News Archive
Sunday, August 31st 2014
Oregon-based custom PC builder Falcon Northwest has also adopted Intel's new high-end desktop line and is making it available on three of its systems, the Mach V, the Talon and the FragBox. The X99-powered configurations feature the 8-core Core i7-5960X or the 6-core i7-5930K or i7-5820K, liquid cooling for the CPU, up to 64 GB of DDR4 memory, up to six storage drives, and up to three graphics cards set up in SLI or CrossFireX.
The Haswell-E-based
Mach V, Talon and FragBox start at $3,021, $2,330 and $2,313, respectively.
Saturday, August 30th 2014
Creative Technology Ltd today launched the Sound Blaster E5 - Flagship of the "Sound Blaster E-Series", and a new audio solution for USB DAC and headphone amplifier. Boasting audiophile-grade specifications and components, the Sound Blaster E5 is designed to deliver bit-perfect audio, allowing mobile users to experience audio as the artists intended.
The new flagship product is an extension of Sound Blaster's E-Series line of compact portable USB audio solutions. Launched in May 2014, the Sound Blaster E-Series includes the Sound Blaster E1 and Sound Blaster E3.
Huntkey Enterprise Group, a global professional power supply provider, has demonstrated the colorful X-MAN DIY chassis to the gamers for the first time at ChinaJoy 2014.
Following the E3 in U.S. , and the Tokyo Game Show in Japan, ChinaJoy has become one of the greatest events of the world's game industry. It is meant to strengthen domestic game supervision in China , actively regulate the Chinese market, and rigorously fight against piracy, in order to encourage and support the development and the sales of legal game products.
Friday, August 29th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Cases
Corsair is aiming to take the Graphite series on the road with the Graphite 380T. A compact Mini-ITX chassis with a solid grip and sweet looks, it certainly has the specs to be an awesome LAN-gaming rig. But all this comes at a fairly high price - will the Graphite 380T manage to make each cent count?
Review
Motherboards
Another new Intel debut is upon us, and you just can't miss it if you use multiple monitors and videocards. Today, we take our first look at Intel's X99 Express platform with MSI's X99S GAMING 7 to show us what's in store. Including SATA Express, M.2, DDR4, and support for Intel's new Haswell-E CPUs, the MSI X99S GAMING 7 might just be what you're looking for.
XOTIC PC has served the needs of gamers, designers and business owners since 1999 is now offering the newest and greatest in computer technology; X99 chipset motherboards and Intel Haswell E processors on many of its gaming desktop solutions.
X99 testing at XOTIC PC began weeks ago with many fresh off the press pre-production motherboard samples from top motherboard manufacturers in the industry including ASUS, EVGA, Gigabyte and MSI. XOTIC PC Production Manager, Chris O. shares, "With Intel's new 8-core CPUs (i7-5960X Extreme), we've seen performance increases anywhere between 30-50% which is mostly attributed to an increase to 20MB in L3 Intel Cache on the CPUs, and with them now being 8-core. In combination with the newest DDR4 memory modules, specifically from Corsair, we've seen bandwidth increases as high as 50%."
The EVGA X99 lineup has arrived. EVGA has rebuilt its motherboard lineup for the next generation Intel platform, offering a stunning set of new features and overclocking support. These motherboards also feature EVGA's new GUI BIOS that focuses on the best overclocking support, functionality, and are straight and to the point, the way a modern BIOS should be.
The Intel X99 platform unlocks incredible performance:
- Supports up to 16 CPU threads (8-core)
- First desktop platform to support DDR4 memory
- Up to 40 PCI-E 3.0 lanes
- Native SATA 6.0Gb/s & USB 3.0
- Up to 20 MB CPU Cache on 8 Core CPU
Plantronics (NYSE: PLT), a global leader in audio communications, will be at this year's PAX Prime in Seattle showing off the latest in high-end gaming audio with headsets for every gamer - console, PC and mobile. Attendees will have a chance to experience RIG gaming headsets at the Plantronics booth (#3446), and check out Plantronics partners Portalarium (Shroud of the Avatar), Absolute Software (LoJack), Coffee Stain (Goat Similator), EPIC Games (Infinity Blade) and Wargaming (World of Tanks).
Plantronics will be demonstrating two new gaming headsets, RIG Surround and RIG Flex. RIG Surround is the first RIG headset to offer Dolby Surround 7.1 to get your adrenaline pumping with totally immersive positional audio. RIG Flex provides gamers the flexibility to enjoy superior audio whether they are gaming on their PC or enjoying music on the go.
Exciting news today as AVADirect announces the release of an all new line of Intel enthusiast processors, the formally codenamed Haswell-E processor. These CPU's represent a quantum leap in performance, with Intel bringing their first enthusiast class 8-core CPU to market with an 8 core processor to market.
Moving forward with the already stellar improvements from the Haswell Devil's Canyon refresh, these Core i7 E CPUs are built for the bleeding edge enthusiast. Leveraging massively improved multi-threaded performance, up to 45% over a 4 core system and the power and throughput of the just launched X99 Express chipset, which is the first to support DDR 4 standard memory this new product line is exactly what gamers, overclocking fans and content creators have been waiting on.
G.SKILL International Co. Ltd., the leading high performance memory designer and manufacturer, is proud to announce breaking the DDR4 memory speed record at 4004 MHz extreme frequency.
G.SKILL never stops pushing the computing performance to the limits. Over the past few months, G.SKILL has been dedicated to develop the fastest DDR4 memory and test the performance boundary on the latest Intel X99 platform. All the hard work has finally paid off. G.SKILL Ripjaws 4 Series DDR4 memory broke the DDR4 4 GHz barrier under LN2 extreme cooling, using the ASUS ROG X99 Rampage V Extreme Motherboard and Intel Core i7-5930K CPU.
This incredible score has been validated by CPU-Z.
ORIGIN PC announced today the availability of the new Intel Core i7 "Haswell-E" processors on their line of award-winning GENESIS and MILLENNIUM desktops powered by the latest Intel X99 Chipset. Achieve champion status with the first 8-core, Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition processor with unlocked, unleashed, and uncompromised performance like never before on an ORIGIN PC GENESIS or MILLENNIUM desktop.
Based on the latest 22 nm Haswell-E Microarchitecture, the new Intel Core i7 Processors also features support for the latest in DDR4 memory, Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology to deliver unrivaled performance. Gain the ultimate performance today with your new ORIGIN PC GENESIS or MILLENNIUM desktops using the power of Intel's latest Core i7 Processors!
CyberPower Inc.,a global manufacturer of custom gaming PCs, gaming laptops, and performance workstations, today announced the immediate availability of custom desktop computers featuring Intel X99 chipset motherboards and new Intel Core i7 Processors (formerly codenamed Haswell-E).
CYBERPOWERPC has updated its entire product line with the new hardware from Intel, which features brand new industry-leading technology and performance across the board. The Intel X99 chipset introduces a variety of new technologies to the high-end enthusiast computing market. The switch to DDR4 memory provides over twice the average clock speeds and data transfer rates compared to the previous generation, along with better power efficiency.
Velocity Micro, the premier builder of award winning enthusiast desktops, laptops, and peripherals announces the availability of gaming PCs and workstation PCs featuring the newest Intel Core processors, formally codenamed Haswell-E. Hand-crafted configurations in the Raptor gaming class and select ProMagix workstations start at $2,299, with shipments beginning immediately.
"This launch from Intel is one of the biggest steps forward in recent memory. For gamers taking on 4K, media creators, and workstation users, things just got even better," said Randy Copeland, President and CEO of Velocity Micro. "We're excited to be able to offer these new processors as a part of our ongoing pursuit to create an ultra-performance, cutting-edge desktop PC product."
ASUS today announced X99-Deluxe, X99-Pro and X99-A, three new ATX motherboards based on the Intel X99 chipset and packed with exclusive technologies, including OC Socket and 5-Way Optimization, to ensure ultimate performance from the latest LGA 2011-v3 Intel Core i7 processors.
X99-Deluxe is the flagship model, with a bundled ASUS Hyper M.2 x4 expansion card for ultra-fast 32 Gbit/s transfer speeds; onboard 3x3 (3T3R) 802.11ac for ultra-fast Wi-Fi speeds of up to 1,300 Mbit/s; and an ASUS Fan Extension Card for flexible additional cooling. With a cool, streamlined outlook that includes a broad, striking-white shield, X99-Deluxe and X99-Pro also deliver the futuristic style and strong performance demanded by PC enthusiasts.
MAINGEAR - award-winning custom gaming PC builder of custom desktops, laptops, and workstations - today significantly expanded its custom PC options by adding the new Intel X99 Express chipset, offering improved performance and unlocking significantly enhanced potential, across all MAINGEAR desktops.
MAINGEAR desktops featuring the all-new 8-core 5960X Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition processor will provide up to a 45 percent performance increase over previous 4 core processor systems. It is also the first unlocked desktop processor that supports up to 4 channel DDR4-2133 memory, giving more overclock options for gamers and professional users for flawless gameplay and dramatically reduces editing time for RAW photos and HD videos.
Corsair, a worldwide leader in high-performance PC components and ASUS a worldwide leader in motherboards, today announced the availability of the Corsair Dominator Platinum DDR4 memory kits in 3300 MHz, 3200 MHz and 3000 MHz speeds - the world's fastest production memory kits. Corsair developed the new high-speed DDR4 memory in close collaboration with ASUS, tuning and validating the memory timings to take advantage of the optimized DRAM layout and UEFI firmware of ASUS's new X99 motherboards. The new Dominator DDR4 memory kits, when paired with the ASUS X99 Deluxe and Rampage V Extreme motherboards, creates some of the fastest, most stable enthusiast PC platforms available for the new Intel Core i7 processors (codenamed Haswell-E).
"Our rigorous validation with ASUS has enabled us to make Dominator Platinum 3300 MHz the fastest desktop DDR4 memory available at launch," said Thi La, Chief Operating Officer at Corsair. "Our OC team and engineers are excited to see such performance headroom the new Intel platform and are looking forward to releasing even faster kits in the near future."
Alienware, the leader in high-powered gaming systems, is announcing the return of the legendary Alienware Area-51 performance gaming desktop, packing the newest technologies from Intel, NVIDIA and AMD, to give gamers high frame rate fragging at any resolution. The Area-51 is Alienware's newest flagship desktop gaming system engineered to perform at beyond Ultra HD resolutions and multi-monitor setups, while meeting the requirements of the most demanding gamers on the planet.
A Legacy of Excellence
The Area-51 pays homage to the storied legacy of gaming excellence started by Alienware nearly two decades ago. Fueled by the love of gaming, the original Alienware Area-51 set the industry standard for performance gaming systems. Maximizing performance first and foremost, the Area-51 delivered the best technologies to gamers who demanded only the best. Alienware's newest flagship performance gaming system features a new revolutionary chassis design and packs the latest and greatest hardware to give gamers the ultimate gaming experiences.
HyperX, a division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced it will demo next-generation HyperX Predator DDR4 Memory during PAX Prime 2014 in Seattle, Washington, beginning today through September 1, 2014. HyperX Predator DDR4 kits will ship in September. HyperX Predator DDR4 memory is specifically designed for the next generation Intel X99 chipset and the Haswell-E processor. The combination of high frequency, low voltage and aggressive CAS latencies in the HyperX DDR4 memory kits provide users with one of the fastest solutions on the market. HyperX Predator DDR4 memory will be available in 16GB kits of four starting at 1.2V, and frequencies from 2133MHz to 3000MHz.
"With the industry launch of DDR4 memory, the HyperX team is excited to have our Predator DDR4 memory ready for the next generation of PC enthusiasts who continually want the absolute best performance possible from their system," said Edward Baily, business manager, HyperX. "Gamers can also turn to HyperX for all of their peripheral hardware needs from the comfortable and great sounding Cloud headset to the speedy and accurate Skyn mouse pad. As HyperX continues to support the world of gaming and eSports, we hope the community sees us a trusted leader in the gaming hardware industry."
XOTIC PC has served the needs of gamers, designers and business owners since 1999 with custom built laptop and desktop PC's. With their presence at this year's Penny Arcade Expo (PAX) Prime Convention in Seattle, WA they have partnered with one of the biggest companies in the technology industry, Intel and they will be offering the first ever built X99 desktop giveaway to PAX Prime 2014 attendees.
X99 Intel Chipset, LGA 2011-3, along with new Intel Haswell E CPUs are set to be released to the general public on August 29, 2014, same as the opening day of PAX Prime. XOTIC PC has partnered with industry leading manufacturers Intel, EVGA and Gigabyte to offer PAX Prime 2014 attendees a powerful X99 gaming desktop valued at over $3,000.00 USD.
Digital Storm is excited to add Intel's X99 Chipset to its line of high performance gaming systems, like the award winning Aventum II. The X99 launch marks a giant step forward in the evolution of technology at the enthusiast PC performance level.
"The goal with all our systems is to maximize performance" said Harjit Chana, Chief Brand Officer. "That means arming each Digital Storm system with the bleeding edge technology needed to dominate the competition."
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, today announced the availability of their new X99 motherboard lineup based on the Intel X99 chipset with support for Intel's new Core i7 Extreme Edition (LGA 2011-v3 socket) processors and latest DDR4 memory support. Featuring 3 main categories of motherboards including G1 gaming, SOC overclocking and signature GIGABYTE Ultra Durable, GIGABYTE has an X99 series motherboard custom built for any 'Dream Machine' build.
"Given this incredibly powerful platform from Intel, GIGABYTE wanted to make sure each one of our X99 series motherboards delivered that 'WOW' factor for our enthusiast customers," commented Henry Kao, Vice President of GIGABYTE Motherboard Business Unit. "In addition to being the first motherboards to support the latest Intel Core i7 Extreme Edition CPUs and recently released DDR4 memory, GIGABYTE X99 motherboards offer an extensive range of unique GIGABYTE features that truly unlock the full potential of the platform."
Finnish overclocker "The Stilt" overclocked his brand new AMD FX-8370 to a record-breaking 8722.78 MHz. The target was achieved using a base-clock of 276.91 MHz, and a multiplier of 31.5x, core voltage of 2.004V, and DRAM frequency of 1107 MHz (2214 MHz DDR). Other hardware included an ASUS Crosshair V Formula-Z motherboard, and 2x 4 GB of AMD made DDR3 memory. The setup was cooled by a liquid nitrogen evaporator. Find the validation and other details
here.
MSI, world leading in motherboard technology, is pleased to announce its release of the MSI X99S GAMING 9 AC motherboard. The MSI X99S GAMING 9 AC is a custom designed motherboard, specifically for gamers who demand the best onboard gaming features, ready to e0-mbrace all new DDR4 memory and 8 core CPU power. The imposing heatsinks and Dragon Armor on the MSI X99S GAMING 9 AC motherboard highlight its unique features. Its masterpiece is Streaming Engine, a premium dedicated onboard hardware streaming solution for streaming gaming activities at 1080p 60Mbps without impacting FPS and gameplay. The MSI X99S GAMING 9 AC also comes with Audio Boost 2, USB Audio Power, Killer LAN, Turbo M.2 32Gb/s, SATA Express, Intel Wi-Fi AC and 4-way Multi-GPU support.
MSI introduces the world's first onboard hardware streaming solution, called Streaming Engine. A dedicated onboard hardware card which delivers even better performance and quality than Intel Quick Sync (which is not supported on the X99 platform), because having superior video quality and streaming performance is essential when sharing gaming activities with the world. Gamers can stream at amazing 1080p 60 Mbps quality using HD H.264 hardware compression.
With a price-tag of US $2,999, the GeForce GTX TITAN-Z from NVIDIA is the most expensive consumer graphics card in recent times. You needn't be a Vulcan to tell that it's overpriced by a lot, and that NVIDIA is selling these cards at a gargantuan margin. In a bid to see more system builders sell the card to their high-paying customers, NVIDIA cut prices of the card, by as much as 37 percent. An OEM partner will now be able to source a GTX TITAN-Z from NVIDIA for as less as $1,830. What they do with the cards - such as charging the full $2,999 for the option, is their business. DIY users will still have to cough up three grand for one of these illogical cards.
Every company has a flagship product or service. ASUS, which started out as a motherboard brand, has its newest, the ROG Rampage V Extreme. Based on the Intel X99 Express chipset, the board drives Core i7-5000 "Haswell-E" HEDT processors. It begins with a high-current 8-phase CPU VRM that draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS, and 4-pin ATX connectors. The CPU socket is wired to eight DDR4 DIMM slots, and five PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots (one of which features a lane bypass).
Storage connectivity on the Rampage V Extreme includes 12 SATA 6 Gb/s, one SATA-Express, and an M.2 with PCIe 2.0 x4 physical layer. Other connectivity includes SupremeFX 2014 audio, Intel-made gigabit Ethernet, 802.11 ac WLAN with Bluetooth 4.0, fourteen USB 3.0 ports (ten on the rear panel, four by headers), and high-current USB 2.0 ports so your USB gaming peripherals never run out of juice. The usual complement of ROG-exclusive features are present.
Intel launched its next-generation Core i7-5000 series high-end desktop platform, consisting of socket LGA2011-V3 Core i7 processors, and compatible motherboards based on the Intel X99 Express chipset. The platform is an upscaling of the "Haswell" micro-architecture, codenamed "Haswell-E" and targets Ultra HD gamers, media professionals, and PC enthusiasts. The platform begins with the "Haswell-E" silicon, which physically features eight "Haswell" CPU cores, a staggering 20 MB of L3 cache, a quad-channel DDR4 integrated memory controller, and a 40-lane PCI-Express Gen 3.0 root complex. Three SKUs are carved out of this silicon.
The series is led by the Core i7-5960X. Intel's first eight-core processor for the high-end desktop market, this chip features HyperThreading, which enables 16 logical CPUs for the OS to play with, 20 MB of L3 cache, and clock speeds of 3.00 GHz, with 3.50 GHz maximum Turbo Boost. It commands a price of $999. Next up, is the Core i7-5930K. A six-core chip with HyperThreading that enables 12 logical CPUs, this chip features 15 MB of L3 cache, clock speeds of 3.50 GHz with 3.70 GHz maximum Turbo Boost, and a US $583 price-tag. The most affordable chip is the Core i7-5820K. At US $389, it's the cheapest six-core HEDT chip by Intel (at launch). It features 12 MB of L3 cache, and clock speeds of 3.30 GHz, with 3.60 GHz of Turbo Boost. Too good to be true? Not so fast. It features a slimmer 28-lane PCIe root complex, so certain multi-GPU configurations won't run optimally. The Intel X99 Express chipset corrects many of the shortcomings of its predecessor, the X79 Express. It features a meaty storage controller that offers ten SATA 6 Gb/s ports, one or more SATA-Express, and M.2 slots. It also integrates a 6-port USB 3.0 host controller, and two independent 4-port USB 2.0 host controllers.
We have been here before, haven't we? Back in the days when we were used to having X79-chipset based motherboard for building up the supercomputers, and setting up the incredible rig on the face of earth, a brand new chipset motherboard with unassuming power came along and changed everything. It is ASRock's Super Alloy X99 motherboard series. The long-awaited X99 gears based on Haswell-E architecture were born today, including the prestigious Extreme Series, gamers' most wanted Fatal1ty Killer Series and crazy Nick Shih's Overclocking Series.
To identify the flagship motherboards among the three product lines, that would be X99 Extreme6, X99 OC Formula and Fatal1ty X99 Professional. Using out of the world to describe ASRock's top-end motherboards X99 OC Formula and Fatal1ty X99 Professional is actually an understatement. Two motherboards boast a whopping 12 Power Phase Design with 24 Dual-N MOSFETs, which can reach up to an unearthly 1300W support! In addition, two boards are equipped with dual M.2 sockets to satisfy more demands, one Ultra M.2 PCIe Gen3 x4 slot for experiencing the fastest M.2 performance and one M.2 PCIe Gen2 x4 & SATA3 socket for users who would like to equip dual M.2 devices.
MSI, world leader in motherboard technology, is pleased to announce the launch of the new MSI X99 motherboards line-up. Featuring 5 models, the MSI X99S GAMING 9 AC, X99S GAMING 7, X99S XPOWER AC, X99S MPOWER and X99S SLI PLUS, MSI caters to everyones needs.
With a long history of unique and high performing motherboards under any condition, MSI X99 motherboards are all based on Military Class 4 components and are packed with a freight train of features. All MSI X99 motherboards feature Turbo M.2 to drive your SSD up to 32 Gb/s and SATA Express for the latest technology in data storage. MSI X99 also offers full support for Quad SLI and CrossFire configurations, whether you demand the highest FPS when GAMING, Overclocking or rendering graphics.
A standard accessory for computer equipment for 8 years since 2007, DDR3 memory is gradually lagging behind the needs for higher performance in industrial and business application. As a result, the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council (JEDEC) developed the memory specifications for new-generation DDR4, while Intel launched the DDR4-compatible Haswell-E processor platform in 2014.It is a trend that DDR4 memory will be applied to the new motherboard of commercial products such as personal computers and servers, and further built into smartphones, tablet PCs and other consumer mobile devices.
To adapt to the changing market trend, Apacer newly launches the DDR4 2133 4 GB/8 GB Unbuffered DIMM, which combines the advantages of both high speed and low power consumption. Compared to its predecessor, its work clock rate is 2,133 Mbps with the transmission bandwidth boosted up to 17 GB/s, delivering a 14% improvement in performance. In terms of power consumption, an extra-low voltage of 1.2V delivers a 25% reduction in voltage, concurrently reducing the stand-by power consumption by 50%. "The advantages of this DDR4 help reduce power consumption effectively, maintain a low-temperature system and enhance integral stability while enabling performance improvement," stressed David Lin, PC Application Product Division Senior Director of Apacer indicated.
Thursday, August 28th 2014
Today's Reviews
TRENDnet, a best-in-class wired and wireless networking hardware brand, today announces the availability of the 10 dBi Outdoor PoE Access Point, model TEW-738APBO. "The TEW-738APBO provides the ability to extend an existing network to a remote location or connect to a wireless internet service provider network," stated stated Sonny Su, TRENDnet technology director. "It's rated for extreme weather conditions and features a powerful internal directional antenna."
NVIDIA is expected to brand-name its next GeForce GTX desktop discrete GPU lineup under the GTX 900 series, and not the previously thought about GTX 800. In what is a similar brand-name pole-vault to the GTX 300 series ahead of "Fermi," NVIDIA's next high-end discrete GPUs will be named GeForce GTX 970 and GTX 980. The brand name could be devised to not just look better on paper, but give users of current-generation GTX 770 and GTX 780 an upgrade-itch, something which could have been difficult if NVIDIA named it under the GTX 800 series, unless its new parts were phenomenally faster.
The GeForce GTX 970 and GTX 980 will be based on NVIDIA's new "GM204" silicon, derived from its new "Maxwell" GPU architecture, which debuted with the mid-range GeForce GTX 750 Ti. NVIDIA is expected to outline the two cards on the 9th or 10th of September, 2014, at various media events held around the world. The company is expected to formally launch the two on 19th September. The GeForce GTX 800 series could continue to include OEM and mobile-GPU parts based on either "Maxwell" or "Kepler" GPUs.
Among ASUS' soon-to-be-released line of X99-based motherboards workstation users will be able to find one product made specifically for them, the X99-E WS. This new ATX board offers support for both Core i7 5xxx Series and Xeon E5 processors and includes no less than seven PCI-Express x16 slots for SLI or CrossFireX setups.
The X99-E WS also has eight DDR4 memory slots, one SATA Express connector, eight SATA 6.0 Gbps ports, dual Gigabit Ethernet, Crystal Sound 2 7.1-channel audio, ten USB 3.0 and two eSATA ports, a Q-Code logger button, 12K solid capacitors, and ProCool power connectors. ASUS' motherboard is said to have a MSRP of $519 but it can be found
listed at $499.
MSI announces the launch of the MSI ProBox130, a new model in its latest generation of commercial oriented desktop PCs. These series use the latest Intel H81 chipset, and support the 4th Generation Intel Core processors with high performance and integrated GPU providing powerful graphics processing. Furthermore, the MSI ProBox130 is equipped with a Micro-ATX motherboard and comprehensive I/O ports. With a 13L volume and a height of 10cm, this PC is one of the smaller in its kind. Moreover, the MSI ProBox130 can easily be maintained and upgraded, making it the best space-saving solution for commercial and entertainment applications. MSI will bring this product to the market both as a barebone as well as a full system PC. The MSI ProBox130 will firstly be available in Europe per 28th of August.
Panram Technology rely on strong R & D capabilities and solid manufacturing capability to provide customers customized design (Customize) professional Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturing (ODM) services to fully meet the needs of customers. Today announced its new NINJA - V DDR4 Series memory modules developed to high performance and high quality product to end users. Ninja from mystery Japan to represent strong, powerful, quick and cool. Panram Technology NINJA - V DDR4 Memory is just like Ninja style, silent and high performance.
In computer component industry, DDR3 memory modules has been fully transfer into mainstream spec to replaced DDR2 many years ago. However the computer industry become very fastest growing marketing, to reach more performance as the target, DDR3 memory modules is facing bottleneck of weak bandwidth, high voltage and etc limited. Intel and JEDEC take lead of develop the next gen memory spec "DDR4", to replace DDR3 in the future. Intel Haswell - E platform X99 is the world first DDR4 consumer motherboard chipset, Panram Technology has very good relationship with Intel, in the very beginning stage to involved DDR4 development work, the NINJA - V DDR4 series.
VTX3D, a renowned manufacturer that has been producing quality graphic cards since its introduction. - Today, VTX3D launched a high performance graphics card that targets the enthusiasts, the VTX3D R9 285 X-Edition. The R9 285 X-Edition is equipped with an optimum dual fan cooling design and supports the latest technologies from AMD, such as AMD Eyefinity Technology, Mantle API, and DirectX 12. Gamers may get an unparalleled gaming experience that they have never felt before.
Being one of VTX3D high-end graphics card you can expect some impressive numbers. VTX3D R9 285 X-Edition boasts 1,792 stream processors, up to 945 MHz engine clock, 2 GB GDDR5 / 256-bit memory configuration, 2 x 6-pin power connectors, PCI-E 3.0, DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.4, and Mantle support. Delivering excellent parallel processing performance at extreme 3D rendering speeds. It also supports AMD's Eyefinity, TrueAudio and CrossFire technology, to satisfy the various demands of all users.
Japanese display maker Iiyama announced the ProLite E2483HS, an entry-level 24-inch LED-backlit LCD display, which offers flicker free brightness control (doesn't use PWM to control LED brightness), and a characteristic "blue light reduction" technology. With its proprietary ECO Mode, the display draws as little as 24W of power during normal operation. Based on a TN-film LCD panel, the ProLite E2483HS offers viewing angles of 80° H and 85° V. It offers full-HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) native resolution, with 5 ms (GTG) response time, 250 cd/m² maximum brightness, and 1000:1 static and dynamic mega-contrast ratios. Display inputs include one each of DVI, D-Sub, and HDMI. Its stand offers basic tilt adjustments.
Inter-Tech announced a new, flashy entry-level mid-tower case, the Badger JY-230. Featuring a glossy black ABS front, and non-coated SECC steel interiors; the case is characterized by a glowy blue front ornament. Measuring 410 mm x 180 mm x 405 mm (DxWxH), the case offers four external 5.25-inch drive bays, one external and four internal 3.5-inch ones; and a cooling system that includes a 120 mm front intake, and a 92 mm rear exhaust. The company didn't reveal pricing.
ASUS announced one of its first Republic of Gamers branded mousepads, the ROG GM50. This unusually shaped mousepad features a fiber-weave design that's coated with a material that reduces friction, improves tracking accuracy, and has anti-bacterial properties. The pad is designed to strike a balance between speed and accuracy, with the company claiming it will go just as well be both FPS and RTS gaming. With an area of 380 mm x 280 mm, the GM50 is 3.5 mm thick. Other innovations include blunt corners, a mouse cord untangling band at one corner (though we're not sure how that will fly with bungee users), and a complimentary silicone wristband with ROG branding. ASUS is expected to launch the ROG GM50 in major markets by the end of September.
SAPPHIRE Technology has just announced three new models in its successful R9 series of graphics cards based on the latest GCN (Graphics Core Next) architecture from AMD. The SAPPHIRE R9 285 Dual-X is a new model from SAPPHIRE that features a new GCN core and the company's Dual-X cooler. Dual-X, with its two aerofoil fans, and set of graduated sizes of heatpipes, is an efficient and quiet cooler design which received industry acclaim in previous generations of products. The standard R9 285 model has 2GB of the latest GDDR5 memory clocked at 1375MHz (5.5GB/s effective) and a GCN core with 1792 stream processors clocked at 918MHz. The R9 285 OC model features the enhanced clock speeds of 965MHz for the core and 1400MHz for the memory (5.6GB/s effective).
TUL Corporation, a leading manufacturer of AMD graphic cards, today introduces a unique exclusive model for Japan, the PowerColor R7 250XE. The "E" represents the meaning of "Eco"; the brand-new R7 250X features no need for external power, saves more energy yet delivers the best performance out of its class. Moreover, PowerColor R7 250XE is designed in low-profile, saving lot of space in your case, making it a excellent choice for users who search for powerful, lower power requirements as well as quieter VGA card.
The R7 250XE runs the clock speeds up to 860MHz for the core and 1125MHz for the memory, delivering the best performance in its class. Also, use a 128-bit memory interface and 1GB of GDDR5 memory, allows more bandwidth for demanding DirectX 11.2 gaming title. What's more, the new model is packed with a total of 1120 stream processors, delivering massively parallel computing power for graphics and other accelerated applications.
TUL Corporation, a leading manufacturer of AMD graphic cards since 1997, announces the latest model, the PowerColor TurboDuo R9 285 OC. This card will be offered a cost-effective choice for those who are looking for the best bang for their buck. The new TurboDuo R9 285 OC comes packed with the latest GCN architecture innovations like Direct 12 and Mantle API. Ensuring that gamers can play the most demanding games at settings better than any other card in its class.
Equipped with 2GB of GDDR5 memory, the TurboDuo R9 285 OC comes overclocked from the factory to the core clock speed of 945MHz, and 1375MHz for the memory clock speed, giving gamers blazing fast speed while gaming. In addition to factory default OC setting, the TurboDuo R9 285 OC takes advantage of PowerColor's exclusive Gold Power Kit, which includes total 7-phase design, PowerPAK SO-8, and SVI2 Green Power Manage technology, ensuring stability for its OC setting.
Wednesday, August 27th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Power Supplies
Corsair's RM series includes some of the quietest PSUs available on the market. Today, we take a detailed look at the strongest member of this series, the RM1000. It promises good performance and ultra-silent operation, a rare feature for a 1 kW unit.
