operation scenarios in the ITER project, which is being promoted as an international project, and the Satellite Tokamak (JT-60SA) project, which is being promoted as a Broader Approach activity, and for design of DEMO reactors. The DEMO project promotes large-scale numerical calculations for DEMO design and R&D to accelerate the realization of a DEMO reactor that contributes to carbon neutrality. In addition, NIFS will conduct numerical simulation research using the supercomputer for multi-scale and multi-physics systems, including fusion plasmas, to broadly accelerate research on the science and applications of fusion plasmas, and as an Inter-University Research Institute, will provide universities and research institutes nationwide with opportunities for collaborative research using the state-of-the-art supercomputer.

TinyGrad Showcases TinyBox Pro: 1.36 PetaFLOP Compute Monster at $40,000 Price Tag

TinyGrad, the company behind the popular TinyBox system, is aiming to commoditize the PetaFLOP. Its latest powerhouse, the TinyBox Pro, is on display on X. This high-performance system boasts an impressive 1.36 PetaFLOPS of FP16 computing power and is based on commercial GPU. The TinyBox Pro configuration features eight NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPUs, surpassing its predecessors with a combined GPU RAM of 192 GB and a memory bandwidth of 8,064 GB/s. This substantial upgrade is complemented by dual AMD Genoa processors and 384 GB of system RAM, delivering a memory bandwidth of 921.6 GB/s. What sets the TinyBox Pro apart is its enterprise-grade architecture. The system utilizes four 2000 W power supplies requiring 200 V+ input, housed in a 4U form factor that spans 31 inches in depth. Despite its compact size, weighing 88 pounds, the unit comes equipped with Supermicro rails for seamless rack integration.

Connectivity options are equally impressive, featuring two open PCIe 5.0 x16 slots that provide extensive expansion capabilities. Storage is managed through a 1 TB boot drive, though this might seem conservative compared to some competitors' offerings. The system runs on Ubuntu 22.04 and is noted for its superior driver quality (compared to commercial AMD GPUs), addressing a common pain point in high-performance computing on commercial hardware. On social media, TinyGrad was very vocal about its fight with the AMD Radeon GPU drivers. However, potential buyers should be prepared for significant noise levels during operation, a trade-off for the remarkable computing power packed into the 4U chassis. With a pre-order price tag of $40,000, the TinyBox Pro positions itself as a serious contender in the professional AI computing market, where regular GPU boxes can cost 100s of thousands of US Dollars. This pricing reflects its enterprise-grade specifications and positions it as an accessible alternative to larger, more expensive computing clusters.

Cooler Master Announces New Hyper 411 Nano CPU Cooler

Cooler Master, a leading provider of PC components, gaming peripherals, and tech lifestyle solutions, today announced the Hyper 411 Nano, the company's latest iteration of their esteemed Hyper series of CPU air coolers. The Hyper 411 Nano brings a selection of all-new, cutting-edge features to the table, adding on to the already excellent performance of the Hyper series.

Features
  • Direct contact technology: Four heat pipes directly connect to the cooling mechanism to ensure efficient, rapid heat transfer.
  • All-black aesthetic: A novel all-black look gives the Hyper 411 Nano a modern, sleek feel.
  • AMD and Intel compatibility: Specially designed mounting ensures compatibility with all the latest AMD and Intel CPUs.
  • Easy fan installation: Included clips makes installing the fan easy.

Intel Releases Arc GPU Graphics Drivers 101.6297 Beta

Intel has released the newest version of its Arc GPU Graphics drivers, version 101.6297 Beta. As this is a minor Beta update, it does not fix any previously seen bugs and issues, but rather just adds Game On support on Intel Arc A-series GPUs and Intel Core Ultra CPUs with Intel Arc GPUs for Farming Simulator 25, Planet Coaster 2, and Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake. Surprisingly, Intel did not add Game On support for two big upcoming titles, S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, launching on November 20 and November 19, respectively. Hopefully, we'll get another drivers update soon.

There are still several known issues that are pretty much the same as with the previous Intel Arc Graphics 101.6130 Beta drivers, and these include issues with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Doom Eternal, DaVinci Resolve Studio, and other games and applications.

DOWNLOAD: Intel Arc GPU Graphics Drivers 101.6297 Beta

Innodisk Introduces E1.S Edge Server SSD for Edge Computing and AI Applications

Innodisk, a leading global AI solution provider, has introduced its new E1.S SSD, which is specifically designed to meet the demands of growing edge computing applications. The E1.S edge server SSD offers exceptional performance, reliability, and thermal management capabilities to address the critical needs of modern data-intensive environments and bridge the gap between traditional industrial SSDs and data center SSDs.

As AI and 5G technologies rapidly evolve, the demands on data processing and storage continue to grow. The E1.S SSD addresses the challenges of balancing heat dissipation and performance, which has become a major concern for today's SSDs. Traditional industrial and data center SSDs often struggle to meet the needs of edge applications. Innodisk's E1.S eliminates these bottlenecks with its Enterprise and Data Center Standard Form Factor (EDSFF) design and offers a superior alternative to U.2 and M.2 SSDs.

AGON by AOC Announces New 27-inch PRO AG276FK 520 Hz IPS Monitor

AGON by AOC - one of the world's leading gaming monitor and IT accessories brands - expands its professional gaming arsenal with the AGON PRO AG276FK, a 27-inch (68.6 cm) Full HD gaming monitor with a Fast IPS panel, featuring an impressive 520 Hz refresh rate. This latest addition to AGON PRO's ultra-high refresh rate family complements the high-performance esports models AG246FK (540 Hz) and AG256FS (390 Hz), providing competitive gamers with another powerful tool in their quest for victory.

Engineered for tournament excellence
The AGON PRO AG276FK showcases a state-of-the-art Fast IPS panel, delivering Full HD resolution (1920x1080). With its remarkable 520 Hz refresh rate and swift response times of up to 0.5 ms GtG and 0.3 ms MPRT, the AG276FK ensures crystal-clear motion clarity and minimal input lag - essential features for professional esports players who compete at the highest levels. The Full HD resolution is strategically chosen to enable competitive players to achieve and maintain the ultra-high frame rates needed to fully leverage the 520 Hz refresh rate with current-gen GPUs.

