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Thursday, September 30th 2010
GIGABYTE GO OC 2010 World Wide Final in Taipei Review
The much anticipated GIGABYTE GO OC 2010 Overclocking World Championship Finals proved to be a spectacular show in the middle of Taipei. With 15 overclockers from around the world gathered, the competition was fierce.
Toshiba Announces Smart and Affordable Satellite C660 and Satellite Pro C660
Toshiba Computer Systems, a division of Toshiba Europe GmbH, today announced the Satellite C660. The new laptop is ideal for users looking for a machine with adequate computing performance to handle their everyday computing needs - e.g. e-mailing, web-browsing, standard office applications and basic multimedia entertainment - in a really affordable package. Toshiba also unveiled the new Satellite Pro C660 that is targeted at professional users. Both, the Satellite C660 and the Satellite Pro C660 will be available early in the fourth quarter of 2010 throughout Europe, Middle East and Africa.
Galaxy Selects AMIMON for First Wireless Graphics Card Enabling PC-to-TV Connectivity
Galaxy Microsystems, a leading manufacturer and worldwide supplier of NVIDIA based graphics solutions, announced today that it has selected WHDI technology from AMIMON as the platform for it's new Galaxy GTX 460 WHDI Edition shipping in October. "Teaming with Galaxy introduces AMIMON's WHDI technology to the gaming community; with Galaxy and the WHDI technology gamers will be able to maximize high-quality HD graphics of HDTVs utilizing an uncompressed HD wireless link," said Shimon Greenberg, vice president of sales for AMIMON. "AMIMON's WHDI technology is gathering tremendous momentum across the consumer electronics ecosystem: gaming, PC-to-TV, wireless HDTV, etc."
"Gamers and PC users alike want to take the PC games and content from a small monitor to the superior image of an HDTV," said Alex Lam, CEO of Galaxy Microsystems Ltd. "Fusing Galaxy's high-performance graphics cards with AMIMON's WHDI technology provides gamers and consumers with the highest quality wireless HD video connection."
"Gamers and PC users alike want to take the PC games and content from a small monitor to the superior image of an HDTV," said Alex Lam, CEO of Galaxy Microsystems Ltd. "Fusing Galaxy's high-performance graphics cards with AMIMON's WHDI technology provides gamers and consumers with the highest quality wireless HD video connection."
GELID Introduces Icy Vision Rev. 2 Cooler, Supports GeForce GTX 460 and GTS 450 GPUs
Thermal Solutions specialist GELID Solutions has launched the 2nd revision of its multi-award winning VGA Cooler "ICY VISION" of its GAMER product line. In comparison to the previous edition the "2nd rev. of ICY VISION" is now compatible to NVIDIA's promising GTS 450 & GTX 460 card. The "Rev. 2 ICY VISION" cooler contains 5 power heatpipes in a unique heatpipe constellation. The heatpipes are interlaced into 85 optimized high-quality Aluminium fins. Together with a flat stack fin soldered Copper base, they enable the most efficient heat transmission and dissipation from GPU core in its class.
Besides the heatsink, two 92mm UV-reactive fans with 11 blades in S-shape generate 20% more air flow than traditional fans. The fan contains a high-quality ball bearing to ensure a longer lifetime in high temperature environments. The "Rev. 2 ICY VISION" is both CrossFire and SLI compatible on a number of cards. Screws were optimized to enable a proper SLI in the 2nd revision. To ensure a better cooling more RAM and Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) heatsinks are created to cool down the components around the GPU. The high performance GC-2 thermal compound is also included in the package.
Besides the heatsink, two 92mm UV-reactive fans with 11 blades in S-shape generate 20% more air flow than traditional fans. The fan contains a high-quality ball bearing to ensure a longer lifetime in high temperature environments. The "Rev. 2 ICY VISION" is both CrossFire and SLI compatible on a number of cards. Screws were optimized to enable a proper SLI in the 2nd revision. To ensure a better cooling more RAM and Voltage Regulator Module (VRM) heatsinks are created to cool down the components around the GPU. The high performance GC-2 thermal compound is also included in the package.
Mach Xtreme Technology Adds 16 GB Model To Expanding FX USB 3.0 Flash Drives Series
Mach Xtreme Technology Inc., a worldwide leader in top performance, high reliability and user-friendly designed PC components, adds 16GB model to expanding FX USB3.0 flash drives series today. The MX-FX 16GB is the most compact USB 3.0 flash drive on the market will be available in worldwide retail and e-tail starting Friday, October 1st.
As PCs became increasingly powerful and able to process larger amounts of data, users needed to get more and more data into and out of their PCs. Using traditional flash drives to transfer gigabytes of data has become a time consuming process. MX-FX USB 3.0 flash drives address this need by adding a super-high transfer rate. This drive is fast, bidirectional, dynamically attachable that is consistent with the requirements of the PC platforms of today and tomorrow. MX-FX USB 3.0 flash drive requires no separate power cable and is fully backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports, at USB 2.0 speeds.
As PCs became increasingly powerful and able to process larger amounts of data, users needed to get more and more data into and out of their PCs. Using traditional flash drives to transfer gigabytes of data has become a time consuming process. MX-FX USB 3.0 flash drives address this need by adding a super-high transfer rate. This drive is fast, bidirectional, dynamically attachable that is consistent with the requirements of the PC platforms of today and tomorrow. MX-FX USB 3.0 flash drive requires no separate power cable and is fully backward compatible with USB 2.0 ports, at USB 2.0 speeds.
Panasonic Toughbook CF-C1 Offers Tablet Computing For Gloved Workers, Improves TCO
Panasonic today enhanced its Toughbook CF-C1 range with a Multi-touch Resistive screen, web camera option and a two-year accidental damage warranty making the lightweight, business rugged convertible notebook the tablet for business use.
Able to be used in clamshell or tablet form, the CF-C1 is ideal for mobile workers. The new Multi-touch Resistive screen option is designed to deal with semi-outside conditions less affected by dust particles and water drops and allows the users to operate the device whilst using gloves. The Multi-touch screen also delivers all the benefits of a tablet device allowing pinching and stretching gestures on the screen to control zooming. It is also pressure and gesture sensitive, allowing actions such as the rotation of objects on the screen. This latest screen option complements the existing CF-C1 Multi-touch Digitizer screen model and is available immediately priced at £1,709 + vat. (Standard version).
Able to be used in clamshell or tablet form, the CF-C1 is ideal for mobile workers. The new Multi-touch Resistive screen option is designed to deal with semi-outside conditions less affected by dust particles and water drops and allows the users to operate the device whilst using gloves. The Multi-touch screen also delivers all the benefits of a tablet device allowing pinching and stretching gestures on the screen to control zooming. It is also pressure and gesture sensitive, allowing actions such as the rotation of objects on the screen. This latest screen option complements the existing CF-C1 Multi-touch Digitizer screen model and is available immediately priced at £1,709 + vat. (Standard version).
Wireless USB 1.1 Specification Now Available
The Wireless USB Promoter Group today announced the completion of the Wireless USB 1.1 specification, the technical map for product developers to bring the next generation of Wireless USB products to the market.
Wireless USB 1.1 delivers key performance enhancements to Wireless USB technology, as well as added UWB upper band support for frequencies of 6 GHz and above, and offers backward compatibility with Wireless USB products currently in use by consumers. Wireless USB is evolving with optimized power efficiency and ease of use. Lower idle power requirements and improved battery life enhance Wireless USB power efficiency, and the new association model offers support for Near Field Communication (NFC) and proximity-based association, making Wireless USB even easier to install and use.