Worldwide PC shipments are expected to fall by -3.7% in 2014, an improvement from the previous forecast of -6%, according to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Quarterly PC Tracker. PC shipments in emerging regions remain constrained by ongoing competition from alternative devices and a number of economic/political challenges. However, commercial demand and even a rekindling of consumer interest in mature markets helped to boost results for the first half of 2014 as well as the outlook for the rest of the year.
PC shipments in mature regions are now projected to grow by 5.6% in 2014 - the highest since 2010 - with both consumer and commercial segments showing positive growth. On the other hand, the outlook for emerging market has been lowered slightly to reflect reduced stability and economic conditions in Asia/Pacific, Latin America, and Central Europe, the Middle East and Africa (CEMA).
The EVGA TORQ X10 Gaming Mouse is now available in Europe. Built with the highest quality materials including a real Carbon Fibre surface, this mouse was designed from the ground up to satisfy the needs of the hardcore gamer with a high quality laser sensor that provides up to 8200 DPI, an adjustable weight system, nine programmable buttons, and a unique sizing system that allows you to adjust the height of the body.
We didn't stop there though. The EVGA TORQ X10 features the highest quality Omron switches with a lifespan of more than 20 million clicks. We also included a full metal base that provides solid construction, the latest Avago 9800 laser sensor providing up to 8200DPI with 1000Hz polling rate, a 6FT silver coated USB cable, and much more.
Intel Corporation today announced two new technologies for Intel Custom Foundry customers that need cost-effective advanced packaging and test technologies. Embedded Multi-die Interconnect Bridge (EMIB), available to 14nm foundry customers, is a breakthrough that enables a lower cost and simpler 2.5D packaging approach for very high density interconnects between heterogeneous dies on a single package. Instead of an expensive silicon interposer with TSV (through silicon via), a small silicon bridge chip is embedded in the package, enabling very high density die-to-die connections only where needed.
Standard flip-chip assembly is used for robust power delivery and to connect high-speed signals directly from chip to the package substrate. EMIB eliminates the need for TSVs and specialized interposer silicon that add complexity and cost. "The EMIB technology enables new on-package functionality that may have been too costly to pursue with previous solutions," said Babak Sabi, Intel vice president and director, Assembly and Test Technology Development.
Today LaCie, the premium brand from Seagate Technology, announced the availability of the LaCie 8big Rack Thunderbolt 2 in a 48 TB capacity. The LaCie 8big Rack is the fastest, highest-capacity Thunderbolt 2 storage solution on the market with speeds of up to 1330 MB/s* and eight Seagate 6 TB 7200 RPM professional hard disks. Built to excel with 4K video workflows, it delivers ample bandwidth to support 10-bit, 4K footage. With this kind of performance, videographers can work directly from RAW files in Apple Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere, get maximum quality from footage and see edits in real time.
"The new LaCie 8big Rack is a stellar performer," said Dave Helmly, Adobe's Sr. Manager Strategic Development for Pro Video. "In fact, it has performed so well that I have replaced it as my primary storage on my OS X 10.9 server. With a single Thunderbolt cable you can get 48 TB of storage. I have several partitions available for editing large projects in Adobe Premiere as well as general project backup. For small workgroups needing large amounts of secure and safe storage - you can add this one to the top of your list."
TP-LINK today announced the TP-LINK Archer C20i - AC750 Simultaneous Dual-Band Broadband Wireless AC Router - geared for budget-minded students and consumers, seeking an attractively priced router, without sacrificing performance. At a suggested list price of $59.99 (CAD), the Archer C20i is the category leader for price-performance in the entry-level AC wireless category, and comes with a long two-year warranty. The Archer C20i supports the 802.11ac standard, offering higher throughput and longer range than previous generation routers, and is backward compatible with 802.11n devices, including laptops, smartphones and tablets.
ZOTAC International, a global innovator and manufacturer of graphics cards and mini-PCs, today shrinks the mini-PC further with the pocket-sized ZBOX PI320 pico. The new ZOTAC ZBOX PI320 pico delivers a superb quad-core Windows 8.1 with Bing computing experience in a compact and versatile form factor.
"ZOTAC is a major innovator when it comes to miniaturizing the traditional PC. We began our push towards smaller and smaller mini-PCs with the ZBOX nano form factor and followed up with the ZBOX nano XS," said Tony Wong, CEO, ZOTAC International. "Now with the all-new ZBOX PI320 pico, we have created our smallest mini-PC that can fit in your pocket."
Sharkoon expands its range of low-cost cases and introduces a new ATX case series. The minimalist VS4 series is ideal for both home and office PCs and stands out due to its versatile features at an attractive price. The all-black ATX cases with a black interior finish are compatible with mini-ITX, micro-ATX as well as ATX, weigh 3.5 kg each, and are available in a Standard, Value or Window version. Dimensions are 445 x 200 x 430 mm (L x W x H).
In the front of both the Value and Window version there are two USB 3.0 and two audio ports. The Standard version provides two USB 2.0 and two audio ports. Thanks to the provided side panels the entire VS4 series offers space for the hassle-free installation of tower coolers with a height of up to 16 cm. Graphics cards with a maximum length of up to 31 cm, up to 38.5 cm after removing the SSD hard drive cage, can also be installed. A total of up to seven expansion cards can be installed. The maximum length for power supplies is 25 cm; a suitable dust filter is pre-installed on the bottom. All cases in the series offer installation openings for a CPU cooler, two openings for water cooling as well as a comfortable cable management system. The Window version is available with an acrylic side panel.
Take training to the next level and get the ultimate wireless workout with Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless, new earbuds - and an all-in-one training solution with Jabra Sport Life application - announced by Jabra today. Combining an in-ear biometric heart rate monitor, immersive Dolby Digital sound and real-time voice coaching, Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless will inspire runners, cyclists, and exercisers of all types to beat their best performance. The Jabra Sport Pulse Wireless is currently available for pre-order on
Jabra.com/sportpulse and will be available at Best Buy retail stores and BestBuy.com beginning late September.
Built-in Heart Rate Monitor and App: The Smart Way to Train
With a built-in intelligent app - Jabra Sport Life - exercisers will get the most out of their Sport Pulse Wireless earbuds, helping them plan, track and evaluate each workout. It has never been so easy to test fitness levels and aerobic capacity, adjust heart rate zone levels to optimize training, and set goals based on distance, time or calories burned.
Plantronics, a pioneer in audio and wearable technology, today announced BackBeat PRO, wireless active noise-cancelling headphones with battery power to outlast your playlist. The latest addition to its award-winning BackBeat stereo product family, the over-the-ear BackBeat PRO headphones offer Plantronics signature audio performance and design for all-day wearing comfort at home, in the office, and on the go. Bluetooth wireless freedom cuts the cord, and advanced active noise-cancellation (ANC) technology minimizes background sounds so you can fully immerse yourself in your music. BackBeat PRO is available today in the US and will be available worldwide starting October 2014.
"People want to enjoy their music anytime, anywhere, without having to compromise. That's why we created BackBeat PRO," said Greg Miller, category director, mobile entertainment solutions at Plantronics. "We designed BackBeat PRO to eliminate distractions with active noise-cancellation, and Bluetooth wireless and ridiculously long battery life melt away the frustrations of limited charge and a tangled mess of cords."
EK Water Blocks, Ljubljana based liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is proud to introduce the successor to EK-Supremacy flagship performance universal CPU water block.
EK-Supremacy EVO is an evolution of a EK-Supremacy flagship performance water block, introduced in 2012. More than one year worth of round-clock development, CFD analysis and rigorous testing is now resulting in ultimate performance, unmatched by any other product on the market.
The EURCOM Panther 5 and EUROCOM X7 are ultra-high performance systems with no performance or security compromise. Both support up to two graphics processors in SLI or CrossFireX, as well as Quadro, while the Panther 5 supports the most powerful desktop processors on earth, while the X7 supports the most powerful mobile processors on earth combined with Thunderbolt technology. Trusted Platform Modules are supported to provide a fundamental aspect to IT security: the root of trust. Embedded into these systems, the TPM provides a proven, safe foundation for more secure computing.
"Video game design teams from all over the world require the highest possible graphics cards such as dual NVIDIA GeForce GTX 880M cards combined with TPM chips for security in a single, mobile system with Thunderbolt technology. We are seeing a great deal of interest in the EUROCOM X7 and EUROCOM Panther 5 from game developers who need a secure, mobile system with the capability of their desktop" Mark Bialic, Eurocom President.
Much like ASUS, Gigabyte has branched its high-end DIY motherboard lineup into gamer and overclocker-centric ones, while retaining a mainline. The Gaming G1 series targets gamers, while the SuperOverclock Force (SOC Force) targets overclockers. The mainline Ultra Durable brand still draws some buyers to it, and Gigabyte has them covered with a high-end motherboard that gives them a balanced feature-set. The X99-UD7 is that product.
The X99-UD7 features a PCB that's 90% identical to that of the
X99 Gaming G1 WiFi. The 10% that remains is toward the board's south-west, where the X99-UD7 features a different onboard audio solution across the "fence" (ground-layer isolation). The one on the X99-UD7 features audio-grade electrolytic capacitors, although not the green Nichicon-made ones found on the X99 Gaming G1 WiFi. It also lacks user-replaceable OPAMP. The rest of the feature-set is identical, barring cosmetic differences, like the heatsink color scheme.
Yesterday HP together with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada issued a recall of just over 6 million (6.023.700 to be exact) notebook AC power cords that pose a potential fire and burn hazard. The cord recalled is named LS-15 and it has been sold with HP and Compaq notebooks and accessories from September 2010 to June 2012.
To date HP got 29 reports of the LS-15 cable overheating and melting or charring, causing property damage and minor burns. Customers are advised to stop using the cable and
contact HP for a free replacement.
ASUS will address the socket LGA2011-3 motherboard market with three of its brands, the gamer and overclocker-centric ROG (Republic of Gamers), the durable TUF (The Ultimate Force) brand, and its mainline brand, which features a balanced feature-set between the two. Its flagship motherboard will be the X99-Deluxe. Pictured below, this ATX motherboard is one of the most feature-rich ever built by ASUS. It draws power from 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS power connectors. The CPU is powered by an 8-phase VRM, and the memory by a 4-phase one. The socket is flanked by eight DDR4 DIMM slots. Expansion slots include four PCI-Express 3.0 x16, one PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (electrical x4), and an additional PCI-Express 2.0 x4.
Storage connectivity on the ASUS X99-Deluxe includes twelve SATA 6 Gb/s ports, one SATA-Express 10 Gb/s port, and a "standing" M.2 slot with PCI-Express 2.0 x4 physical layer. There are 14 USB 3.0 ports in all (ten on the rear panel, four by headers). Network connectivity includes two gigabit Ethernet interfaces (both driven by Intel-made controllers), 802.11 ac WLAN, and Bluetooth 4.0. The 8-channel onboard audio, dubbed Crystal Sound 2, features a high SNR DAC, audio-grade electrolytic capacitors, a headphones amp circuit, and ground-layer isolation.
It turns out that the
Fatal1ty X99X Killer isn't the only Fatal1ty-branded X99 motherboard ASRock is planning. There's also its bigger sibling designed for high-end gaming PC builds with four graphics cards, the Fatal1ty X99 Professional. The board is based on the same exact PCB as the
ASRock X99 OC Formula, and has mostly the same feature-set, barring a few differences. To begin with, its VRM limits aren't as high, so it won't deliver up to 1300W of CPU power. The voltage and clock limits overall are lower. The board trades its pro-overclocker credentials for pro-gamer ones. One of its gigabit Ethernet interfaces is a Killer E2200 gaming NIC. The onboard audio is tuned for higher-impedance headphones on all channels (to drive multi-channel headsets). It also features USB 2.0 ports with higher power output, and voltage stabilizer circuitry, so your USB headsets and other gaming peripherals don't run out of power.
Here are the first pictures of ASRock X99 OC Formula, the Nick Shih-designed socket LGA2011-3 motherboard for professional overclockers. Designed for CPU and memory overclocking, apart from running up to four graphics cards in multi-GPU configs, the board can supply a claimed "1300W" of maximum CPU power, using its 12-phase CPU VRM. Memory is care of a 4-phase VRM. The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS, 4-pin ATX, and 4-pin Molex power connectors, to stabilize the various power domains.
The LGA2011-3 socket is wired to eight DDR4 DIMM slots, which can support up to 64 GB of quad-channel DDR4 memory. The board features BIOS options that can let you crank DRAM frequencies over 4000 MHz. Expansion slots include four PCI-Express 3.0 x16 (x16/x8/x16/x8), an mPCIe 2.0 x1 (for WLAN cards), and one PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (physical x4). Storage connectivity includes two M.2 slots, from which one is an "Ultra M.2" slot, which is wired to the CPU, and features physical-layer PCI-Express 3.0 x4; and ten SATA 6 Gb/s ports. The board offers ten USB 3.0 ports (six on the rear panel, four by headers). 8-channel HD audio with audio-grade capacitors and ground-layer isolation; two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, at least one of which is Intel-made, make for the rest of it.
Tuesday, August 26th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Processors
Intel released the Intel Core i7-4790K, which created quite the stir with Intel Core i7-4770K owners. Does the Intel Core i7-4790K outperform the Intel Core i7-4770K in every way or does it fall a little flat? If you already own a 4770K, is the upgrade worth it?
Samsung Electronics, Ltd. announced today that it has started mass producing the industry's first 64 gigabyte (GB), double data rate-4 (DDR4), registered dual Inline memory modules (RDIMMs) that use three dimensional (3D) "through silicon via" (TSV) package technology. The new high-density, high-performance module will play a key role in supporting the continued proliferation of enterprise servers and cloud-based applications, as well as further diversification of data center solutions.
The new RDIMMs include 36 DDR4 DRAM chips, each of which consists of four 4-gigabit (Gb) DDR4 DRAM dies. The low-power chips are manufactured using Samsung's most advanced 20-nanometer (nm) class* process technology and 3D TSV package technology.
ViewSonic Corp., a leading global provider of visual solution products, announces that it has partnered with NaviSite to deliver Desktop as a Service (DaaS) systems for cloud-based virtual desktop environments. NaviSite's DaaS will work together with ViewSonic's VDI-based hardware to seamlessly run virtualized environments, enabling the transition to a cloud infrastructure without encumbering IT operations.
ViewSonic and NaviSite will deliver scalable, flexible off-site, cloud-hosted solutions. ViewSonic's line of award-winning VDI products will be compatible with NaviSite's DaaS for optimum performance, showing off the flexibility and manageability of a cloud-based virtual desktop infrastructure. The NaviSite DaaS solution offers a secure and fully managed cloud-computing foundation, leveraging its NaviCloud platform. It is engineered around usability, scalability and efficiency, allowing businesses to work around current and future technologies and growth.
BRAVEN paints the audio world in vibrant colors with the 705 portable Bluetooth speaker. The ideal mobile speaker for tune lovers wishing to add a pop of color to their everyday music companion, BRAVEN's 705 features an outstanding combination of HD sound, striking design, and colorful personality.
Available in eight lively colors, BRAVEN 705 offers more than just stunning looks. The 705 delivers amazing sound for over 12 hours, has the modern style and vivid colors to fit every occasion, and doubles as a portable battery to charge your smartphone and other USB devices. A true multi-purpose speaker, the 705 is clutch-sized, can fill the room with loud and clear sound, and showcases a unibody design with clean lines and sleek curves.
GammaTech Computer Corp., a major international manufacturer and supplier of innovative notebook, tablet, and PC devices, has added a series of all-in-one computers to its award-winning DURABOOK lineup. Featuring a 24" full high-definition display, the thin-style P24 lineup comes with a powerful 4th generation Intel Haswell Core processor, and special features such as a proximity sensor and an internal UPS battery that provides backup power. Additionally, the lineup includes an optional upgraded model designed specifically for the healthcare industry.
"Designed with features specifically for their industries, the new GammaTech DURABOOK P24 Series of all-in-one computers is an ideal match for applications in the business/enterprise world, hospitality environment, and at nursing stations, on medical carts, and wall or VESA mounted in hospitals, clinics, or doctor offices," commented Jen Chen, GammaTech President. "And, naturally, as GammaTech products, each model is made to perform in demanding situations. They meet Military Standard 810G certifications for vibration, work in temperatures up to 104° F, and are front-panel spill proof."
Blue, a 20-year leading innovator in microphone technology and design, today announces the release of Mo-Fi (
www.mofiheadphones.com), the first headphone that combines a built-in audiophile amplifier and ultra-premium drivers to deliver true high-fidelity performance on every device - from home A/V receivers to laptops, tablets, and phones. Mo-Fi's unprecedented design and build introduces a new level of sound quality, comfort, and personalized fit never before available. Mo-Fi establishes the entirely new category of powered headphones, and completely redefines how listeners experience their music.
"Until now, the only way to get a high-fidelity experience was to use expensive audiophile headphones tethered to a bulky amplifier - not the way most of us want to listen," said John Maier, CEO of Blue. "Mo-Fi changes all that, with a built-in audiophile amplifier that delivers the power and quality of a hi-fi system-inside your headphones. With Mo-Fi, we've brought a high-end listening experience to the mobile world we all live in. In fact, the concept is so simple and elegant, we couldn't believe that it hadn't been done before. So using that concept, we set out to design a headphone that would live up to the innovation Blue is known for."
Today at VMworld 2014, VMware, NVIDIA and Google announced a collaborative effort to deliver high-performance virtual desktops and workstation-class graphics to Google Chromebooks. Showcased as a technology preview, the solution demonstrates the next generation of VMware Blast Performance and NVIDIA GRID vGPU technology to satisfy customers' most demanding visual computing needs. The joint effort is expected to expand the hardware options for high-performance virtual desktops, enabling customers to select their system of choice without compromise.
"We are breaking down traditional barriers to adopting virtual desktops and offering new economics for the delivery of graphics-intensive applications through the power of the cloud," said Sanjay Poonen, executive vice president and general manager, End-User Computing, VMware. "Organizations of all industries and requirements will soon be able to embrace the mobile-cloud using a solution that offers a new way to work from three proven industry leaders."
Digital Storm is excited to unveil the Bolt II Battle Box Titan Z Special Edition - a liquid-cooled small form factor PC designed specifically to meet NVIDIA's GeForce GTX Battle Box military grade gaming standard.
Unlike competitors, who simply upgraded the components in existing systems, Digital Storm redesigned the Bolt II to house the company's new Hardline Cooling System. The team was able to pack custom liquid cooling components including a 240 mm radiator, pump and stunning acrylic tubing that delivers hyper yellow coolant to key components into the Bolt II's ultra-slim chassis.
Seagate Technology plc, a world leader in storage solutions, today announced it is shipping the world's first 8 TB hard disk drive. An important step forward in storage, the 8 TB hard disk drive provides scale-out data infrastructures with supersized-capacity, energy-efficiency and the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) in the industry for cloud content, object storage and back-up disaster recovery storage.
"As our world becomes more mobile, the number of devices we use to create and consume data is driving an explosive growth in unstructured data. This places increased pressure on cloud builders to look for innovative ways to build cost-effective, high capacity storage for both private and cloud-based data centers," said Scott Horn, Seagate vice president of marketing. "Seagate is poised to address this challenge by offering the world's first 8 TB HDD, a ground-breaking new solution for meeting the increased capacities needed to support the demand for high capacity storage in a world bursting with digital creation, consumption and long-term storage."
ZyXEL Communications, a leading provider of secure broadband networking, Internet access, connected home and routing products, today announced its new and first to market gigabit speed powerline adapter, the PLA5206, as well as 1.2 gigabit per second (Gbps) MIMO powerline adapter, the PLA5405. Both adapters bring plug-n-play gigabit connectivity to the demanding, HD media streaming digital homes of today.
Video consumption has skyrocketed in recent years and most content being streamed today is HD quality or higher. Increasing consumer demand for faster downloads and faster broadband services are driving the need for high throughput home networking solutions. ZyXEL's new powerline adapters address this growing demand. The PLA5206 boasts speeds of up to 1 Gbps, while the 1.2 Gbps PLA5405 features Line-Natural / Line-Ground MIMO1 smart-antenna technology, which allows the PLA5405 to send data simultaneously over different wires in the home for faster throughput and extended coverage.
AMD in collaboration with Microsoft today announced the release of C++ AMP version 1.2 -- an open source C++ compiler which implements version 1.2 of the open specification for C++ AMP, available on both Linux and Windows for the first time. The release represents another step forward toward AMD's goal of supporting cross-platform solutions, multiple programming languages and continued contributions to the open source community. The tool, which leverages Clang and LLVM, accelerates productivity and ease of use for developers wishing to harness the full power of modern heterogeneous platforms spanning servers, PCs and handheld devices.
"AMD has a consistent track record of enriching the developer experience, and we're proud to make the first open source implementation of C++ AMP available to enable greater performance and more power-efficient applications," said Manju Hegde, corporate vice president, Heterogeneous Applications and Solutions, AMD. "The cross-platform release is another step in strengthening AMD's developer solutions, allowing for increased productivity and accelerated applications through shared physical memory across the CPU and GPU on both Linux and Windows."
Inter-Tech has now rolled out a new entry-level PC chassis, a midi-tower known as Eterno V6 Paladin. Seen below, this model measures 415 x 185 x 440 mm and has two front-facing USB ports (one USB 3.0, one USB 2.0), three 5.25-inch and five 3.5-inch drive bays, support for ATX and micro ATX motherboards, and 'reserved space' for two fans (80/92/120 mm) on the side panel and for one on the rear panel.
The Eterno V6 Paladin is backed by a two-year warranty and can be found, bundled with a 500 W power supply, priced at
41 Euro.
Tesoro Technology USA Inc., a manufacturer of high-tech gaming products, today announces attendees of PAX Prime 2014, August 29 - September 1, will be able to play the latest PC games with Tesoro's gaming peripherals as well as check out their latest mechanical keyboards at Booth 7405, 6th floor. Check out the Latest PC Gaming Gear with Tesoro. Tesoro will be showcasing their latest PC gaming peripherals at PAX Prime including the Excalibur backlit mechanical keyboard, full RGB edition of the Tizona Mechanical keyboard, and the Kυνέη.pro True 5.1 gaming headset.
SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK), a global leader in flash storage solutions, today announced broad support for VMware Horizon 6 and Virtual SAN with a series of virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and end-user computing (EUC) solutions for Horizon 6, utilizing the award-winning ULLtraDIMM solid state drive (SSD) and Fusion ioMemory.
When coupled with VMware's Horizon 6, ULLtraDIMM and Fusion ioMemory allow customers to deploy high-performance, cost-effective virtual desktop infrastructure solutions and increase virtual desktop density. Additionally, through the combination of solid-state hardware and software technology, SanDisk enables enterprise organizations to select the right deployment option for their environment, providing greater flexibility and reducing barriers to adoption.
Global supercomputer leader Cray Inc. today announced the launch of the Cray CS-Storm -- a high-density accelerator compute system based on the Cray CS300 cluster supercomputer. Featuring up to eight NVIDIA Tesla GPU accelerators and a peak performance of more than 11 teraflops per node, the Cray CS-Storm system is one of the most powerful single-node cluster architectures available today.
Designed to support highly scalable applications in areas such as energy, life sciences, financial services, and geospatial intelligence, the Cray CS-Storm provides exceptional performance, energy efficiency and reliability within a small footprint. The system leverages the supercomputing architecture of the air-cooled Cray CS300 system, and includes the Cray Advanced Cluster Engine cluster management software, the complete Cray Programming Environment on CS, and NVIDIA Tesla K40 GPU accelerators. The Cray CS-Storm system includes Intel Xeon E5 2600 v2 processors.
The latest launched Apacer AH333 "Perfect Partner" flash drive employs a pebble-like rounded contour which creates perfectly firm and comfortable hold. A unique sense of design is shown in the two colors available: chic ivory white and mysterious black, with an arc stripe in ruby red. In addition to its compact size for portability, its maximum capacity can reach up to 64 GB, realizing portable bulk storage. Round and firm, stylish and gracious and embodying a sense of generosity, AH333 certainly is the most perfect digital partner!
Perfect Hand-feel Obtained from Roundness and Firmness
AH333 "Perfect Partner" flash drive features comfortable touch for its unique rounded appearance and pebble-like contour, drawing people to play around. In addition, its compact size makes itself as portable as a truthful digital partner. The stylish simple body, either in ivory white or mysterious black, is capped with a unique arc stripe in ruby red, radiating elegance in its low profile!
Intel will price its next-generation Core i7 "Haswell-E" HEDT processors along expected lines. The lineup will begin with the Core i7-5820K, priced at US $389 - just $50 more than a Core i7-4790K. There are some major trade-offs you need to consider when choosing between the two. The i7-5820K is a six-core chip, but its motherboard and newer, costlier DDR4 memory, will jack up your overall platform costs. The i7-4790K lets you buy a motherboard as cheap as $120, and memory that's as cheap as it gets. It's now confirmed that the i7-5820K features 6 cores, 12 threads enabled by HyperThreading, a quad-channel DDR4 memory interface, and 15 MB of L3 cache, but a narrower 28-lane PCI-Express 3.0 root complex. The chip features TurboBoost frequency of 3.60 GHz.
To use the platform to its fullest, you'd need to part with at least US $583 for a processor. That's what will get you the Core i7-5930K. Also a six-core chip, the i7-5930K features a wider 40-lane PCI-Express 3.0 root complex, letting you set up 3-way and 4-way high-end multi-GPU setups with sufficient bus width for each of the cards running in tandem. The chip features 6 cores, 12 threads, a quad-channel DDR4 IMC, 15 MB of L3 cache, and TurboBoost frequencies of up to 3.70 GHz. Leading the pack is the Core i7-5960X, Intel's first eight-core high-end client CPU. It's priced at a wallet-scorching $999. For close to a grand, you get 8 cores, 16 threads enabled with HyperThreading, a massive 20 MB of L3 cache, a quad-channel DDR4 IMC, and 40 PCI-Express 3.0 lanes. To keep the eight cores within Intel's desired 140W thermal envelope, the company had to go easy on the clocks. It offers TurboBoost frequencies of up to 3.50 GHz. All three chips feature unlocked base-clock multipliers.
PNY Technologies ("PNY) considered one of the worldwide leaders in consumer electronics market and Flash products, has officially released two new USB flash drives-x720w and x750w. Both drives have super-fast USB 3.0 transmission speed, which means you can transfer your files 10x times faster than traditional USB 2.0 flash drives. These stylish, durable and portable flash drives make the perfect accessories that compliment your personal taste.
The HP x720w is the upgraded edition of hugely popular v220w USB drives. Smooth and durable metallic casing makes it resilient to dust, scratches and is completely shock proof. Weighing at a mere 4.5 g, and with dimensions measuring at H 4.5mm x W 12.2mm x L 34.6mm, it can easily slip into your pocket or wallet. The new HP x720w does away with the added worries of misplacing a cap with its convenient capless design. The moon-shaped opening at the end of the drive can be attached to lanyards, backpacks, and laptop bags. It is available in storage capacity ranging from 16GB to 64GB. Easy plug and play and USB 3.0 transmission speed ensures lighntning speed transfer of media files in minutes.
Monday, August 25th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Speakers
ASUS marked their entry into the high-end sound card market with the Xonar Essence ST some years ago. Today, we will take a good look at the new STX II. The STX II brings new op-amps and a more precise clock generator to the table; the latter should lower jitter. The STX II also bolsters 7.1 outputs through a small break-out card.
One week ago, Enermax has launched the Mighty Charger series with two card readers for 3.5" and 5.25" bays. They have been the first models of a new line of data management solutions from Enermax. Even if cloud computing has been a major trend to handle the huge amount of data, many people prefer to keep physical drives for security reasons.
The average user owns two and more data storage devices. Smart solutions are necessary to manage and link them. Many PC systems and chassis are not designed to accommodate numerous hard disk or solid state drives. But you can easily expand the capability of your system by integrating mobile racks. Enermax now introduces the EMR series, a complete line of 11 mobile racks for different mounting slots (3.5", 5.25" & PCI slots) and disk formats (2.5" & 3.5" HDDs/SSDs).
Razer, the world leader in entertainment devices and software, today announced a new platform to its suite of software products: Razer Cortex, a free software gaming application from which players can discover new game titles at the lowest prices, launch their games while boosting computer performance, back up save games and record in-game footage.
Razer Cortex features include:
- Razer Cortex: Deals - Pay less for more of your favorite games with Razer's unique downloadable game price comparison engine. Game Booster - Enhance your PC's gaming performance with the popular boosting utilities from Razer Game Booster incorporated into Razer Cortex.
- Save Game Manager - Automatically back up save games to the cloud and never lose a save game again.
- Screen Capture Gallery - Immortalize your gaming moments with the touch of a hotkey.
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of NAND Flash storage solutions, promotes its USB 3.0 DataGuardian to inform users on data security.
The USB 3.0 DataGuardian is a sleek Super Talent drive that comes with a built in proprietary password protection program. This drive also prevents any auto-run files from executing and potentially causing harm to a host machine.
Jon Peddie Research (JPR), the industry's research and consulting firm for graphics and multimedia, announced estimated graphics add-in-board (AIB) shipments and suppliers' market share for 2014 2Q.
The quarter in general
JPR found that AIB shipments during Q2 2014 behaved according to past years with regard to seasonality, but the decrease was more than the 10-year average. The news was disappointing, quarter-to-quarter, the market dropped 17.5 % (compared to the desktop PC market, which increased 1.3%).
- Total AIB shipments decreased this quarter to 11.5 million units from last quarter.
- AMD's quarter-to-quarter total desktop AIB unit shipments decreased 10.7%.
- Nvidia's quarter-to-quarter unit shipments decreased 21%.
- Nvidia continues to hold a dominant market share position at 62%.
- Figures for the other suppliers were flat to declining.
Skullcandy, Inc., the original lifestyle and performance audio brand, and its division ASTRO Gaming, creators of premium video gaming equipment, announced the release of the Limited Edition Plants vs. Zombies Skullcandy Ink'd 2 Earbuds. The new in-ear headset is the first in a series of products being developed by Skullcandy and ASTRO Gaming which are inspired by PopCap Games iconic Plants vs. Zombies franchise.
"One look at our new Limited Edition Plants vs. Zombies Skullcandy Ink'd 2 Earbuds and gamers will see how perfectly we've captured the addictive fun and distinctive style of Plants vs. Zombies" said Aron Drayer, VP of Marketing, ASTRO Gaming and Skullcandy Gaming. "Our in-ear headsets deliver high quality game audio and are a great way to experience the game, listen to music, watch videos and communicate with your friends."
JEDEC Solid State Technology Association, the global leader in standards development for the microelectronics industry, today announced the publication of JESD209-4 Low Power Double Data Rate 4 (LPDDR4). Designed to significantly boost memory speed and efficiency for mobile computing devices such as smartphones, tablets, and ultra-thin notebooks, LPDDR4 will eventually operate at an I/O rate of 4266 MT/s, twice that of LPDDR3.