Starforge Systems Releases CPU Upgrades to Explorer and Voyager PCs

Starforge Systems, the leading pre-built PC manufacturer preferred by streamers, has released CPU upgrades to several of their top gaming PCs this week including the Explorer Pro, Explorer Elite, Voyager Pro and Voyager Elite. Through the latest upgrades, the Explorer Pro and Explorer Elite, the sleek wood-trimmed PC geared toward creatives and gamers, now features Intel Arrow Lake via Intel Core Ultra 7 265K on the Explorer Pro ($2,6949.99) and Intel Core Ultra 9 285K on the Explorer Elite ($4,699.99). With these upgrades, customers can expect added productivity performance, making these the perfect workstation PCs for those looking for a PC that can do it all.

Additionally, the Voyager Pro ($3,299.99) and Voyager Elite ($4,699.99) have been upgraded to include AMD's Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU, bringing added productivity and gaming performance to the powerhouse PCs. Starforge Systems' Voyager line can be customized with a variety of case print bundle designs including the recently released Dragonlight case.

AAEON's FWS-2370 Offers up to 14 LAN with Power-Optimized Intel SoC for High-Speed Networking Solutions

AAEON, a leading provider of scalable and flexible network solutions, has expanded its network security catalog with the launch of the FWS-2370, a desktop network appliance powered by Intel Atom C5000 processors and equipped with up to 14 LAN ports. Built on the Intel Atom Processor C Series platform, with the Intel Atom Processor C5315 as its default CPU, the FWS-2370 is well-suited to SD-WAN, uCPE, and UTM applications, leveraging a number of conducive on-chip technologies such as Intel QAT and Intel VT-d/VT-x. This offers expedited encryption and decryption, while the device's high core count gives it sufficient processing power to facilitate data throughput and manage multithreaded workloads.

The FWS-2370's standout feature is its Ethernet port selection, which is comprised of eight RJ-45 ports, four running at 2.5GbE and four at 1GbE, alongside four 10GbE SFP+ ports with two LAN bypasses. Further distinguishing it from existing market offerings is the option of two PoE af/at ports, which will appeal to organizations requiring redundant high-speed networking and data transfer between multiple locations.

Other World Computing Launches OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub

Other World Computing (OWC), a trusted leader in delivering high-performance, secure, and sustainable technology solutions that enhance and extend the life of Macs and PCs, today announced the general availability launch of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub - opening a new world of workflow possibilities and performance. By turning a single cable connection into three Thunderbolt 5 ports and one USB-A port, the new OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub breaks the connectivity handcuffs of host machines not offering enough Thunderbolt 5 ports. With up to 80 Gb/s of bidirectional data speed - up to 2x faster than Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 - and up to 120 Gb/s for higher display bandwidth needs, the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub redefines productivity. Connect portable SSDs exceeding 6000 MB/s, up to three 8K displays @60 Hz with DSC, today's USB-C connector compatible devices, and yesterday's USB-A desktop accessories - all while keeping modern notebooks and tablets powered and charged up for mobile use with 140 watts.

"The bidirectional bandwidth design of the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Hub enables users to send and receive data simultaneously - making it ideal for connecting high-res displays, SSDs, and more without compromising speed," said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, Other World Computing (OWC). "With three additional Thunderbolt 5 ports, users gain the flexibility to power multiple displays or create complex daisy chains with ease. The hub's 140 W power delivery guarantees notebooks and tablets remain charged, no matter how demanding the workload."
Tuesday, November 12th 2024

Today's Reviews

Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Memory
Monitors
Motherboards
Mouse
Processors
SSD
Glorious Series 2 Pro Wireless Review

Glorious Series 2 Pro Wireless Review

Being the successor to the limited-release Series One Pro, the Series 2 Pro Wireless retains the same Viper Mini-like ambidextrous shape, and also comes with the BAMF 2.0 sensor, Glorious optical switches for the main buttons, wired and wireless 8000 Hz polling, and up to 80 hours of battery life.
XPG Invader X Mini Review

XPG Invader X Mini Review

XPG is expanding their Invader line with the Invader X Mini, a compact case that still offers ATX support, ships with five fans in total and features USB-C. It has a pretty interesting price point that could attract first-time and budget builders - especially those planning to air cool their CPU.
NVIDIA App v1.0 Review

NVIDIA App v1.0 Review

The NVIDIA App has moved out of beta, bringing a streamlined control panel experience for GeForce users. In our review, we look closely at the new features, explore the app's functionality, and point out areas where there’s room for improvement.

APNX Introduces V1 Mid-Tower Case

APNX is thrilled to introduce APNX V1, a mid-tower case designed for customizable cooling precision for both GPU and CPU, housed in a sleek, dual-chamber structure with a panoramic view. Engineered for optimized thermal management, hardware compatibility, and a seamless build experience, the V1 is ideal for gamers, professionals, and system builders.

The APNX V1 features a 45° angled front intake that efficiently directs cool airflow toward the GPU and CPU. The angled fan bracket accommodates up to 2 x 160 mm, 2 x 140 mm or 3 x 120 mm fans, plus the visually appealing top and side panels maximize ventilation and heat dissipation. Furthermore, the adjustable motherboard positioning enables tailored airflow for the GPU or additional space for thicker radiators at the top. Overall, the V1 is designed with airflow dynamics for a high-performance build while maintaining the hallmark view of a panoramic case.

GSC Game World Releases Final S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl System Requirements

Ahead of the November 20th release, GSC Game World has now shared the full PC system requirements for S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl. Powered by Epic's Unreal Engine 5, S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl will definitely push hardware to its limits, despite the fact that it won't support any hardware ray tracing effects at launch.

The released PC system requirements are quite high, but at least GSC Game World, as well as NVIDIA and AMD, have confirmed it will feature DLSS and FSR 3.1. NVIDIA already added the support for both DLSS 3 and Reflex with its latest GeForce drivers, and AMD has it on its list of games as "upcoming." The game will run on Windows 10 and Windows 11 and need around 160 GB of SSD storage.

bHaptics Unveils Next-Gen TactSuit Pro and TactSuit Air with Enhanced Immersive Haptics

bHaptics, a leader in haptic technology, has unveiled its first new products in four years: the TactSuit Pro and TactSuit Air. The TactSuit Pro offers a premium haptic experience designed for users who seek full immersion in VR content. Meanwhile, the TactSuit Air features a lightweight and sleek design, delivering substantial feedback without the bulk for those desiring a more streamlined VR experience.