Wireless USB 1.1 delivers key performance enhancements to Wireless USB technology, as well as added UWB upper band support for frequencies of 6 GHz and above, and offers backward compatibility with Wireless USB products currently in use by consumers. Wireless USB is evolving with optimized power efficiency and ease of use. Lower idle power requirements and improved battery life enhance Wireless USB power efficiency, and the new association model offers support for Near Field Communication (NFC) and proximity-based association, making Wireless USB even easier to install and use.
Super Talent Announces ''Unforgettable'' Flash Drive
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, today announced the new CKB, KeyDrive, is now shipping. Designed to fit on to any keychain, the CKB drive will quickly become your favorite flash drive because it will always be with you. Available in two popular finishes (nickel and silver) and in a wide variety of capacities (2-32GB), we have a CKB to fit almost any budget.
"Making a drive that mimics an actual key and fits on your keychain is a natural fit. We took it to the next level by making the drive metal, rugged, lightweight and water-resistant." - Super Talent COO, CH Lee. The CKB is convenient, lightweight and durable. Designed with a metal enclosure and large keychain attachment point, the waterproof CKB can be attached to virtually anything. The CKB is currently available in 2 colors (Nickel and Silver) and is compatible with both USB 2.0 and 1.1.
"Making a drive that mimics an actual key and fits on your keychain is a natural fit. We took it to the next level by making the drive metal, rugged, lightweight and water-resistant." - Super Talent COO, CH Lee. The CKB is convenient, lightweight and durable. Designed with a metal enclosure and large keychain attachment point, the waterproof CKB can be attached to virtually anything. The CKB is currently available in 2 colors (Nickel and Silver) and is compatible with both USB 2.0 and 1.1.
Wednesday, September 29th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Game Controllers
Graphics Cards
Memory
Motherboards
Mouse
G.Skill Trident 2000 MHz DDR3 CL9 8GB Kit Review
The G.Skill 8 GB 2000 MHz kit manages to offer high capacity, nicely packaged within tall and solid heatspreaders. The active cooling bracket lights up blue and we push the memory & test bench to the limit to see what this kit is capable of.
Corsair Launches Builder Series PSUs For Mainstream System Builders and Upgraders
Corsair, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced the new Builder Series range of power supplies. The Builder Series CX430, CX500 and CX600 power supplies have been designed to provide continuous, reliable power output, and worry-free compatibility with your home or office PC. They are the ideal choice for PC builders and upgraders who need an affordable, quiet, and energy efficient PSU for mainstream performance, single GPU systems.
"Corsair has earned a reputation for engineering the best PSUs on the market, and with the new Builder Series, we now have a best-in-class solution for those who need a great value power supply for basic system builds and upgrades," said Ruben Mookerjee, VP and General Manager of Components at Corsair. "The Builder Series is perfect for system builders who want to take advantage of Corsair's legendary quality and reliability."
"Corsair has earned a reputation for engineering the best PSUs on the market, and with the new Builder Series, we now have a best-in-class solution for those who need a great value power supply for basic system builds and upgrades," said Ruben Mookerjee, VP and General Manager of Components at Corsair. "The Builder Series is perfect for system builders who want to take advantage of Corsair's legendary quality and reliability."
OCZ HSDL Eliminates the Bottleneck of Current Interfaces for Unparalleled Performance
OCZ Technology Group, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) and memory modules for computing devices and systems, has unveiled a proprietary interface called "High-Speed Data Link" (HSDL) to accelerate the progression of solid-state storage. Unsatisfied with existing interface options, OCZ developed HSDL to eliminate I/O bottlenecks and enable SSD technology to operate at its full potential. With this initiative, OCZ aims to enhance high performance computing (HPC) and I/O-intensive infrastructures for its clients.
"Solid State Drive throughput speeds are increasing at a rate in excess of what current storage buses can support, and as a result, storage protocols are quickly becoming the bottleneck to storage subsystem performance," said Ryan Petersen, CEO of OCZ Technology. "Designed for both high-performance computing and enterprise storage applications, our new High Speed Data Link interface addresses this issue and revolutionizes data storage by significantly outperforming other current interfaces delivering performance at levels that saturate most CPU buses."
"Solid State Drive throughput speeds are increasing at a rate in excess of what current storage buses can support, and as a result, storage protocols are quickly becoming the bottleneck to storage subsystem performance," said Ryan Petersen, CEO of OCZ Technology. "Designed for both high-performance computing and enterprise storage applications, our new High Speed Data Link interface addresses this issue and revolutionizes data storage by significantly outperforming other current interfaces delivering performance at levels that saturate most CPU buses."
Zotac Designs Overclocker-Friendly GeForce GTX 460
Zotac is ready with a new high-end (read: overclocker-friendly) graphics card based on the GeForce GTX 460 graphics processor. This yet to be named variant uses a completely custom-designed PCB and cooler that are geared for overclocking. The PCB sports a heavy duty VRM, while the gargantuan GPU cooler is both tall and three-slots thick. To begin with, this is a GTX 460 with 1 GB of GDDR5 memory over a 256-bit wide memory interface. It is overclocked out of the box, with room for more overclocking/overvolting. The PCB makes use of an 8+2+2 phase VRM that makes use of high-grade chokes, double FETs, high-grade solid-state capacitors as well as three decoupling device prodalizers. The voltage controller is a uP6218, which supports the I2C interface for software voltage control.
Next up is the cooling, which consists of a massive GPU cooler, and heatsinks that cover almost every major component on the PCB, including the VRM controller. The GPU cooler measures 185 × 131 × 63 mm, weighing 465 g. It makes use of a dense aluminum fin array to which heat is conveyed from the GPU block by four copper heat pipes. Air is circulated by a 120 mm fan. The heatsink over other components is made of aluminum, is spans across the memory and VRM. Display outputs on the card include two DVI, a standard size HDMI and a DisplayPort. Pricing and availability of the card are not known.
Next up is the cooling, which consists of a massive GPU cooler, and heatsinks that cover almost every major component on the PCB, including the VRM controller. The GPU cooler measures 185 × 131 × 63 mm, weighing 465 g. It makes use of a dense aluminum fin array to which heat is conveyed from the GPU block by four copper heat pipes. Air is circulated by a 120 mm fan. The heatsink over other components is made of aluminum, is spans across the memory and VRM. Display outputs on the card include two DVI, a standard size HDMI and a DisplayPort. Pricing and availability of the card are not known.
MSI Launches the N480GTX Twin Frozr II Graphics Card
Internationally renowned graphics card and mainboard manufacturer MSI officially launches the N480GTX Twin Frozr II graphics card. Built on the latest 40nm manufacturing process, the N480GTX Twin Frozr II is equipped with 1536MB of high-speed GDDR5 memory. The exclusive, award-winning Twin Frozr II thermal design meets the performance and thermal demands of graphics enthusiasts.
Along with various exclusive technologies from NVIDIA such as 3D Vision Surround, PhysX, and CUDA, the N480GTX Twin Frozr II allows games to be played at the highest resolutions. The Twin Frozr II dual-fan thermal design from MSI reduces temperature by 14°C and noise by 4dB when compared to the the reference design. Without a doubt, the N480GTX Twin Frozr II is the only and best solution for superb performance, low operating temperature, and quiet performance.
Along with various exclusive technologies from NVIDIA such as 3D Vision Surround, PhysX, and CUDA, the N480GTX Twin Frozr II allows games to be played at the highest resolutions. The Twin Frozr II dual-fan thermal design from MSI reduces temperature by 14°C and noise by 4dB when compared to the the reference design. Without a doubt, the N480GTX Twin Frozr II is the only and best solution for superb performance, low operating temperature, and quiet performance.