The new interface promises to have an enormous impact on the performance and capabilities of next-generation portable electronics. "LPDDR4 represents a dramatic performance increase," said Mian Quddus, Chairman, JEDEC Board of Directors. "It is intended to meet the power, bandwidth, packaging, cost and compatibility requirements of the world's most advanced mobile systems." Developed by JEDEC's JC-42.6 Subcommittee for Low Power Memories, the JESD209-4 LPDDR4 standard can be downloaded from the JEDEC website for free by clicking
here.
Huntkey Enterprise Group, a global professional power supply provider, has recently announced a new addition to its X7 Series. The X7 1000 power supply features 80 PLUS Bronze efficiency, fully modular cables, Japanese electrolytic capacitors and synchronous rectification DC/DC converter protection.
It is well known that X7 Series PSUs are famous for its 4E: Efficiency, Enhanced performance, Effectiveness and Environmental Friendliness, which are demonstrated mainly on its high-end products, including 900 W and 1200 W. Huntkey X7 Series PSUs captured quite a few prizes at home and abroad since its first product launch in 2009.
Japanese cooling-expert Scythe announces the third version of its Kama Thermo thermometer, featuring two individual temperature channel. Unlike its predecessors, new Kama Thermo 3 comes in a solid aluminum chassis, which benefits the sturdiness and lifetime.
The Kama Thermo 3 comes with a built-in screen, which displays the temperature values of two individual temperature sensors both in degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the application, users are able to connect one or two temperature sensors on the rear side of the thermometer. Scythe offers an alternative power source, by adding a USB connector to the rear side of Kama Thermo 3. The alternative power source activates the blue screen illumination in addition. The backlight is deactivated when used with the integrated Button-Cell Battery, in order to allow a long-term stand-alone operation of the thermometer.
Here are some of the first high-resolution pictures of the Radeon R9 285 TurboDuo graphics card by PowerColor. The card features a meaty custom-design cooling solution, with two twin-impeller fans, and a dense aluminium fin-stack heatsink. PowerColor didn't bother with a reference-clock variant of this card. It comes factory-overclocked, at 945 MHz core (918 MHz reference), and 5.50 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. It features 2 GB of it.
Based on the 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, the Radeon R9 285 features 1,792 Graphics CoreNext 1.1 stream processors, 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface. The card draws power from two 6-pin PCIe power connectors. Display outputs include two dual-link DVI, and one each of HDMI and DisplayPort. With a modern XDMA CrossFire interface, the card lacks CrossFire fingers. It remains to be seen just how many cards the driver allows you to run in tandem. The Radeon R9 285 from AMD will launch on the 2nd of September, 2014. Prices start at US $249.
MX Technology rolled out the MX-ES Ultra line of USB 3.0 flash drives, with a design focus on performance. Available in capacities of 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB, the drives feature SLC NAND flash memory, backed by 5-year product warranties. The 16 GB variant offers up to 185 MB/s reads with up to 170 MB/s writes; the 32 GB variant offers up to 200 MB/s reads and 200 MB/s writes; while the 64 GB variant leads the pack, with its 210 MB/s read/write speeds. Measuring 69.0 mm x 17.0 mm x 8.0 mm (LxWxH), the drives weigh between 32 g and 39 g; and are built in the traditional two-piece capped design.
SilentiumPC has now introduced a new Brutus Series PC chassis, a micro ATX-supporting model (just like the
S20 seen last week) known as the Brutus S30 Pure Black. This one measures 365 x 380 x 186 mm and has two front-facing USB ports (one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0), a SDXC/microSD card reader, one 5.25-inch, one 3.5-inch, one 2.5-inch and two 3.5/2.5-inch drive bays, one pre-installed 80 mm fan on the rear panel, and support for a second fan (120 mm) on the front panel.
The Brutus S30 Pure Black can house graphics cards up to 305 mm long, it has a two-year warranty and costs
99 PLN ($31 / 24 Euro).
Silicon Power, the world's leading provider of memory storage solutions, today unveils the new-designed 3.5-inch USB 3.0 external hard drive - Stream S06. Taking all aspects into consideration without compromising anything useful, Stream S06 is perfectly engineered to the most powerful specifications with USB 3.0 interface, incredibly high capacity up to 4 TB and elegant look.
The exclusive handle design is the wonderful combination of beauty and functionality, which presents the extraordinary taste of modern design and in the meantime promises easier-than-ever user experiences for daily using and carrying. Incorporating superior capability and splendid appearance, Stream S06 is not just an addition to your storage solution but definitely a must-have for your storage system.
Lian-Li Industrial Co. Ltd today announces a new brushed aluminum Mini-ITX chassis designed for HTPC and office use - PC-Q19. An update of the slim profile PC-Q12, the PC-Q19 adds VGA support thanks to the included riser card as well as additional storage support.
The 22L PC-Q19 has a slim profile of 160mm (6.2"), and supports the essential hardware for those looking for a sleek build for the home or office. This aluminum chassis can support up to three 2.5" drives and 1 3.5" drive. A VGA card up to 12.81 cm can sit in the middle of the chassis thanks to the included riser card and adds graphics power to the build. The PC-Q19 supports SFX power supplies, and extension cables may be needed for some PSU models.
The storage business is one of Toshiba's strategic focus businesses, alongside energy and healthcare. Our data storage products, such as HDD and SSD, are the key components of the storage business, along with NAND Flash, and we will make our business more competitive and larger by supporting cloud and social network service businesses that are expected to see rapid expansion.
HDD responsible for storing large amount of data and SSD responsible for high speed processing are seen as co-existing, complementing each other's characteristics. While offering a wide line-up of storage products, our main focus will be the enterprise market and the following products and targets.
- Near line HDD: Expand market share by increasing the capacity.
- Enterprise SSD: Gain market share by utilizing advantages of in-house NAND flash memory and expanding line-up for high speed processing storage at data centers.
Sapphire launched its first performance-segment "compact" graphics card to take on the likes of GeForce GTX 760 ITX cards by ASUS and MSI, even if
it isn't the first AMD AIB partner to do so. Sapphire's card is based on AMD's swanky new Radeon R9 285 graphics chip, which is slated for September 2nd, 2014. Called the R9 285 ITX Compact Edition, the card is a little over 17 cm long, 11 cm tall, and 2-slot thick. It features a dense aluminium fin-stack heatsink, which is ventilated by a single 100 mm fan. The card draws power from two 6-pin PCIe connectors. A single 8-pin to two 6-pin adapter is included. Display outputs include two mini-DisplayPort 1.2, one HDMI 1.4a, and a dual-link DVI, which has analog (VGA) pins, and an adapter for that is included.
This is also likely the first/only R9 285 card to feature dual-BIOS, with a push-type BIOS toggle switch. This switch lets you select between a UEFI-ready BIOS that features a UEFI GOP driver, and a "legacy" BIOS. Both run the card at the same clock speeds - 918 MHz core, with 5.50 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. Sapphire is also readying an OC Edition variant of this card, which comes with a puny 10 MHz overclock (928 MHz core), and untouched memory clocks. Based on the 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, the R9 285 offers 1,792 GCN 1.1 stream processors, 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide memory interface, which holds 2 GB of memory on this card.
HighPoint Technologies RocketStor SATA Adapters deliver twice the performance and four-times the storage capability compared to other eSATA Hubs in today's marketplace. The RocketStor 6328L and 6324L are the simplest and fastest way to upgrade existing SATA storage for use with Thunderbolt 2 platforms, and deliver significant performance and capacity advantages over Thunderbolt hubs, which offer only half the speed one-fourth of the storage capability. These affordable, high-performance storage adapters provide 20Gb/s of uncompromised transfer bandwidth and are capable of supporting up to eight SATA hard drives or SSD's via eSATA and Mini-SAS connectivity.
Here are some of the first detailed shots of ASUS' premium custom-design Radeon R9 285 Strix graphics card, based on AMD's upcoming GPU. The card features a unique cooling solution that keeps its fans off until the GPU reaches a temperature threshold. The cooler's underlying heatsink is essentially DirectCU II, featuring a dense aluminium fin stack to which heat drawn directly from the GPU die is fed by a number of nickel-plated copper heat pipes. This particular card features a factory-overclock, and 2 GB of memory. Oh, and it comes with a back-plate. Based on the 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, the R9 285 features 1,792 Graphics CoreNext 1.1 stream processors, 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface. The card is set to launch on 2nd September, 2014. It will start at US $249.
Sunday, August 24th 2014
Inter-Tech has this week released a new midi-tower PC chassis, the Starter 4. This model measures 415 x 185 x 440 mm and has two front-placed USB ports (one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0), four 5.25-inch and five 3.5-inch drive bays, and support for up to two 120, 92 or 80 mm fans on the side panel and for one 120/92/80 mm fan on the rear panel.
The Starter 4 is backed by a two-year warranty and can be found, bundled with a 500 W power supply, priced at
36.99 Euro.
Saturday, August 23rd 2014
Today's Reviews
AMD today announced a new technology partnership with Creative Assembly, developer behind the highly-anticipated "Alien: Isolation." Developed in conjunction with the AMD Gaming Evolved program, "Alien: Isolation" is fully optimized for a premium PC gaming experience, including native support for: AMD Eyefinity technology, 4K UltraHD, AMD CrossFire multi-GPU technology, and a wide range of DirectX 11 effects tuned for the Graphics Core Next architecture in recent AMD Radeon GPUs and AMD Accelerated Processing Units.
"The AMD Gaming Evolved program is committed to making games look great and run well for all PC gamers," said Ritche Corpus, director of ISV Gaming and Alliances, AMD. "By working with truly talented developers like Creative Assembly, we deliver on that commitment with fun and beautiful games like 'Alien: Isolation,' which give PC gamers the high-end technology they deserve."
AMD put out its own 3DMark FireStrike performance numbers for its soon-to-launch Radeon R9 285 performance-segment graphics card. Running on a test-bed powered by a Core i7-4960X six-core processor and 16 GB of DDR3-1866 memory, the R9 285 scored P7066 (performance preset) and X3513 (extreme preset); compared to an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 760 (337.88 WHQL driver) scoring P5650 and X2774, on the same test-bed. For a card that's in the same price-range (the R9 285 will start at $249) as the GTX 760 (currently going for as low as $239), that's an impressive performance uplift. The R9 285 will start selling on the 2nd of September, 2014.
AMD is planning to launch its next performance-segment CPUs alongside its Radeon R9 285 graphics card; the FX-8370 and its energy-efficient variant, the FX-8370E. Based on the 32 nm "Vishera" silicon, the FX-8370 is an eight-core socket AM3+ processor, featuring out of the box clock speeds of 4.10 GHz, with TurboCore frequencies of 4.30 GHz. The standard variant features 125W TDP, while the FX-8370E features 95W. The two will sell at the same price-points as the FX-8350. The FX-8370E will sell at a slight premium.
AMD announced the latest round of free games with its upcoming graphics cards, the Never Settle: Space Edition. The bundle adds several new space-themed games to the 27 free games you can choose, as a reward for going AMD Radeon. These games include Star Citizen, Alien: Isolation, Space Run, and Habitat. Buyers of all AMD graphics cards with unused Never Settle coupons can choose from these four titles.
It's confirmed the GeForce GTX 760 really is on AMD's crosshair's with the Radeon R9 285. Based on the 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, which is designed to offer "Tahiti" like performance at the energy-efficiency levels comparable to NVIDIA's GK104, the R9 285 features 1,792 Graphics CoreNext stream processors, 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface, holding 2 GB or 4 GB of memory. The card will feature clock speeds of 918 MHz core, 5.50 GHz memory. AMD claims the R9 285 will be up to 15 percent faster than the GeForce GTX 760. It will start at US $249, with partners coming out with custom-designs on day-one (September 2nd, 2014).
AMD production manager Devon Nekechuk, speaking at the company's 30 Years of Graphics event, disclosed that all AMD GPUs based on the Graphics CoreNext architecture will support DirectX 12, Microsoft's next generation multimedia API. The company is already up-to-date on the DirectX feature-level support, with support for DirectX 11.2. The company isn't drumming that up too loud, probably because it's developing an ecosystem for its own/competing AMD Mantle 3D API.
AMD disclosed the first details of its upcoming Radeon R9 285 graphics card, designed to compete with NVIDIA's GeForce GTX 760. Based on the 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, the card features 1,792 of the chip's 2,048 Graphics Core Next 1.1 stream processors, 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface. AMD AIBs will have variants with 2 GB and 4 GB of memory. The company didn't disclose clock speeds, but the card will be designed to offer performance rivaling (or outperforming) the R9 280, at energy-efficiency levels rivaling NVIDIA's GK104 silicon. Below are some of the first custom-design graphics cards.
Friday, August 22nd 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
CPU Coolers
When it comes to all-in-one liquid CPU coolers, the Reserator 3 Max Dual sets itself apart. If you want unique looks, solid performance, and have a love for blue LEDs, Zalman has you covered. There is nothing quite like the Reserator 3 Max Dual with its unique radiator design.
G.SKILL International Co., Ltd., the leading high performance memory designer and manufacturer, reveals the long awaited next generation Ripjaws 4 series DDR4 memory kits! Featuring all new redesigned heatspreaders in three different colors, high performance frequencies, high capacity, DDR4 quad-channel ready, and ultra low voltages, the Ripjaws 4 series is all the benefits of DDR4 rolled into one sleek package.
With a standard of 2133MHz, DDR4 is the next generation definition of performance. Also available in 2400MHz, 2666MHz, 2800MHz, 3000MHz, and 3200MHz, the starting lineup is continuing where DDR3 left off. With capacities starting at 16GB (4GBx4), 32GB (8GBx4 / 4GBx8) and 64GB (8GBx8), your new X99 platform will have more memory space to do what you need it to do. That's not all! Ripjaws 4 also has an ultra low voltage rating of 1.2V for kits under 2800MHz and 1.35V for 3000/3200MHz.
X2 proudly introduces the Genza gaming mouse, the newest product in the X2 product gamma, part number: X2-M3003-USB High performance mice are required for precision and a full-scale experience of computing and gaming. The X2 Genza series are PC mice with stealth looks and they contain a very clever and powerful interface which covers every aspect. Button placement is very well thought out and developed to the fullest care for detail.
Naturally the Genza is only built using the best components, such as the optical Avago chip 3500DPI 20G infrared sensor that accurately translates the slightest movement into action. Seven independently programmable function keys give you the advantage. Connectivity is made simple through USB2.0/3.0. The scroll-wheel is made of solid aluminum and lasts literally forever, rotating on Nano-tech bearing which is a proprietary technology, long lifespan guaranteed and backed by our solid 2 year warranty and service program offered to you by X2 - All geared up!
Today ASRock decided to show off yet another (last week it revealed the
X99X Killer,
X99M Killer and
X99 WS) motherboard based on the Intel X99 chipset, the X99 Extreme6. This board, like the X99 WS, has a black and blue color theme and it features support for Haswell-E processors, eight DDR4 memory slots (for up to 128 GB of RAM), ten SATA 6.0 Gbps ports and one Ultra (PCIe 3.0 x4) M.2 connector, plus three PCI-Express x16 slots allowing SLI or CrossFire multi-GPU setups.
ASRock's creation also has 7.1 channel Purity Sound 2 audio, dual Gigabit Ethernet (includes one Intel NIC), two USB 2.0 and six USB 3.0 ports on the back panel plus another connector on the PCB near the DDR4 slots, one eSATA connector, and a debug LED. The X99 Extreme6 is expected to be officially launched next week.
Thursday, August 21st 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Cases
The In Win 901 is a smaller version of the 904, intended for use with a Mini-ITX board instead. Even so, it still offers enough space for an optical drive and a long GPU. Will the smaller brother impress us as much as the 904?
AMD is preparing to expand its performance-segment socket AM3+ processor lineup, steering clear of the 220W TDP of its FX-9000 series. The two chips are the FX-8370, and the FX-8370E. The FX-8370 will likely replace the FX-8350 around the $180 mark; while the FX-8370E will be its energy-efficient variant. Both chips offer clock speeds of 4.10 GHz, with 4.30 GHz TurboCore frequencies. While the FX-8370 has a rated TDP of 125W, the FX-8370E features 95W, without a reduction in clock speeds. The FX-8370E could hence come at a slight premium.
Both the FX-8370 and FX-8370E are eight-core processors based on the 32 nm "Vishera" silicon, featuring four "Piledriver" CPU modules that have 2 MB of L2 cache each, and 8 MB of L3 cache shared between the four modules. The chips feature dual-channel DDR3 integrated memory controllers, with native support for DDR3-1866 MHz, and 5.2 GT/s HyperTransport 3.1 system bus. Instruction-sets include AVX, AES, SSE4.2, FMA3, and XOP. The chips will run on all existing socket AM3+ motherboards, with some needing BIOS updates.
The Satechi BT Wireless Smart Keyboard is the ideal solution for any Mac or PC user in need of an organized, tangle-free workspace. The sleek and extremely thin (0.7" thick) keyboard works via Bluetooth, meaning users have an extra USB port for other devices and can conveniently use the keyboard from up to 33 feet away.
The BT Wireless Smart Keyboard delivers a comfortable typing experience and features whisper-quite keys, reducing distractions and creating a more efficient workspace. The lightweight design of the keyboard also gives users the freedom to take it with them on the go to use with any mobile device.
AMD is set to launch its new performance-segment graphics card, the Radeon R9 285, on the 2nd September, 2014. Ahead of its launch, the company is expected to tease the card at its August 23rd press-event,
celebrating 30 years of graphics and gaming. On that day, AMD will share "partial" details of the card.
The R9 285 is based on AMD's swanky new 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, which is being drummed up to be AMD's best answer to NVIDIA's GK104. The chip offers performance rivaling "Tahiti," at the power consumption of GK104. The R9 285 is being designed to offer performance roughly that of the Radeon R9 280, at energy-efficiency, and pricing to drop lead on NVIDIA's GeForce GTX 760. A month later, presumably in early October, the company plans to launch the faster R9 285X, offering performance comparable (if not higher than) the R9 280X, at the energy-efficiency levels of GTX 770. "Tonga" physically features 2,048 Graphics CoreNext 1.1 stream processors, 128 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface, which will hold 2 GB or 4 GB of memory.
CyberPower Inc., a global manufacturer of custom gaming PCs, gaming laptops, and performance workstations, today unleashed its all-new Raven X6 - a powerful and stylish gaming notebook featuring NVIDIA GeForce GTX 860M graphics cards and the 4th Generation Intel Core i7-4710HQ mobile processor. By leveraging the latest processor technology from Intel and NVIDIA, the Raven X6 sips very little power from the socket until you need it. That's when NVIDIA Optimus Technology, and Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 Technology kick in to send your computer into overdrive to power through games and applications that require more performance.
Raven X6's gaming merit is shown on the brilliant 15.6-inch Full HD (1080p) IPS panel display, featuring accurate color reproduction and crisp image quality. Incredibly detailed, high-resolution frames are pushed to the display by the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 860M graphics card with 4GB of GDDR5 memory. The GTX 860M uses all of the great NVIDIA technologies, like TFXAA, Adaptive VSync, and PhysX to tear through the latest demanding games. Even on the road, NVIDIA Battery Boost technology will kick your GTX 860M into a reduced power mode, so you can still get your game on without instantly draining your battery.
ID-COOLING releases the second Mini Case T60-SFX in the Mini-ITX Series. As an old manufacturer of cooling products, ID-COOLING developed V.C.V.P. technology for CPU Coolers. Silencer-ITX is their first compact case in the form of passive solution for silence lovers.
The new Mini Case T60-SFX is also featuring compact design. Although small, this case is able to accommodate one SFX power supply, Mini-ITX motherboard, tower CPU cooler height less than 124mm, and dual-slot VGA card up to 260mm. As to hard disk, you can mount one 3.5" HDD and two 2.5" HDD/SSD at most. There's one 92mm fan included on the rear as a pull-out fan.
X2 proudly introduces the Mirage gaming keyboard, the newest product in the X2 product gamma, part number: X2-K4002-USB Featuring a minimalistic design, great performance and top quality, this gaming keyboard has the feeling of a mechanical keyboard at half the price! Just the same as with a mechanical keyboard, the keys are removable and interchangeable. The keyboard's keys are also fitted with a changeable 3 color backlight. Change the color by pressing the FN & TAB key. Change the breathing speed and brightness by pressing the FN & ESC key. Do you love gaming and getting results? Then this keyboard is absolutely the best option.
Velocity Micro, the premier builder of award winning enthusiast desktops, laptops, gaming PC s and peripherals announces the launch of the MX3 chassis, a custom designed mATX case that combines a compact design and modern aesthetics with the capacity for extreme power and record-breaking performance. Able to handle two extreme graphics cards like the NVIDIA GTX 780 Ti, a 240 mm liquid CPU radiator, and up to six hard drives, the MX3 is now the most power-capable and upgradable mATX chassis available in the custom PC industry. Configurations start at $1,099.
"This latest chassis is the culmination of nearly six months of research, design, and development," said Randy Copeland, President and CEO of Velocity Micro. "We believe its unique combination of design, power capabilities, and outstanding thermals will make it extremely popular with our enthusiast audience. It's a significant leap forward both for us and for the industry."
Shuttle Computer Handels GmbH, the European subsidiary of Shuttle Inc., one of the leading developers and manufacturers of compact PC solutions such as the world-renowned XPC Mini-PC Barebones, now introduces robust, ARM-based Android PCs.
The DSA2LS is equipped with a Freescale i.MX 6DualLite (i.MX6DL) 1 GHz dual-core processor and 1 GB of DDR3 memory. It comes with 4 GB Flash memory already fitted for apps, media and operating system which can be expanded up to 64 GB with a theft-protected SDHC card reader. Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean) is pre-installed and prepared for new versions with an integrated update function (online or offline).
QNAP Systems, Inc. today announced the release of the new tower-based Turbo NAS TS-x53 Pro series (available in 2, 4, 6, 8-bay) and the 2.5"-drive SS-x53 Pro series (4 and 8-bay) that provide a powerful and reliable solution for data storage and mission-critical business applications for small and medium businesses. Coupled with exclusive QvPC Technology, these new series can serve as cost-effective PC substitutes that enable direct access to stored data, real-time surveillance monitoring with local display, XBMC digital entertainment, and more.
The TS/SS-x53 Pro series is powered by a quad-core Intel Celeron 2.0GHz processor with burst speed up to 2.41GHz and 8GB/4GB/2GB energy-efficient DDR3L RAM (expandable to 8GB), supports 2 or 4 LAN ports that provide up to 400MB/s read & write speeds in port trunking mode, and achieves 70+MB/s read & write AES-256bit encryption performance. "The new models deliver high performance that maintains smooth system operations even during intensive data access," said Jason Hsu, product manager of QNAP. "The high-quality hardware also provides the power for users to operate multiple virtual machines using QNAP Virtualization Station, transcode Full HD videos in real-time or offline, and enhance their business productivity with SMB features built-in," added Hsu.
Small PC, of Clearwater Florida, has introduced its new Bluetooth PC Keyboard. Its rugged construction and wireless operation makes the keyboard ideal for use in applications and environments that included the factory floor, hospital, medical, marine and specialized vehicles. Although the SK310 keyboard is completely sealed and IP68 waterproof, the specialized glove-fit rigid silicon construction gives the keyboard a comfortable desktop feel. All 105 keys provide "soft-click" touch with excellent tactile feedback. As well as being "designed tough," the SK301 is anti-microbial and washable.
Other features include an integrated two button Touch-Pad Mouse, quick select media keys and a snap in holder for the mini Bluetooth dongle. Two AAA batteries are accessible through a waterproof compartment on the bottom side of the keyboard.
ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, announced today that the warranty period for all ASUSTOR NAS products has been extended to three years from the previous two year warranty. It is ASUSTOR's mission to continue to provide its customers with products of the highest quality along with the most reliable and attentive after-sales service possible.
"Providing first-class service to our customers has always been a top priority for us here at ASUSTOR, "said Allen Yen, Sales Director at ASUSTOR. "We are extremely elated to announce that we have extended the warranty period for all our products. We would like to thank our loyal customers from their continued support and hope that this will inspire even greater confidence in ASUSTOR products."
SilentiumPC has this week revealed a new addition to its Brutus line of PC cases, the Brutus S20 Pure Black. Pictured below, the chassis measures 360 (H) x 377 (L) x 186 (W) mm and features support for micro ATX motherboards, one side-placed USB 3.0 port and two front-facing USB 2.0 connectors, one 5.25-inch, one 3.5-inch and two 2.5-inch drive bays, and one 80 mm fan found on the rear panel.
The Brutus S20 is backed by a two-year warranty and is currently available for pre-order priced at
99 PLN or about $31 / 24 Euro.
Tesoro Technology USA Inc., a manufacturer of high-tech gaming products, today announces that the Tesoro Excalibur LED backlit mechanical keyboard is now available in North America. Named after the legendary sword of King Arthur, the Excalibur offers gamers the power of switchable N-Key Rollover(NKRO) for full- anti-ghosting functionality or USB 6 N-Key Rollover. Depending on the requirements, , users can press any and all keys at the same time without worrying that some key may not be registered. A fast 1000Hz polling rate helps makes sure no keystroke is missed, and with instant game mode switching, users don't have to worry about accidental key presses taking them away from the action.
With 512kB of onboard memory, the Excalibur allows gamers to instantly record sophisticated macros without need of external software. A user-friendly GUI allows for advanced macro settings. Personalized settings are stored in the built-in-memory allowing the keyboard to be fully synchronized for better performance and even during tournaments, where it is prohibited to install external software. Additionally, every single key is fully programmable, allowing for 5 sets of profiles, 300 macro keys and 2000 macro key presses per profile.
Building on the success of its award-winning and best-selling Acer C7 Series Chromebook, Acer America today announced its new Acer Chromebox CXI line for customers in North America. The CXI series is ideal for education, small to medium businesses and budget-conscious users who don't require a mobile platform and who are either invested in or want to leverage the affordability and security of the Google Chrome ecosystem.
Like the C7 Chromebook series, the Acer Chromebox CXI is fast. The CXI boots up in about 8 seconds and resumes nearly instantly from sleep mode thanks to the 16 GB Solid State Drive. Housed in a compact .6 liter (6.51 x 5.12 x 1.3-inches) chassis that stands upright and is VESA mountable, the Acer Chromebox CXI maximizes space, a key consideration for libraries, cube and classroom environments as well as small and medium businesses for task-based user terminals. Two Acer Chromebox models will be available late next month - the CXI-2GKM with 2 GB memory for a manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) of $179.99 U.S./$199 CAD and the CXI-4GKM with 4 GB memory for a MSRP of $219.99 U.S./$239 CAD.
The BitFenix Design Lab has always been listening intently to the feedback from the community, and nowhere has this been more evident than the release of the Prodigy M chassis. The micro ATX variant of the Prodigy, Prodigy M is the result of direct feedback from users who wanted the same styling and sophistication of Prodigy, but desired the capability of installing micro ATX motherboards. Today, BitFenix is announcing not one, but two releases inspired by community feedback: Prodigy M Color and Prodigy M Window Side Panels
It turns out that our
older report suggesting that the most affordable of Intel's new Core i7 "Haswell-E" HEDT processors will feature a slimmer PCI-Express root complex, even if it gives you 6 cores at a [hopefully] sub-$400 price-point, holds true, after all. Intel's wacky approach to its latest HEDT processor lineup was confirmed by leaked manuals of Gigabyte's socket LGA2011-3 motherboards, based on the Intel X99 Express chipset. The manual confirms that while Intel's $500-$750 Core i7-5930K and >$1,000 Core i7-4960X offer bigger 40-lane PCI-Express Gen 3.0 root complexes; the Core i7-5820K features a narrower 28-lane one. This means that multi-GPU configurations on systems running the chip won't be too different from those on LGA1150 "Haswell" platforms.
On motherboards with, say, three PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots, the i7-5930K and i7-5960X will let you run two slots at full x16 bandwidth, and a third slot at x8. On systems with the i7-5820K, the second slot won't go beyond x8, and the third one will cap out at x4. On boards with four slots, one of them will run out of bandwidth. The trade-off for this narrower PCI-Express interface is the fact that you're getting six "Haswell" cores, twelve logical CPUs enabled with HyperThreading, about 12 MB of L3 cache, and a quad-channel DDR4 memory interface, at a price-point not too far off from the Core i7-4790K. So for enthusiasts with no more than two high-end graphics cards, the i7-5820K could provide an attractive gateway option to Intel's new HEDT platform. You can find the leaked manuals in
this thread.
Innodisk, the service-driven flash provider, announces a new series of high performance industrial SSDs. Available in standard 2.5" SATA III as well as SATA Slim formats, the 3MG2-P series uses a custom new ID201 controller, synchronous NAND flash and 19 nm manufacturing process to produce high sequential speeds and random IOPS, while preserving industrial level reliability, power protection, and ruggedness.
High Performance
Industrial no longer means slow. Innodisks' 3MG2-P SSDs use a new generation of flash technology to combine reliable and rugged design with superior performance. The use of select synchronous NAND flash, with a custom ID201 flash controller and on-board- DRAM mean the 3MG2-P series achieves 530/460 Sequential Read/Write speeds and 80/76K random IOPS performance. The use of a smaller 19 nm process not only helps performance but also allows the 3MG2-P to be offered in a 1 TB capacity.
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash application products, today launches the ISMS312, a high-performance industrial SATA III 6 Gbps 7-pin Disk-On-Module (DOM), which is suitable for embedded storage systems, industrial computers, medical and network infrastructure devices by providing the best balance between performance and cost. It also features the industrial grade S.M.A.R.T. and capability of customization for industrial application.
A+ SLC Solution for Various Upgrade Demands
The ADATA ISMS312 SATA III 6 Gbps 7pin DOM is a high-speed MLC NAND flash, providing excellent performance and reliability with a sequential read/write speed up to 250/40 MB per second and MTBF of up to 1 million hours. In addition, the ISMS312's low 1.15W power consumption can save power and significantly extend the lifespan of the devices it supports. And thanks to the industrial grade operable temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, the ISMS312 can work in harsh environments for long-term operation. The ISMS312 is available in both horizontal and vertical pin orientations to accommodate a wide variety of system form factors.
AMD's new entry-level graphics card to counter NVIDIA's GeForce GT 730/740, is the new Radeon R7 250XE, which has been showing up unannounced, in certain Japanese stores. Its reference-design card is pictured below, as having a low-profile, single-slot design. The card is said to be based on a refreshed, energy-efficient variant of the 28 nm "Cape Verde" silicon, featuring 640 stream processors, a 128-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface holding 1 GB of memory, and clock speeds of 860 MHz core, and 4.50 GHz memory. The card is being designed to capture the $60-$70 price-point.