The new standout feature of TactSuit Pro is Controller Wheel, which allows users to precisely adjust the intensity of haptic sensations during use. Ring LED on the Controller serves not only as an indicator of the vest's haptic status but also adds a sleek, visually striking element to the design. Additionally, it is equipped with expandable straps, ensuring a comfortable fit for users of all body types. The vest now features 32 haptic motors, delivering optimized haptic feedback for an enhanced immersive experience at an attractive price of $499.

NVIDIA DLSS 3 Coming To S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024

More than 600 games and applications feature RTX technologies, and each week new games integrating NVIDIA DLSS, NVIDIA Reflex and advanced ray-traced effects are released or announced, delivering the definitive PC experience for GeForce RTX players. In the very near future, both Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl will be launching with day-one support for DLSS 3 with Frame Generation and Super Resolution. Farming Simulator 25 launches today with day-one support for DLSS Super Resolution. And Mortal Rite is out now with DLSS Super Resolution. Additionally, our new Indiana Jones and the Great Circle GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU and laptop bundle is available now.

S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl Launches November 20th With DLSS 3 & Reflex
GSC Game World's S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl is a brand-new entry in the legendary series, enjoyed by millions of players worldwide. The unique combination of first-person shooter, immersive sim, and horror is back. With unprecedented scale, advanced graphics, freedom of choices, and the thickest atmosphere of a deadly adventure, it's going to be the ultimate S.T.A.L.K.E.R. experience.

Thrustmaster Announces New Heart Controller With HallEffect AccuRate Technology

Thrustmaster is thrilled to announce the integration of its cutting-edge H.E.A.R.T. (HallEffect AccuRate Technology) technology in its range of ESWAP gamepads through the new ESWAP SH5 HALL STICK MODULE mini-sticks, as well as in a new gamepad, HEART CONTROLLER. Backed by 15 years of proven expertise in magnetic sensors for flight simulation, H.E.A.R.T. delivers exceptional, lasting precision, allowing mini-stick movements to be tracked to within 0.01 degree, while eliminating drift issues.

ESWAP modular gamepads have set the standard for performance-oriented gamers and competitive gaming professionals. Now, with the integration of Hall effect technology in ESWAP modular gamepads, gamers can enjoy this innovation without having to purchase a new gamepad, by simply replacing the modules. In addition, Thrustmaster is expanding its lineup with HEART CONTROLLER, a new gamepad that natively incorporates H.E.A.R.T. technology. Gamers will benefit from the brand's expertise in a more affordable model, while enjoying the renowned precision and responsiveness of ESWAP gamepads.

Digital Eclipse Drops Tetris Forever: A Celebration of Four Decades of Puzzle Perfection

In the 40 years since its creation in 1984 by a puzzle-loving computer programmer in the Soviet Union, the Tetris game has taken over the world - and it's never slowed down. Often found topping the lists of the best games ever created, over 220 official Tetris games have been released and the game has inspired a feature film, esports tournaments, and more. Four decades later, it's the game that hundreds of millions of players still can't put down.

Today, acclaimed retro gaming studio Digital Eclipse, in partnership with The Tetris Company, is pleased to announce the launch of Tetris Forever, the latest entry in the studio's acclaimed Gold Master Series. It's a love letter to the Tetris game, to its global, multigenerational fan base, and to the amazing history behind its rise to the top.

AYANEO 3 Handheld Unveiled with Hawk Point, Strix Point APUs and Optional OLED Display

AYANEO has officially revealed its latest handheld gaming console, dubbed the AYANEO 3. The company has teased the handheld multiple times in the past, while refraining from sharing any specifications regarding the same. Now, however, the company has detailed the internals for its new flagship handheld along with a few extra details.

The AYANEO 3 appears to be powered exclusively by AMD APUs, with Intel's Lunar Lake options nowhere to be found. Interested buyers will get to choose between either the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 "Strix Point" APU, or the Ryzen 7 8840U "Hawk Point" APU. The "Strix Point" option happens to be AMD's latest and greatest, packing 4 Zen 5 and 8 Zen 5c cores, while the "Hawk Point" option sports 8 Zen 4 cores only.

NVIDIA Switches Production Capacity to RTX 50-series "Blackwell"

Q1-2025 promises to be an action-packed quarter for graphics cards, with NVIDIA introducing the bulk of its next-generation GeForce RTX 50-series "Blackwell" GPUs. The company is expected to start things off with the two enthusiast-segment SKUs, the RTX 5090 and RTX 5080, in January, followed by the RTX 5070-series in February, and rounded off nicely with the RTX 5060-series in March. This would mean hundreds of individual new graphics card SKUs from NVIDIA's board partners, which are reportedly busy winding up the final inventory deliveries of their RTX 40-series "Ada" products, and transferring this production capacity to the RTX 50-series. So, when the RTX 50-series GPU models do come out across the quarter, there's plenty of inventory to go around. Board Channels reports that on NVIDIA's end, production of nearly every AD100-series silicon has ended, except the AD107, which will continue selling for entry-mainstream GeForce RTX 40-series SKUs. The AD106 production line has stopped, as has the AD103, AD104, and AD102.

Intel Reportedly Ramps "Arrow Lake" Orders at TSMC Amid Internal Foundry Struggles

According to Taiwanese media Commercial Times, Intel is significantly increasing its outsourcing of "Arrow Lake" CPU production to TSMC, a strategic move as it grapples with persistent issues in its own foundry division. This decision to outsource a substantial portion of Arrow Lake's production is a significant shift in Intel's strategy, showing the company's rising reliance on external partners to meet quality and performance demands. The Arrow Lake Core Ultra 200 series is Intel's first major outsourcing initiative, in which Intel gave its core IP to third-party foundries, more specifically for a 3 nm node at TSMC. However, it clearly indicates the performance gaps in Intel's own Intel Foundry and the high demand expectations for the new CPUs. Originally intended to use Intel 20A node, Intel shifted focus of 18A node for its products and upcoming foundry customers.