BitFenix Design Lab Officially Announces the Survivor Chassis
Today, BitFenix is pleased to launch Survivor - a mid-tower ATX gaming chassis that combines elegant styling with ruggedized features engineered for the mobile digital warrior. "We wanted to design a PC chassis that had ruggedized features, but didn't necessarily look like a tractor," says David Jarlestedt, BitFenix Product Manager. "Will you be able to throw it in front of a moving bus or down the stairs? No, but you won't have to worry about damaged hardware while driving to your friend's house or LAN party".
The unique curved design of Survivor isn't simply aesthetic. Extending past the side panels, this design helps to protect Survivor and the hardware inside during transport. The front, top and bottom of Survivor is coated with proprietary BitFenix SofTouch surface treatment, which helps protect these surfaces from stains and scratches, all while looking great. On the very front above the ODD bays is an LED-lit BitFenix logo, which users can turn on and off at a press of a button.
The unique curved design of Survivor isn't simply aesthetic. Extending past the side panels, this design helps to protect Survivor and the hardware inside during transport. The front, top and bottom of Survivor is coated with proprietary BitFenix SofTouch surface treatment, which helps protect these surfaces from stains and scratches, all while looking great. On the very front above the ODD bays is an LED-lit BitFenix logo, which users can turn on and off at a press of a button.
Expanded Channel Support Drives Opteron 6100 Series Availability for HPC Products
AMD today announced additional infrastructure and channel support for its AMD Opteron 6000 Series platform, the world's first 8- and 12-core x86 processor, addressing the needs of server customers worldwide with its unprecedented price/performance/watt. Since introducing the AMD Opteron 6000 Series platform earlier this year, the continued expansion of channel support and product lineups has helped drive a broad portfolio of highly customized solutions, available for small and medium businesses, enterprises and HPC environments.
Adding to the growing list of AMD Opteron 6100 Series-based channel products deployed in high-performance computing (HPC) environments, a major institution of higher education in Europe recently selected 2U, GPU-optimized Twin servers from AMD channel partner Supermicro for its flagship supercomputer. Furthermore, a nationally ranked research university in the United States recently deployed a 324-node/100 Teraflops system from AMD channel partner Appro to help solve critical research science using AMD Opteron 6100 Series processors.
Adding to the growing list of AMD Opteron 6100 Series-based channel products deployed in high-performance computing (HPC) environments, a major institution of higher education in Europe recently selected 2U, GPU-optimized Twin servers from AMD channel partner Supermicro for its flagship supercomputer. Furthermore, a nationally ranked research university in the United States recently deployed a 324-node/100 Teraflops system from AMD channel partner Appro to help solve critical research science using AMD Opteron 6100 Series processors.
QNAP New NMP-1000P Delivers Digital Home Experience
QNAP Systems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of world class NAS servers, NVR Video Surveillance Systems, and Network-based Media Players today announced the NMP-1000P Network Multimedia Player, a unique new product for audiophiles and AV enthusiasts. NMP-1000P features the latest Sigma Designs video/audio decoder that is capable of displaying ultra realistic full HD movies with advanced menu navigation, crystal clear next-generation Dolby and DTS multi-channel surround sound, high-quality lossless music, digital pictures with background music, and other multimedia content. NMP-1000P is also powered by a high performance Wolfson stereo digital to analog converter for truly outstanding audio experience.
What's more, the intuitive user interface of NMP-1000P makes it a snap to download movie covers and related information, and to discover and catalog content from any connected storage device or network drives. NMP-1000P retains Turbo NAS functionality for backup of all networked computers, convenient cross-platform file sharing among Windows, Mac, and Linux/UNIX, multiple user accounts and access right management, and remotely access to media files with the built-in Web File Manager and FTP. NMP-1000P even streams thousands of TV shows, news, podcasts, music, photos, and other content from Mediafly, Apple Movie Trailers, CNN, SHOUTcast, Internet radio service, Flickr, Picasa, and more.
What's more, the intuitive user interface of NMP-1000P makes it a snap to download movie covers and related information, and to discover and catalog content from any connected storage device or network drives. NMP-1000P retains Turbo NAS functionality for backup of all networked computers, convenient cross-platform file sharing among Windows, Mac, and Linux/UNIX, multiple user accounts and access right management, and remotely access to media files with the built-in Web File Manager and FTP. NMP-1000P even streams thousands of TV shows, news, podcasts, music, photos, and other content from Mediafly, Apple Movie Trailers, CNN, SHOUTcast, Internet radio service, Flickr, Picasa, and more.
Gateway Expands its Sleek and Popular Line of All-in-One PCs
Responding to the success of its ZX One Series and the growing popularity of all-in-one desktop PCs among consumers, Gateway today expanded its line with additional models featuring an all new industrial design. The new AIO PCs join Gateway's existing ZX One Series, adding more design choices, configurations and price points.
With MSRPs beginning at $899.99, the Gateway One ZX4951 Series and One ZX6951 Series feature 21.5- or 23-inch full high definition displays, powerful Intel Pentium or Core i3 processors and Blu-ray drives. Their compact size makes them perfect for small rooms, such as a dorm, home office or kitchen. In addition, the ZX6951 includes a TV tuner, so it can easily double as a TV and/or home entertainment center.
With MSRPs beginning at $899.99, the Gateway One ZX4951 Series and One ZX6951 Series feature 21.5- or 23-inch full high definition displays, powerful Intel Pentium or Core i3 processors and Blu-ray drives. Their compact size makes them perfect for small rooms, such as a dorm, home office or kitchen. In addition, the ZX6951 includes a TV tuner, so it can easily double as a TV and/or home entertainment center.
Elpida Develops Industry's Smallest, Most Efficient 30nm Process 2-Gb DDR3 Chip
Elpida Memory, Inc., Japan's leading global supplier of Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), today announced that it had completed development of a 30nm process 2-gigabit DDR3 SDRAM. The new 2-gigabit DDR3 SDRAM used 30nm-level advanced process migration technology to create the DRAM industry's smallest-level 2-gigabit DDR3 SDRAM. It achieves 45% more chips per wafer compared with Elpida's 40nm process products. Also, the new process design developed by Elpida will help contain rising chip costs associated with process migration. As a result, the 2-gigabit DDR3 is slated to become an extremely cost-competitive product.
Elpida's new chip meets the JEDEC specs for the high-speed DDR3-1866 and 1.35V low-voltage, high-speed DDR3L-1600 memory chips, both expected to become mainstream industry products in 2011. Also, the 30nm DDR3 SDRAM is eco-friendly. As a DDR3 SDRAM it achieves one of the industry's lowest levels of electric current usage (approximately 15% less operating and approximately 10% less standby usage compared with Elpida's 40nm products), which contributes to lower PC and digital consumer electronics power consumption.
Elpida's new chip meets the JEDEC specs for the high-speed DDR3-1866 and 1.35V low-voltage, high-speed DDR3L-1600 memory chips, both expected to become mainstream industry products in 2011. Also, the 30nm DDR3 SDRAM is eco-friendly. As a DDR3 SDRAM it achieves one of the industry's lowest levels of electric current usage (approximately 15% less operating and approximately 10% less standby usage compared with Elpida's 40nm products), which contributes to lower PC and digital consumer electronics power consumption.