Wanna build a Haswell-E HEDT build on the "cheap?" Then this could make it to your list. ADATA is ready with its no-frills Premier line of DDR4 memory modules, which are sold in single-module packs of 4 GB and 8 GB. The modules stick to JEDEC specifications of DDR4-2133 MHz (PC4-17000), with CAS latencies of 15T, and voltage of 1.2 Volt. The modules use DRAM chips made by SK Hynix. Inclusive of all taxes, the 4 GB module is priced at the equivalent of $75 USD in Japan; and the 8 GB module goes for the equivalent of $150.
Wednesday, August 20th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Power Supplies
Along with their Platinum units, Seasonic also revamped their Gold-certified line-up, and the fresh X-1050 and X-1250 now get to add "XM2" to their model numbers. In this review, we will evaluate the X-1250 -- its promise is to deliver high efficiency and top performance at an honest price.
HP today announced financial results for its fiscal 2014 third quarter ended July 31, 2014. Third quarter net revenue of $27.6 billion was up 1% from the prior-year period and up 1% on a constant currency basis.
Third quarter GAAP diluted net earnings per share (EPS) was $0.52, down from $0.71 in the prior-year period and below its previously provided outlook of $0.59 to $0.63. Third quarter non-GAAP diluted net EPS was $0.89, up from $0.86 in the prior-year period and within its previously provided outlook of $0.86 to $0.90. Third quarter non-GAAP net earnings and non-GAAP diluted net EPS exclude after-tax costs of $713 million and $0.37 per diluted share, respectively, related to restructuring charges, the amortization of intangible assets and acquisition-related charges.
Sharkoon Technologies today announced the availability of its CA-I and CA-M aluminum PC cases. The CA-I measures 213 x 225 x 259 mm and features support for mini-ITX motherboards, two top-placed USB 3.0 ports and two front-facing USB 2.0 connectors, one 3.5-inch and one 2.5-inch drive bay, and one 120 mm fan installed on the top panel.
The CA-M is 270 by 225 by 285 mm and has the same four USB ports as the CA-I and a 120 mm top-placed fan but it can house a larger (micro ATX) motherboard and includes two 3.5-inch drive bays (that can be fitted with three 2.5-inch drives). The
CA-I and
CA-M come in two color versions (black and silver) and cost 41.99 Euro and 44.99 Euro, respectively.
The PowerCube 501 & 502 are Spire's smallest chassis yet! These stylish and innovative MINI ITX enclosures are a true designer piece, especially considering the price tag. Built to the highest possible quality to provide you with the satisfaction you are looking for in a small, yet powerful package.
Complete with front integrated Audio and two (2) USB 3.0 ports to provide you maximum connectivity and flexibility. These PowerCube series hold space for one Slim DVD drive. Placement horizontal or vertical makes our PowerCube chassis great for home or office use. No matter the challenge, the PowerCube chassis will be sure to deliver what you want, when you want.
Lenovo today announced the latest additions to its ThinkCentre desktop PC line designed for business users. The ThinkCentre E63z packs a blend of essential features and affordable performance into an impressively thin all-in-one form factor. Lenovo also introduced a new member of its astonishingly small "Tiny" series with the M53 desktop PC. The M53 features Intel Pentium power, wireless connectivity and the unique USB keyboard power-on technology allowing the user to power up from a keyboard. In addition, Lenovo's new high value ThinkCentre M79, available in mini tower or small form factor, includes Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 for enhanced security and enhanced remote management capability.
Designed with businesses in mind, these desktops now feature Smart USB Protection giving users or IT managers the ability to control access and usage of USB ports, and Solid State Hybrid Drive (SSHD) support to boost system performance. Also common are industry leading energy saving certifications including Energy Star 6.0 and EPEAT ratings.
Acer today announced the new Veriton N4630G series mini commercial desktops for businesses and educational institutions in the United States. The two new models provide tight security and practical manageability in a robust one-liter chassis.
The Veriton N4630G nettops are ideal for organizations looking to conserve space, cost and energy. The new models include the Veriton N4630G-i54570X with an Intel Core i5-4570T processor (4M cache, up to 3.60 GHz) available for an estimated selling price of $619 and the Veriton N4630G-i34150X with an Intel Core i3-4150T processor (3MB cache, 3.0 GHz) offered for an estimated selling price of $549.
Raidmax has now made available the Seiran II, a midi-tower PC chassis that offers support for ATX and micro ATX motherboards and can house graphics cards up to 390 mm in length. The case measures 457 x 216 x 476 mm, and has three front-facing USB (one USB 3.0, two USB 2.0) ports, a two-channel fan controller, three 5.25-inch and three 3.5-inch drive bays, and three pre-installed fans - one 120 mm model in front, another one at the back, and a 180 mm spinner on the side panel.
The Seiran II can be found priced at
$49.99/
€39.99.
Here's the first picture of G.Skill's gaming-grade RipJaws 4 DDR4 memory modules. Featuring a slightly new heatspreader design, albeit the same flashy colour options as its DDR3 predecessors, RipJaws 4 will initially ship in quad-channel kits of 16 GB (4x 4GB) and 32 GB (4x 8GB); in time for Intel's Core i7 "Haswell-E" HEDT platform. G.Skill's range will begin at DDR4-2133, going all the way up to DDR4-3000. The ones above DDR4-2133 will ship with XMP 2.0 profiles that let you run the advertised speeds with a simple setting in the UEFI setup program. UK retailer Overclockers UK has it up for pre-order at
this page.
EIZO Corporation (TSE: 6737) announced the expansion of its current line of maritime monitors to include the DuraVision FDS1904 and FDS1904T (19-inch) and the DuraVision FDU2603W and FDU2603WT (26-inch). The new lineup now provides a wider selection of monitors with high visibility and reliability for displaying ECDIS / RADAR applications. The touch panel variations, DuraVision FDS1904T and FDU2603WT, accept touch input from a bare hand or stylus and support multi-touch operation. They also feature a high resistance to dust and water droplets to minimize unintended input compared with other touch technologies.
All monitors meet the requirements for numerous classification societies for operation in ships and offshore structures including GL (Germany), BV (France), LR (UK), DNV (Norway), ABS (USA), ClassNK (Japan), KR (Korea), and CCS (China). They meet the conditions for temperature, humidity, and vibration as defined in the IEC 60945 international standard for maritime navigation and radio communication and the IP65 rating ensures they are protected against ingress and low-pressure water jets.
Japanese peripherals maker I-O Data rolled out the HDJA-UTW line of external hard drives featuring the NAS-grade WD Red drives from Western Digital. Measuring 45 mm x 216 mm x 155 mm (WxDxH), the drives feature a monolithic matte black design. Capacities include 1 TB (HDJA-UT1.0W), 2 TB (HDJA-UT2.0W), 3 TB (HDJA-UT3.0W), and 4 TB (HDJA-UT4.0W). The drives feature USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface, and an internal power supply that draws power from AC (no bulky external power bricks). A 40 mm fan spools up only when the drive needs it. When it doesn't, a heatsink making contact with the internal drive keeps it passively cool.
Ahead of its launch, we scooped a few more details of the XB270HAbprz, a high-end variant of Acer's upcoming
XB0 line of monitors that support NVIDIA G-Sync. There's good news, and bad news. Bad news first. The XB270HAbprz features just full-HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) native resolution, which at 27-inch size, is bound to look dotty for the keen-eyed. It is based on a TN-film panel. The good news, however, is that the display offers a staggering 144 Hz of refresh rate, which means it can drive 3D at 72 Hz per plane, and a blazing response time of 1 ms. Other vitals include 300 cd/m² maximum brightness, 1000:1 static contrast ratio with dynamic mega-contrast, and viewing angles of 160° V, 170° H. Inputs include a DisplayPort 1.2 connector, with dual-link DVI adapter. It lacks any internal speakers, but features a 4-port USB 3.0 hub.
Stealth.com Inc., a leader in industrial computer and embedded PC hardware has released four (4) new powerful small PC models featuring unprecedented network connectivity. Stealth's new high performance small computers feature four (4) Gigabit LAN Network Ports (3-Front & 1-Rear) with availability in a variety of configurations including Standard, Fanless, and internal Expansion Slot (PCI & PCIe).
The fanless model LPC-480G4FS is a highly reliable, energy efficient, rugged mini PC that operates without noisy cooling fans which could draw in dirt and dust potentially causing catastrophic failures. Stealth's fanless computers are encapsulated in a rugged extruded aluminum chassis performing as a heat sink to dissipate heat build-up and provide increased reliability.
Tuesday, August 19th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
SSD
Today, AMD enters the SSD market with their Radeon R7 SSD, which is built using OCZ technology. Using a Barefoot 3 controller and Toshiba 19 nanometer flash chips, the drive is designed for consumers and gamers alike. AMD has also extended the warranty of their R7 SSD to four years.
Samsung Electronics announced Samsung Level Box mini, the latest addition to Samsung's Level series of premium audio products. The Samsung Level Box mini delivers the high-quality sound as Level Box but within a lighter, more compact metallic body. The Level Box mini comes in an assortment of rich, vivid colors, giving consumers a stylish, affordable and exceptional listening experience.
The Samsung Level Box mini sports a large (55 mm) stereo speaker and a passive radiator, optimized to deliver premium-quality sound that is powerful, crisp and balanced. Level Box mini is compatible with the Samsung Level App, which provides Volume Control, Text-to-Speech, S Voice and SoundAlive. SoundAlive, Samsung's innovative audio technology, intelligently makes automatic adjustments to sound quality by analyzing the source to ensure the best sound quality.
Razer, a world leader in connected devices and software for gamers, along with Counter Logic Gaming (CLG), a longtime eSports partner and premier North American organization, announced the launch of the new Counter Logic Gaming Razer BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth keyboard.
The CLG BlackWidow Ultimate Stealth gaming keyboard continues to give CLG players and fans a customized gaming setup. Late last year, Razer unveiled a limited edition CLG version of its best-selling DeathAdder mouse in the team's iconic black and white colors. The new keyboard is wrapped in a familiar finish. The team's logo is imprinted onto a unique two-tone black and white body and the keys are illuminated in CLG's white coloring.
The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) today announced that it will exhibit and present the latest USB developments at Intel Developer Forum (IDF) in San Francisco, September 9-11. At IDF, the USB-IF will host a Technology Community, present technical sessions on the new USB Type-C connector, and host press briefings featuring new technology demonstrations.
Imation, a global data storage and information security company, today announced it is now offering 6TB hard disk drives with its Nexsan E-Series family of data storage solutions. Through E-Series, users now can pack more than 1PB of storage capacity into 12 rack units and more than 3.5PB into a standard rack, achieving a new level of density and capacity customization in their data storage.
"The ability to pack 1PB of storage into 12U unlocks tremendous new levels of storage scalability in the data center," said Mike Stolz, vice president of marketing and technical support for Imation's Nexsan solutions. "But it doesn't stop there - it also means users can realize significant savings on operational expenses through less floor space, cooling, power and related items. This is just the latest example of our commitment to always give our partners an edge in the market, and deliver cutting-edge efficient storage solutions that help their customers grow their bottom lines."
Corsair, a worldwide leader in high-performance PC hardware components, today announced the availability of the Corsair Commander Mini control unit. The compact Commander Mini gives users the ability to connect and control multiple lights, fans, and other Corsair devices with an intuitive software interface.
The Corsair Commander Mini is a centralized control unit for Corsair Link PC control and monitoring system. Equipped with four Corsair Link Digital ports, six fan control connectors, four temperature probe inputs, and a port for connecting Corsair Link LED lighting strips, Corsair Commander Mini lets users take complete control of their PC's lighting and cooling. The unit is easy to install with an included mounting kit and connects to your PC via a standard SATA connector for power and an included cable to connect it to a USB 2.0 header on the PC's motherboard.
Genius, a leading manufacturer of computer peripherals, is pleased to announce a new Premium Bluetooth Headset - the HS-920BT - available in 5 stylish colors and 40mm drivers for superior sound. With a sensitive built-in microphone and Bluetooth AVRCP, users can seamlessly switch from listening to music to taking phone calls with a touch of a button. A built-in rechargeable lithium ion battery allows for long usage at home or on the go.
With Bluetooth A2DP and AVRCP, users can access music and take calls whether their phone or tablet is in their hand or across the room. Easily control music volume, change tracks, and answer calls by simply touching the multifunction control pad on the earpiece.
SanDisk Corporation, a global leader in flash storage solutions, today announced the new SanDisk Ultra II SSD with enhanced SSD Dashboard. The new drive is designed to deliver a cost-effective and easy upgrade solution for PC owners looking to improve performance, battery life, and power efficiency. The enhanced SSD Dashboard provides visibility into the drive's performance, security, and available firmware updates, to maintain peak performance at all times.
"We live in an era where we expect to have information at our fingertips anytime, anywhere, with technology that keeps us connected to both our personal and work lives on devices that won't fail," said Dinesh Bahal, vice president of retail product marketing at SanDisk. "The new SanDisk Ultra II SSD, together with the improved SSD Dashboard, provides consumers with an easy, affordable way to ensure that their PC can keep pace with their increasingly connected, information-driven lifestyle."
To commemorate the 10th anniversary of its My Passport line of portable external hard drives, WD, a Western Digital company, is introducing a sleek new design for the world's most popular external hard drive lines. More than 60 million My Passport drives have been sold in the past 10 years, providing approximately 42,000 petabytes of content protection for consumers worldwide.
The My Passport Ultra - Metal Edition drive and My Passport Ultra - Anniversary Edition drive represent a decade of refinement for WD's enduring portable drive line. They feature elegant metal exteriors, up to 2 TB capacities in smaller enclosures, content protection, including backup, and cloud integration for anywhere access to personal content.
Silicon Power, the world's leading provider of memory storage solutions, today releases the brand-new USB 2.0 OTG flash drive - Mobile X21. Engineered with the dual-interface of a micro-USB and a USB 2.0 connector, Mobile X21 includes all the capabilities of USB flash drives, USB cables and memory cards, making itself the multi-functional device for different kinds of storage needs.
Embracing the dual-use application, Mobile X21 is about to offer you a more convenient way of data storage, by which users can not only free up the precious memory space of mobile devices but also quickly transfer files between PCs, Android smartphones and tablets without using any cable or Wi-Fi hotspot. Furthermore, Mobile X21 features the exclusive 360-degree swivel-cap design that allows users an easier method to use and store with just a thumb push. Incorporating the advantages of instant storage expansion, fast data transmission and user-friendly operation, Mobile X21 is definitely the whole package for mobile storage solution.
GammaTech Computer Corp., a major international manufacturer and supplier of innovative notebook and tablet computers, is pleased to announce the transition to mass production of its newest fully rugged notebook computer aimed at the military market, the 13.3" DURABOOK R8300. The R8300 is designed for operation in extremely harsh environments such as those encountered in combat or non-combat military operations. The unit, qualified to stringent MIL-STD 810G, MIL-STD 461F, ANSI/ISA 12.12.0.1 (formerly known as UL-1604 Class 1 Division 2) and IP65 specifications, fulfills the military's need for very rugged computing products, without compromising functionality and flexibility.
"GammaTech is a disciplined manufacturer of unique computer products," stated Jen Chen, GammaTech president. "Our dedication and experience provides the military market with award-winning, high-performance, cost-effective, flexible solutions such as the DURABOOK R8300. From troops in theatre, to command and control, to logistics, and plain computing power, GammaTech appreciates the nuances of mission critical applications. As with all of our rugged mobile solutions, the military can depend on and benefit from the quality and dependability of the R8300 notebook."
AMD today announced its Radeon R7 line of mainstream solid-state drives. Built by OCZ, the drives feature Toshiba-made MLC NAND flash, and OCZ's Indilinx Barefoot 3 M00 processors. Built in the 7 mm-thick 2.5-inch form-factor, the drives feature SATA 6 Gb/s interface, and are available in three capacities, 120 GB, 240 GB, and 480 GB.
All three offer sequential read speeds of up to 550 MB/s; while the 120 GB variant offers up to 470 MB/s of sequential writes; the 240 GB and 480 GB ones offer up to 530 MB/s. Their 4K random read performance numbers are up to 85,000 IOPS, up to 95,000 IOPS, and up to 100,000 IOPS, respectively; while the 4K sequential write performance for all three are rated at up to 90,000 IOPS. The Radeon R7 is essentially an OCZ Vector 150 with lighter processor clocks, and could be priced accordingly.
ECS today proudly announced the unmatched motherboard in the market for the Intel Pentium 20th anniversary edition processor, Z97-PK , has been released to all the fans that are searching for exciting overclocking performance within affordable price.
Since Intel Pentium 20th Anniversary Edition Processors was announced during COMPUTEX 2014, users have been looking for the best combination to cope with this processor series, especially Pentium G3258 processor, which has unlocked multiplier and better performance than i3 Processor when overclocked. ECS provides the best solution, Z97-PK , the ultimate OC performance with unbeatable value, to fulfill the unmet needs from users.
D-Link today announced the DWL-8610AP, a new high power, 802.11ac unified wireless access point. Rich with advanced radio management and security features, the DWL-8610AP allows IT professionals to get the most of their wireless network and maximize their users' experience.
The DWL-8610AP delivers reliable, high-speed wireless performance using the latest 802.11ac standards, with maximum wireless signal rates of up to 450 Mbps using the 2.4 GHz band, and 1300 Mbps using the 5 GHz band. It supports impressive device densities and offers optimal range and coverage over both bands.
Spire continues to expand their range of PC accessories, proudly introducing the DustGuard series. The DustGuard series dust filters are universal dust filters and fan guard combinations, available in various sizes, such as 80, 90 and 120 mm.
The DustGuard can be installed on any same size DC fan or free fan space in your PC chassis. The DustGuard can be opened to remove the filter, thus making it possible to rinse the filter in water. The cover design is made so that it provides a durable solutions while not blocking to much airflow. As always, quality is guaranteed by our 2 year warranty and service program.
ASUS today announced RT-AC87U, the world's first AC2400-class dual-band 802.11ac wireless router with a four-transmit, four-receive (4×4) antenna configuration. This stunningly-designed, easy-to-use router is also the first in the world to employ multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO) technology. Combined with ASUS AiRadar universal beamforming, adaptive Quality-of-Service (QoS), plus AiProtection with exclusive Trend Micro security, RT-AC87U is expertly-engineered for outstanding performance and coverage in today's multi-device households. Offering 5GHz speeds that are faster than wired Gigabit Ethernet, along with class-leading 2.4GHz speeds and reliable multi-floor coverage, RT-AC87U is the perfect choice for discerning users with busy multi-device home networks who need extreme coverage, lightning-fast performance, rock-solid stability and total peace of mind.
Monday, August 18th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
SSD
Angelbird is a young solid-state drive manufacturer from Austria. Their new SSD, wrk, is built on the Silicon Motion SM2246 controller which delivers good real-life performance in our testing. While a price of $300 for 512 GB won't shock the market these days, the drive is affordable overall.
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of NAND Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, presents its enterprise and education Windows To Go drives.
Super Talent's Windows To Go drives are widely used for bring your own device (BYOD) services. Currently the USB 3.0 Express RC4 is a very popular enterprise choice among companies who choose to implement the route of BYOD mass deployment. A USB 3.0 device, the size of car keys, is able to boot a sandboxed version of Windows 8.1 Enterprise on any computer that allows booting from a USB device. This allows for our government, education and all enterprise sector clients to significantly reduce operational TCO, while still keeping their human resources mobile.
Jon Peddie Research (JPR), the industry's research and consulting firm for graphics and multimedia, announced estimated graphics chip shipments and suppliers' market share for 2014 2Q.
Graphics chips are without doubt one of the most powerful, exciting, and essential components in tech today: not only does every computer require one (or more), but the technology is entering into major new markets like supercomputers, remote workstations, and simulators almost on a daily basis. New technologies and compute programs are taking advantage of the ability of GPU power to scale. On top of that, PC gaming momentum continues to build. It would be no exaggeration to say that GPUs are becoming the 800-pound gorilla in the room.
Angelbird, Austria's premium SSD manufacturer, presents its new SSD wrk, a robust and highly efficient entry level Solid State Drive (SSD). It is ideal for upgrading your computer or laptop to faster SSD technology.
Angelbird does not compromise in terms of quality in its new SSD wrk, using an ultra-fast SATA 3.1 6Gb/s interface, which is fully compatible with older computer set-ups and operating systems. The SSD wrk uses the SMI 2246EN controller and the case is made of high quality, matt black anodized aluminum, housing custom packed Multi-Level-Cell NANDs from Micron. Durability is guaranteed by the MTBF of at least 2 million hours. High reliability is also provided by the integrated EDC and ECC error correction capabilities. With a thickness of only 7 Millimeter, the SSD wrk fits even into the tightest notebook or desktop case.
AMD announced that it will webcast its 30 Years of Graphics and Gaming commemoration, hosted by AMD's Chief Gaming Scientist, Richard Huddy on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014 at 10:00 AM EDT (9:00 AM CDT/7:00 AM PDT). A real-time video webcast of the showcase will be accessible on the Investor Relations home page: ir.amd.com. A replay of the webcast can be accessed approximately four hours after the conclusion of the live event and will be available for one year after the event. Additionally, viewers will also be able to access the live broadcast on the
AMD Twitch channel. A replay of the webcast will be accessible on the AMD YouTube channel.
Japanese company Green House Inc. today announced its latest, industrial-grade storage offering, the GH-CFS-NMB series CF 2.0 memory cards. Going from 4 GB to 64 GB, these cards feature MLC NAND Flash chips, a JMicron controller, ECC, bad block management, and are able to operate at 0 to 70 degrees Celsius.
The 4 GB model is the slowest, offering read/write speeds of 107/11 MB/s, while the 8 GB tops 132/21 MB/s, the 16 GB 256/39 MB/s, the 32 GB 312/85 MB/s and the 64 GB 312/153 MB/s. All five cards are backed by a three-year warranty.
As the pioneer in digital storage, Apacer launches the latest AH334 "Galaxy Express" USB 2.0 flash drive.Inspiration by stylish bullet train, large capacity and high speed, AH334 captures every flash drive user, featuring two vivid colors: "starry blue" and "rose pink",and intimate design of a hidden push key and a personalized grommet! Every AH334 "Galaxy Express" can be filled with laughter and memories in life. Let's share files with someone important anytime and anywhere!
With a unique streamlined look, the design of Apacer AH334 is inspired by bullet train's shape for low wind resistance, highlighting a perfect balance between speed and large capacity. The designer team of Apacer meticulously offers two stunning colors - understated and chic "starry blue" and lively "rose pink", turning the flash drive into a distinctive, stylish accessory.
BIOSTAR has announced the J1800TH, a mini ITX mainboard with CPU on board, (known as System on a Chip or SoC). These boards are centered around being small and efficient using a small form factor with an embedded CPU, having low power consumption, and being fan-less. They are perfect for all sorts of various industrial applications.
The BIOSTAR J1800TH is the latest in all-in-one board that takes advantage of the optimized performance of Intel's Bay Trail chipset by delivering a new generation of technology with value-added features and easy integration.
LG Electronics (LG) will be unveiling its newest IPS 21:9 Curved UltraWide Monitor (model 34UC97) and other compelling monitor offerings at IFA 2014 in Berlin, Germany. The world's first monitor to incorporate a curved IPS screen with a 21:9 aspect ratio, the eye-catching 34-inch monitor provides remarkable picture quality and a range of convenient connectivity options. Also to be introduced at IFA 2014 will be the stunning Digital Cinema 4K Monitor (model 31MU97) and the feature-packed Gaming Monitor (model 24GM77), both combining superior performance with modern style and versatile functionality.
LG's flagship IPS 21:9 Curved UltraWide Monitor is a complete monitor solution, equally suited to the needs of professional users and home entertainment enthusiasts with extra screen real estate so users can get more done in less time. By adding a gentle curve to a 21:9 aspect ratio monitor, LG has created a unique product that delivers a more immersive experience.
Logitech International (SIX: LOGN) (Nasdaq: LOGI) today announced two procedural steps related to the delay in filing its FY 2014 10-K and Q1 FY 2015 10-Q with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). First, the Company has been granted an exception by Nasdaq, extending the deadline to October 15, 2015 for complying with Listing Rule 5250(c)(1) by filing its 10-K and 10-Q. The exception was granted by Nasdaq based on a compliance plan submitted by Logitech in response to a previously announced Nasdaq request.
Second, as expected, Nasdaq issued a non-compliance notice regarding Logitech's delay in filing its 10-Q for the first quarter of FY 2015. The Q1 filing cannot be completed until the 10-K is filed. This notice also relates to Listing Rule 5250(c)(1), which requires the timely filing of these reports with the SEC. Nasdaq also requested an update to Logitech's original compliance plan.
GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, today announced its latest overclocking contest hosted on HWBOT.org, the GIGABYTE Z97-Pentium AE Beat the Heat Challenge. The main focus will be centered on the latest GIGABYTE 9 series motherboards and the G3258 Intel Pentium Anniversary Edition CPU. The challenge is open to all HWBOT.org overclockers and will be separated in 5 stages running various benchmarks on air/water cooling and LN2 cooling. A total of USD $2,000 in cash prizes and two GIGABYTE Z97X-SOC LN2 will be offered to the winners, as well as a lucky draw with 5 participants winning a GIGABYTE G-Powerboard kit.
Friday, August 15th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Cases
Corsair has steered clear of the tiny cube chassis, while other companies like BitFenix, Xigmatek, or Aerocool have been duking it out, trying to get the attention of gamers who want a compact chassis with the ability to hold potent hardware. Well, the Carbide Air 240 is about to step into the ring and manages to impress.
The worldwide personal and entry-level storage (PELS) market was up by 1.5% year over year with almost 17 million units shipped in the second quarter of 2014 (2Q14), according to the International Data Corporation (IDC) Worldwide Personal and Entry Level Storage Tracker. Shipment values increased along with unit shipments by 1.8% from a year ago to $1.5 billion.
Hard disk drive (HDD) vendors continued to increase their share of PELS units shipped, gaining 3.3 points year over year to grow to 77.6% market share in 2Q14. Although the entry-level storage market continued to be dominated by the mainstream non-HDD vendors with 58.8% unit shipment market share, their market share was down 13.0 points year over year.
PNY Technologies, Inc. ("PNY") today announced the launch of the Duo-Link OTG USB Flash Drive, available in both 16GB and 32GB capacities. The micro-sized, capless swing design of the Duo-Link OTG USB Flash Drive holds both a micro-USB connector and a USB connector that allows users to easily transfer media and files to and from an Android device and PC.
The On-The-Go USB Flash Drive connects to an Android mobile device and PC or laptop. The Micro-USB connector easily plugs into any Android device while the USB connector plugs directly into any available USB port. The built-in Micro-USB connector allows you to quickly transfer or store music, photos, movies, videos, files and more. Users can also play music or videos directly from the PNY Duo-Link OTG USB Flash Drive. The Duo-Link OTG USB Flash Drive was designed to free up space on an Android phone and/or save files from a PC or laptop onto the phone. The capless, all-in-one design is small enough to connect to an Android device for portable, OTG usage.
Thecus Technology Corporation, the creator in NAS and NVR storage solutions, announces firmware updates to its business class NAS models, adding support for the BTRFS file system as well as ESXi VAAI. The new features enhance Thecus OS5, adding snapshot backup functionality as well as allowing ESXi virtualization storage tasks to be offloaded to the NAS. In addition, USB backup functionality has been improved with bi-directional copying now available.
As BTRFS becomes increasingly popular, Thecus NAS owners can now enjoy support for this full featured file system. With BTRFS, advanced storage features such as snapshot backups are native to the file system rather than requiring external drivers or software. This means enhanced storage functionality while simplifying storage management. With BTRFS support, Thecus NAS users can enjoy the simplicity of snapshot backups. Through BTRFS subvolumes, snapshots of data at various time points can be manually or automatically made and just as easily later restored to rollback files or folders to previous states.
StarTech.com, a leading manufacturer of hard-to-find connectivity parts, has announced the availability of three new Active 4K-capable Video Adapters, which enable users to stream audio and video from their DisplayPort 1.2 or Mini DisplayPort 1.2-equipped computer to an HDMI-equipped TV, monitor or projector. The new adapters offer active signal conversion, which unlike passive video adapters does not require a multi-mode DisplayPort (DP++) source signal, greatly expanding compatibility options.
Still in a sharing mood, ASRock has now given us a peek at yet another X99-based motherboard it plans to release at the end of this month, the X99M Killer aka the
X99X Killer's little brother. As its name suggests, the X99M Killer has a micro ATX form factor but it's still quite feature-packed - three PCIe x16 slots, ten SATA 6.0 Gbps ports, one Ultra M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4) connector, dual Gigabit Ethernet (Intel and Killer E2200), and Purity Sound 2 7.1-channel audio.
ASRock's X99 board also offers two Fatal1ty mouse ports, four USB 3.0 ports, a debug LED, and even an eSATA connector, but it has to settle for four DDR4 memory slots. No price tag was announced but that should be revealed in the next couple of weeks.
With two more weeks left to the official launch of Haswell-E and the X99 chipset, ASRock decided to reveal another one of its X99-based boards, the 'workstation level' X99 WS. Seen below, the upcoming LGA2011 motherboard makes use of the Super Alloy technology (extra large aluminum alloy heatsinks, premium alloy chokes, dual-stack MOSFET, 12K platinum capacitors) and features eight DDR4 slots allowing up to 128 GB of RAM, ten SATA 6.0 Gbps ports, one Ultra M.2 (PCIe 3.0 x4) connector and no less than six PCIe x16 slots (SLI and CrossFire are supported).
The X99 WS also has dual Intel Gigabit Ethernet, Purity Sound 2 7.1 channel audio, one eSATA port, four USB 3.0 connectors, and a debut LED. Unfortunately ASRock hasn't shared any info regarding the board's price tag.
Intel is expected to launch its next flagship Core i7 HEDT (high-end desktop) processors, codenamed "Haswell-E" along with compatible motherboards based on the company's X99 Express chipset, on the 29th of August, 2014. The platform will introduce DDR4 system memory to the consumer space. On that day, Intel's new processors, compatible motherboards, and DDR4 memory modules should be ready to buy off the shelf.
Intel's Core i7 "Haswell-E" processor lineup will include three parts, two six-core, and one eight-core. Leading the pack will be the Core i7-5960X, featuring eight cores based on the "Haswell" micro-architecture, with HyperThreading enabling 16 logical CPUs; a staggering 20 MB of shared L3 cache, and 3.00 GHz clock speed. It will command a four-figure price. Next up, is the Core i7-5930K, featuring six cores, HyperThreading enabling 12 logical CPUs, 15 MB of shared L3 cache, and 3.50 GHz clocks. This chip will be priced anywhere between $500 and $750. The most affordable chip will be the Core i7-4820K, which will be a six-core chip. Its other specs are unclear. It is expected to be priced between $350 and $450.