Intel's recent orders with TSMC extend to its upcoming Lunar Lake chips and next-generation Falcon Shores AI GPUs, both of which will use TSMC's 3 nm process. Although Intel's 18A node remains promising, the company relies on current products to sustain its revenue streams, making TSMC's support crucial in ensuring timely shipments. This increased outsourcing reflects Intel's need to maintain competitive performance in the short term. Once its Foundry division meets performance and capacity targets, Intel aims to bring more CPU manufacturing back in-house. However, if anything goes wrong, Intel could face challenges securing sufficient volume from TSMC, as the foundry has longstanding commitments with major clients like Apple, NVIDIA, Qualcomm, and AMD.

Crowbar Collective and Team17 Digital Announce Rogue Point, Planned for Release in 2025

Team17 Digital and Crowbar Collective are working together on a new tactical shooter called Rogue Point. The CEO, the richest man in the world, is dead. Cutthroat conglomerates seek to carve up his kingdom. Using the MERX app, rival businessmen can order private mercenary armies as easily as ordering takeout! Only Rogue Point, an elite, independent vigilante squad, dares to fight back.

Your objective is clear. Eliminate the MERX, and put an end to the corporate war. Gather up to 4 friends and build an elite team, engaging in challenging missions with a dynamic rogue-lite twist offering hundreds of ways to play.

Worldwide Silicon Wafer Shipments Increase 6% in Q3 2024, SEMI Reports

Worldwide silicon wafer shipments increased 5.9% quarter-over-quarter to 3,214 million square inches (MSI) in the third quarter of 2024 and registered 6.8% growth from the 3,010 million square inches recorded during the same quarter last year, the SEMI Silicon Manufacturers Group (SMG) reported in its quarterly analysis of the silicon wafer industry.

"The third quarter wafer shipment results continued the upward trend which started in the second quarter of this year," said Lee Chungwei (李崇偉), Chairman of SEMI SMG and Vice President and Chief Auditor at GlobalWafers. "Inventory levels have declined throughout the supply chain but generally remain high. Demand for advanced wafers used for AI continues to be strong. However, the silicon wafer demand for automotive and industrial uses continues to be muted, while the demand for silicon used for handset and other consumer products has seen some areas of improvement. As a result, 2025 is likely to continue upward trends, but total shipments are not yet expected to return to the peak levels of 2022."

CHERI Alliance Launches with Major Partners Like Google to Address Hardware-Level Cybersecurity

The CHERI Alliance CIC (Community Interest Company) today announced its official launch and the expansion of its membership, welcoming Chevin Technology (UK), Critical Technologies (USA), the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL, UK), Google (USA), Light Momentum Technology Corporation (Taiwan), National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC, a part of GCHQ, UK), Parvat Infotech (India), SRI International (USA), TechWorks (UK), Trusted Computer Center of Excellence (USA), the University of Birmingham (UK), and the University of Glasgow (UK) as founding members.

Founded to unite hardware security leaders and system developers, the CHERI Alliance aims to establish CHERI (Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions) as the new standard for memory safety and scalable software compartmentalization.

Lexar Introduces Professional Workflow 6-Bay Docking Station, Workflow Portable SSD, Workflow Reader Modules, and Three CFexpress 4.0 Cards

Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory solutions, is excited to announce their Professional Workflow solutions—the Professional Workflow 6-Bay Docking Station, the Professional Workflow Portable SSD, the Professional Workflow Dual-Slot SD UHS-II Card Reader, the Professional Workflow SD/microSD UHS-II Card Reader, the Professional Workflow CFexpress 4.0 Type B Card Reader, and the Professional Workflow CFexpress 4.0 Type A Card Reader.

For photographers, videographers, production teams, and media professionals in the studio, the Professional Workflow 6-Bay Docking Station provides unparalleled convenience and performance. It lets users build a customized workflow solution that best suits their needs by adding different modules. From portable SSDs that allow the user to simultaneously back up to multiple drives at once to a variety of card readers that offload images and footage fast, the Professional Workflow 6-Bay Docking Station maximizes productivity and simplifies logistics. Equipped with Thunderbolt 4 connectivity to deliver amazing 40 Gbps speed, Workflow also supports 8K display to supported monitors and features a meticulous design that offers heat-dissipating, scratch-resistant aluminium housing, high-efficiency airflow channels, extra USB-C and USB-A ports, and a built-in fan to maintain maximum performance.

Farming Simulator 25 Now Available

"When we think of our farms, we think of lives well spent", a seasoned farmer tells viewers in the Launch Trailer of Farming Simulator 25. Now available on PC and consoles, publisher and developer GIANTS Software invites returning and aspiring virtual agriculturists to ignite their passion for the wholesome and rewarding life in the countryside.

"This Farm is Your Farm"
"For experienced farmers, the game marks the next step in playfully living their passion", says Christian Ammann, CEO of GIANTS Software. "For everyone else, it's a relaxing, immersive, and community-oriented opportunity to grow a new hobby, cultivate exciting knowledge, and ultimately harvest the rewarding feeling of freedom and accomplishment."

NVIDIA Announces Indiana Jones and the Great Circle GeForce RTX 40 Series Bundle

Uncover one of history's greatest mysteries in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle with the ultimate power and performance of the GeForce RTX 40 Series. Live the adventure as Indy and immerse yourself in fully ray-traced graphics as you venture around the globe across iconic locations, accelerated and enhanced by AI-powered NVIDIA DLSS for the definitive PC experience. Step into the shoes of Indiana Jones and embark on a single-player, narrative-driven journey that spans the globe during the height of the legendary archaeologist's career. From the hallowed halls of the Vatican and the sunken temples of Sukhothai to the pyramids of Egypt and the snowy peaks of the Himalayas, you'll experience Indy's adventure at the highest levels of fidelity, performance and responsiveness on GeForce RTX 40 Series GPUs and laptops.

Until December 29th, as part of our Indiana Jones and the Great Circle GeForce RTX 40 Series Bundle, get the Digital Premium Edition of Indiana Jones and the Great Circle (a $99.99 value) with the purchase of a qualifying GeForce RTX 4090, 4080 SUPER, 4080, 4070 Ti SUPER, 4070 Ti, 4070 SUPER, or 4070 desktop or graphics card, or laptop with a GeForce RTX 4090 Laptop GPU, RTX 4080 Laptop GPU, RTX 4070 Laptop GPU. And as an added bonus, the Digital Premium Edition enables Advanced Access to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle on December 6th, three days before the official December 9th release date.