Biostar's TSeries Release-Grade LGA1155 Motherboards Pictured
Biostar is ready with its pair of mid-range motherboards for the upcoming LGA1155 Sandy Bridge processor platform, based on the Intel P67/H67 Express chipsets. The two were earlier pictured in their pre-release forms at this year's Computex event. Both models fall into the company's mid-range TSeries family. The TSeries TP67XE is the larger (ATX) model that builds slightly over the chipset's feature set, it is outfitted with USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s (2 ports each). The rather high-end looking CPU VRM uses a total of 9 phases, power is drawn from two 8-pin ATX EPS connectors (probably connecting both connectors is optional, and only to enhance overclocking). Expansion slots include two each of PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (electrical x8/x8, when both are populated), PCI-Express x1, and PCI. Connectivity includes 8-channel HD audio, gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, FireWire, eSATA 3 Gb/s, and a number of USB 2.0 ports.
The second smaller (micro-ATX) board, the TSeries TH67XE, is based on the H67 chipset, and supports FDI that lets you use the integrated graphics processor on some processors. It uses a simpler 6+1 phase VRM, and goes slightly easy on the overclocking-capability department, but does retain USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s. Expansion slots include one PCI-Express 2.0 x16, one PCI-Express x16 (electrical x4), a PCI-Express x1, and a PCI. One out of six of the SATA 3 Gb/s channels from the PCH are assigned as an eSATA port. Other connectivity features include 8-channel HD audio, FireWire, gigabit Ethernet. Display connectivity includes DVI and D-Sub. Both boards will be out by the year's end, when Intel releases its new processor platform.
The second smaller (micro-ATX) board, the TSeries TH67XE, is based on the H67 chipset, and supports FDI that lets you use the integrated graphics processor on some processors. It uses a simpler 6+1 phase VRM, and goes slightly easy on the overclocking-capability department, but does retain USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s. Expansion slots include one PCI-Express 2.0 x16, one PCI-Express x16 (electrical x4), a PCI-Express x1, and a PCI. One out of six of the SATA 3 Gb/s channels from the PCH are assigned as an eSATA port. Other connectivity features include 8-channel HD audio, FireWire, gigabit Ethernet. Display connectivity includes DVI and D-Sub. Both boards will be out by the year's end, when Intel releases its new processor platform.
EUROCOM Launches RAID 10 Notebooks with Superfast 480GB SSDs
Eurocom is announcing an addition to its already extensive list of multi vendor storage solutions with OCZ's 480GB Vertex 2 SATA 300 2.5" MLC SSD drive, product code: OCZSSD2-2VTXE480G. The Vertex 2 drive will be available in all Eurocom Mobile Workstations and Mobile Servers to offer industry leading SSD performance and capacity.
The OCZ Vertex 2 drive is based on new cutting edge architecture to push the limits in both sequential and read/write rates. With performance that outdoes the competition the Vertex 2 provides ideal quality, reliability and long lasting life needed by the most demanding users. The low power consumption of the drive makes it ideal for mobile use when the customer is relying solely on the battery; the drive only uses 2W while operating and .5W in standby. OCZ Vertex 2 also provides superior ECC protection, which mimics RAID like redundancy and recovery from flash block failures. A key technology of the OCZ Vertex 2 is the Sandforce 1200 Controller. Using the latest controller technology, Vertex 2 provides a faster, more responsive PC experience, while also offering a cooler, quieter, and more energy efficient conditions compared to traditional mechanical hard drives.
The OCZ Vertex 2 drive is based on new cutting edge architecture to push the limits in both sequential and read/write rates. With performance that outdoes the competition the Vertex 2 provides ideal quality, reliability and long lasting life needed by the most demanding users. The low power consumption of the drive makes it ideal for mobile use when the customer is relying solely on the battery; the drive only uses 2W while operating and .5W in standby. OCZ Vertex 2 also provides superior ECC protection, which mimics RAID like redundancy and recovery from flash block failures. A key technology of the OCZ Vertex 2 is the Sandforce 1200 Controller. Using the latest controller technology, Vertex 2 provides a faster, more responsive PC experience, while also offering a cooler, quieter, and more energy efficient conditions compared to traditional mechanical hard drives.
Antec Releases One-of-a-Kind Open-Air Chassis: The LanBoy Air
Antec, Inc., the global leader in high-performance computer components and accessories for the gaming, PC upgrade and Do-It-Yourself markets, today announced the LanBoy Air: Antec's state-of-the art, fully-modular chassis designed to provide extensive customizability and flexibility to high-performance PC gamers, modders and workstation users.
The LanBoy Air sports unprecedented top-to-bottom mesh construction for extensive air ventilation and includes five 120 mm fans (two front-adjustable speed 120 mm blue LED fans and three 120 mm TwoCool two-speed blue LED fans) with space to mount up to 15 total fans. The fans are positioned to create positive air pressure, bringing cool air in and around hard drives and graphics cards, and expelling hot air and dust through the chassis' perforated panels.
The LanBoy Air sports unprecedented top-to-bottom mesh construction for extensive air ventilation and includes five 120 mm fans (two front-adjustable speed 120 mm blue LED fans and three 120 mm TwoCool two-speed blue LED fans) with space to mount up to 15 total fans. The fans are positioned to create positive air pressure, bringing cool air in and around hard drives and graphics cards, and expelling hot air and dust through the chassis' perforated panels.
Tuesday, September 28th 2010
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Notebooks
Sound Cards
Patriot Memory Announces the Convoy 2.5'' Series Internal Drive Enclosures
Patriot Memory, a global pioneer in high-performance memory, NAND flash and computer peripheral solutions, today announced the immediate availability of the Patriot Convoy 4x4 series of 5.25" bay enclosures for 2.5" Hard Disk Drives or Solid State Drives. The Patriot Convoy 425S and Convoy 425XL expand upon the award winning Convoy product line of 3.5" bay devices for two 2.5" drives.
Designed with storage density and performance in mind, each Patriot Convoy 425S and 425XL storage device provides a simple to install solution for up to four 2.5" HDD or SSD with the 425XL offering RAID functionality. Displayed during the 2010 Computex trade show as part of a technology showcase with high capacity SSD systems, the Convoy 425XL was a key component for the Patriot Artemis II technology demonstration. Paired with 56 Patriot Inferno 100GB SSDs in RAID 0 configuration, the storage and performance benefits of this enclosure were evident: maximum storage density in a small space with extreme performance. In the Artemis II system, the Patriot Inferno SSDs and the Convoy 425XL achieved breathtaking performance of over 240,000 IOPS.
Designed with storage density and performance in mind, each Patriot Convoy 425S and 425XL storage device provides a simple to install solution for up to four 2.5" HDD or SSD with the 425XL offering RAID functionality. Displayed during the 2010 Computex trade show as part of a technology showcase with high capacity SSD systems, the Convoy 425XL was a key component for the Patriot Artemis II technology demonstration. Paired with 56 Patriot Inferno 100GB SSDs in RAID 0 configuration, the storage and performance benefits of this enclosure were evident: maximum storage density in a small space with extreme performance. In the Artemis II system, the Patriot Inferno SSDs and the Convoy 425XL achieved breathtaking performance of over 240,000 IOPS.
Radeon HD 6000 Series Launch Delayed to November
AMD has reportedly delayed the launch of its much talked about Radeon HD 6000 series graphics processors from its expected date of October 12, to November, 2010. Whatever be the company's motive behind this delay, it creates room for NVIDIA to release new lower-mainstream and entry-level products. Perhaps AMD wants to make sure media-attention isn't split between HD 6000 series launch, and those of NVIDIA's GeForce 400 series spread throughout October.