Thursday, August 14th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Media Players
Shuttle's DS81 is a Haswell supporting barebone system, optimized to minimize space while still providing good performance. With its VESA mount it can easily be installed on the back of a monitor. Thanks to native 4K output you could even use it as media PC for your new UHD TV.
TP-LINK today launched the 802.11a/n Wi-Fi compatible TP-LINK Pharos CPE510 outdoor wireless access point - a 5GHz 300Mbps 13dBi CPE (Customer Premises Equipment) - for point-to-point, point-to-multipoint and outdoor Wi-Fi coverage applications. Outdoor wireless access points can provide WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) coverage over great distances to homes or cottages without cable/DSL services; campus and multiple buildings; point-to-point links between office buildings; and at remote job sites in industries such as oil and gas, mining, and construction.
The CPE510 will greatly appeal to Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) for point-to-multipoint link communications, when extending coverage across a wide geographic area to customers. The new outdoor wireless access point also offers remote surveillance capabilities via an available second Ethernet port with software enabled PoE (Power over Ethernet) output for seamless IP camera connectivity. The CPE510 can operate in multiple modes: Wireless Access Point (AP), AP Client Router, AP Repeater, AP Router, Multi-Bridge, and AP Client Router WISPs.
Corsair, a leader in high-performance PC hardware, today announced the availability of Corsair Vengeance LPX and Dominator Platinum lines of high-speed DDR4 computer memory. This new generation of memory ushers in a new age of ultrafast computing with optimizations such as increased DRAM bandwidth, higher bus frequencies, lower power usage, and higher reliability.
Corsair Vengeance LPX and Dominator Platinum DDR4 memory kits are validated with motherboard partners (ASUS, ASRock, EVGA, Gigabyte, and MSI) and use the new XMP 2.0 profile to deliver easy, reliable overclocking performance with the upcoming next-generation Intel X99 platforms and Intel Core i7 processors (codenamed Haswell-E). The Vengeance LPX and Dominator Platinum memory kits are supplied with a limited lifetime warranty.
SMS Audio LLC, a premier audio headphone and accessories brand from Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, together with Intel Corporation announced a collaboration to develop the first heart-pounding personal audio system converging lifestyle and technology innovation for an exceptional fitness experience. The SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones powered by Intel will bring smart exercise capabilities to athletes of all levels later this year.
With today's announcement, Intel and SMS Audio are merging lifestyle requirements with technology innovation to enhance the fitness experience. The SMS Audio BioSport In-Ear Headphones powered by Intel will extend the recently launched SMS Audio Sport Collection and harness advanced technology features to deliver high-quality audio while gathering actionable data on fitness progress.
With the rapid demand on data access and storage, the mass audience also desires faster charging time. Enermax, a world-renowned PC DIY manufacturer, announces its new product line, Mighty Charger card reader, which was showcased at Computex Taipei 2014. Mighty Charger card reader comes in two models, the ECR501 designed for 5.25" drive bay and ECR301 for 3.5" drive bay. Both models support eSATA, USB 2.0, USB 3.0 and USB Super Charger ports, offering the most complete functions.
Card reader with USB 3.0 bandwidth
Enermax Mighty Charger card reader features the access speed in USB 3.0 bandwidth. Compared to the major card readers in the market, which are in USB 2.0 bandwidth, the data transfer rate of each port on Mighty Charger card reader is 10 times faster! Both models can support 5 major cards: MS (PRO/PRO DUO), CF (I/II/MD), SD (SDHC/SDXC/MMC/RS MMC), Micro SD and M2 port. In addition, ECR501 supports Extreme Digital card.
AMD has today made available an updated Release Candidate of its Catalust 14.7 graphics driver for Windows 7 and 8.1 (32 and 64-bit). This new build, RC3, features all the goodies from the previous non-WHQL driver (
14.7 RC) and adds performance improvements for Xaviant's Lichdom: Battlemage, tweaks enabling 'smoother gameplay' on Ubisoft's Watch Dogs, a CrossFire profile for Carbine Studios' WildStar, and 'display interface enhancements to improve 4k monitor performance and reduce flickering'.
The Catalyst 14.7 RC3 has support for the Radeon HD 5000, HD 6000, HD 7000, HD 8000, R5 200, R7 200 and R9 200 Series graphics cards and can be downloaded from
this page.
Announced at Computex in June, Corsair's HXi family of 80 PLUS Platinum-certified power supplies has now become available. The three HXi units (750 W, 850 W and 1000 W) feature a fully modular design, 100% Japanese electrolytic capacitors rated at 105°c, Corsair Link support, a 140 mm fluid dynamic bearing fan backed by the ZeroRPM mode (so the fan doesn't run at low loads), and over-voltage, under-voltage, over-power, over-temperature and short circuit protection.
The HX750i, HX850i and HX1000i PSUs are backed by a 7-year warranty and cost $169.99, $189.99 and $229.99, respectively.
MSI Computer Corp, a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, announces the availability of the GS60 Ghost Pro 3K and GS60 Ghost gaming notebooks in a luxurious golden chassis. Available exclusively at NewEgg, the limited edition golden gaming notebooks feature top-of-the-line technology, including NVIDIA GeForce GTX 870M graphics, 4th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, Killer Gaming Networking and Steel Series keyboard with SteelSeries Engine.
The limited edition GS60 Ghost Pro 3K and GS60 Ghost gaming notebooks come preloaded with MSI's superb blend of programs, including SteelSeries Engine and XSplit Gamecaster. SteelSeries Engine optimizes the multi-backlit gaming keyboard to deliver unparalleled customization power with advanced macro and micro programming of individual keys. XSplit Gamecaster gives gamers the ability to easily stream games; add, resize and position a webcam feed; draw on screen with in-game annotations; and organize and upload videos.
Flash-based storage continues to move from being an expensive niche technology targeted at a few workloads to a more mainstream technology. According to the International Data Corporation (IDC), the broader availability of products, a growing level of familiarity with the benefits of solid state technologies, and declining prices are all adding to the momentum behind flash-based storage.
To gain end-user insights into how flash-based storage is being adopted, IDC conducted a survey of more than 1,000 storage administrators across the globe as part of its biannual Storage User Demand Study (SUDS). This study provides essential details on current and future deployments of storage systems as well as more forward-looking opinions of end users about emerging technologies or market developments.
Tesoro Technology USA Inc., a manufacturer of high-tech gaming products, today releases the Kυνέη.pro true 5.1 surround sound gaming headset. With a total of 8 drivers (4 in each ear cup) and fully customizable control of every channel, the Kυνέη.pro immerses the player into the battlefield by providing realistic, directional audio.
Gain the Tactical Advantage
Named after the helmet of the Greek god of the underworld, Hades, the Kυνέη allowed its wearer to turn invisible to gain the tactical advantage in battle. Much like the mythological Kυνέη, the Kυνέη.pro allows its wearers to gain the advantage over their enemies by letting gamers pinpoint enemy movements, such as footsteps, before the enemy sees them.
BenQ America Corp., an internationally renowned provider of visual display solutions, today introduced its new additions to the GW Series of mainstream monitors, the GW2765HT and GW2265HM. Featuring BenQ's RevolutionEyes technology, the displays blend perfectly within any living space or office décor with stylish attributes such as high-gloss frames, curvaceous stands, and extremely slim bezels that enable sharper-looking single or multidisplay configurations for placement in any setting.
Sporting a 27-inch 2560x1440 Wide Quad HD (WQHD) resolution, BenQ's GW2765HT IPS monitor delivers over 77 percent more work space and higher pixels per inch (ppi) when compared to conventional 1920 x1080 full HD monitors. This results in less time spent zooming and scrolling as well as sharper and more precise viewing experiences. The 21.5-inch GW2265HM VA monitor's 1920 x1080 native resolution and 3000:1 contrast ratio as well as its compact size make it a perfect fit for a dorm room or home office.
EK Water Blocks, Ljubljana based premium liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is proud to introduce a a new Full Board water block kit for the latest GIGABYTE GA-Z97X-SOC Force overclocking motherboard.
EK-FB KIT GA Z97X-SOC Force full-board water block kit is a complete liquid cooling solution for GIGABYTE GA-Z97X-SOC Force motherboard. The water blocks directly cools Intel Z97 Express southbridge (PCH) and power regulation (VRM / MOSFETs) module. The two-piece set of water blocks feature high flow design that can be easily used with systems using weaker water pumps.
Overclockers UK were the first e-tailer to list the brand new DDR4 memory with the Crucial Ballistix range and now have expanded their portfolio to include Corsair's high performance memory now bringing it to the largest range of DDR4 in the UK. The memory is ready to order with already a few modules in stock ready to buy.
Overclockers UK are well known to hit the market first with new technology. As X99 chipsets are just around the corner, we see the advancement in memory technology to DDR4. Overclockers UK were the first in the UK to list Crucials Ballistix DDR4 memory range with full specs and product details. Since then, Overclockers UK have expanded their DDR4 memory range to include Corsairs high-performance modules even including the well established Corsair Platinum range. Prepared like a coiled spring ready for X99, Overclockers UK will be ready with all the components customers need to upgrade to the latest technology, hosting a full range of motherboards, memory and even fully built X99 systems. With the addition of Corsairs DDR4 range, Overclockers UK now boasts the largest range to offer.
The evolving PC market moves towards yet smaller and faster Computer systems. Scythe reacts to the trend and offers its most compact Top-Flow CPU Cooler, which is focusing on small PCs and Mini-ITX based chassis. Kodati supports the latest platforms of both AMD and Intel. Scythe introduces the simplistic E.I.S mounting system with the Kodati, which allows fast mounting without the need for a backplate.
The CPU cooler is amazingly compact with the dimensions of 82,5 x 95 x 34 mm (3.25 x 3.74 x 1.34 inch) and low weight of mere 180 grams (6.35 oz). Thanks to its height of only 34 millimeters and the fan being mounted between the heatsink and the baseplate, it is possible to use the Kodati even in really slim chassis where other heatsinks won't fit.
COUGAR, leading eSports and computer peripherals brand has launched two new gaming mouse pads, the SPEED and CONTROL. Both types come in 3 different sizes and both are perfect for use with regular mice or high-end gaming mice like the COUGAR 700M gaming mouse, the adjustable gaming mouse dedicated to professional gamers. The new SPEED and CONTROL gaming mouse pads both feature an optimized 4mm thickness giving a thicker mouse pad cushion. This provides better pressure relief on the user's wrist. And not too tall, at 4mm, the mouse pad cushions' height strikes a balance between comfort and user friendliness.
The design of the foam cushioning pad doesn't end there. Made with a natural rubber, all of the materials of these mouse pads are non-toxic. With a right angle wave structure and anti-slip natural rubber base, these mouse pads grip on all kinds of surfaces. This combination of a right angle structure and the rubber physically supports the mouse pad against outer forces from all different directions, and provides better stability. In addition, the combination of a cloth surface and a rubber base makes them very portable. Long term use is address as well. These mouse pads have a localized edge heating process applied to increase the durability and prevent fringe tearing on the sides.
Not all keyboards come with wrist-rests, your first defense against carpal tunnel syndrome, and the ones that do, feature rigid plastic ones, which are extensions of the keyboards' bodies. Tt eSports announced a compelling alternative to users of keyboards that either lack wrist-rests, or feature detachable plastic ones, soft rubber foam ones, made from the same material as mousepads. Measuring 470 mm x 70 mm x 15 mm, these wrist-rests come in all-black, and Tt eSports sponsored TeamDK themed styles. The company didn't announce pricing or availability.
Asetek today announced that it has secured a design win with an undisclosed OEM customer for a graphics liquid cooling product. The ambitious project is forecasted by the customer to result in 2 - 4 million dollars of revenue. Shipping is scheduled to begin in the first half of 2015. The design win continues Asetek's success in the growing graphics liquid cooling market.
"We have been anticipating the rising importance of graphics card cooling for many years and building an OEM business requires patience. This design win is the largest single design win in the history of the company and a great example of our long term investments paying off," said André Sloth Eriksen, Founder and CEO of Asetek. "We expect the demand for graphics liquid cooling to increase and for it to make up an increasing portion of Asetek's Desktop business revenue."
Wednesday, August 13th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Cases
The Enthoo Pro is the most affordable chassis of the Enthoo family by Phanteks. Featuring the same frame as the Luxe, but a slightly simpler approach, we will dive in deep to see if the chassis, while not as luxurious, is still professional enough.
Sapphire unveiled a factory overclocked version of the mainstream
Radeon R7 250X Vapor-X graphics card it launched back in February, the Radeon R7 250X GHz Edition. Based on the same exact board design, featuring the same dual-fan Vapor-X cooling solution as its predecessor, the GHz Edition card features clock speeds of 1000 MHz core, and 4.80 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory; compared to reference clock speeds of 925 MHz core and 4.50 GHz memory. The card takes in power from a single 6-pin PCIe power connector. Display outputs include two dual-link DVI, and one each of HDMI 1.4a and DisplayPort 1.2. Based on the 28 nm "Cape Verde" silicon, the Radeon R7 250X features 640 stream processors, 40 TMUs, 16 ROPs, and a 128-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface. This card features 2 GB of it.
Lenovo Group today reported results for its first fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2014, with quarterly revenue of US$10.4 billion, an 18 percent increase year-over-year while quarter pre-tax income increased 22 percent year-over-year to US$264 million. Earnings grew 23 percent year-over-year to US$214 million, while the Company hit market share and financial performance milestones.
Lenovo maintained its number three ranking in smart connected devices growing shipments by 28 percent year-over-year. It has been the world's largest PC maker for five consecutive quarters with its highest-ever quarterly market share of 19.4 percent up 2.7 points year-over-year, driven by big share gains in EMEA and the Americas. Lenovo's PC shipments for the first fiscal quarter were up 15 percent to 14.5 million units, the 21st quarter in a row that Lenovo outperformed the industry as a whole.
Avago Technologies Limited and Intel Corporation today announced the signing of a definitive agreement for Intel to acquire LSI's Axxia Networking Business and related assets for $650 million in cash. The transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors for both Avago and Intel, is expected to close in the fourth calendar quarter of 2014 upon satisfaction of government approvals and customary closing conditions.
LSI's Axxia Networking Business is being divested from Avago following the recent completion of Avago's acquisition of LSI. The Axxia Networking Business generated revenues of $113 million in calendar 2013 and employs approximately 650 people.
Claiming popular demand, MSI has come up with a Z97-based motherboard that adopts a simple (but not unappealing) black and white color scheme. Seen below, this upcoming board is named Z97 SLI Krait Edition and seems somewhat basic in terms of design and extras, although it does include both a SATA Express port and an M.2 connector.
MSI's ATX offering features four DDR3 memory slots, two SATA 6.0 Gbps ports, two PCI-Express x16 slots, Gigabit Ethernet, 7.1 channel audio, and provides D-Sub and HDMI outputs. No word yet on the availability or pricing of the Z97 SLI Krait Edition.
At this year's gamescom in Cologne, Germany, SPEEDLINK will again be focusing on dedicated gaming accessories. It'll also be presenting not just one, but two new mice: the PRIME Z-DW and KUDOS Z-9. Last year the German company presented its first complete gaming line-up - this year the focus is on new innovative products for gamers.
PRIME Z-DW Double Wheel - For even more commands
The second scroll wheel turns the new PRIME Z-DW into a truly innovative weapon. Besides the programmable buttons the additional scroll wheel can also be fully customised with many performance-enhancing assignments such as powerful commands and complex macro sequences using the accompanying software.
Schenker Technologies is introducing its very first gaming PC today at Gamescom in Cologne. The XMG PRIME is a fully customisable PC in a small ITX chassis, designed especially for the high demands of gaming.
The XMG Prime offers a premium selection of carefully tested components with the highest performance in a compact format. Thanks to the maintenance-free water cooling and cutting-edge PSU, this PC gaming PC is extremely quiet. With its elegant, timeless design, it is equally comfortable in the living room or home office. As with all XMG products, all components including processor, graphics card, memory and motherboard are fully configurable. Thus, the XMG PRIME can be customised with Intel Core i7-4790, a NVIDIA GTX 780 Ti and up to 20 TB of storage. The unbeatable XMG PRIME Gaming PC is now available at XMG (
www.mysn.co.uk) from £920.
EK Water Blocks, Ljubljana based premium computer liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is proud to introduce a new Full-Cover water block for TUL Corporation's (Power Color and VTX3D) and Club3D AMD Radeon R9 290(X) graphics cards with amended (non-reference) circuit board design R29FA.
EK-FC R9-290X SE directly cools the GPU, RAM as well as VRM (voltage regulation module) as water flows directly over these critical areas thus allowing the graphics card and its VRM to remain stable under high overclocks. This water block also features a very high flow design therefore it can be easily used in liquid cooling systems using weaker water pumps.
PC maker Falcon Northwest has created a radical upgrade option to the popular Tiki micro-tower: The Tiki-Z Special Edition. At only 4" wide and 13" tall, Tiki-Z retains the same physical size as the standard Tiki - roughly the size of an original XBOX game console. But behind Tiki-Z's new case window sits the fastest graphics card NVIDIA has ever made: the GeForce GTX TITAN Z-powered by two Kepler GPUs.
"Tiki-Z gives our customers the dual GPU option they've wanted since Tiki was first released." said Kelt Reeves, president of Falcon Northwest. "They can now play truly demanding 3D games at 4K resolution in a slim PC that can easily fit on anyone's desk. Tiki-Z takes our power-per-cubic-inch mission to an entirely new Level."
Digital Storm is excited to unveil VELOX, an enthusiast level machine engineered to shatter benchmarks and blow the doors off the most demanding next-gen games. The system's aggressively designed chassis is perfect for showcasing high-end components and maximizing airflow.
The new mid-sized system complements Digital Storm's award-wining small form factor PC, BOLT II, and the massive AVENTUM II. Like the other models, VELOX features the forged steel and exotic cooling elements that have become synonymous with the brand.
PNY Technologies, Inc. ("PNY") today announced a new brand licensing partnership with LEGO Group to produce LEGO branded USB Flash Drives. This new line of USB Flash Drives will launch in multiple colors in both 8 GB and 16 GB options.
PNY's new branded LEGO USB Flash Drive was designed to appeal to LEGO toy enthusiasts of all ages. Designed in the shape of a traditional LEGO brick, this USB Flash Drive holds up to 16 GB of data to easily store, share, and transport media and files. Available in red, blue, and yellow options, the LEGO USB has a capless, sliding design and an included key fob for easy attachment to any key chain. Each USB Flash Drive also comes with an additional LEGO brick in either blue or red for building fun. Both the LEGO USB and the additional LEGO brick are compatible with all LEGO brick elements/pieces, so users can combine and make their own creation.
SteelSeries the global leader in premium gaming peripherals, in collaboration with Blizzard Entertainment, today announced the exclusive SteelSeries Heroes of the Storm Mouse and QcK Mousepad. While going toe to toe with the most legendary characters of the Blizzard universe, gamers will have the ultimate precision tool to ensure total domination while flaunting exclusive artwork created by the Heroes of the Storm team.
"Heroes of the Storm has been such a highly anticipated title that we were excited to create a product exclusively for the game. We knew that Blizzard and players would want a mouse designed for versatility and that would evoke the aesthetics from within the game," said Tino Soelberg, SteelSeries CTO. "The SteelSeries Engine is such an important component of this mouse in that players can save an unlimited number of profiles and settings for each that would reflect the type of character you're playing; assigning illumination settings to each of your profiles to differentiate between characters is another way the mouse can enhance gameplay."
SteelSeries the leading global manufacturer of gaming peripherals today introduced a new surface for gamers called the DeX Mousepad. Made of a low-friction polymer material, its surface features a unique 3D optical pattern that is designed to provide a superior level of tracking accuracy for all applications. The SteelSeries DeX offers a highly-responsive, fast glide for mouse movements while its heavy silicone base keeps the pad anchored in place. The DeX is the most durable mousepad on the market with its heat-sealed edges that will keep it from fraying over time.
"We designed this for gamers who prefer to have a low friction surface that want and prefer a fast glide; it's a very different feel from our QcK family of surfaces," said Tino Soelberg, SteelSeries CTO. "In addition to how it feels and glides, the DeX could very well be the last surface they will ever need to buy with its incredible durability."
OCZ Storage Solutions - a Toshiba Group Company and leading provider of high-performance solid state drives (SSDs) for computing devices and systems, today announced its new ARC 100 SATA III SSD Series developed to deliver exceptional performance at an enticing price point. The introduction of the ARC 100 Series addresses the needs of our customers and is priced competitively to make adoption of cutting-edge SSD technology easier than ever for value and mainstream users, and underscores OCZ's commitment to meet the entire gamut of market needs with the broadest solid state solutions portfolio in the industry.
"OCZ is known for delivering innovative enthusiast and high performance storage solutions but we also recognize that there is a large portion of the value-minded market that can also benefit from transitioning to SSDs," said Ralph Schmitt, CEO of OCZ Storage Solutions. "The new ARC Series represents an excellent value for consumers as it leverages the proven in-house controller and firmware platforms found in our award-winning Vertex and Vector Series SSDs to deliver exceptional performance, robust features and high reliability that everyday users demand."
Acer announces its comprehensive lineup of high resolution monitors with bigger screens up to 32 inches and sharper images in 4K2K and WQHD resolutions. In addition, Acer ColorPlus and Acer EyeProtect features deliver stunning, higher quality imagery for a more immersive and comfortable visual experience. Acer will also be the world's first to launch the 4K2K monitor in 32-inch screen size.
Acer has three high resolution monitor series designed for individual, SMB, or corporate professionals who specialize in visual and gaming or work with complex data.
Acer announced the new Aspire V Nitro notebook series for users seeking an immersive sensory experience and powerful computing. The notebooks are built with cutting-edge graphics and speedy processing power, allowing them to tackle even the most demanding multimedia for realistic entertainment. Available in 15-inch and 17-inch models, Aspire V Nitro series notebooks also sport a stylish and sophisticated design characterized by sharp angles, slim profiles and intricately patterned covers made with soft touch NIL technology.
For users who desire top-of-line gadgets a special Aspire V Nitro-Black Edition, that represents the apex of the Nitro series, is available and offers blazing fast performance, gaming-grade graphics, and exclusive cooling technologies.
Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. announced today the M.M.O.TE Gaming Mouse. Designed in conjunction with e-sports professionals, the M.M.O.TE is a tournament-focused addition to the Company's award-winning R.A.T. range of gaming mice, and has been created to service the needs of the competitive MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) gaming community.
Joining the already released R.A.T.TE, the M.M.O.TE is an evolution of the Company's award-winning M.M.O.7 Gaming Mouse, and has been created to appeal directly to the e-sports professional. Unlike the R.A.T.TE, the M.M.O.TE targets MMO gamers specifically, delivering a finely-tuned specialty mouse with an ultra-lightweight chassis and high-precision performance. In addition, a new ergonomic design places up to 60 programmable commands at the fingertips of the gamer, all instinctively available via intelligent button placement.
Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. announced today the S.T.R.I.K.E.TE Tournament Edition Keyboard. Designed in conjunction with e-sports professionals, the S.T.R.I.K.E.TE is a tournament-focused addition to the Company's S.T.R.I.K.E. keyboard range, and created to service the needs of the competitive gaming community.
Incorporating a strong aluminum chassis and no fewer than 109 'brown profile' mechanical keys, the S.T.R.I.K.E.TE is the only keyboard in the S.T.R.I.K.E. range to feature a unique 'tournament grade' design which offers ultra-quick key response and 30-key rollover anti-ghosting functionality. Favored by the worlds' leading e-sport athletes, the Brown Profile mechanical keys are renowned for their reliability, having a life extending beyond 50 million keystrokes. The S.T.R.I.K.E.TE features multi-zone illuminated backlighting, dedicated macro buttons and advanced programming software capable of calibrating multiple keystroke macros to within 1/1000th of a second.
Rapoo, one of the world's leading manufacturers of peripherals in the wireless segment and the first manufacturer of products featuring 5 GHz wireless technology, holds an impressive 42% market share in China. Today, it proudly presents the V900 Laser Gaming Mouse under its VPRO Gaming label. The V900 will get its first public unveiling in Europe at this year's gamescom. Winner of multiple accolades from the press and international bodies such as the Industry Forum Design (iF) for its product quality and design, Rapoo will now fully utilize its vast experience and incredible inventiveness, which it has already proven in other areas, in the gaming sector.
With its first mouse VPRO Gaming Labs intends to show that a high-end gaming mouse doesn't need to be expensive, despite using premium materials and components - and the V900 Laser Gaming Mouse is clear proof of this. The 7-button mouse combines an ergonomic right-hand optimized design with an LED multi-color light system with 16 million colors to choose from, Omron switches for a very positive click action, plus an 8200 dpi VPRO Laser Gaming Sensor.
Rapoo, one of the world's leading manufacturers of peripherals in the wireless segment and the first manufacturer of products featuring 5 GHz wireless technology, holds an impressive 42% market share in China. Today, it proudly presents the V700 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard under its VPRO Gaming label. Three weeks ago Rapoo presented the new V900, which will also get its first public unveiling in Europe in pre-production form at this year's gamescom. Those who want to check out the new gaming hardware for themselves will get the chance at today's gamescom Press Day in Hall 10.1/A60 at VPRO Gaming and AMD's joint press conference.
HyperX, a division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced HyperX Savage high-performance memory. HyperX Savage replaces HyperX Genesis and offers experienced enthusiasts, gamers and content creators a cutting edge look. It features a black PCB encompassed by an eye-catching Savage red, asymmetrical heat spreader made of aluminium with a diamond-cut finish. The low profile makes it a perfect for oversized CPU coolers.
Shipping later this month, HyperX Savage is available in high-speed frequencies up to 2400MHz, low CAS latencies and capacities up to 32GB. The high speeds help increase system performance and ultra-responsive multitasking. HyperX Savage is also Intel XMP-ready which enables end users to easily overclock their system by simply selecting a memory profile with no need for manual adjustments in the BIOS.
Noctua today announced that it will continue its tradition of supplying customers with its premium-class SecuFirm2 mounting kits for novel platforms free of charge. While newer Noctua heatsinks support Haswell-E's LGA2011-3 socket out of the box, older models can be upgraded with the NM-I2011 kit at no additional cost.
"We're determined to provide the best possible support to our customers and over the years, we've sent many thousands of mounting kits free of charge to users who wanted to upgrade to new platforms", says Mag. Roland Mossig (Noctua CEO). "With Haswell-E just around the corner, we're pleased to announce that we'll extend this offer for LGA2011-3. Owners of older Noctua retail heatsinks that don't support LGA2011 out of the box will be able to upgrade to the new socket free of charge!"
Electronic Arts Inc. today announced that EA SPORTS FIFA World, a new free-to-play* game for PC, is set to launch a new game engine that will give fans an even better, more realistic, football experience. By removing the barriers of having access to a console or a high powered PC, EA SPORTS FIFA World brings the FIFA experience to more gaming and football fans around the globe. Available in 9 languages, fans with an average spec laptop or desktop PC and a broadband Internet connection can play a fun, free, authentic football game, driven by live content and featuring real players and real clubs from over 30 officially licensed leagues.
Since being announced at Gamescom 2013, EA SPORTS FIFA World has seen more than 3.5 million registrations from over 180 countries register to play the Beta, with over 45 million total matches played. Based on fan feedback, over 20 major updates have been made to the game, including gamepad and keyboard-only controls, as well as Accomplishments - a new feature that captures compelling storylines from the real world of football as they happen, challenging and rewarding fans to recreate and re-live these defining moments in EA SPORTS FIFA World.
HyperX, a division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the launch of HyperX Cloud White Edition. It features a stand-out white and black color scheme and the same award-winning comfort of its predecessor, HyperX Cloud Black Edition. The headset offers memory foam ear cushions, a soft leather-padded headband and an over-the-ear closed-cup design to get anyone in any game comfortably for long game play sessions.
HyperX Cloud White Edition delivers great audio performance with its large 53 mm drivers so gamers can hear every word of dialogue, gunshot and explosion. The headset is versatile with its detachable microphone to make listening to music on smartphones and tablets easy and enjoyable with enhanced bass and crystal clear lows, mids and highs.
HyperX, a division of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced HyperX FURY USB Flash drive, an entry-level storage device for budget-conscious gamers and enthusiasts. HyperX FURY USB is the latest addition to the FURY entry-level family which includes DRAM and an SSD.
HyperX FURY USB has an aggressive case design with colored aluminum accents to stand out from other USB Flash drives while complementing PCs and consoles. It is available in 16 GB (red), 32 GB (blue) and 64 GB (black) and is ideal for storing games, music, photos, videos and files. HyperX FURY USB keeps data moving with USB 3.0 performance (90 MB/s read, 30 MB/s write) and is also USB 2.0 compatible.
QNAP, Inc., a global network attached storage (NAS) company, today announced that it is now shipping its new 4 GB model of the TS-x51 Series Turbo NAS, which features a potent Intel Bay Trail Celeron dual-core processor, a solid upgrade from the Atom processor, and comes standard with the latest QTS 4.1 operating system and is designed specifically for Virtualization Station, an exclusive feature that allows users to run and manage a virtual machine directly on the NAS. In addition, the 4 GB upgrade also gives this series the capability to run multiple memory-intensive applications simultaneously.
The TS-x51 Series is the world's first consumer-grade NAS that supports Intel VT-x and virtual machine applications. Just download the Virtualization Station App from the QNAP App Center, and you can install and manage multiple operating systems such as Windows, Linux and even Android on your NAS. The virtual machines can be used in variety of different ways to boost the functionality of your Turbo NAS.
Intel's "Haswell" micro-architecture introduced the transactional synchronization extensions (TSX) as part of its upgraded feature-set over its predecessor. The instructions are designed to speed up certain types of multithreaded software, and although it's too new for any major software vendor to implement, some of the more eager independent software developers began experimenting with them, only to discover that TSX is buggy and can cause critical software failures.
The buggy TSX implementation on Core "Haswell" processors was discovered by a developer outside Intel, who reported it to the company, which then labeled it as an erratum (a known design flaw). Intel is addressing the situation by releasing a micro-code update to motherboard manufacturers, who will then release it as a BIOS update to customers. The update disables TSX on affected products (Core and Xeon "Haswell" retail, and "Broadwell-Y" engineering samples).
Revenues were in line with second quarter last year. Effects of a business model change on certain products as well as modest demand in the desktop do-it-yourself market offset an increase in data center revenues. Overall gross margin improved by 3.5 percentage points, reflecting the change in business model, a proactive approach to optimizing the offered product mix, and cost savings achieved with certain component suppliers. Asetek delivered on its largest single RackCDU order to date, as products worth $350,000 were shipped to an OEM customer for installation in a U.S. Federal Data Center.
"The RackCDU order that came in during the quarter was a good opportunity for us to test and prove our volume manufacturing capability for data center products. The experience, together with the new U.S. patent allowance for the RackCDU, gives us confidence in the continued design-in efforts with OEMs and system integrators," says André Eriksen CEO of Asetek. "The desktop segment secured an important design win in the workstation market. Looking forward, those achievements outweigh the softened DIY market demand, which we believe will recover in the third quarter."