NVIDIA Releases GeForce 566.14 WHQL Game Ready Driver

NVIDIA has released its latest GeForce Game Ready drivers, version 566.14 WHQL. The new drivers release comes with optimization for S.T.A.L.K.E.R 2: Heart of Chornobyl and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, including DLSS 3 support for these two games. The one-click optimal settings in GeForce Experience and the NVIDIA App have been updated with new titles as well and now include Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Delta Force, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, and Red Dead Redemption.

The new GeForce 566.14 WHQL Game Ready drivers also fixes a couple of gaming and general bugs, including DSSR/DLDSR custom resolution not appearing in some games, issues with Call of Duty MWIII where filename change prevented users from using GFE Freestyle Filters, higher than normal CPU usage in Bluestacks/Corsair iCUE, and bug where cache files are still created even when Shader Cache size is disabled. The NVIDIA App is also finally out of the beta stage, and you can check out our in-depth review, as well as download it from NVIDIA.

DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce 566.14 WHQL

Huawei Develops SSD-Tape Hybrid Drive with 72 TB Capacity

Huawei is advancing archive storage technology with the development of a new solution called the Magneto-Electric Disk (MED). Aiming to provide an alternative to traditional hard drives, this storage device merges tape and SSD technologies to deliver high capacity and low power consumption. The first-generation MED can hold up to 72 TB of data in a compact 7-inch housing and uses significantly less energy than standard HDDs. The MED was developed as part of Huawei's efforts to mitigate potential supply shortages of conventional hard drives, particularly given the US export restrictions to China. By combining tape storage, traditionally slow but reliable, with a high-speed SSD, Huawei has designed a hybrid storage solution that addresses both speed and efficiency needs.

Data is initially recorded on the SSD for quick access and is then written to the tape in sequential blocks for long-term storage. Frequently accessed data, or "warm" data, stays on the SSD for faster retrieval, while "cold" data, accessed less often, is stored on the tape. According to early specifications, a MED rack can store over 10 petabytes and consumes under 2,000 watts of power, significantly less than HDD-based storage. This efficiency could redefine data archiving, especially for large-scale data centers. Data throughput on the MED is projected to reach 8 GB/s, highlighting its potential to handle high-demand environments. The MED is expected to launch in 2025, with a second, more compact generation targeting a 3.5-inch form factor in 2026 or 2027.

Arctic Intros Freezer 4U-M Rev. 2 Server CPU Cooler With Support for Ampere Altra Series

Even more versatile in the second revision: Developed on the basis of its proven predecessor model, the new version of the Freezer 4U-M offers optimised cooling performance, not only for powerful server CPUs from AMD and Intel, but also for the ARM processors of the Ampere Altra series.

Multi-compatible with additional flexibility
The 2nd revision of the Freezer 4U-M also impresses with its case and socket compatibility. In addition, it has been specially adapted to support Ampere Altra processors with 32 to 128 cores.

Micron Launches 6550 ION 60TB PCIe Gen5 NVMe SSD Series

Micron Technology, Inc., today announced it has begun qualification of the 6550 ION NVMe SSD with customers. The Micron 6550 ION is the world's fastest 60 TB data center SSD and the industry's first E3.S and PCIe Gen 5 60 TB SSD. It follows the success of the award-winning 6500 ION and is engineered to provide best-in-class performance, energy efficiency, endurance, security, and rack density for exascale data center deployments. The 6550 ION excels in high-capacity NVMe workloads such as networked AI data lakes, ingest, data preparation and check pointing, file and object storage, public cloud storage, analytic databases, and content delivery.

"The Micron 6550 ION achieves a remarkable 12 GB/s while using just 20 watts of power, setting a new standard in data center performance and energy efficiency," said Alvaro Toledo, vice president and general manager of Micron's Data Center Storage Group. "Featuring a first-to-market 60 TB capacity in an E3.S form factor and up to 20% better energy efficiency than competitive drives, the Micron 6550 ION is a game-changer for high-capacity storage solutions to address the insatiable capacity and power demands of AI workloads."

Japan Plans to Invest $65 Billion to Boost Its Chip Industry

Japan has proposed a $65 billion (or more) plan to strengthen the semiconductor and AI industries in the country through grants and financial support by fiscal year 2030. The government plans to present this proposal at the next parliamentary session. The draft includes support for mass production of next-generation chips, focusing on AI chipmakers such as Rapidus, the government estimates an economic impact of about 160 trillion yen from this investment. Rapidus plans to start mass production of advanced chips in Hokkaido from 2027 and will work with IBM and Belgian research organization Imec.

According to the report from Reuters, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said the government would not issue deficit-financing bonds to fund the support plan, although specific financial details are not yet known. The new initiative builds on last year's 2 trillion yen investment in the chip industry, and it is part of a broader economic package. Expected to be approved by the Cabinet on November 22, the plan calls for combined public and private investment in the semiconductor industry of more than 50 trillion yen over the next decade.

MDT Unveils New Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) Sensors for Gaming Devices

MultiDimension Technology Co., Ltd. (MDT), a global leader in magnetic sensors specializing in Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) technology, introduces its groundbreaking TMR2615/ TMR2617 series at Electronica and SPS. These cutting-edge TMR sensors are poised to revolutionize gaming experience with exceptional performance and innovative features.

Game-Changing Technology for Consumer Electronics
TMR2615/TMR2617 are powered by MDT's proprietary TMR technology, integrated with a programmable ASIC offering factory-preset tailored to user-defined parametric targets. This ensures high consistency and optimal performance across large-scale production, addressing diverse demands for thumbsticks and trigger keys in gaming controllers.

ECS CubeSat On-Board Computer Ready for 2025 Space Mission

Elitegroup Computer Systems, with its long-standing expertise in computer motherboard design, has successfully developed the CubeSat On-Board Computer (OBC). This groundbreaking product will carry a payload and is set to launch aboard the Lilium3 CubeSat from National Cheng Kung University, expected to lift off in Q4 2025, initiating space experiments.

In parallel, ECS has developed the high-performance OBCC6M7R motherboard specifically designed for CubeSats, which will officially begin accepting orders for sale starting in November this year. The introduction of this product will accelerate ECS's commercialization of space industry technologies, injecting strong momentum into the company's future growth.