These include the GeForce GT 430. Apart from new GPUs, NVIDIA is also said to be lowering the prices of some of its key SKUs, including the GeForce GTX 460 768 MB, and previous-generation GeForce GT 220. Meanwhile, it is increasingly looking like the first Radeon HD 6000 series SKUs will be based on the "Barts" die, these SKUs will succeed the Radeon HD 5700 series, and restore competitiveness against key NVIDIA SKUs.
These include the GeForce GT 430. Apart from new GPUs, NVIDIA is also said to be lowering the prices of some of its key SKUs, including the GeForce GTX 460 768 MB, and previous-generation GeForce GT 220. Meanwhile, it is increasingly looking like the first Radeon HD 6000 series SKUs will be based on the "Barts" die, these SKUs will succeed the Radeon HD 5700 series, and restore competitiveness against key NVIDIA SKUs.
Seagate Unveils Industry's First 12 TB 4-bay NAS Server for Small Businesses
Seagate today introduced the industry's highest-capacity, 4-bay and 2-bay, desktop network attached storage solutions to help data-intensive small business address evolving storage needs. The BlackArmor NAS 440 network storage server and BlackArmor NAS 220 network storage server, extend the capacity range of Seagate's BlackArmor family of storage solutions, enabling businesses to now scale from 1TB to 12TB to help keep pace with the growing stores of high-definition multi-media files and business critical data. Initially, both solutions will come pre-populated with 3TB drives in each bay and will be offered exclusively for 30-days through Seagate.com and select online retailers. For the first 30 days, CDW will provide the 12TB BlackArmor NAS 440 for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,899.99, and NewEgg will sell the BlackArmor NAS 220 6TB for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $649.99.
Kingston Announces CompactFlash Ultimate 600x Card
Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the release of its CompactFlash (CF) Ultimate 600x memory card. The CompactFlash Ultimate 600x supports UDMA mode 6 and offers read and write speeds of up to 90MB/sec. making it Kingston's fastest card to support high-end digital cameras and other devices.
"The Kingston CF Ultimate 600x cards are great for photographers shooting in burst mode. For example, in a situation like a wedding or sporting event where the ability to rapidly take successive shots could make the difference between capturing the perfect shot or just missing it," said Mike Kuppinger, Flash card product manager, Kingston. "We are pleased to add the 600x card to our CompactFlash family of products which also includes the 266x Ultimate and 133x Elite Pro cards."
"The Kingston CF Ultimate 600x cards are great for photographers shooting in burst mode. For example, in a situation like a wedding or sporting event where the ability to rapidly take successive shots could make the difference between capturing the perfect shot or just missing it," said Mike Kuppinger, Flash card product manager, Kingston. "We are pleased to add the 600x card to our CompactFlash family of products which also includes the 266x Ultimate and 133x Elite Pro cards."
Toshiba Unveils Canvio 3.0 Portable Hard Drives with SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Interface
With the ever-increasing demands of digital media, Toshiba introduces the Canvio 3.0 portable hard disk drive (HDD) featuring a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interface. For the same price as competing USB 2.0 drives, Canvio 3.0 drives offer blazing fast file transfers at up to 10 times the speed of USB 2.0 drives. Available in storage capacities of 500 gigabytes (GB), 750GB or one terabyte (TB), Canvio 3.0 drives feature simple plug-and-play operation, pre-loaded backup software, and backward compatibility with personal computers and other devices equipped with USB 2.0 ports.
"Power digital consumers, and even typical PC users, are storing high definition video content, high resolution digital images, and multi-gigabyte music collections. When you consider that a single HD video can easily be three times the size of the same video in standard definition, it's easy to see why file transfer speeds are just as important as storage capacity," said Manuel Camarena, product manager for consumer storage at Toshiba Storage Device Division. "With the integration of the USB 3.0 interface, Canvio 3.0 drives significantly improve file transfer performance for large media files and dramatically minimize the wait time for backup and recovery processes.
"Power digital consumers, and even typical PC users, are storing high definition video content, high resolution digital images, and multi-gigabyte music collections. When you consider that a single HD video can easily be three times the size of the same video in standard definition, it's easy to see why file transfer speeds are just as important as storage capacity," said Manuel Camarena, product manager for consumer storage at Toshiba Storage Device Division. "With the integration of the USB 3.0 interface, Canvio 3.0 drives significantly improve file transfer performance for large media files and dramatically minimize the wait time for backup and recovery processes.
Point of View Announces its 891 MHz GeForce GTS 450 TGT Ultra Charged Edition
Point of View the leading European manufacturer of an exclusive range NVIDIA based 3D processor boards, advanced netbooks as well as fancy touchpad computers and additional enthusiast PC products, announces today a complete product range of advanced 3D processor graphics cards based on NVIDIA's latest GeForce GTS 450 GPU with unrestricted support for PhysX, CUDA, SLI and 3D Vision.
PhysX is supporting life-like realism of collisions, movements and explosions in advanced 3D gaming. CUDA is a platform to support parallel processing, e.g. for pixel-intensive image - and video-processing. SLI supports two graphics cards running in parallel, while 3D Vision supports true 3D experience with wireless 3D glasses. POV/TGT are offering 2 models with significantly enhanced clock settings, way beyond the recommended and widely proliferated reference clock settings of 783 MHz core clock and 3608 MHz memory clock.
PhysX is supporting life-like realism of collisions, movements and explosions in advanced 3D gaming. CUDA is a platform to support parallel processing, e.g. for pixel-intensive image - and video-processing. SLI supports two graphics cards running in parallel, while 3D Vision supports true 3D experience with wireless 3D glasses. POV/TGT are offering 2 models with significantly enhanced clock settings, way beyond the recommended and widely proliferated reference clock settings of 783 MHz core clock and 3608 MHz memory clock.
Sharkoon Announces the SATA QuickPort Home HDD Dock
Hard drives have long ago found a way to bring a digital library into the living room. In order to transfer videos, pictures and music from PC data carriers to appropriately equipped televisions, digital receivers, gaming consoles or HD media players it needed an external hard drive enclosure. Unfortunately, these usually came in a functional PC component design.
An easy to use and suitable living room alternative is now introduced by Sharkoon. The accessory specialist has the pleasure of adding an elegant HiFi design to their QuickPort hard drive docking station. With its slim size, the Sharkoon SATA QuickPort Home assumes the look of a classic HiFi device due to its brushed aluminium front panel, which covers the entire display, and its black finish with round, silver foot stands.
An easy to use and suitable living room alternative is now introduced by Sharkoon. The accessory specialist has the pleasure of adding an elegant HiFi design to their QuickPort hard drive docking station. With its slim size, the Sharkoon SATA QuickPort Home assumes the look of a classic HiFi device due to its brushed aluminium front panel, which covers the entire display, and its black finish with round, silver foot stands.
Gigabyte Intros T1125 Convertible Tablet-Notebook
Gigabyte released its T1125 convertible tablet notebook, with the latest generation hardware available to this form-factor. It was earlier referred to by the press as the M1125. The convertible sports a 11.6-inch screen with 1366 x 760 pixels resolution, a multi-touchscreen, and can be used without a stylus. Under the hood is a an Intel Core ULV processor, NVIDIA GeForce 310M graphics, 8 GB of memory, choice of 320 GB or 500 GB hard drive, connectivity which includes gigabit Ethernet, WiFi b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1, and optionally 3G HSDPA. A 1.3 megapixel web-cam, two USB 3.0 ports, and 6-cell battery makes for the rest of it. Gigabyte did not announce a price.
Logitech Unveils New F540 Wireless Headset for Console Gamers
Today Logitech unveiled the Logitech Wireless Headset F540. Designed for console gamers, the Logitech Wireless Headset F540 lets you connect up to three audio devices -- including both your PS3 and Xbox 360 -- and delivers wireless stereo audio and voice chat without cords or tangles.