EK Water Blocks, Ljubljana-based premium computer liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is proud to introduce the latest addition to EK-HDC solid-tubing Compression Fitting product line.
EK-HDC Fitting is a solid-tube compression fitting, designed for use with solid tubing such as Acrylic, Copper, Stainless Steel or any other type of compatible hard tube. EK-HDC Fitting is a more secure variant of the EK-HD Adapter fitting as it prevents solid tube to be pulled out of the fitting by compressing the rubber gasket underneath the ring.
Taiwanese company ASRock has this week provided a few press images of its soon-to-be-released X99X Killer motherboard. Based on Intel's X99 chipset, the board offers support for Haswell-E (LGA2011) processors and features eight DDR4 memory slots (for up to 128 GB of RAM), three PCI-Express x16 slots (allowing SLI or CrossFire setups), ten SATA 6.0 Gbps ports, plus one Ultra (PCIe x4-powered) M2 connector.
ASRock's creation also has 7.1-channel Purity Sound 2 audio, dual Gigabit Ethernet (one Intel NIC and one Killer E2200 NIC), two Fatal1ty and six 'regular' USB 3.0 mouse ports, one eSATA connector, plus a debug LED. The X99X Killer is set to become available after August 29th.
Plantronics, a global leader in audio communications, today announced two new PC gaming headsets, RIG Surround and RIG Flex at Gamescom 2014, the world's largest event highlighting interactive games and entertainment. The new headsets will be showcased at the Plantronics MarketPoint Pavilion 18, and on the show floor in the ESL ZONE in Hall 9 in Salon C-054a, and will be available worldwide for Holiday 2014.
"PC gamers know they can rely on Plantronics to deliver premium gaming audio and headsets that can take on serious gaming sessions," said Dorothy Ferguson, head of global marketing at Plantronics Gaming. "RIG Surround takes everything PC gamers love about Plantronics headsets - performance audio, long-wearing comfort, form perfectly suited to function - and takes everything a step further, offering a feature-rich premium gaming audio system at an unbelievable price."
Ahead of its late-August launch, a picture of Gigabyte's flagship socket LGA2011-3 motherboard targeted at overclockers, the X99-SOC Force, leaked to the web. It reveals a monstrosity. In addition to overclocker-friendly VRM brawn, the board introduces a few segment-first features. To begin with, it's built in the ATX form-factor, and draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX, 8-pin EPS, and SATA power connectors. It uses an 8+2+2 phase VRM to power the CPU and memory. The CPU socket is wired to eight DDR4 DIMM slots, and four PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots.
Overclocker features include onboard clock and voltage tuning buttons, voltage measurement points, redundant UEFI Dual-BIOS, and more. Storage connectivity includes a 20 Gb/s (PCI-Express 2.0 x4 physical layer) M.2 slot, a SATA-Express 10 Gb/s port, and ten SATA 6 Gb/s ports. Other features include Gigabyte's AmpUP audio solution that features audiophile-grade capacitors, ground-layer isolation, and user-replaceable OPAMP chips, Intel-made gigabit Ethernet, and a number of USB 3.0 ports.
According to a block diagram of AMD's new 28 nm "Tonga" silicon, it features the same amount of shading power as "Tahiti," if not more. The chip features a total of 2,048 Graphics CoreNext 1.1 stream processors, spread across 32 compute units (CUs). The chip also features 128 TMUs. The block diagram was part of press-material AMD distributed with its recently launched FirePro W7100 professional graphics card, which is based on "Tonga."
The W7100 uses just 28 of the 32 CUs, and hence features 1,792 stream processors. Other features of "Tonga," according to the block diagram, include a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface, 32 ROPs, TrueAudio DSP, and a modern XDMA CrossFire interface. The first consumer graphics card based on this chip is the
Radeon R9 285. It is expected to feature 1,792 stream processors, and offer performance rivaling the Radeon HD 7950 Boost at lower power draw, and priced to compete with the GeForce GTX 760. That could leave the possibility of a future "R9 285X" with the chip's full complement of stream processors.
Razer, a world leader in connected devices and software for gamers, today announced the all-new Chroma feature that allows full-spectrum, color-customizable lighting for enabled Razer devices. The Chroma feature also allows multiple devices to sync lighting colors and patterns and comes with an open SDK that enables game developers to integrate advanced lighting effects that are customizable on a game-by-game basis.
Razer will be updating its 2015/2016 range of peripherals starting with the BlackWidow Ultimate keyboard the DeathAdder gaming mouse, and the Kraken 7.1 headset with the all-new Chroma feature -- fully customizable, full spectrum lighting with inter-device color synchronization via Razer Synapse. Each of these devices will now come with the option of 16.8 million customizable colors and a range of effects through Razer's cloud-based hardware configurator Razer Synapse.
Tuesday, August 12th 2014
Today's Reviews
AMD (NYSE: AMD) announced today that, in connection with its debt re-profiling activities and its issuance in private placements of its 6.75% Senior Notes due 2019 on February 20, 2014 and 7.00% Senior Notes due 2024 on June 16, 2014 (together, the "Private Notes"), AMD has commenced a registered exchange offer to exchange all of its Private Notes for an equal principal amount of new 6.75% Senior Notes due 2019 and 7.00% Senior Notes due 2024, each of which have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (together, the "Registered Notes").
The sole purpose of the exchange offer is to fulfill AMD's obligations with respect to the registration of the Private Notes. Pursuant to registration rights agreements entered into by AMD in connection with the sale of the Private Notes, AMD agreed to file a registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission relating to the exchange offer in which AMD would offer to exchange any Private Notes tendered by the holders of those notes for Registered Notes containing terms that are substantially identical to the Private Notes.
EVGA Teams up with NVIDIA to help you Fist Punch your enemy's eyeballs on Pandora, for FREE! Experience the fist-punching visuals of Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel with the space-age power and performance of GeForce GTX! NVIDIA technologies like PhysX, Surround, and G-SYNC let you shoot 'n' loot your way through Pandora's moon with incredibly realistic and immersive effects.
Get Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel FREE when you upgrade to a GeForce GTX 770, 780, 780 Ti, or TITAN Black. For the first time ever, play as Claptrap anywhere by streaming Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel to your NVIDIA SHIELD portable or SHIELD tablet using NVIDIA GameStream technology. You can even livestream and record every fist punch with GeForce ShadowPlay.
MAINGEAR, an award-winning custom PC builder offering custom gaming desktops beefs up their lineup with the NVIDIA Battlebox Titan Z PCs featuring special editions of the SHIFT, VYBE and F131.
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX TITAN Z graphics card is a gaming monster, stacked with 5760 CUDA cores and 12 GB of GDDR5 memory. This dual GPU configured in any of the three MAINGEAR Battlebox Titan Z PCs gives gamers the power to drive even the most insane multi-monitor setups while getting the most out of the gaming or entertainment experience. Choose from the SHIFT, VYBE or F131 for the ultimate PC that fits any lifestyle and space.
Adding to the world's most comprehensive line of workstation solutions, Dell today announced new mainstream and performance tower and rack workstations, the Dell Precision Tower 5810, Tower 7810, Tower 7910, and Rack 7910, designed to address the critical requirements of customers in compute-intensive fields such as engineering, manufacturing, and media and entertainment.
Updated with Intel's latest Xeon processors, DDR4 memory, next-generation graphics technology from NVIDIA and AMD, and doubling the amount of memory from the previous generation, these powerful, scalable systems are optimized and independent software vendor (ISV) certified to run the most demanding applications. In addition, Dell is releasing a new version of the Dell Precision Optimizer v2.0, which automatically configures workstation settings to maximize application performance.
Aerocool Advanced Technologies, one of world's leading manufacturer of excellent gaming PC gear, announces the participation at the famous exhibition Gamescom 2014. Visitors will be able to take a close look at Aerocool's latest and upcoming products, which are exhibited at Europe's most popular fair for games and hardware. The exhibition, located in Cologne (Germany), opens for public visitors from 14th to 17th August.
Aerocool's products can be found at the Caseking booth B041 in hall 10.1. Among the exhibited products is the recently announced DS 200 series, which will be presented in different color vitiations. DS 200 is featuring special insulation mats in the side-panels, a built-in fan controller for the two preinstalled case fans and offers a lot of space for latest hardware. The classy design and the solid structure combined with two silent fans are making it stand out from the competition.
Alienware, a leader in high-performance gaming systems, has announced the pre-order availability of the Alienware Alpha gaming console. Starting August 12, 2014, gamers will have the opportunity to ensure they are among the first to own the Alienware Alpha. Fans that are eager to get their hands on the Alienware Alpha gaming console will be able to secure their system from select retailers like Amazon and Walmart, or direct from
Dell, with configurations starting at $549.
Gamers can now secure their gateway to the entire Steam library on a system that was engineered to provide an immersive PC gaming experience, custom-tailored for the living room. The Alienware Alpha merges the open ecosystem and flexibility of PC gaming with the ease-of-use and intuitive interface of consoles. This enables gamers to choose what and how they want to play, whether it's a competitive online FPS with the bundled Microsoft Xbox 360 wireless controller for Windows, or having their friends bring their controllers of choice for a fragfest in the newest indie side scroller.
MSI kicked off its entry-level GeForce GT 720 lineup with as many as four models, two each of 1 GB and 2 GB, being fan-cooled, and passive-cooled. All four stick to NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 797 MHz core, and 1600 MHz DDR memory. Based on NVIDIA's entry-level GK208 silicon, the GT 720 features 192 CUDA cores, and a 64-bit wide DDR3 memory interface. All four cards launched by MSI are half-height and single-slot. All four feature dual-link DVI, HDMI, and D-Sub display outputs.
ASUS rolled out its passively cooled GeForce GT 720 graphics card, based on NVIDIA's entry-level 28 nm silicon. Featuring 192 CUDA cores, and a 64-bit wide DDR3 memory interface, holding 1 GB or 2 GB of memory, ASUS' cards stick to NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 797 MHz core, and 1600 MHz DDR memory. The card features PCI-Express 2.0 x8 bus interface, and display outputs include dual-link DVI, HDMI, and D-Sub.
The USB 3.0 Promoter Group today announced the completion of the USB Type-C specification that defines the next generation USB connector. The USB Type-C specification establishes a new cable and connector scheme tailored to fit mobile device product designs, yet robust enough for laptops and tablets. With this release, the specification has been transferred to the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) for ongoing management and the establishment of a compliance and certification program. The specification is available for download from the USB-IF website
www.usb.org.
"Interest in the USB Type-C connector has not only been global, but cross-industry as well," said Brad Saunders, USB 3.0 Promoter Group Chairman. "Representatives from the PC, mobile, automotive and IoT industries have been knocking down our door anticipating this new standard. This specification is the culmination of an extensive, cooperative effort among industry leaders to standardize the next generation USB connector as a long-lasting, robust solution."
Make your entire PC experience faster with the new NVIDIA GeForce GT 720 dedicated graphics card. Enjoy performance that's superior to integrated graphics in all your PC multimedia applications, including 2x faster web browsing, 5x faster video editing, and 8x faster photo editing. Play modern games with advanced and reliable dedicated graphics. 70% faster performance than integrated graphics means a rich and smooth gaming experience. Plus, get the power to drive up to three HD displays with a single card. GeForce GT means speed, stability, and industry-leading NVIDIA drivers. Tap into GeForce Experience to automatically get the latest drivers and optimize game settings with a single click.
Zotac announced its entry-level GeForce GT 720 graphics cards, based on NVIDIA's GK208 silicon, featuring 192 CUDA cores, and a 64-bit wide DDR3 memory interface, holding 1 GB of memory. Since the chip can make do with passive cooling in the half-height form-factor, Zotac went ahead and gave its cards the "ZONE" branding it normally associates with passively cooled high-end cards. The cards are clocked at reference speeds of 797 MHz core, and 1600 MHz DDR memory; and feature either 1 GB or 2 GB of memory.
As a world-renowned market leader, Gainward officially introduces Gainward GeForce GT 720 graphics accelerators for the market. Gainward GeForce GT 720 powered by NVIDIA Kepler architecture and 28 nm ASIC process-- offers very low power and good performance that provides you smoother game and multimedia experiences while saving power. The Gainward GeForce GT 720 series, with the full support of latest DirectX multimedia gaming standard and supplied with Gainward components for greatest stability, performs up to 19% performance enhanced than previous generation - GeForce GT 620, but only consuming 39% of power.
With Gainward GeForce GT 720 graphics card, you can upgrade from integrated graphics and get the performance boost you need for lightning-fast web browsing, photo and video editing, and richer gaming. You will enjoy all your videos and pictures at HD resolutions, even at UltraHD (4K) resolutions. You will gain 5X faster video editing, 8X faster photo editing, and 2X faster web browsing compared to integrated graphics. Discover 70% faster gaming performance than integrated graphics, making all your gameplay richer and smoother.
Palit Microsystems Ltd, the leading graphics card manufacturer, today introduced the latest GeForce GT 700 series, the Palit GeForce GT 720, which is the great option to make your PC experience faster-including web browsing, photo and video editing, and gaming.
Based on Kepler architecture, 192 CUDA cores Palit GeForce GT 720 offers ultra low power and great performance and features with 1GB/2GB of DDR3 memory that's superior to integrated graphics in all your PC multimedia applications.
ZOTAC International, a global innovator and manufacturer of graphics cards, today silences the powerful ZOTAC GeForce GTX 750 graphics card with a new passive cooled ZONE Edition. The ZOTAC GeForce GTX 750 ZONE Edition graphics card combines the gaming prowess of the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 750 GPU with a zero noise cooling system to deliver a quiet PC gaming experience with class-leading features.
"The PC is the only system where you can truly experience next-generation gaming with unrivaled visual fidelity and smoothness. Our new ZOTAC GeForce GTX 750 ZONE Edition gives gamers the performance and stunning graphics they crave while operating silently to focus on the game and not fan noise," says Tony Wong, CEO, ZOTAC International.
NVIDIA today unveiled its next generation of NVIDIA Quadro GPUs -- providing new tools and technologies to meet the visual computing needs of the world's leading designers, artists and scientists.
The new lineup delivers an enterprise-grade visual computing platform with up to twice the application performance and data-handling capability of the previous generation. It reflects NVIDIA's extensive work with leading customers across industries to gain greater insight into their growing requirements to work with more complex models and higher-resolution images; to incorporate cloud-based resources; and to access work remotely, often on mobile devices.
Manli Technology Group Limited, the major Graphics Cards, Mini-PCs and Motherboards manufacturer, today announced the GeForce GT series graphics solution, Manli GeForce GT 720. Manli GeForce GT 720 delivers a perfect DirectX 12 API gaming experience, support 3D Vision and high-definition resolution. It is equipped with 1GB of GDDR3 memory, 64bit memory controller, memory clock is at 1600MHz, and the default GPU clock is 797 MHz.
NVIDIA announced its entry-level graphics card for this generation, the GeForce GT 720. Based on the 28 nm GK208 silicon, the chip features 192 CUDA cores, and a 64-bit wide DDR3 memory interface, holding 1 GB of memory. It features core clock speeds of 797 MHz, and memory clock speeds of 1600 MHz DDR. Most cards based on this chip are expected to be single-slot, half-height, and passively cooled. NVIDIA is capturing the sub-$50 market with this chip.
AMD today at SIGGRAPH 2014 unveiled new additions to the next generation AMD FirePro professional graphics family -- all designed to provide exceptional application performance for the entry-level workstation user up to the ultra power user, backed by larger memory configurations, top to bottom 4K display support, increased compute performance, application certifications and rock-solid drivers.
AMD took command of professional graphics leadership earlier this year with the exciting introduction of its award winning AMD FirePro W9100 and AMD FirePro W8100 graphics. Now with the introduction of all new AMD FirePro professional graphics cards supported by AMD Graphics Core Next architecture -- AMD FirePro W2100, AMD FirePro W4100, AMD FirePro W5100, and AMD FirePro W7100 -- Computer Aided Design (CAD), video, animation, design and engineering professionals are empowered to work at exceptional levels of detail, speed, productivity, responsiveness and creativity.
The Grandia GD10, along with GD09, is a culmination of SilverStone's decade-long experience in HTPC case design and manufacturing into a product that every PC enthusiast can enjoy. The incredible efficiency in which it utilizes all available space results in a case that is close in size externally to Micro-ATX based GD04 and GD05, yet capable of fitting most important full size standard components including wider ATX motherboards (SSI-CEB) such as ROG or other gaming-centric models.
All drive cages have been designed similarly to those from the popular ML03 case to provide maximum flexibility in drive configuration without the need for additional adapters. For cooling, all positive pressure and smooth airflow designs were retained from previous Grandia models while improvements were made to filter access for even easier maintenance. With the addition of a lockable front door, the GD10 offers an attractively sized case that is capable and user-friendly for those interested in building a system with extra security and application that exceeds typical PC or HTPC environments.
Thermaltake, being an industry leader in computer chassis, thermal solutions, and power supply units, launches the latest Toughpower DPS G Series, an innovative 80 PLUS Gold certified digitally-controlled power supply range from 450W up to 1050W with DPSApp software. After receiving favorable reviews and feedbacks from many friends of media and associates on DPS Series last year, Thermaltake decided to expand the series with a much more reasonable price for all system builders to apply with in different circumstances.
The new DPS G series with the aid of DPSApp Software not only provides the system with clean and stable power, it also creates an intelligent platform that allows users to monitor and record the status of power consumption, voltage distribution and the electricity cost for advance usage. Out of all the PSU monitoring software applications, Thermaltake DPSApp is the most powerful, flexible, universal and easy-to-use supreme monitoring tool to have on the market.
Apotop, maker of creative electronics and peripherals, has a unique multi-use mobile helper. The Wi-Copy is a multi-use mobile device that provides computer-less file copying, wireless streaming, and backup power.
With the Apotop Wi-Copy, you can share a single internet connection with multiple devices simultaneously, transfer files between an iOS or Android device and a USB/SD without an Internet connection (using the free App), stream up to five HD movies simultaneously to multiple iOS or Android devices (using the free App) and use the built-in rechargeable 5200mAh battery for up to 14 hours of continuous usage. Featuring an ultra-compact design and requiring no computer to transfer between SD cards and USB flash drives, the Wi-Copy allows for a multitude of mobile solutions. Now you don't need to use your computer to copy files for a friend or coworker.
Plantronics, a global leader in audio communications, today announced it has entered into its first-ever partnership with Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE) to provide advanced audio perfectly optimized for performance with PlayStation4 (PS4), PlayStation3 (PS3), and PlayStation Vita (PS Vita). The new, officially-licensed product, the Plantronics RIG for PS4, PS3, PS Vita will be available across Europe, Middle East and Oceania for the 2014 holiday season.
"Whether in the living room or on the go, PlayStation offers immersive gaming experiences, and new, connected ways to enjoy media," said Judy Ward, peripherals business manager at SCEE. "With its recognized commitment to innovation, Plantronics was a natural partner as we look for solutions that offer the high-quality audio and clear communication essential to deliver the best PlayStation experience."
The most energetic days are collected in the summer vacation. Team Group enjoys the summer vacation with students by promoting two visual Flash drives C141/C145, particularly. C141 and C145 are in the form of retractable USB design without cap loss issues. They are added with streamlined design of American roadster, in addition to bright/matted inter-coating together with colorful push button and delicate stripping, to convey a colorful concept and create a fine and high level individual style.
In addition to emphasis of C141/C145 visual design, the product body has an ultra-thin thickness of only 8.4 mm. In conjunction with super smooth flexible push button and robust and endurable structure design, together with permanent warranty, they are the Flash drive products you cannot miss in this summer.
The MS-9A61/9A62/9A63 is a powerful all-in-one HMI panel PC with Intel mainstream Mobile processor. The built-in 15"/17"/19" TFT LCD with 5-wire resistive touch panel make the MS-9A61/9A62/9A63 an optimal HMI platform for automation, kiosk, POI, ATM, digital signage, etc. Designed for diverse HMI applications with high integration flexibility in mind, the MS-9A61/9A62/9A63 allows system integrators to flexibly choose from MSI's Mini-ITX embedded mainboards (under 35W models) according to different application requirements. The rich options of HDD, SSD, mSATA, and/or SATA DOM also satisfy different storage demand of high-capacity or stability. In addition to the built-in display, the 2nd display is also supported for your application demand. Moreover, the IP65 industrial standard front panel and the lockable power jack ensure the reliability of MS-9A61/9A62/9A63's operating in some critical environments.
Lenovo today, at SIGGRAPH 2014 in Vancouver, British Columbia, announced the launch of the ThinkStation P Series, unveiling its vision for the ultimate in desktop workstation performance, reliability and usability. Rebuilt from the ground up, the Lenovo ThinkStation P900, P700 and P500 workstations join the entry-level ThinkStation P300, announced in May 2014, as the most powerful professional-grade desktop workstations available. Now, professionals in engineering, architecture, media and entertainment, oil & gas, medical & science, finance and other industries can arm themselves with workstation technology selected and configured to meet their needs for enhanced productivity and limitless innovation.
"After a period of intensive research, development and testing, we're excited to introduce our next generation workstations to the market, as we truly believe this is the best designed workstation ever," said Victor Rios, vice president and general manager, Workstation, Lenovo. "We built on the advancements delivered in our 30 Series workstations and engineered the P Series with new levels of innovation based on extensive customer feedback. The result for users is optimum performance, outstanding reliability and unparalleled usability that is unlike anything they have experienced."
Monday, August 11th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
CPU Coolers
Swiftech's new H220-X is a fully customizable and expandable all-in-one liquid CPU cooler with nothing but high-end components to offer enthusiasts the very best in terms of quality. As such, class-leading performance was a given, but with low noise levels and a plethora of fantastic features, it could also stand alone at the very top.
The functions of smartphones are advancing rapidly and APPs can be downloaded for the insufficiencies; just like small computers, they are very convenient! However, there are some small situations where the smartphone alone cannot satisfy the user; it would be great if there were some small accessories that could be used with the smartphones.
Do you only play mobile games to kill time when there is poor network signal and you cannot access the data you saved in the cloud? KINGMAX released the OTG series products to eliminate these situations and allow smartphones to use plugins! The PJ-02 dual-interface flash drive and the PJ-03 dual-interface card reader are both equipped with standard USB and MicroUSB interfaces simultaneously so that files edited and saved on desktops and notebooks can also be browsed and edited on smartphones and tablets. It's very convenient to be able to access files on different host devices.
A Coolaler.com community member claims to have scored a GeForce GTX 870 sample, ahead of its
September 2014 launch. GPU-Z cannot correctly detect the GPU at this point. It is, however, programmed to pull out some details of unknown GPUs. It reads the card's name as "D17U-20" featuring a GPU name "13C2." The Device ID and BIOS fields are conveniently redacted, so we cannot say for sure if this is genuine.
The card's CUDA core count is 1,664. Given how streaming multiprocessors in "Maxwell" GPUs launched so far feature 128 cores, this particular chip features 13. Other features read out are 138 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and a 256-bit wide memory interface, holding 4 GB of GDDR5 memory. The sample features clock speeds of 1051 MHz core, 1178 MHz GPU Boost, and 1753 MHz (7012 MHz GDDR5 effective) memory, yielding 224 GB/s of memory bandwidth. The test-bed including a Core i7-4820K "Ivy Bridge-E" quad-core processor. The card was put through 3DMark 11, in its performance (P) and extreme (X) presets. It scored P11919 points in the performance preset, and X4625 in the extreme preset; which makes the card roughly as fast as a GeForce GTX 780. And these are pre-release drivers, and probably a pre-launch qualification sample altogether. Color us intrigued.
ASRock rolled out the H81TM-ITX R2.0 thin mini-ITX motherboard for SFF PCs and AIO desktops. The socket LGA1150 motherboard is based on Intel's entry-level H81 Express chipset, and draws power from an external 2-pin DC power source. It features a 3-phase CPU VRM, a PCI-Express 2.0 x4 slot, apart from an mPCIe; two SATA 3 Gb/s ports, and two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots. Connectivity includes DVI and HDMI display outputs; two USB 3.0 ports, gigabit Ethernet, stereo HD audio, and a couple of USB 2.0/1.1 ports.
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of NAND Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, updates its NGFF SSD series. Super Talent next generation form factor SSDs are internally mounted high performance storage solutions utilizing M.2 connectors. These devices are designed to be used for embedded applications and mobile computing in a variety of industries.
"Super Talent's NGFF SSDs are used extensively in today's rapidly expanding ultra-lightweight computing sector. The small form factor and high performance speeds make them a highly sought after storage solution for mobile computing," said VP of Engineering, Shimon Chen.
EK Water Blocks, Ljubljana based premium liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is proud to introduce EK-Ekoolant Pastel Concentrate - a concentrated form of new non-transparent, nano-particle enriched coolant, designed specifically for computer liquid cooling systems with 3-year shelf life from date of bottling.
This 250mL concentrate is to be mixed in 750mL distilled water to form 1L of ready-to-use coolant.
Intel today disclosed details of its newest microarchitecture that is optimized with Intel's industry-leading 14 nm manufacturing process. Together these technologies will provide high-performance and low-power capabilities to serve a broad array of computing needs and products from the infrastructure of cloud computing and the Internet of Things to personal and mobile computing.
"Intel's integrated model - the combination of our design expertise with the best manufacturing process - makes it possible to deliver better performance and lower power to our customers and to consumers," said Rani Borkar, Intel vice president and general manager of product development. "This new microarchitecture is more than a remarkable technical achievement. It is a demonstration of the importance of our outside-in design philosophy that matches our design to customer requirements."
TechPowerUp released the latest version of GPU-Z, the popular PC graphics information, monitoring, and diagnostics utility, which gives you up to date information on your installed graphics processing hardware, and lets you monitor them in real-time. Version 0.7.9 of GPU-Z adds support for several new GPUs, and fixes various outstanding bugs.
To begin with, support is added for new and upcoming GPUs, such as AMD "Tonga," Radeon R9 M275X, FirePro W5100, W9100; NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 6 GB, GTX 860M, GT 830M, GTX 780M, GT 740, GT 730, GT 720, Quadro NVS 510, FX 380M, GRID K520, and Tesla K40c. Bug fixes include correct release date for Radeon R9 290, more robust NVIDIA PhysX detection, improved fan-speed monitoring on some newer AMD cards, sensor graph overflow/underflow, and fixed French translation.
DOWNLOAD: TechPowerUp GPU-Z 0.7.9 |
GPU-Z 0.7.9 ASUS ROG Themed
The complete change-log follows.
The Khronos Group, an open consortium of leading hardware and software companies, today announced growing industry support for the OpenGL family of 3D standards that are advancing the visual experience for more than two billion mobile devices and PCs sold each year. OpenGL, OpenGL ES and WebGL are the world's most widely deployed APIs that between them provide portable access to graphics and compute capabilities across multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Linux, OS X, Windows and the Web.
OpenGL ES 3.1 Conformant Implementations
In July, the first wave of leading GPU vendors, including ARM, Imagination Technologies, Intel, NVIDIA and Vivante, achieved full conformance with the latest version of OpenGL ES. A conformance submission from Qualcomm is currently under review, with more to follow. The OpenGL ES 3.1 specification was released in March 2014 and provides the most desired features of desktop OpenGL, including GPU Compute shaders, in a standard that is suitable for mobile devices. Khronos launched the OpenGL ES 3.1 Adopters program in June, including a broad set of conformance tests to ensure reliable cross-vendor operation. More information is
here.
ORIGIN PC announced today their 4K-gaming ready, BATTLEBOX, high-performance GENESIS Z, MILLENNIUM Z, and CHRONOS Z systems, all powered by NVIDIA GeForce GTX TITAN Z graphics , and all starting at under $4,000. Built with only the highest-grade components, ORIGIN PC's NVIDIA BATTLEBOX TITAN Z systems deliver an incredible 4K gaming experience. The groundbreaking dual-GPU GTX TITAN Z uses new dynamic power balancing technology that ensures peak performance across two GPUs with optimal power delivery. This means you can game on an ultra-high-definition 4K display, at high settings and super-fast frame rates like never before. With support for NVIDIA SLI, you can even add a second card and immerse yourself in graphically intense games like Watch Dogs in full 4K Surround.
Whether you're new to 4K gaming or not, each ORIGIN PC BATTLEBOX TITAN Z system was designed to provide the best 4K gaming experience right out of the box. With a wide variety of special bundled options for each system, such as the inclusiona of a 4K monitor bundled with a TITAN Z graphics card, only ORIGIN PC's BATTLEBOX TITAN Z systems can deliver the ultimate 4K gaming experience at an incredible value. Jump inside the 4K gaming arena today with ORIGIN PC's new NVIDIA BATTLEBOX TITAN Z systems, all starting at under $4,000.
SanDisk Corporation, a global leader in flash storage solutions, today announced the release of the high-speed SanDisk Ultra Fit USB 3.0 Flash Drive that delivers exceptional performance in a tiny form factor, while providing expanded storage for PCs and other devices. Media enthusiasts can now transfer a full-length movie in 40 seconds, enjoy transfer speeds up to ten times faster than standard USB 2.0 drives and be confident the streamlined USB will offer reliable storage in minimal space.
"As a leader in the flash storage space, our goal has always been to deliver the best, most reliable products," said Philippe Willams, director of product marketing, SanDisk. "While there are other USB 3.0 products on the market, SanDisk's Ultra Fit USB 3.0 Flash Drive offers consumers superior performance and impressive capacity in an extremely compact design."
This November Dell is set to let loose a new Alienware-branded gaming machine, a thin and light notebook dubbed Alienware 13. As its name suggests, the upcoming laptop packs a 13-inch display which, depending on configuration, can have a native resolution of (only) 1366 x 768, 1920 x 1080, or 2560 x 1440 pixels.
The Alienware 13 will also feature an ultra-low voltage Intel processor, a GeForce GTX 860M graphics card, up to 16 GB of RAM, up to two SSDs (HDD options will also be available), Qualcomm Killer 802.11ac WiFi, a TACTX keyboard, and Klipsch audio. No word on pricing yet but since it's Alienware, one might want to start saving already.
With the information-packed digital era, the use of multimedia files, such as documents, photos and videos, has become increasingly common and so is consumer demand for data storage. Riding the popularity of its USB 3.0 2.5" portable HDD AC233 in 500 GB and 1 TB, Apacer announced today the expansion of the AC233 series to include the massive 2 TB capacity.
Sleek and fashionable with a matte and glossy dual-surface finish and a uniquely elaborated surf-line curve shape on the ultra smooth curvaceous back of the body, the 2 TB AC233 is a true rendition of highly efficient, compact, yet fashionably streamlined craftsmanship - and the best storage solution for consumers seeking aesthetic design, super fast transmission and the high data protection.