Sharkoon Announces New SKILLER SGP40 Mouse Mat

Whether it's the cherry blossom trees of Japan, or the realms of fantasy and cyberpunk - the SKILLER SGP40 mouse mat will bring a fresh and exciting illustration design to the top of your desk! The nonslip mouse mat has a textile surface that is made for all kinds of use and offers a cinematic format of 1,000 x 500 mm for sweeping gaming moves, but which still leaves plenty of space for your essential equipment and accessories.

Cinematic Format
With a length of 1,000 mm and a width of 500 mm, the SKILLER SGP40 mouse mat offers an almost tabletop-sized surface for large-scale mouse maneuvers and for plenty of accessories and peripherals.

Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White, Launching Worldwide on November 18

Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White will be available worldwide on November 18th, 2024 at 3PM PST. This model will cost $679 USD, and will be available in all Steam Deck shipping regions, including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong via Komodo. Our new customers in Australia are included as well! The Limited Edition White model will ship alongside all other Steam Deck models at the same time (in Australia, this translates to November 19th, at 10:00AM AEDT).

Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White has all the same specs as the Steam Deck OLED 1 TB model, but in white and gray. It also comes with an exclusive white carrying case and white microfiber cleaning cloth. This model will only be available in limited quantities, with stock allocated proportionally across each region. This means separate availability for US, CA, UK, EU, AU, and the Komodo regions. To ensure that as many customers who wish to purchase a Steam Deck OLED: Limited Edition White can get their hands on one, we are restricting purchases to 1 unit per account. Accounts must have made a Steam purchase before November 2024 and be in good standing to be eligible.

TerraMaster Launches Five New BBS Integrated Backup Servers

In an era where data has become a core asset for modern enterprises, TerraMaster, a global leader in data storage and management solutions, has announced the official launch of five high-performance integrated backup servers: T9-500 Pro, T12-500 Pro, U4-500, U8-500 Plus, and U12-500 Plus. This product release not only enriches TerraMaster enterprise-level product line but also provides enterprise users with an integrated, efficient, and secure data backup solution - from hardware to software - by pairing these devices with the company proprietary BBS Business Backup Suite.

Key Features of the New Integrated Backup Servers
  • T9-500 Pro & T12-500 Pro: As new members of TerraMaster high-end series, these products feature compact designs and are easy to manage. With powerful processors, large memory capacities, and dual 10GbE network interfaces, they ensure high-efficiency data backup tasks, catering to the large-scale data storage and backup needs of small and medium-sized enterprises.
  • U4-500: Designed for SOHO, small offices, and remote work scenarios, the U4-500 features a compact 4-bay design and convenient network connectivity, making it an ideal data backup solution. Its user-friendly management interface allows for easy deployment and maintenance.
  • U8-500 Plus & U12-500 Plus: These two rackmount 8-bay and 12-bay upgraded models feature fully optimized designs, high-performance processors, and standard dual 10GbE high-speed interfaces. They not only improve data processing speeds but also enhance data security, making them particularly suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises that need to handle large volumes of data backup and recovery.

GameMax Introduces Infinity Pro Chassis With Dual-Chamber and Panoramic View

GameMax, an emerging brand of PC gaming components, including gaming cases and power supply units, is thrilled to announce the new Infinity Pro gaming chassis. The chassis features a dual-chamber layout with a panoramic tempered glass design. The GameMax Infinity Pro is perfect for showcasing the beauty of internal components and RGB illumination, with tempered glass panels on the front, side, and top of the case. The GameMax Infinity Pro comes equipped with five 120 mm PWM ARGB fans and a fan and ARGB controller hub, providing sufficient cooling for high-end gaming configurations right out of the box. Additionally, the fan and ARGB controller hub include 81 built-in lighting effects and support motherboard RGB sync technologies when connected to the motherboard's RGB header.

The GameMax Infinity Pro gaming chassis also supports back-connector motherboards such as the ASUS BTF motherboards, GIGABYTE STEALTH motherboards, and MSI PROJECT ZERO motherboards. For cooling, the chassis supports up to 360 mm radiators for liquid cooling. The chassis supports a maximum of 8x 120 mm fans. The GameMax Infinity Pro gaming chassis is available in black and white models.

LG and Tenstorrent Expand Partnership to Enhance AI Chip Capabilities

LG Electronics (LG) and Tenstorrent are pleased to announce an expanded collaboration, building on their initial chiplet project to develop System-on-Chips (SoCs) and systems for the global market. Through this partnership, LG aims to enhance its design and development capabilities for AI chips tailored to its products and services, aligning with its vision of "Affectionate Intelligence." LG is dedicated to advancing AI-driven innovation, with a focus on enhancing its AI-powered home appliances and smart home solutions, as well as expanding its capabilities in future mobility and commercial applications.

Recognizing the critical role of high-performance AI semiconductors in implementing AI technology, LG plans to strengthen its in-house development capabilities while collaborating with leading global companies, including Tenstorrent, to boost its AI competitiveness.
Monday, November 11th 2024

Today's Reviews

Cases
CPU Coolers
Headphones
Keyboards
Memory
Monitors
Motherboards
Networking
PSUs
SSD
Team Group A440 Lite 2 TB Review

Team Group A440 Lite 2 TB Review

The Team Group A440 Lite is a competitively priced SSD that features the new Phison E27T controller. In our review we found solid performance and improved power consumption over its predecessor. The NAND flash is Toshiba 162-layer 3D TLC BiCS6.
MIRPH-1 Open-Back Dynamic Driver Headphones Review

MIRPH-1 Open-Back Dynamic Driver Headphones Review

MIRPH Design is a one-man operation based out of Germany which aims to take on the more established headphone brands with the MIRPH-1, an open-back dynamic driver set using Peerless 50 mm drivers in a way no one has seen before. It has a uniquely appealing warm and smooth sound which still manages to be extremely wide sounding.

Samsung Showcases Pioneering Innovations for AI and Automotive Technologies

Samsung's booth at electronica 2024 will provide an immersive experience that embodies the dynamic intersection of human imagination and cutting-edge technology. Visitors will experience firsthand how Samsung is shaping the future of innovation through semiconductor and display technologies. The exhibition will showcase multiple products and demos across various domains, demonstrating the company's commitment to realizing the true potential of AI and unlocking new possibilities in industries ranging from automotive to consumer electronics.