"We set out to build a great wireless headset for people who like to play at night, but need to keep it quiet so they don't disturb anyone trying to sleep," said Elliott Chin, Logitech's senior manager of product marketing for gaming. "The result is an amazing audio experience for console gamers, no matter when they like to play. The Logitech Wireless Headset F540 delivers superior sound coupled with voice chat and does it all without a single cable running between you and your console."
"We set out to build a great wireless headset for people who like to play at night, but need to keep it quiet so they don't disturb anyone trying to sleep," said Elliott Chin, Logitech's senior manager of product marketing for gaming. "The result is an amazing audio experience for console gamers, no matter when they like to play. The Logitech Wireless Headset F540 delivers superior sound coupled with voice chat and does it all without a single cable running between you and your console."
Foremay Releases SATA 6 Gb/s SSDs
Foremay, Inc., a leader of technology innovation in solid state drive and one of the world's Top 10 SSD OEMs, today announced the EC188 M-series SATA 6 Gb/s solid state hard drive which has standard host interfaces of third generation SATA, also known as SATA 6 Gb/s. The SATA 6 Gb/s SSD is designed for enterprise servers, studio workstations and high end DIY personal computers, with speeds up to 450 MB/s for reading and 350 MB/s for writing, with a capacity up to 500 GB.
"The mainstream motherboards delivered to the market today have significantly increased their support of the SATA 3 hard drive," said Jason Hoover, Foremay's VP Marketing. "Our SATA 3.0 SSD is designed to meet the demand for fully utilizing the advantages of SATA 3.0 speed in SATA 3-ready motherboards. Users will now be able to enjoy the ultra-high speed provided by our SATA 6 Gb/s SSDs."
"The mainstream motherboards delivered to the market today have significantly increased their support of the SATA 3 hard drive," said Jason Hoover, Foremay's VP Marketing. "Our SATA 3.0 SSD is designed to meet the demand for fully utilizing the advantages of SATA 3.0 speed in SATA 3-ready motherboards. Users will now be able to enjoy the ultra-high speed provided by our SATA 6 Gb/s SSDs."
NEC Display Solutions Presents 23'' Model in the MultiSync PA Series
NEC Display Solutions is launching the MultiSync PA231W, a 23-inch monitor in its award-winning PA series of professional class displays. The display, with its powerful IPS technology, delivers excellent picture quality in the new 16:9 format and includes sophisticated features such as a future-proof DisplayPort connection and ergonomic comfort through height adjustability. With a focus on improving user productivity and having an attractive price/performance ratio, this monitor is designed to meet the demands of the CAD/CAM and DTP sector, precision engineering and for detailed image reproduction in the field of medical radiology.
With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the PA231W offers outstanding viewing angle stability and image precision. The Digital Uniformity Control (ColorComp) automatically regulates the evenness of the brightness and colour distribution, thereby guaranteeing consistent display quality. The monitor also features a programmable 3D LUT for precise colour space emulation.
With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the PA231W offers outstanding viewing angle stability and image precision. The Digital Uniformity Control (ColorComp) automatically regulates the evenness of the brightness and colour distribution, thereby guaranteeing consistent display quality. The monitor also features a programmable 3D LUT for precise colour space emulation.
LG Introduces World's First Near Full HD 3D Notebook
LG Electronics (LG) today announced the world's first premium notebook offering cinematic 3D experience at near Full HD quality. To deliver an immersive 3D experience while rendering high-quality movies, games and graphics, the LG A510 features a hardware combination never before offered on a notebook: 15.6-inch Full HD 3D LED LCD display powered by Intel Core i7 Processor and NVIDIA GeForce GT 425M graphics card with 1GB of dedicated DDR3 video memory.
"3D is increasingly becoming a common part of the home entertainment landscape so it's against this backdrop that we're working to make this technology better and more accessible for consumers," said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "As more and more people consume content and interact via portable screens, we think this is a natural next step for business travelers, college students and small office/home office owners. And we put the entire package in a beautifully-designed chassis because we don't think high-tech has to be a dull grey pizza box.
"3D is increasingly becoming a common part of the home entertainment landscape so it's against this backdrop that we're working to make this technology better and more accessible for consumers," said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. "As more and more people consume content and interact via portable screens, we think this is a natural next step for business travelers, college students and small office/home office owners. And we put the entire package in a beautifully-designed chassis because we don't think high-tech has to be a dull grey pizza box.
Lenovo Combines Best of Netbooks and Ultraportables in New ThinkPad Edge 11 Laptop
Lenovo today announced the new ThinkPad Edge 11-inch laptop, the smallest and lightest member of the ThinkPad Edge family. Created for small-to-medium businesses (SMB), the laptop packs ultraportable-like performance and features into a small form factor PC at an affordable price.
"Just like large businesses, small business customers want laptops that perform without skimping on features that at the same time, fit their unique style and come at the right price," said Dilip Bhatia, vice president, ThinkPad Marketing, Lenovo. "That's why we've created the ThinkPad Edge 11-inch laptop with the latest processors for multitasking, 3G and WiMax for anywhere connectivity and included extra business-focused features like a standard low light sensitive webcamera."
"Just like large businesses, small business customers want laptops that perform without skimping on features that at the same time, fit their unique style and come at the right price," said Dilip Bhatia, vice president, ThinkPad Marketing, Lenovo. "That's why we've created the ThinkPad Edge 11-inch laptop with the latest processors for multitasking, 3G and WiMax for anywhere connectivity and included extra business-focused features like a standard low light sensitive webcamera."
Acer Unveils New All-in-One Desktop - A Picture-Perfect Holiday Gift
Acer is aiming to top holiday wish lists with the expansion of its sleek and stylish all-in-one desktop line. Its newest model, the Acer Aspire Z3100 features a 21.5-inch HD display and contemporary aesthetics. Acer has also pumped up the performance on its stylish, state-of-the-art Aspire AZ5700 with an intuitive 23-inch HD multi-touch display.
The new all-in-one desktops flaunt a refined design and the speed needed for efficient multitasking, social networking and high-def entertainment, including the enjoyment of HD movies and immersive audio. Both models are designed for users who appreciate clean aesthetics and want a PC that will eliminate clutter and maximize limited desktop real estate.
The new all-in-one desktops flaunt a refined design and the speed needed for efficient multitasking, social networking and high-def entertainment, including the enjoyment of HD movies and immersive audio. Both models are designed for users who appreciate clean aesthetics and want a PC that will eliminate clutter and maximize limited desktop real estate.
Acer Unveils New AspireRevo Nettop – A Svelte and Strong Performer
Acer has made its popular, highly adaptable nettop and entertainment center for the home even more appealing. The AspireRevo AR3700 is sporting a new look and faster performance. Available today at leading technology retailers for $349.99, this sleek one-liter nettop now comes in a handsome dark blue chassis and a faster dual-core processor.
About the size of a book, AspireRevo can be mounted on a small foot stand or easily hidden from view by attaching it to the back of a television or LCD with a VESA mounting system. Although compact, the combination of an Intel Atom D525 dual-core processor, Windows 7 Home Premium and discrete NVIDIA ION graphics provides ample muscle for taking on casual games, playback of 1080p HD movies and digital photo editing.
About the size of a book, AspireRevo can be mounted on a small foot stand or easily hidden from view by attaching it to the back of a television or LCD with a VESA mounting system. Although compact, the combination of an Intel Atom D525 dual-core processor, Windows 7 Home Premium and discrete NVIDIA ION graphics provides ample muscle for taking on casual games, playback of 1080p HD movies and digital photo editing.