Acer expands its Chromebook portfolio with a model that delivers enhanced mobile performance for graphic-intense apps, games and more; up to 13 hours of battery life and option for full HD display takes Chromebook from workday productivity to nighttime entertainment.
Acer America today announced the Acer Chromebook 13, the industry's first Chromebook powered by an NVIDIA Tegra K1 mobile processor and the company's first with a 13.3-inch display. The Chromebook 13 enhances Acer's already leading position in this category.
BIOSTAR is getting ready for the launch of a new Hi-Fi series motherboard, with a brand new outlook design, cutting-edge features and innovative durability enhancements. The board, based on the Intel Z97 chipset will come with key features and BIOSTAR's exclusive Hi-Fi Audio technology.
BIOSTAR's in-house technology will be evident with features such as Hi-Fi technology, Golden Plated Audio Connectors, 8 Phase Power Design and Super Conductive Heat sinks.
HighPoint Technologies RocketStor series Adapters revolutionize Thunderbolt storage solutions by offering dedicated Thunderbolt 2 transfer performance, small-footprint design, and dramatic cost-savings that remove the need for intermediate PCIe Expansion Chassis.
HighPoint RocketStor 6300 Series Adapters combine Thunderbolt 2 connectivity, PCIe expansion technology and the features of SAS/SATA storage/RAID controllers into single-device storage solutions. This unique, unified approach to storage connectivity allows customers to get everything they need from a single source. HighPoint's longstanding manufacturing and design expertise combined with industry proven RAID and storage technology ensure that RocketStor adapters minimize your storage hardware footprint while maximizing performance and cost savings.
Here's the first picture of Gigabyte's new socket LGA2011-3 motherboard, the X99 Gaming G1. Designed for Core i7 "Haswell-E" processors, the board is packed to the brim with features, although it's positioned in the mainline lineup. The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS power connectors, and conditions it for the CPU using an 8-phase VRM. The CPU socket is wired to eight DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting up to 64 GB of quad-channel DDR4 memory; and four PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots.
Storage connectivity includes ten SATA 6 Gb/s, one SATA-Express 10 Gb/s, and an M.2 slot. Network connectivity include 802.11 ac WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0, and gigabit Ethernet, driven by Qualcomm Killer E2200. The Sound Core3D audio solution features a user-replaceable headphone amp, audio-grade capacitors, and ground-layer isolation. A number of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0/1.1 ports make for the rest of it.
ASUS mastered the art of using daughterboards to effectively increase the board area of its mini-ITX motherboards, to cram in more features, beginning with its pioneering VRM board, which added 8- to 10-phase CPU VRM. The company's latest such product builds heavily on this idea. The Maximus VII Impact, based on Intel's new Z97 Express chipset, and supporting socket LGA1150 processors, features as many as five daughterboards.
It begins with one that holds the board's mighty 8-phase CPU VRM; one called ImpactControl II, which features onboard power/reset, clear CMOS, and ROG Connect buttons, apart from POST LEDs, which show out from the rear I/O panel; one called the Impact CoolHub, which gives out two 4-pin PWM fan headers, with an LN2 mode toggle; the mPCIe Combo IV board, which features an mPCIe x1 slot on one side (which is populated with the board's 802.11 ac WLAN card), and an M.2 slot with PCIe 2.0 x4 link layer wiring on the other; and the SupremeFX Impact II, which is the audio board featuring an EMI-shielded 110 dBA SNR CODEC, audio-grade capacitors, a headphones amp, and inherent ground-layer isolation.
Sunday, August 10th 2014
Here are the first pictures a HIS branded Radeon R9 285, the third in a series of leaked press-shots of cards based on AMD's new performance-segment GPU, designed to take on NVIDIA's bestselling GeForce GTX 760 in not just performance, but also energy-efficiency. The card is based on a new ASIC, codenamed "Tonga," which is rumored to feature a stream processor count identical to one of the variants of "Tahiti," and a 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface, holding 2 GB of memory. HIS' card features a compact variant of the company's IceQ X² cooling solution. Its pictures also reveal that the R9 285 "Tonga" will feature XDMA CrossFire, much like the R9 290 series.
In addition to a Sapphire-branded Radeon R9 285, pictures of an XFX branded one surfaced, too. The Radeon R9 285 is a new SKU being designed by AMD to take on the GeForce GTX 760 in not just performance, but also energy efficiency. It's rumored to be based on a brand new 28 nm silicon, codenamed "Tonga," which features GCN2 stream processor count identical to one of the variants of "Tahiti," and a 256-bit wide memory interface. The card thus features 2 GB of memory. XFX gave its card its signature Double Dissipation (DD) cooling solution.
Here are the first pictures of the card AMD hopes to take on NVIDIA's bestselling GeForce GTX 760 with, the Radeon R9 285. This particular one, branded by Sapphire, featuring its Dual-X cooling solution. The R9 285 is based on a brand new chip by AMD, codenamed "Tonga." It's rumored to feature the same stream processor count as one of the "Tahiti" variants, while featuring higher clocks, and a narrower 256-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface, a fact confirmed by this card's marketed 2 GB of memory. Given how marketing material of the R9 285 is ready, its launch may not be far away.
Friday, August 8th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
SSD
Toshiba's new HG6 Series is an incremental update over the HG5d Series and claims the performance throne in our new real-life SSD benchmarking suite. Toshiba's latest model is also cheaper than the predecessor, which even makes it an excellent choice for value-oriented buyers.
Adesso Inc., a leading manufacturer of computer input peripherals, has released the Adesso SlimTouch 4210, the 2.4 GHz RF Wireless Compact Touchpad Keyboard. Also known as WKB-4210UB, this multi-featured, wireless compact keyboard with integrated touchpad is the best clutter-free solution for home, business, and industrial environments.
While saving space with its stylish, compact size, WKB-4210UB's 2.4 GHz Radio Frequency wireless technology brings users the convenience of working freely without tangled wires up to a range of 30 feet. Its built-in touchpad, centrally positioned on the keyboard for ease and comfort, uses Glidepoint technology, providing superior cursor control while eliminating the need for a mouse, saving more desk space.
StarTech.com, a leading manufacturer of hard-to-find connectivity parts, has announced the release of a new USB Flash Drive Duplicator and Eraser (SKU: USBDUP15), a portable solution for simultaneously copying one USB flash drive to up to five USB flash drives at speeds of up to 1.5GB per minute or securely erasing up to six flash drives. The duplicator is the most compact of its kind on the market, ideal for users who need a portable way to distribute data from a single flash drive onto many, or completely remove content from multiple flash drives simultaneously.
"StarTech.com's USB Flash Drive Duplicator can boost productivity and save time for IT and Marketing professionals who need to constantly generate multiple software and marketing collateral distributions while they're away from the office" said Juliet Wei, Senior Product Manager for StarTech.com. "Compared to traditional CDs or DVDs, USB flash drives provide a more cost-effective and convenient way to distribute files and information. The USB Flash Drive Duplicator can drastically reduce the time needed to create multiple copies, which is extremely useful for many industries, including IT professionals who need to deploy operating system files or software, or make quick data backups, or for marketing professionals who distribute content using flash drives."
MSI, the leading gaming computer innovator and manufacturer, now announces the latest S100 3-in-1 tablet, a windows 8.1 tablet featuring a keyboard and a protective cover, making it the best multi-functional tablet in creativity and productivity. With the 3-in-1 design, MSI S100 is a 10-inch tablet that offers top value by new Intel Bay Trail-T quad-core processor, 1280 x 800 IPS display, and dual 2 megapixels camera system.
Powerful Quad-core Processor
The MSI S100 is powered by the latest Intel Atom Bay Trail-T quad-core processor with high performance yet lower power consumption. With up to 10 hours battery life, S100 can easily handle multiple tasks and deliver an immersive entertainment experience. The 2 GB memory and 64 GB storage plus the compatibility with MicroSD card, you get all the space you need for apps, files, photos, or even videos. Windows 8.1 with all new touch friendly UI allows to buy and use any WinOS app by switching between Modern Interface and traditional desktop.
The GR3660-B3 is a full-featured simple and easy dual bay storage device, along with RAID 0 (Striping), RAID 1 (Mirroring), and JBOD three application modes, with Super Speed USB3.0 transmission interface, not only with fast transmission performance but also easily content data safety with 8TB large storage capacity or information exchange requirement.
GR3660-B3 is compatible with all brands of 4TB SATA hard drives. Install two 4TB hard drives under RAID 0 mode and the system will provide 8TB of access. Independent JBOD mode can offer independent storage areas even if the hard drives are of different capacities.
Thursday, August 7th 2014
Today's Reviews
Phison Electronics Corporation, a global leader in SSD controllers, today announced its latest quad-core SATA III 6 Gb/s SSD controller, the PS3110 SSD processor.PS3110 is a performance power house, delicately crafted to support not only the high-end client SSD market, but also includes multiple hardware and firmware features to make it an ideal choice for the entry-level enterprise SSD solutions supporting up to 2 Terabyte.
The building blocks of PS3110 include a quad-core CPU, end-to-end data path protection circuits, and SmartECC technology to provide additional error bit correction while supporting the latest generation 1Ynm/1Znm MLC and TLC NAND.
Image courtesy of PC Perspective.NVIDIA today reported revenue for the second quarter ended July 27, 2014, of $1.10 billion, up 13 percent from $977 million a year earlier and in line with the previous quarter. Revenue for the first half was up 14 percent to a record $2.21 billion from $1.93 billion a year earlier.
GAAP earnings per diluted share for the quarter were $0.22, up 38 percent from $0.16 a year earlier and down 8 percent from the previous quarter. Non-GAAP earnings per diluted share were $0.30, up 30 percent from $0.23 a year earlier and up 3 percent from the previous quarter.
With only a few more days until this month's Patch Tuesday Micrsosoft took to the web to announce that it plans to roll out no less than nine updates - two rated 'Critical' and seven rated 'Important'. The upcoming patches address vulnerabilities found in Windows, Office, Microsoft Server Software, SQL Server, .NET, and Internet Explorer.
The August updates are scheduled to be made available this Tuesday, August 12, at 10 AM PDT. For more info check out the advance notification
published here.
Thecus Technology Corp. today announced the compatibility of its NAS and NVR storage lineup with the new WD Red 6 TB and WD Red Pro NAS hard drives. Designed specifically for NAS solutions and featuring NASware 3.0, the new WD NAS hard drives provide robust and highly reliable solutions for the NAS industry. "WD continues to change the landscape of the storage industry by unceasingly providing breakthrough technology," said Florence Shih, chairperson at Thecus Technology Corporation. "The WD Red 6 TB and WD Red Pro drives will assist Thecus NAS in providing a complete storage solution for home to large business users."
Reaching the highest levels of capacity in storage and boasting improved performance, the new WD Red drives are ideal for SOHO and consumer NAS users (1-8 bays) looking to maximize their storage capabilities. For medium to large-scale enterprise NAS systems (8-16 bays), the WD Red Pro drives are designed to tackle more advanced storage challenges and feature Advanced Format Technology.
ZOTAC International, a global innovator and manufacturer of graphics cards and mini-PCs, today ships select ZBOX Plus Windows 8.1 with Bing mini-PCs for an instant out-of-box computing experience. Microsoft Windows 8.1 brings versatility, performance and an outstanding web experience to the award winning ZBOX mini-PCs.
"Users requested we include Microsoft Windows with the ZBOX mini-PCs so the system is ready to use right off the shelf," says Tony Wong, CEO of ZOTAC International. "We've been listening and thanks to Microsoft's introduction of Windows 8.1 with Bing, we're able to give buyers the full Windows experience in a mini-PC form factor at an excellent value."
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced Crossblade Ranger, the first AMD FM2+ motherboard to carry the revered ROG brand and packed with exclusive ROG technologies and game-boosting features for an AMD-based gaming powerhouse that's beyond compare.
Crossblade Ranger's core benefits deliver the best gaming networking, with Intel Gigabit Ethernet, GameFirst III and LANGuard, the best gaming audio from SupremeFX 2014, the best gaming interface with KeyBot and the best gaming performance with exclusive Auto Tuning technology to unleash the true power of AMD accelerated-processing units (APUs).
MSI released teaser shots of its upcoming flagship socket LGA2011-2 motherboard, designed for Core i7 "Haswell-E" processors, featuring DDR4 memory interfaces. Called the X99S Gaming 9 AC, as its name suggests, the board is based on Intel X99 Express chipset. It appears to feature eight DDR4 DIMM slots, supporting quad-channel DDR4 memory; five PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slots, with the ability to drive 4-way SLI and CrossFireX; storage connectivity that includes one or more M.2 slots, and SATA-Express, apart form eight SATA 6Gb/s ports. Networking includes 802.11 ac WLAN, Killer E2200 gigabit Ethernet, eight (or more) USB 3.0 ports, and a boat-load of overclocker-friendly features.
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash application products, today launches the first DDR4 overclocking memory of XPG series - XPG Z1, which supports the latest Intel Haswell-E platform for ultimate performance. With the benefits of DDR4, the XPG Z1 is not only a powerful weapon for gaming, also an important component for overclocking.
Performance Boosts with Great Power Efficiency
DDR4 outperforms DDR3 with improved performance and lower power consumption. The operating voltage has decreased from 1.5V to 1.2V, which is a 20% reduction of power, and keeps the system at a low temperature for stable operation. With speeds of up to 2800 MHz, timings of CL 17-17-17 and transfer bandwidth reaching 22 GB/s, the XPG Z1 provides improved efficiency of data transfer than ever. It only requires 1.2V to achieve high clock frequency of 2800 MHz for overclockers. In addition, the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) of XPG Z1 allows direct application without changing settings in the BIOS, facilitating usage and system stability.
Resistance to shock, low noise and low power consumption - these are the superior physical properties of SSDs, which have become essential for satisfying the storage requirements of industrial computers. The application scope of SSDs on industrial computers has also expanded due to increasingly harsh market demands and advancing process technologies.
With the increasing prevalence of the concept of security, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have gradually been used for the purpose of national defense and monitoring. It will be further developed in commercial applications, such as oil pipe monitoring, environment observation, aviation, communication transmission and other commercial applications. The importance of stability of a storage device is thus in top priority with such an exciting prospect.
Wednesday, August 6th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Power Supplies
Cooler Master decided to upgrade their VS(M) series and added a new model with 750 W capacity and nothing but Japanese capacitors, which play a key role in its increased reliability. Today, the VSM750 will be put to the test to prove it is worthy of your money.
Mad Catz Interactive, Inc announced today the shipping of the S.T.R.I.K.E. M Wireless Keyboard. Designed around a compact tablet sized footprint, the S.T.R.I.K.E. M is designed for home or mobile use and can pair with up to four devices simultaneously.
The key feature of the S.T.R.I.K.E. M that sets it apart from all other Bluetooth keyboards is that it has an Optical Finger Navigation (OFN) Mouse Sensor that allows the user to navigate on an Android device or connected TV with the familiarity of controlling a mouse cursor on a computer screen. The OFN feature makes navigation and game play immediately familiar to mouse and keyboard gamers and anybody who has ever surfed the web. Powered by a rechargeable Lithium Polymer Battery with up to 45 hours of battery life, the S.T.R.I.K.E. M features illuminated backlighting, dedicated media buttons, and on board memory used for storing multiple macro commands.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. announced today that it has begun mass producing a new, high-performance SAS-interface solid state drive (SSD) using 10-nanometer (nm) class MLC NAND flash memory.
"With our new SAS SSD, our competitiveness in the enterprise storage SSD market has been strengthened," said Jeeho Baek, vice president, memory marketing, Samsung Electronics. "We are committed to providing storage customers with an exceptionally wide variety of next-generation, high-capacity SSDs in driving the fast-growing enterprise storage SSD market."
LSI, an Avago Technologies Company, today announced breakthrough performance and endurance demonstrations of its third-generation SandForce SF3700 flash controller. After successfully introducing industry-leading sequential performance of 1800 MB/s, the SF3700 is now demonstrating mixed 80/20 (read/write) workload performance of up to 1300 MB/s with a native PCIe interface. This incredible real-world performance is supported by the integrated SHIELD error correction with hard and soft LDPC and DSP technology, engineered to meet the associated endurance requirements.
The SF3700 performance and endurance represents a substantial improvement over competitive flash controller designs. Unlike current solutions, the SF3700 controller is optimized and architected for bi-directional PCIe traffic, unlocking the maximum performance capability to meet requirements for client and enterprise applications.
Synology has been investigating and working with users affected by a recent ransomware called "SynoLocker." Synology has confirmed the ransomware affects Synology NAS servers running older versions of DiskStation Manager, by exploiting a vulnerability that was fixed in December, 2013, at which time Synology released patched software and notified users to update via various channels.
Affected users may encounter the following symptoms:
- When attempting to log in to DSM, a screen appears informing users that data has been encrypted and a fee is required to unlock data.
- Abnormally high CPU usage or a running process called "synosync" (which can be checked at Main Menu > Resource Monitor).
- DSM 4.3-3810 or earlier; DSM 4.2-3236 or earlier; DSM 4.1-2851 or earlier; DSM 4.0-2257 or earlier is installed, but the system says no updates are available at Control Panel > DSM Update.
AgigA Tech, Inc., a subsidiary of Cypress Semiconductor Corp. and a leading provider of high-speed, high-density, and battery-free nonvolatile memory solutions, today announced that it is now sampling the industry's first DDR4 Nonvolatile DIMM (NVDIMM) to key OEMs and development partners. The AGIGARAM DDR4 NVDIMM has been designed to operate in the standard DIMM sockets of next-generation, Intel-based server platforms, providing a significant boost to I/O performance in a host of applications, including storage and database acceleration. AgigA Tech will show its new AGIGARAM DDR4 NVDIMM here at the Flash Memory Summit in the Storage Network Industry Association's (SNIA) booth number 808.
DDR4 is the latest evolution in DRAM technology, building upon previous generations with improved reliability, speed and power. With current data rates reaching 2,400 MT/s, DDR4 increases performance up to 50% over DDR3, while delivering a 20% reduction in operating voltage. With DDR4's additional power-saving features, total overall power savings versus DDR3 can be as much as 40%. The AGIGARAM DDR4 NVDIMM builds upon the success of the DDR3 NVDIMM products currently shipping to top-tier OEMs.
Even as we rejoice the fact that NVIDIA's GeForce GTX 750 Ti is one of its first mid-range GPUs in recent times that can be passively cooled; there are those AIBs that are taking advantage of its low TDP in another way - milking the most performance out of it, using overclocking. The Galaxy GeForce GTX 750 Ti Hall of Fame (HOF) is one such card. It gives the otherwise sub-75W GPU a monstrous triple-fan cooler; and a strong VRM; to support some high (yet undisclosed) out of the box clock speeds. The cooler features a large aluminium fin-stack heatsink to which heat is fed by a couple of copper heat pipes; and ventilated by a trio of 80 mm fans. Under it, is Galaxy's signature white PCB. Galaxy may market this card in the Greater China region, while its European brand, KFA2, could sell a handful units in the old continent.
SanDisk Corporation, a global leader in flash storage solutions, and Super Micro Computer, Inc., today announced that the SanDisk ULLtraDIMM solid state drive (SSD), the industry's first enterprise-class, ultra-low latency, memory-channel connected storage solution, will begin shipping in Supermicro's Green SuperServer and SuperStorage platforms. Adding flash storage on the memory bus provides Supermicro with a powerful solution to help customers address growing data center application performance requirements without a significant infrastructure investment.
"The ULLtraDIMM SSD was designed to expand the reach of flash storage throughout the data center and scale to meet the requirements of any enterprise application - no matter how bandwidth or capacity intensive," said John Scaramuzzo, senior vice president and general manager, Enterprise Storage Solutions at SanDisk. "We are very excited to partner with Supermicro in offering this innovative, ultra-low latency storage solution to help their customers accelerate the performance of their cloud, virtualization, HPC and other applications and experience the benefits of a flash-transformed data center."
Plextor, a leading developer of digital storage technology, launches the M6 PRO SATA SSD. First previewed at Computex 2014, the professional grade M6 PRO is the new gold standard for SATA SSDs, combining extremely fast, highly stable Plextor hardware with PlexTurbo, the unique second-generation RAM caching software. With PlexTurbo, the M6 PRO is able to go far beyond the limit of the SATA III interface and achieve up to ten times the performance of hardware alone.
Making its debut with the Plextor M6 PRO is PlexTurbo, software that uses some of the system RAM as an ultra-smart RAM cache; this bypasses the limitations of the 6 Gb/s SATA III channel and maximizes performance. Plextor refers to it as second-generation RAM caching software because the smart software overcomes the disadvantages of existing caching technology. Not only does PlexTurbo outperform competing technology, it minimizes RAM usage, uses active data comparisons to prevent unnecessary writes, and even prevents RAM cache data loss during crashes or power interruptions.
AMD today announced the AMD FirePro S9150 server card -- the most powerful server Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) ever built for High Performance Computing. Based on the AMD Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture, the first AMD architecture designed specifically with compute workloads in mind, the AMD FirePro S9150 server card is the first server card to support enhanced double precision and break the 2.0 TFLOPS double precision barrier. With 16 GB of GDDR5 memory -- 33 percent more than the competition -- and maximum power consumption of 235 watts, AMD FirePro S9150 server GPUs provide supercomputers with massive compute performance while maximizing available power budgets.
"Today's supercomputers feature an increasing mix of GPUs, CPUs and co-processors to achieve great performance, and many of them are being implemented in an environmentally responsible manner to help reduce power and water consumption," said David Cummings, senior director and general manager, professional graphics, AMD. "Designed for large scale multi-GPU support and unmatched compute performance, AMD FirePro S9150 ushers in a new era of supercomputing. Its memory configuration, compute capabilities and performance per watt are unmatched in its class, and can help take supercomputers to the next level of performance and energy efficiency."
Synology Inc. today announced that the ElephantDrive package has been added as a customized version to Synology Package Center. Users can now enjoy scheduled and real-time data backup onto ElephantDrive via the web-based management interface for enhanced data security.
"Synology is excited to add ElephantDrive as part of its members of hybrid cloud backup portfolio. The combination will bring separate site redundancy, and the smooth integration of the embedded ElephantDrive module allows fast, simple operation backups for users." said Andy, Developer Relations Manager of Synology. "The native ElephantDrive users can also retain local file access with Synology NAS servers."
Antec Mobile Products (A.M.P), a global consumer electronics company and division of leading hardware manufacturer Antec Inc., is announcing an addition to their audio line: the Pulse Lite Bluetooth Headphones. This extension of the A.M.P line means premium audio is now available in lightweight, trendsetting style.
Pulse Lite headphones boast big sound in a sleek, lightweight design, with integrated volume and playback control. Ergonomic ear cups and adjustable headband mean a comfortable fit while the 10-hour battery life keeps the music pumping - wirelessly.
Technology is advanced in all aspects; SSD is rapidly replacing traditional hard disks whether on personal computers or business applications. The growth in demand of SSD for industrial application is obviously.
KINGMAX has manufactured memory products for many years, and has successfully partnered with car PC, smartphone, and POS industry, providing customers with the best storage solutions. Not only focus on high standard transmission rate, but also take seriously on data storage safety for customers! At the manufacturing site is not as comfortable as in the office. Everybody knows how important the performance and reliability is for database systems. The following situations may occur if an SSD was not properly selected according to the usage environment: the sequential write speed and MTBF (mean time between failures) is shorter, the hard disk fails because of over writing, or the hard disk needs to be replaced sooner because RAID can't provide protection against read errors, etc. The prices paid in these situations are usually far more than the cost saved.
Club 3D, the leading manufacturer of AMD based graphics cards and Ultra AV cables and adapters based in the Netherlands does it again. After being the first in the world to commercially launch a Multi Stream Transport MST Hub in the market in 2013, we are now proud to announce the worlds' first Y-Cabled Docking Station under the Club 3D SenseVision range of products and strengthen our presence in the professional market! Club 3D will start shipping this new product in August 2014.
We see a strong growth in demand for devices targeting mobile productivity. Tablets and Ultrabooks quickly become a more widespread alternative for a classic Notebook or Mobile Workstation. With that increased mobility the demand for more productivity 'on the go' is constantly expanding. The Club 3D MultiStream Transport (MST) Hub is a great tool for adding multiple monitors to your (mini)DisplayPort fitted Notebook, Ultrabook or Microsoft Surface Pro 2 and the brandnew Microsoft Surface Pro 3 tablet but wouldn't it be great if you could connect to monitors, peripherals, transmit data and charge your phone over the same connection at the same time?
QNAP Systems, Inc. announced today that Turbo NAS products now support the new WD Red 5/6 TB NAS hard drives and WD Red Pro NAS hard drives. Specifically designed for NAS applications and featuring exclusive NASware 3.0 technology, the new WD Red and WD Red Pro hard drives provide enhanced reliability and performance for NAS applications.
The new WD Red 5/6 TB NAS hard drives are designed for NAS systems with up to 8 drive bays and can easily meet the growing data storage demands of SOHO and home users. The WD Red Pro NAS hard drives are designed to provide affordable, robust and highly-reliable hard drives for medium-to-large-scale business NAS systems with 8-16 drive bays.
PROMISE Technology Inc., a global leader in the storage industry that develops solutions for the cloud/IT, rich media and video surveillance markets, announced today that its Vess storage series supports the new WD Red PRO line of SATA hard drives.
The WD Red PRO line is specifically designed for NAS applications and features NASware 3.0 in addition to a unique vibration sensor design which enables the hard drives to be paired with for example the Vess R2000 to provide an optimized NAS environment experience with impressive reliability for end-users and owners of small and medium-sized business.
Intel's
Ivy Bridge purge continues as the Santa Clara-based company announced its plans to retire five more chips based on the aging architecture, the Core i3-3110M, i3-3120M, i3-3130M, i3-3217U, i3-3227U. These mobile CPUs were released between Q2 2013 and Q1 2013 and are set to 'survive' until Q2 2015 as May 22nd is the last day of shipments. Intel is still taking orders for these processors but that will stop November 21st.
Thermaltake, being an industry leader in computer chassis, thermal solutions, and power supply units introduces Urban S71 World of Tanks Edition windowed full-tower chassis. It's the first time Thermaltake partners with Wargaming Public Company, Ltd., an award-winning online game developer and publisher as well as one of the leaders in the free-to-play MMO market. The custom-designed cover with an illuminated World of Tanks theme and logos on front panel creates an unprecedented experience for World of Tanks fans in particular. Urban S71 World of Tanks Edition will be firstly launched in Russia.
"It's really a great pleasure to be officially working with Wargaming-one of the most prestigious game developers-as well as launching Urban S71 WOT Edition for the gamers," says Kenny Lin, Thermaltake CEO and Chairman. "Never sit tight, we are going to rebuild the corporate culture, bringing different and distinctive image to our customers. We are keen to accept any challenges!"
Tuesday, August 5th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Cases
There are plenty of cube cases out there, but many lack real innovation. Cooltek aims to take cube gaming enclosures to the next level with the W1. Featuring a smart combination of aluminum and steel and a choice between a windowed or solid side panel.
The Storage Products Business Unit of Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc., a committed technology leader, announces the MD04ABA-V Series, delivering the company's first 5TB1 3.5-inch, low RPM hard disk drive (HDD) specifically for surveillance applications. The MD04ABA-V series is designed for use in surveillance digital video recorders (SDVR), surveillance network video recorders (SNVR) and hybrid SDVR.
The MD04ABA-V Series is designed for surveillance applications with support for up to 32 high definition cameras2. The Series supports 24/7 operation, and also incorporates rotational vibration (RV) sensors, making it suitable for use in RAID/multi-HDD based surveillance platforms. With the massive 5TB capacity point, customers now have the flexibility to retain higher resolution surveillance video data for longer periods using fewer HDDs, helping to maintain a smaller storage footprint and lower energy costs.
ASRock unveiled a pair of new motherboards based on Intel's new Pentium J2900 quad-core "Bay Trail" SoC. These include the Q2900-ITX (mini-ITX) and the Q2900M (micro-ATX). Both feature the 10W J2900 chips cooled by a fan-less chunky aluminium heatsink. The J2900 features four cores, nominal clock speeds of 2.40 GHz, with 2.66 GHz Turbo Boost, 2 MB of cache, 688-896 MHz Intel HD Graphics, and a dual-channel DDR3 memory controller.
The Q2900-ITX offers two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots, a single PCI-Express 2.0 x1, a miniPCIe 2.0, two-each of SATA 6 Gb/s and SATA 3 Gb/s ports, four USB 3.0 ports, display outputs that include DVI, D-Sub, and HDMI; 8-channel HD audio, and gigabit Ethernet. The Q2900M, on the other hand, features much of the same features, except full-size DIMM slots, an additional PCI-Express 2.0 x16 and PCIe 2.0 x1 slots; and 6-channel HD audio instead of 8-channel.
OWC continues to innovate and build on the proven performance and flexibility of its second generation ThunderBay 4 by releasing the ThunderBay 4 RAID 5 Edition. The ThunderBay 4 RAID 5 Edition gives users the freedom to use this cutting-edge technology as additional storage or backup, with the optimal balance of data-redundancy and performance via various RAID configurations.
Thinking Outside the Enclosure
Over a year ago, OWC and SoftRAID created a strong collaborative partnership to harness the full power and flexibility of ThunderBay 4 and software RAID 5 to bring enhanced performance, storage, and data-redundancy capabilities to the Mac.
CyberPower Inc., www.cyberpowerpc.com a global manufacturer of custom gaming PCs, gaming laptops, and performance workstations, today announced it has teamed with Micro-Star International Co. (MSI) to launch Venom-X, a program that will allow customers to purchase select MSI-branded products direct from CyberPower Inc. and customize their rig with a full menu of CPU, GPU, RAM and other hardware and service upgrades such as factory-warranted overclocking.
CYBERPOWERPC is offering a service that takes the retail/etail experience to its next level - the ability to order systems and hardware from a number of first tier manufacturers and configure that system to your own specifications. MSI becomes the first of several partners to participate in the Venom-X customization program. MSI systems with Venom-X will allow customers to customize and fine tune their configuration of MSI GAMING products with more memory, larger capacity SSDs, higher end GPUs and more. To launch the service CYBERPOWERPC will give the Venom-X treatment to the MSI GAMING AIO all-in-one, the MSI Nightblade Z97 mini-ITX system, and Venom-X MS Series Desktops.
MSI Computer Corp, a leading manufacturer of computer hardware products and solutions, unveils the world's thinnest and lightest mobile workstation, the WS60. Powered by state-of-the-art technologies, including NVIDIA Quadro K2100M 3D graphics, Intel Core i7 processor and MSI's Super RAID technology, MSI's newest workstation weighs only 4.36 lbs., measures less than 0.8-inches thick, and delivers superior performance in an unprecedented sexy design.