AAEON Technology Validates Ubuntu Pro on Its Intel-Based Industrial Systems

At AAEON Technology, we recognize growing demand for secure and reliable industrial systems. In collaboration with Canonical, AAEON Technology validates Ubuntu Pro across our Intel-based industrial systems. Each unit comes with a preinstalled Ubuntu image, an Ubuntu Pro license sticker, and 10 years of Canonical-backed updates for ongoing security and maintenance. "This collaboration means our customers benefit from cutting-edge hardware paired with the secure, long-term support offered with Ubuntu Pro enabled. With ongoing updates, they're always protected, allowing them to focus on their core goals," said Victor Lai, Managing Director at AAEON.

Ubuntu Pro provides enterprise-level security, compliance, and long-term stability for industrial and edge applications. It meets strict regulatory standards while delivering high performance in demanding environments.

MONTECH Releases MKey PRO Mechanical Keyboard

Following the success of our debut mechanical keyboard last year, we are excited to introduce the MKey PRO, our latest innovation crafted to elevate your typing and gaming experience. Featuring premium materials and top-tier features, the MKey PRO is driven by the enthusiastic feedback and support from our community.

Available Starting November 11th, 2024
The MKey PRO will be available in two bold color themes, Freedom and Darkness, offering users a choice between Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow or Brown switches to perfectly match their typing style. With a competitive price of USD $89.9, this keyboard delivers incredible value.

Antec Introduces the CX600M Trio PC Case

Antec Inc., a global leader in high-performance computer components and accessories, is proud to announce the launch of the Antec CX600M Trio Mid-Tower Gaming Case. This latest addition to Antec's chassis lineup combines compact design with cutting-edge modern style, delivering a jaw dropping microATX case that's perfect for modern, high-performance PCs.

Triple Transparent View
Display your build through the top, front and side with seamless tempered glass panels. The well-crafted CX600M Trio ARGB provides you with the ultimate unobstructed view.

GoDeal24 Celebrates 11.11 Singles Day with Great Deals on Genuine Software

Chinese 11.11 Shopping Day, also known as Singles' Day or Double 11, is an annual shopping festival that takes place on November 11th. It has evolved into one of the largest online shopping events in the world. Now, merchants from many countries are also participating in this promotion, providing customers with excellent products at the biggest discounts! Here to provide the best Singles' Day jaw-dropping deals on Microsoft products, ensuring you can elevate your productivity without breaking the bank. For example, you can grab the highly sought-after Office 2021 Pro for an astonishing $35.11 from today! That's right—premium software at a fraction of the regular price. But it can get even more Shocking!

GoDeal24 Singles Day 11.11 Promotion Page | Buy Windows 11 Pro at $13.25 | Buy Windows 10 Pro at $8.25

Samsung's Second-Gen 3 nm GAA Process Shows 20% Yields, Missing Production Goals

Samsung's latest semiconductor manufacturing technology is falling short of expectations, as the company struggles to achieve acceptable production rates for its cutting-edge 3 nm chips. The latest rumors indicate that both versions of Samsung's 3 nm Gate-All-Around (GAA) process produce fewer viable chips than anticipated. The initial targets set by the South Korean tech giant were aimed at a 70% yield rate in volume production. However, the first "SF3E-3GAE" iteration of the technology has only managed to achieve between 50-60% viable yield output. More troubling is the performance of the second-generation process, which is reportedly yielding only 20% of usable chips—a figure that falls dramatically short of production goals. The timing is particularly challenging for Samsung as major clients begin to reevaluate their manufacturing partnerships.

Qualcomm has opted to produce its latest Snapdragon 8 Elite processors exclusively through rival TSMC's 3 nm facilities. Even more telling is the exodus of South Korean companies, traditionally loyal to Samsung, who are now turning to TSMC's more reliable manufacturing processes. While Samsung can claim the achievement of bringing 3 nm GAA technology to market before TSMC's competing N3B process, this technical victory rings hollow without the ability to mass-produce chips efficiently. The gap between Samsung's aspirations and manufacturing reality continues to widen. However, Samsung is shifting its focus toward its next technological milestone. Development efforts are reportedly intensifying around a 2 nm manufacturing process, with plans to debut this technology in a new Exynos processor (codenamed 'Ulysses') for the 2027 Galaxy S27 smartphone series.

Gigabyte Launches its first Mini-ITX X870 Motherboard, the X870I Aorus Pro Ice

When the initial batch of AMD X870/E motherboards were announced, there were no signs of Mini-ITX motherboards, but now Gigabyte has launched its first X870 Mini-ITX board and it's a bit of a hit and miss in our opinion. The X870I Aorus Pro Ice comes in white, as per the Ice moniker that Gigabyte likes to use for its white products and this might really appeal to some and put others off. Feature wise, we're looking at a single PCIe 5.0 x16 slot—as per most Mini-ITX boards—two NVMe M.2 slots, one PCIe 5.0 and one PCIe 4.0, but for some reason, Gigabyte decided that a single USB4 port was enough.

What makes the single USB4 port decision even worse is the fact that the board only has a USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gbps USB Type-C port and the front panel header is also limited to 10 Gbps. On a brand new board, this is really quite disappointing, but the Pro SKUs are usually feature limited models from Gigabyte. The rest of the ports around the back consists of an HDMI 2.1 port, although it too is limited to 4K 60 Hz output, which again is disappointing—the USB4 port is capable of 4K at 240 Hzvia DP Alt mode—two USB 3.2 Gen 2 10 Gbps USB Type-A ports, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 5 Gbps USB Type-A ports and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, a 2.5 Gbps RJ45 Ethernet jack, a WiFi antenna connector for the onboard RTL8922AE WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 module and a pair of 3.5 mm audio jacks mounted on a separate PCB. There's also a BIOS flashing button around the back.

TSMC Can't Legally Make 2 nm Chips in the US Yet, Latest Nodes Must Remain in Taiwan

Even with billions of US dollars being invested overseas, TSMC cannot legally manufacture its most advanced nodes outside of Taiwan. According to Taiwan's Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo, "Since Taiwan has regulations to protect its own technologies, TSMC cannot produce 2-nanometer chips overseas currently." He added, "Although TSMC plans to make 2-nanometer chips [abroad] in the future, its core technology will stay in Taiwan." This provides crucial insight into TSMC's strategic positioning, both in its US expansion plans and in navigating global geopolitical waters, especially with Taiwan being the major hub of silicon innovation. Taiwan's semiconductor industry follows strict regulations regarding overseas production capabilities, requiring companies to maintain their most advanced manufacturing processes within Taiwan.