Monday, September 27th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Motherboards
Lian Li PC-Q11 Mini-ITX Review
The PC-Q11 manages to swallow a full size ATX power supply, standard optical drive and four hard drives while still looking as slim as today's runway models. The mini-ITX chassis is the successor of the Lian-Li Q07, growing slightly taller but managing to impress with a good list of new features. We peel it apart and stuff it full of hardware to see if it bursts apart or manages to keep its posture.
OCZ Technology Unveils Onyx 2 Series SATA II 2.5'' SSDs
OCZ Technology Group, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) and memory modules for computing devices and systems, has unveiled the OCZ Onyx 2 Series, a 2.5 inch SSD with superior affordability designed for mainstream desktops and mobile systems. Offering a faster and more durable alternative to traditional hard drives in a cost-efficient solution, the Onyx 2 delivers excellent performance with lower price per gigabyte than that of other comparable drives on the market.
"While we are constantly looking to push the envelope in solid state drive performance, we are also dedicated to making the technology more affordable to consumers," said Ryan Petersen, CEO of the OCZ Technology Group. "The new Onyx 2 Series SSDs give customers the very best of both worlds when it comes to performance and value, and they are an ideal solution for mobile and desktop users that want to take advantage of all the benefits that SSDs offer over traditional rotational based drives."
"While we are constantly looking to push the envelope in solid state drive performance, we are also dedicated to making the technology more affordable to consumers," said Ryan Petersen, CEO of the OCZ Technology Group. "The new Onyx 2 Series SSDs give customers the very best of both worlds when it comes to performance and value, and they are an ideal solution for mobile and desktop users that want to take advantage of all the benefits that SSDs offer over traditional rotational based drives."
Verbatim Introduces Next Generation 64 GB SDXC Card to Europe
Verbatim is taking the next step in the Flash sector with its new SDXC class 10 memory card with 64GB storage capacity. The new SDXC (SD eXtended Capacity) Flash card is designed to handle large volumes of data at lightning speed and provides users more portable storage and speed for their electronic devices such as mobile phones, camcorders, digital cameras or game pads. The Verbatim SDXC 64GB class 10 card is available in stores now.
Two advances in technology make it possible to handle larger volumes of data than on SDHC cards. On the one hand the exFAT file system, on the other hand the UHS-I bus interface with speeds up to 104MB per second. While SDHC cards provide storage capacities up to 32GB only, the new SDXC (SD eXtended Capacity) memory card from Verbatim stores 64GB of data, offering enough space for over 20,000 10-megapixel JPEG images with fine mode or 8 hours recording with Full HD video mode. The exFAT file system enables the SDXC card to handle those large volumes of data. Additionally, the UHS-I bus interface transfers movies, videos, pictures, games, eBooks, mobile apps or navigation maps with speeds up to 104 MB/s.
Two advances in technology make it possible to handle larger volumes of data than on SDHC cards. On the one hand the exFAT file system, on the other hand the UHS-I bus interface with speeds up to 104MB per second. While SDHC cards provide storage capacities up to 32GB only, the new SDXC (SD eXtended Capacity) memory card from Verbatim stores 64GB of data, offering enough space for over 20,000 10-megapixel JPEG images with fine mode or 8 hours recording with Full HD video mode. The exFAT file system enables the SDXC card to handle those large volumes of data. Additionally, the UHS-I bus interface transfers movies, videos, pictures, games, eBooks, mobile apps or navigation maps with speeds up to 104 MB/s.
Xigmatek Also Intros GAIA SD1283 CPU Cooler
Xigmatek's launch of the LOKI SD963 isn't the only one for the day, the company also rolled out its slightly larger sibling, the Gaia SD1283, which also seems to be targeted at value conscious buyers seeking high cooling performance. This one is larger than the LOKI in being able to accommodate 120 mm fans. It measures 120(W) x 50(D) x 159(H) mm, weighing 460 g (heatsink). The heatsink features forked-X shaped fins that have a slight bump towards the center, to increase turbulence and surface area. Like its smaller sibling, it also features three copper heat pipes, but 8 mm thick. The heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU at the base. The company bundles one 120 mm spinner that does 800~1500 rpm with a noise output level of 16 to 24 dBA. Angled rubber bolts dampen vibrations as they hold the fan on to the heatsink.
Xigmatek Unveils LOKI SD963 Budget CPU Cooler
Xigmatek unveiled its newest CPU cooler targeted at value-conscious gamers, the LOKI SD963. Its conventionally-shaped tower heatsink measures 92 x 50 x 134 mm (W x H x D), weighing 330 g. It uses a dense aluminum fin array that channels air (it's blocked on its narrow sides). Three 6 mm thick copper heat pipes make direct contact with the CPU at the base. A 92 mm fan that spins at 1200~2800 rpm with a noise output of 20~28 dBA is bundled, though the heatsink is designed with provision for a second (pull) fan. Vibration-dampening rubber bolts hold the fan and the heatsink together. All current CPU socket types are supported, including LGA1366, LGA1156, AM3/AM2(+), and LGA775. The company did not reveal pricing, though one can expect it to be on the lower side.
AMD Radeon HD 6700 Series ''Barts'' Specs Sheet Surfaces
Here is the slide we've been waiting for, the specs sheet of AMD's next-generation Radeon HD 6700 series GPUs, based on a new, radically redesigned core, codenamed "Barts". The XT variant denotes Radeon HD 6770, and Pro denotes HD 6750. AMD claims that the HD 6700 series will pack "Twice the Horsepower", over previous generation HD 5700 series. Compared to the "Juniper" die that went into making the Radeon HD 5700 series, Barts features twice the memory bandwidth thanks to its 256-bit wide high-speed memory interface, key components such as the SIMD arrays split into two blocks (like on Cypress), and we're now getting to learn that it uses a more efficient 4-D stream processor design. There are 1280 stream processors available to the HD 6770 (Barts XT), and 1120 stream processors to the HD 6750 (Barts Pro). Both SKUs use the full 256-bit memory bus width.
The most interesting specification here is the shader compute power. Barts XT churns out 2.3 TFLOP/s with 1280 stream processors, GPU clocked at 900 MHz, while the Radeon HD 5870 manages 2.72 TFLOP/s with 1600 stream processors, 850 MHz. So indeed the redesigned SIMD core is working its magic. Z/Stencil performance also shot up more than 100% over the Radeon HD 5700 series. Both the HD 6770 and HD 6750 will be equipped with 5 GT/s memory chips, at least on the reference-design cards, which are technically capable of running at 1250 MHz (5 GHz effective), though are clocked at 1050 MHz (4.20 GHz effective) on HD 6770, and 1000 MHz (4 GHz effective) on HD 6750. Although these design changes will inevitably result in a larger die compared to Juniper, it could still be smaller than Cypress, and hence, more energy-efficient.
The most interesting specification here is the shader compute power. Barts XT churns out 2.3 TFLOP/s with 1280 stream processors, GPU clocked at 900 MHz, while the Radeon HD 5870 manages 2.72 TFLOP/s with 1600 stream processors, 850 MHz. So indeed the redesigned SIMD core is working its magic. Z/Stencil performance also shot up more than 100% over the Radeon HD 5700 series. Both the HD 6770 and HD 6750 will be equipped with 5 GT/s memory chips, at least on the reference-design cards, which are technically capable of running at 1250 MHz (5 GHz effective), though are clocked at 1050 MHz (4.20 GHz effective) on HD 6770, and 1000 MHz (4 GHz effective) on HD 6750. Although these design changes will inevitably result in a larger die compared to Juniper, it could still be smaller than Cypress, and hence, more energy-efficient.