"The WS60 is the perfect workstation for mobile designers and CAD CAM Engineers," says Andy Tung, president of MSI Pan America. "It combines the versatility of an ultrabook with the performance of a workstation and takes it to another level with Thunderbolt connectivity, MSI's Shortcut Manager, and an array of gaming components."
Continuing to expand its monitor lineup, BenQ is currently preparing the release of a new IPS-packing widescreen monitor, the multimedia-focused EZ2450L. This first member of the EZ Series is equipped with a 23.8-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) panel and has 'ultra-slim' bezels, a flicker-free backlight, a Low Blue Light mode to reduce blue light exposure, MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link) support for easy streaming from a MHL-enabled mobile device, plus a function called Smart Focus for ' distraction-free viewing'.
BenQ's monitor also features 178/178-degree viewing angles, a 4 ms GTG response time, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 250 cd/m2 brightness, two 2 W speakers, and D-Sub and dual-HDMI connectors. The EZ2450L has yet to be priced.
ROCCAT Studios rolls full-speed into late summer with a fresh and exciting design philosophy, and two groundbreaking new products to represent ROCCAT's trailblazing peripheral creation. Making their first appearances at Gamescom 2014 in Cologne, Germany this August, the Nyth gaming mouse, and Skeltr gaming keyboard are set to take the gaming world by storm.
René Korte, CEO and founder of ROCCAT discusses the amazingly versatile Nyth, an MMO mouse that is so much more. Says René, "We've wanted to develop our own MMO mouse for a long time, but like always, we end up seeing a bigger picture once we begin brainstorming. MMO mice have these massive button grids that are locked in. You can change the button functionality, but what if you don't like the layout? Our solution is a wholly modular MMO mouse, with interchangeable button combinations that suit the player. No two gamers are alike, and because we know that, we've gone many steps beyond just allowing them to switch out the in-package button options. Our fans will have access to our button inventory files, and those that are into 3D printing can even create their very own."
MSI, the leading gaming computer innovator and manufacturer, announced the latest "GT72 Dominator Pro laptops featuring NVIDIA's powerful GeForce GTX880M and GTX870M (Dominator) graphics. With brush metal and aesthetics lines inspired by matte black racing super cars, the new GT72 notebook is designed to be the overwhelming dominator of the cyber world. The cutting-edge features, groundbreaking performance, and innovative gaming experience of MSI's laptops are dominating battlefield. It is believed that the new GT72 will be steadily winning over extreme gamers around the world during 2014.
Eric Kuo, vice president global sales & marketing, MSI Notebook, points out, "As a reaction of the booming competing gaming market, there has been an increasing number of heavy-load games, so gamers are demanding more in terms of graphics, functions, and other design features specifically for gamers. MSI has heard their desire and responded with numerous breakthroughs and innovations. The outcome has been laptops with the latest processor and graphics card on the market, most advanced and rich array of features, and better gamer-friendly experience."
Dutch Company X2 Products will soon be rolling the Genza, an ambidextrous and customizable gaming mouse. The upcoming peripheral makes use of a 3500dpi infrared sensor and features seven programmable buttons (Omron micro switches), interchangeable side panels, an adjustable palm rest, 64K of memory for profiles, a built-in lighting system, and USB connecitivity via a braided 1.8-meter cable.
Genza is backed by a two-year warranty and has a recommended price tag of $59.95/€44.95. X2's mouse should become available later this month.
BiTMICRO Networks, Inc. today announced MAXio E-Series PCIe solid state drives (SSDs). Powered by BiTMICRO's patented Talino ASIC Architecture, the new MAXio E-Series SSD delivers superior capacity, performance and reliability for companies that need to support high volume application workloads.
BiTMICRO MAXio E-Series SSDs are based on the company's industry proven Talino ASIC Architecture which is used by strategic partners including RunCore, one of the largest manufacturers and suppliers of solid state products and solutions in China. "BiTMICRO has developed a truly revolutionary architecture that is very high performance, but also high capacity to meet the burgeoning application demands of our customers in China and around the globe," said Limuel Yap, Vice President, Technical and Business Development, RunCore. "It changes the way people think and address their enterprise storage requirements."
Acer America has announced the availability of the Acer B286HK display for both consumers and commercial users in North America. This leading-edge 28-inch display features sharp images and exceptional color accuracy with an ultra-high 4K2K (3840x2160) resolution and 6-axis color adjustment.
The UHD 3840x2160 resolution has four times as many pixels as 1920x1080 Full HD, delivering exceptional detail, a perfect fit for consumers who enjoy photography and video editing and professionals requiring premium image quality, such as graphic designers, photographers, videographers, website developers and marketing professionals. A large 28-inch backlit LED screen is ideal for viewing large spreadsheets, brochures, newsletters and two documents side by side.
PMC, the semiconductor and software solutions innovator transforming networks that connect, move and store big data, today established a new ultra-fast storage class memory tier to accelerate critical applications in scale-out storage and all-flash arrays. The PMC Flashtec NVRAM Drives combine the speed and endurance of DRAM with the persistency of NAND flash to deliver ten times higher performance than the fastest Solid State Drive (SSD), at more than 10 million I/Os per second (IOPS), with sub-microsecond latency.
Leveraging PCI Express (PCIe) 3.0, the Flashtec NVRAM Drives connect directly to the host to optimize CPU utilization and maximize overall system performance. The latest member of PMC's enterprise-class Flashtec portfolio of controllers and drives, the new solutions are based on the industry-standard NVMe interface to enable plug-and-play PCIe connectivity, which decreases time to market in data center and enterprise storage deployments.
Marvell today announced the introduction of its first native Non-Volatile Memory Express (NVMe) solid-state drive (SSD) controller, the 88SS1093. The Marvell 88SS1093 NVMe SSD controller delivers high-performance solid-state storage solutions with a fully Flash-optimized architecture overcoming the SAS/SATA performance limitations by optimizing hardware and software to take full advantage on NAND and addressing the needs of data centers and client systems that utilize next-generation PCIe 3.0 SSD storage. The 88SS1093 also integrates Marvell's third generation NANDEdge error-correcting, low-density parity check (LDPC) technology for higher reliability and endurance boost that was previously announced with Marvell's fifth generation SATA SSD controller, the 88SS1074.
"As the global leader of the storage industry, we are very proud of our innovation, invention, and contribution to the advancement of a wide range of storage technologies and products. I am very excited to see that our new SSD controller solution has once again raised the technology bar with superior performance, high reliability and robust security," said Weili Dai, President and Co-Founder of Marvell. "I am very proud of our close collaboration with leading tier one OEM and ODM partners around the world in enabling the rapid growth of the SSD market from client devices to data centers and enterprise systems. At Marvell, it is our pride and long term commitment to drive innovation to better lives for all in the new era of 'Smart Life and Smart Lifestyle'."
Enmotus Inc. announced that it is demonstrating its FuzeDrive hybrid storage software solutions at the Flash Memory Summit in Santa Clara, CA. The product and technology demos highlight the versatility of Enmotus' hybridization technology, which enables high performance, cost effective hybrid storage utilizing storage media such as Flash/HDD and Flash/Flash as well as next generation Storage Class Memory such as NVDIMM.
FuzeDrive targets applications that require high performance such as databases and analytics as well as content delivery solutions. The demonstration can be seen at the Flash Memory Summit, booth 219, taking place in the Santa Clara Convention Center on Aug. 5-7.
Apotop, maker of creative electronics and peripherals, has released the S3C SATA III SSD with SM2246 controller and Synchronous NAND Flash coming in 64GB, 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB sizes.
Upgrade and speed up your computer with the Apotop S3C SSD which uses cutting-edge solid state architecture with a SM2246 controller with Synchronous NAND flash, capable of reaching sequential read speeds of up to 500 MB/s. The S3C also allows for exceptionally quick file transfers during editing and backup because of the supported 300 MB/s sequential write speed.
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash application products, today launches the industrial grade ISSS312 2.5" SATA III (6 Gb/s) Solid State Drive. It features low power consumption, industrial grade S.M.A.R.T. and power loss protection (PLP) for excellent performance and reliability. It also provides MLC, A+ SLC, SLC grades and wide temperature to meet the upgrade requirements of industrial equipment and enterprise devices.
MLC/A+ SLC/SLC solutions for various applications
Since storage applications are rapidly changing, the concepts of consumer digital lifestyles and the Internet of Things (I.O.T.) are developing, and web applications and technology are growing sharply, the industrial equipment and enterprise platforms need more powerful data computing capability, real-time transfer rate and high I/O throughput to cope with future trends.
Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO: 6502) today announced that it will showcase its latest NAND flash and storage products at Flash Memory Summit, the world's largest flash memory conference, which will be held from August 5 to 7 at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, California, USA. The exhibition part of Flash Memory Summit will be held in the latter two days, August 6 and 7, and Toshiba will be exhibiting at booth #504.
As revealed by several store listings Toshiba-owned OCZ Storage Solutions is just about ready to release a new consumer-oriented solid state drive, the ARC 100. Coming in 120 GB, 240 GB and 480 GB capacities, this SSD features a 2.5-inch form factor (7 mm height), a SATA 6.0 Gbps interface, a Barefoot 3 M10 controller, and Toshiba-made 19 nm MLC NAND Flash memory chips.
The ARC 100 drivers are capable of sequential read speeds of 490 MB/s and reach 430 MB/s (400 MB/s for the 120 GB model) while writing. The 120 GB, 240 GB and 480 GB can be found priced at
$74.99,
$119.99 and
$239.99, respectively, but they are out of stock.
AMD's Radeon brand is turning out to be its only hope in capturing high-end gaming PC sales. The brand now covers AMD's high-performance GPUs, system memory modules, and now, client SSDs. The company is giving final touches to three client SSD models in the 2.5-inch SATA form-factor, bearing the Radeon R7 brand, featuring capacities of 120 GB, 240 GB, and 480 GB.
All three feature SATA 6 Gb/s interface, and offer sequential read speeds as high as 550 MB/s, sequential writes of up to 470 MB/s on the 120 GB variant; and up to 530 MB/s on both the 240 GB and 480 GB ones. The three offer 4K random access throughput of up to 85,000 IOPS, 95,000 IOPS, and 100,000 IOPS, respectively; with 4K QD32 steady-state throughput of 12,000 IOPS, 20,000 IOPS, and 23,000 IOPS, respectively. The three are based on OCZ's Indilinx Barefoot 3 processor, driving Toshiba-made 19 nm MLC NAND flash chips. The three will be formally launched on the 13th of August, 2014.
Silicon Motion Technology Corporation, a global leader in designing and marketing NAND flash controllers for solid state storage devices, today introduced SM2256, the world's first complete merchant ASIC/firmware SATA 6 Gb/s SSD controller solution supporting 1x/1y/1z nm triple-level cell (TLC) NAND from all major NAND suppliers.
Leveraging Silicon Motion's proprietary NANDXtend error-correcting code (ECC) technology, the SM2256 provides comprehensive data protection and enhances the endurance and retention of TLC NAND, delivering more than three times better durability for TLC SSD. The SM2256 and Silicon Motion's other products will be showcased at booth #615 and # 617 at the upcoming Flash Memory Summit in Santa Clara, CA from August 5 to 7.
GIGABYTE today announced the Q21, a lightweight and affordable 11.6" laptop with high mobility needs. Powered by an upgraded Intel Celeron Processor, the Q21 brings enhanced integrated graphic core processing, delivering a satisfying experience for executing daily tasks and web browsing. The built-in dual storage provides massive capacity for personal data without sacrificing transmission speed on its rapid mSATA SSD. The Q21 strikes a perfect balance for those who pursue mobility, quality and great value.
Multicore Performance and Power Efficiency with Intel Celeron Processor
The high-performance Celeron processor on Q21 includes Intel Burst Technology 2.0 with four cores, four threads and 2 MB L2 cache, offering triple the graphics capabilities of previous-generation Atom processors. The new 22 nm microarchitecture brings performance increases without sacrificing energy efficiency. Intel HD Graphics Technology with Intel Clear Video HD Technology delivers smooth visuals and an unparalleled multimedia experience. Q21 also supports the latest DX11 for expanded PC application, game support and mobile entertainment.
A Gigabyte executive, in an interview with Expreview on the sidelines of ChinaJoy Game Developers Conference, confirmed that NVIDIA will launch its next-generation GeForce GTX 880 high-end graphics card in September, 2014. He said that in context of disclosing that his company is working on a custom-design card based on the new chip, named GTX 880 G1.Gamer. The new card will be designed with a massive cooler capable of handling thermal loads as high as 650W. What this means is, with its fans spooled down, the cooler will be able to passively cool the GPU over a wider temperature band, regardless of the GPU load. The fans will begin to kick in only at a higher temperature. Based on the "Maxwell" architecture, the GTX 880 could step up performance-per-Watt metrics for NVIDIA.
Monday, August 4th 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
NAS
The NAS market grows day by day and all companies thrive to introduce more and more innovative products. In today’s review, we will take a good look at one of these products, the Synology DS414slim, a compact NAS with a huge feature list.
Here are some of the first pictures of Gigabyte's Essence mini-ITX case. Designed for entry-level mini-ITX desktops that can be fan-less, the Essence measures 300 mm x 234 mm x 74 mm; and is made of SECC steel and plastic. Its design involves a main cubicle inclined onto a stand, which encloses its power supply. A 120W external power brick supplies 12V, which it then gives out as various ATX standard power connectors. The case can hold a full-height mini-ITX motherboard, and a 2.5-inch drive. The case is beginning to sell in Japan, priced at the equivalent of $130. The source doesn't expect it to be priced above $100 in western markets.
SMART Modular Technologies, Inc., a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of specialty memory and storage solutions, including memory modules, flash memory cards and other memory and solid state storage products, has announced today the introduction of its next generation DDR4 NVDIMMs. Offering non-volatile memory functionality while utilizing the latest DDR4 DRAM technology, this memory solution is designed to improve application performance and data integrity in server environments.
Unique to these new DDR4-2133 NVDIMMs is SMART's proprietary SafeStor technology, the engine which initiates backup and restore operations upon command from the host controller. The NVDIMM modules also support multiple command delivery options to trigger SafeStor backup during a host-detected power outage and recovery events. The SafeStor engine employs multi-channel fast NAND and high-speed switching circuitry to provide robust backup and restore capability, all while functioning as a JEDEC standard DDR4 RDIMM during normal operation. Temporary power is provided to the NVDIMM during a power loss by a hybrid supercap module, which can be tailored to individual application environments. The new NVDIMMs also feature an end-to-end error checking and correction capability to ensure a high level of data integrity during backup and restore operations.
Mad Catz Interactive, Inc. (NYSE MKT/TSX: MCZ), today announced financial results for the fiscal 2015 first quarter ended June 30, 2014. Fiscal 2015 first quarter net sales declined 10% to $16.7 million, driven by a 17% decline in net sales in both EMEA and the Americas, offset partially by a 49% increase in net sales in APAC. Gross margin for the fiscal 2015 first quarter improved to 30.2%, compared to 28.7% in the prior year quarter. Total operating expenses in the fiscal 2015 first quarter decreased 17% from the prior year period to $6.2 million.
Diluted loss per share was ($0.02) for the fiscal 2015 first quarter, compared to a diluted loss per share of ($0.03) in the prior year quarter. Net position of bank loan, less cash, of $5.3 million at June 30, 2014, compared to $4.1 million at March 31, 2014 and $8.4 million at June 30, 2013. Highlights also include shipping of the new range of Tritton Xbox One licensed headsets, the S.T.R.I.K.E.M Mobile Keyboard for iOS, Android and Windows; the Saitek X-55 RHINO H.O.T.A.S. System for Windows PC; the R.A.T.TE (Tournament Edition) Gaming Mouse for Windows PC and Mac, and the Mad Catz C.T.R.L.R Wireless Gamepad for Amazon Fire TV, PC, Mac, and Android Smart Devices. The company announced participation in Needham Interconnect Conference on August 6, 2014.
Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM), the company's in-house NAS operating system, is vulnerable to a CryptoLocker hack, which the company is referring to as "SynoLocker." The nature of how NAS units get infected by this hack is unknown, but when it is, the malware encrypts portion of data stored on your NAS volumes, and holds it for ransom, for 0.6 BTC (US $350 as of now). It decrypts that data only upon payment of that money. There's no guarantee of your data being held for ransom again. The issue is currently localized to NAS units running non-updated versions of DSM 4.3, but Synology is investigating if the hack works on DSM 5.0 as well.
Synology is urging users to take the following steps - close all ports for external (Internet) access, and unplug your NAS from your local network; and with your NAS plugged into just one machine, update DSM to the latest version; and back-up your data. If your NAS unit is infected, disconnect it from the network, perform a hard-shutdown, and
contact Synology. The issue highlights one of the many dangers of a distributed currency, in which the beneficiary of funds is difficult to trace.
Here's an emergency statement from Synology (the company is preparing a press-release):
Netlist, Inc., a leading provider of high performance memory storage solutions for the cloud computing and storage markets, today announced the introduction of its NVvault DDR3 high performance NVDIMM product family compatible on selected Intel-based Ivy Bridge server boards. This new product family is built upon Netlist's patented IP, expertise and technical know-how in hybrid (DRAM to FLASH) DIMM technology, which includes close to a decade of delivering NVDIMMs to leading storage OEMs.
Netlist's NVvault NVDIMM combines the best attributes of DRAM and NAND Flash with advanced system interface architecture on a DIMM subsystem to provide a 2DPC 1600MT/s performance. With a JEDEC standard DDR3 interface, NVvault NVDIMM is fully compatible with the Supermicro X9DRH-iF-NV server board, which features two Intel E5-2600 processors, Intel ADR (Asynchronous DRAM Refresh) chipset and 16 DIMM sockets. As a result, NVDIMMs and Registered DIMMs can be mixed in the same channel, making the DIMMs truly plug-and-play with MRC from Intel.
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of NAND Flash storage solutions, announces its updated mSATA SSD drives.
Super Talent's mSATA SSD line provides a solution for mobile computing where saving physical space is an absolute necessity. As the mobile market continues to grow, so does the demand for high capacity storage in small form factors. Built to the MO-300B form factor standard, Super Talent mSATA SSDs are the perfect solution for mobile devices.
Two years ago, LEPA has successfully introduced the first fan series. With the unique LED effects of the Casino and Chopper models, the manufacturer has quickly won the hearts of gamers and hardware enthusiasts. In the meantime, the LEPA engineers worked on new products and technological advancements to boost up the cooling performance of the fans. As a result, the company now presents the BOL.Quiet series with three new 12cm models. They are now available for sale in Europe.
The patented BOL Bearing from LEPA
All LEPA fans are based on a patented bearing technology. In comparison with usual ball bearing fans, LEPA's "Barometric Oilless Bearing" (BOL) ensures a smoother and quieter rotation. Furthermore, the BOL fans are designed for an extraordinary long lifetime of 160,000 hours MTBF! To reach such high performance capability, LEPA applies a self-lubricating sleeve made from a high-tech nano material as well as a magnet which connects the rotor with the base. That way, the manufacturer minimizes the contact area and can avoid annoying rattling or grinding noises.
Acer today announced the new Veriton Z4810G series all-in-one (AiO) commercial desktops with 23-inch Full HD IPS displays for both businesses and institutional customers in the United States. The new AiO desktops deliver Full HD visuals and comfortable ergonomics in a manageable and secure platform.
The Veriton Z4810G series AiO desktops are ideal for professionals wanting to save space or desire an attractive and user-friendly computing solution for boardrooms, executive offices, bullpens, reception areas and more. The 23-inch LED-backlit LCD with IPS technology delivers vivid, clear visuals thanks to a 1920 x 1080 maximum resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio. Removable feet and VESA wall mount support enable the display to be hung on a wall to maximize desk space. The 2.0MP Full HD webcam can rotate up to 180 degrees to accommodate multiple participants during videoconferences, while two built-in speakers with high-definition audio provide clear sound.
PNY Technologies ("PNY) considered one of the worldwide leaders in consumer electronics market and memory products, has officially announce the release of the HP TF Class 10 memory cards, in current age the need for more data storage has become more important than ever. The HP TF Micro SDHC and SDXC class 10 significantly improves a consumer's digital lifestyle and to bring breakthrough performance in speed and capacity, it's the fast data transfer speed, making it an ideal storage media.
The HP TF Class 10 is available in 8GB, 16GB, 32GB and 64GB, and the speed rating of Class 10 provides unrivalled read/write performance clocked at a minimum of 10MB/s and are compatible with many of the latest mobiles phones including Android smartphones, BlackBerry Devises, GPS systems, mobile gaming consoles, also with devices ranging from the latest hi-megapixel cameras and HD camcorders to hi-end DSLRs, laptops, and the increasingly popular Tablet PCs and also provides faster data transfer rates and the various capacities help satisfy storage needs for users, from high-resolution pictures, high-quality music, to numerous downloaded applications.
BenQ, a world-leading human technology and solutions provider and professional gaming monitor pioneer, unveiled today the world's first hybrid engine G-SYNC gaming monitor: the XL2420G. Engineered to push the limits of display technology with market-driving innovation, the XL2420G is a solid successor of all the best of BenQ and a true game changer in the midst of a G-SYNC revolution.
Unlike any G-SYNC gaming monitor in the market, this brilliant creation gives gamers the freedom to switch between BenQ's proprietary Classic Mode, which offers unmatched maneuverability to customize every gameplay to your liking, and the G-SYNC Mode, which utilizes NVIDIA's G-SYNC technology to deliver unprecedented speed for buttery smooth on-screen action. Brilliant and fierce, the XL2420G is by far the best gaming monitor for those seeking to own the best of both worlds.
Enterprise storage leader HGST, a Western Digital company, today is previewing a new architecture for solid-state drives (SSDs) that enables applications to provide faster insights to the data-intensive questions of tomorrow. The demonstration shows unprecedented SSD performance levels that are achieved by utilizing a combination of HGST's new, latency-optimized interface protocols with next-generation non-volatile memory components.
The SSD demonstration utilizes a PCIe interface and delivers three million random read IOs per second of 512 bytes each when operating in a queued environment and a random read access latency of 1.5 microseconds (us) in non-queued settings, delivering results that cannot be achieved with existing SSD architectures and NAND Flash memories. This performance is orders of magnitude faster than existing Flash based SSDs, resulting in a new class of block storage devices.
HGST, a Western Digital company, today announced the launch of its new FlashMAX III family of PCIe accelerators, which deliver a dramatic improvement in price/performance for today's most demanding database and cloud workloads. Also introduced today is the new HGST ServerCache software that allows IT administrators to inject acceleration into their existing storage infrastructure by quickly and easily deploying a hybrid flash environment with any SSD.
"For businesses to remain competitive, application performance matters. Data needs to be instantly accessible for real-time processing, analytics and insights," said Ulrich Hansen, vice president of SSD product marketing, HGST. "To address this need, enterprise customers are actively looking to add flash into their storage infrastructure. Whether focused on peak application acceleration with an all-SSD environment, improving lagging performance by tiering or using caching to leverage combined HDD and flash environments, our new hardware and software solutions help strike that balance among performance, complexity and cost."
Here are the winners of the TechPowerUp and MSI Z97 Gaming Giveaway. After coasting through hundreds of entries, one lucky winner was randomly selected, who wins an awesome MSI Z97 Gaming 7 socket LGA1150 motherboard, featuring gaming-grade audio and networking, and support for up to three high-end graphics cards in multi-GPU configurations; on top of stellar CPU overclocking credentials.
Since we have just one of these to give away, there's just one winner, and that is Paul from the United Kingdom. A huge congrats to you, Paul! TechPowerUp will return with more such interesting giveaways.
NVIDIA, the world leader in visual computing technologies and the inventor of the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), renewed its data centre partnership with NTT Communications, leveraging the ICT solutions company's Hong Kong data centre facilities as NVIDIA's data hub across the region. NVIDIA has also selected NTT Communications' Arcstar Global Leased Line Service to extend its business connectivity throughout the Asia Pacific region. The extended service provides NVIDIA with high speed point-to-point Ethernet leased line with up to 10Gbs capability, which is delivered over an automatic re-routable cable network. This offers its regional hub in Hong Kong dedicated, secure and reliable connectivity with its offices in Asia Pacific and across the globe.
Tony Chang, NVIDIA APAC IT Infrastructure Manager said, "We have always had a longstanding relationship with NTT Communications that has grown over the last six years. Its high quality data centre has been instrumental in helping us house our data assets, while providing reliable support for business continuity across the region. In particular, we value the role the Professional Services team has played in guiding us through the relocation and migration of IT equipment.
Friday, August 1st 2014
Today's Reviews
Review
Power Supplies
Another member joined EVGA’s SuperNOVA family. The new P2-1200 with a capacity of 1200 W and Platinum efficiency promises up to 94% efficiency with 220 V input and features a fully modular design with Japanese capacitors to ensure it is incredibly reliable and stable.
Review
Graphics Cards
Palit's GeForce GTX 750 Ti KalmX is the first completely fanless NVIDIA graphics card in a long time to offers performance that doesn't suck. Thanks to its fanless design, there is no noise from the card itself, which is important for media PC systems or quiet office PCs.
The Halo franchise may not have any (recent) ties with the PC space but that isn't stopping Microsoft from trying to sell Halo-branded peripherals to the PC crowd. One such piece of hardware is the upcoming Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Halo Limited Edition: The Master Chief, a 1000 dpi ambidextrous mouse with 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity and support for BlueTrack technology (which improves tracking accuracy).
The Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Halo Limited Edition: The Master Chief also features a battery life of up to 8 months, it comes bundled with an USB nano transceiver, and has a three-year warranty. The mouse costs $29.99 and is
now available for pre-order with shipments expected to kick off in October.
Even though nothing much about ASRock's next generation Intel X99 series motherboards can be revealed yet, we simply can't restrain ourselves from spilling out the good news that ASRock's X99 Extreme4 is the world's first Intel X99 chipset based motherboard to pass Windows 8.1 hardware certification. So, yeah, users may be ensured that ASRock's X99 Extreme4 will support the latest operating system from Microsoft without any problems, and bear in mind that it's coming to you real soon! Kudos to ASRock again!
Not only focusing on developing the most advanced hardware technology, ASRock also keen on bringing the latest software applications to PC users. ASRock pioneers in Windows 8.1 logo submission, and the company's offerings are the best in the overall market. So, why settle for second best? Be the first to lay your hands on the X99 Series computers with ASRock!
Inter-Tech now rolled out a new entry-level PC chassis, a midi tower model known as SY-113. Pictured below, the case measures 410 x 195 x 425 mm and features support for ATX and micro ATX motherboards, a front I/O panel with two USB 2.0 ports, two 5.25-inch and six 3.5-inch drive bays and space for one 80 mm and three 120 mm fans.
The SY-113 is backed by a two-year warranty and comes in two versions, one with a 500 W power supply and one without a PSU. The model equipped with a PSU is already selling for just
under 40 Euro.
Cooler Master, a leading creator, innovator and manufacturer of desktop components and more, announces today its PSU compliance list for the new EU regulations. Next to that we have upgraded the current B-series to a newer better version, the B ver. 2, to make sure these are also EU ready!
As of the 1st of July the new EU regulation for PSUs became in force. As part of the new EU regulation all internally installed power supplies must achieve a minimum level of efficiency in several load conditions and have a power factor of 0.9 at full load. This means that within the EU, focus will be on energy saving and nature friendly designs. The standby power consumption is regulated by the ErP lot6 and cannot exceed more than 0.5W in standby mode. All of Cooler Masters current PSU line-up follow these new regulations. To see all the test results you can visit
this website.
Cooler Master, a leading creator, innovator and manufacturer of desktop components and more, today released the upgrade of the highly efficient and powerful V Semi-Modular Series Power Supplies (PSU) up to 750W. With the 750W semi modular and high efficient PSU, Cooler Master react the demand of the market. The existing VSM series, 450W, 550W and 650W, display the trend to higher wattage with possibility for water cooling and multiple VGA systems. The VSM750 is ready for it.
Traditional PC providers are targeting the upcoming vast wave of replacement of enterprises'equipment caused by termination of Window XP system update service. Besides, a new generation of Internet of Things, cloud-based services and Smart Automation are booming and growing. These have created a great demand for terminal devices, along with the ever-increasing applications.Given the trend of compactness, it is very important that memory module features both simplicity and flexibility, as the storage devices designed for more and more system service resources and for the purpose of thinner hardware appearance.
Apacer, the leading professional manufacturer of memory modules, presented Combo SDIMM in Computex this year. The product derives from an innovative concept and underlines its innovative R&D design that integrates SSD (Solid State Drive) and DRAM on the DRAM Module, adding a new storage choice for principal customers of embedded industrial computer providers. It takes up less motherboard space occupied by storage devices and memory modules. Users can expand SSD storage capacity anytime. Currently Apacer has launched two SSD options, including M.2 NGFF and CFast memory card, both supporting SATA 3.0 (6Gb/s) interface. It is a great breakthrough in storage device field.
In addition to its
new A-series APUs, AMD announced two new CPUs, the Athlon 860K, and the FX-8300. Built in the FM2+ package, the Athlon 860K is a quad-core CPU based on the 28 nm "Kaveri" silicon, with its integrated graphics disabled. It features four "Steamroller" CPU cores clocked at 3.70 GHz, with an unlocked base-clock multiplier that enables overclocking. The two modules that make up the four cores feature half their normal L2 cache amounts, and so the total L2 cache is just 2 MB. The chip will run on socket FM2+ motherboards based on the A88X, A85, A75, and A55 chipsets. The FX-8300, on the other hand, is a budget eight-core processor in the AM3+ package. It's based on the 32 nm "Vishera" silicon, featuring eight CPU cores spread across four "Piledriver" modules; clocked at 3.20 GHz, with 3.50 GHz of Turbo Core frequencies. The chips feature 2 MB of L2 cache per module, and 8 MB of shared L3 cache. Its TDP is rated at 95W.
NVIDIA is expected to unveil its next generation high-end graphics card, the GeForce GTX 880, in September 2014. The company could tease its upcoming products at Gamescom. The company is reportedly holding a huge media event in California this September, where it's widely expected to discuss high-end graphics cards based on the "Maxwell" architecture. Much like AMD's Hawaii press event that predated actual launch of its R9 290 series by several weeks; NVIDIA's event is expected to be a paper-launch of one or more graphics cards based on its GM204 silicon, with market availability expected in time for Holiday 2014 sales.
The GM204 is expected to be NVIDIA's next workhorse chip, which will be marketed as high-end in the GeForce GTX 800 series, and performance-segment in its following GTX 900 series; much like how the company milked its "Kepler" based GK104 across two series. It's expected to be built on the existing 28 nm process, although one cannot rule out an optical shrink to 20 nm later (like NVIDIA shrunk the G92 from 65 nm to 55 nm). The GTX 880 reportedly features around 3,200 CUDA cores, and 4 GB of GDDR5 memory.