The company's international expansion strategy includes significant developments in the United States. TSMC's Arizona facilities are central to these plans, with multiple fabs in different stages of development. The initial Arizona facility will begin producing 4 nm chips imminently, while a second facility, scheduled to open in 2028, will manufacture then mature 3 nm and 2 nm chips. A third planned facility aims to produce 2 nm or more sophisticated chips. Meanwhile, Taiwan-based facilities will produce more advanced chips at the same time, with volume production of A-16 chips planned for late 2026, following the rollout of 2 nm chip production in 2025. Furthermore, Taiwan-US semiconductor cooperation will continue regardless of political changes. Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA) Chairman and TSMC Senior Vice President Cliff Hou noted that historical evidence suggests US electoral outcomes have not significantly impacted this technological partnership, though some adjustments may occur.

AMD Ryzen AI MAX 300 "Strix Halo" iGPU to Feature Radeon 8000S Branding

AMD Ryzen AI MAX 300-series processors, codenamed "Strix Halo," have been on in the news for close to a year now. These mobile processors combine "Zen 5" CPU cores with an oversized iGPU that offers performance rivaling discrete GPUs, with the idea behind these chips being to rival the Apple M3 Pro and M3 Max processors powering MacBook Pros. The "Strix Halo" mobile processor is an MCM that combines one or two "Zen 5" CCDs (some ones featured on "Granite Ridge" desktop processors and "Turin" server processors), with a large SoC die. This die is built either on the 5 nm (TSMC N5) or 4 nm (TSMC N4P) node. It packs a large iGPU based on the RDNA 3.5 graphics architecture, with 40 compute units (CU), and a 50 TOPS-class XDNA 2 NPU carried over from "Strix Point." The memory interface is a 256-bit wide LPDDR5X-8000 for sufficient memory bandwidth for the up to 16 "Zen 5" CPU cores, the 50 TOPS NPU, and the large 40 CU iGPU.

Golden Pig Upgrade leaked what looks like a company slide from a notebook OEM, which reveals the iGPU model names for the various Ryzen AI MAX 300-series SKUs. Leading the pack is the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395. This is a maxed out SKU with a 16-core/32-thread "Zen 5" CPU that uses two CCDs. All 16 cores are full-sized "Zen 5." The CPU has 64 MB of L3 cache (32 MB per CCD), each of the 16 cores has 1 MB of dedicated L2 cache. The iGPU is branded Radeon 8060S, it comes with all 40 CU (2,560 stream processors) enabled, besides 80 AI accelerators, and 40 Ray accelerators. The Ryzen AI MAX 390 is the next processor SKU, it comes with a 12-core/24-thread "Zen 5" CPU. Like the 395, the 390 is a dual-CCD processor, all 12 cores are full-sized "Zen 5." There's 64 MB of L3 cache, and 1 MB of L2 cache per core. The Radeon 8060S graphics solution is the same as the one on the Ryzen AI MAX+ 395, it comes with all 40 CU enabled.
Sunday, November 10th 2024

AMD "Zen 6" to Retain Socket AM5 for Desktops, 2026-27 Product Launches

The desktop version of AMD's next-generation "Zen 6" microarchitecture will retain Socket AM5, Kepler_L2, a reliable source with hardware leaks, revealed. What's more interesting is the rumor that the current "Zen 5" will remain AMD's mainstay for the entirety of 2025, and possibly even most of 2026, at least for the desktop platform. AMD will be banking heavily on the recently announced Ryzen 7 9800X3D, and its high core-count siblings, the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and possible 9900X3D, to see the company through for 2025 against Intel. The 9800X3D posted significantly higher gaming performance than Intel, and the 9950X3D is expected to be at least faster than the 7950X3D at gaming, which means its gaming performance, coupled with multithreaded application performance from its 16-core/32-thread count should be the face of AMD's desktop processor lineup for at least the next year.

It wouldn't be off-character for AMD to launch "Zen 6" on AM5, and not refresh the platform. The company had launched three microarchitectures (Zen thru Zen 3) on Socket AM4. With "Zen 6," AMD has the opportunity to not just increase IPC, but also core-counts per CCD, cache sizes, a new foundry node such as 3 nm, and probably even introduce features such as hybrid architecture and an NPU to the desktop platform, which means it could at least update the current 6 nm client I/O die (cIOD) while retaining AM5. A new cIOD could give AMD the much-needed opportunity to update the DDR5 memory controllers to support higher memory frequencies. The Kepler_L2 leak predicts a "late-2026 or early-2027" launch for desktop "Zen 6" processors. In the meantime, Intel is expected to ramp "Arrow Lake-S" on Socket LGA1851, and debut the "Panther Lake" microarchitecture on LGA1851 in 2025-26.

LG Display Succeeds in Developing World's First Stretchable Display that Expands by 50 Percent

LG Display, the world's leading innovator of display technologies, announced today its unveiling of the world's first Stretchable display capable of expanding up to 50%, the highest rate of elongation in the industry. At LG Science Park in Seoul on Nov. 8, the company demonstrated the panel at a meeting of more than 100 South Korean industry, academia, and research stakeholders involved in a Stretchable display national project.

Stretchable displays are seen as the ultimate free-form screen technology because they can be freely transformed into any shape, including by stretching, folding, and twisting.

This Week in Gaming (Week 46)

As we're moving closer to the middle of November, it appears we have yet another slower week of the new game releases, which kicks off with some tractor driving, not pulling. This is followed by a family friendly RPG, a detective saga, an arcade co-op isometric something, another remake of a Square Enix title and finally your chance to run your own industrial empire. There's also a new Tetris game with an accompanying documentary to celebrate 40 years of Tetris.

Farming Simulator 25 / This week's major release / Tuesday 12 November
Farming Simulator 25 invites you to join the rewarding farm life. Whether you build your legacy single-handedly or cooperatively in multiplayer - it's your farm, you decide! Build a farm along winding rivers and historic grain elevators in North America, surrounded by ponds in Central Europe, or in a lush East Asian landscape filled with rice paddies near a neon-lit port city. Grow crops, tend to animals, practice forestry, and manage an empire of business ventures with farm shops, productions, and constructions. Steam link
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