Lamptron Readies FCT Touchscreen Fan Controller
Lamptron, known most for its fan controllers ranging from the retro aviator switch Hummer to the analog rheostat-driven FC3/4/5 series, and the speed/temperature digital monitoring-equipped FC6, is now out with a touchscreen-based FCT "Touch", that completely does away with buttons, switches and knobs for touch-based control. The FCT occupies a 5.25" drive bay, and takes 6 independent fan channels of up to 30W each, along with fan-speed and thermal-zone real-time monitoring. It comes with two CNC-milled bezel options: graphite black and silver. Pricing is not known at this time.
Acer Unveils New Aspire Notebooks with NVIDIA Optimus Technology
Acer America today announced its new lineup of entertainment-driven notebooks, offering advanced performance features including the latest in 3D viewing technology, Blu-ray and branded discrete graphics. Geared for consumers who want to enjoy multimedia and mobility, the updated Aspire AS5742G, AS5745 and Aspire AS7745 notebooks series are available for U.S. customers at retail and e-tail outlets with prices beginning at MSRP $749.99 for the 15.6-inch Aspire 5742G, $649.99 for the Aspire AS5745 and $799.99 for the 17.3-inch AS7745.
"Consumers desire the best of both worlds when buying a new notebook PC, including advanced productivity and outstanding entertainment capabilities that may be enjoyed anywhere, anytime," said Preeta Anil, senior manager of product marketing for Acer America. "The new Aspire AS5742G, AS5745 and AS7745 notebook series upholds Acer's strong tradition of combining innovation with value by delivering leading-edge technology at a price that's accessible to many consumers."
"Consumers desire the best of both worlds when buying a new notebook PC, including advanced productivity and outstanding entertainment capabilities that may be enjoyed anywhere, anytime," said Preeta Anil, senior manager of product marketing for Acer America. "The new Aspire AS5742G, AS5745 and AS7745 notebook series upholds Acer's strong tradition of combining innovation with value by delivering leading-edge technology at a price that's accessible to many consumers."
New Acer Aspire AS8943G Notebook Computers Offer ATI Radeon 5850 2GB Graphics
Acer America, part of the world's second largest manufacturer of notebook PCs, today announced two new models in its Aspire AS8943G notebook line now offer the ATI Mobility Radeon 5850 graphics processor with 2GB of dedicated video memory. The Acer Aspire AS8943G Series of notebooks are first-class multimedia centers that deliver an unparalleled high-definition personal theater experience, and are designed for the most discriminating computing enthusiast. Featuring top-of-the line technologies and usability features, the Aspire Series is designed for creating multimedia content, watching movies or dominating the latest PC games.
Sunday, September 26th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
PSUs
ECS Readies LGA1155 Motherboard with Lucid Hydra
ECS is designing an upper-mid range socket LGA1155 motherboard based on the Intel P67 Express chipset, ready with upcoming Sandy Bridge processors, called the P67H2-A. A pre-release version was shown to the press. The highlight here is ECS' use of the LucidLogix Hydra Engine chip that lets the motherboard mix and match graphics cards of different makes and types. The CPU is powered by a 14-phase VRM, it is wired to four DDR3 DIMM slots for dual-channel memory, speeds of up to 2600 MHz are supported by overclocking. Expansion slots include three PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (likely x16, x16, NC / x16, x8, x8, thanks to the Hydra chip), and two each of PCI-E x1 and PCI. Four out of six of the SATA 3 Gb/s ports from the P67 PCH are assigned as internal ports (color-coded orange), two SATA 6 Gb/s controllers give out two ports internal (color-coded red). Connectivity includes 8-channel HD audio, dual gigabit Ethernet, two NEC USB 3.0 controllers that give out two ports on the rear panel and two for the front-panel via header, eSATA 6 Gb/s, and a number of USB 2.0 ports. The final version may look slightly different, of course those jumper wires won't be there.
Galaxy Designs Mysterious GeForce GTX 460 2 GB Card with Mini-PCIe Onboard
NVIDIA's GeForce GTX 460 graphics processor (GPU) can be crammed into some very short GPUs, as has been implemented in various designs. Galaxy has taken advantage of this, and designed a GeForce GTX 460 2 GB (256-bit GDDR5) graphics card with nearly the same length as other high-end GeForce 400 series SKUs (ballpark 10-inches), with room towards its connectors for an additional PCI-Express device. Just near PCI-Express x16 interface, there is a mini PCI-Express x1 slot, that technically can take a mini-PCIe SSD or any other PCI-E device. While Galaxy is notorious for coming up with the most wacky yet intriguing designs the most plausible utility we see of this mini-PCIe slot is perhaps an optional addon board with a smaller GPU for processing PhysX, or a mini-PCIe TV tuner (notebook grade). Aside from this, connectors include a DVI, a DisplayPort, a mini-USB (female), a switch, and a 10-pin header right behind it. Galaxy will detail this mysterious card further soon, the company told press that when released, it will be an "unprecedented design".
Saturday, September 25th 2010
Matose Wins GIGABYTE GO OC 2010
Matose from Romania has been crowned winner of the GIGABYTE GO OC 2010 championships, at the world finals held in Taipei. The final scoreboard reveals that although Matose has not held too many top spots in individual benchmarks, his aggregate score has sailed him through to the top, thanks to maintaining a level of consistency with all the tests, importantly, not failing in any of the tests. He was trailed, rather closely at some points of the event, by stephenyeong from Hong Kong and Speedtime.wing from China (PRC).
This year's GIGABYTE GO OC event covered 33 countries over five regions: North America, Europe, Asia & Africa, and [Greater] China. Top performers of each region got a chance to participate at the world finals held today. Today's event included a 4.5 hour run of overclockers using the same basic equipment and drivers, to use their skills and score the highest in a cocktail of CPU-intensive benchmarks. Their highest score among each tries affected their position on the scoreboard. The day's run started with Matose gaining initial lead with an aggregate score of 68 points, later he slipped to 50 points as Speedtime.wing caught up (around 14:00 local). Matose was able to stabilize and gradually increase his aggregate. e-Killer had the highest Super Pi score, Matose for PiFast, Slamms for Maxxmem, stephenyeong and Mikeguava for wPrime 32m. We will have a detailed article about the event posted a little later, that covers finer details about the event, and tons of pictures.
This year's GIGABYTE GO OC event covered 33 countries over five regions: North America, Europe, Asia & Africa, and [Greater] China. Top performers of each region got a chance to participate at the world finals held today. Today's event included a 4.5 hour run of overclockers using the same basic equipment and drivers, to use their skills and score the highest in a cocktail of CPU-intensive benchmarks. Their highest score among each tries affected their position on the scoreboard. The day's run started with Matose gaining initial lead with an aggregate score of 68 points, later he slipped to 50 points as Speedtime.wing caught up (around 14:00 local). Matose was able to stabilize and gradually increase his aggregate. e-Killer had the highest Super Pi score, Matose for PiFast, Slamms for Maxxmem, stephenyeong and Mikeguava for wPrime 32m. We will have a detailed article about the event posted a little later, that covers finer details about the event, and tons of pictures.
GO OC 2010 Finals: Matose Extends Aggregate Lead, Still Trails in Individual Tests
Matose, who has led today's contest for the most part, is pulling away from the rest by a going for the best accumulative score instead of individual program results. Matose is now ahead by eight points, but he is not the fastest in any single benchmark. The competition is ongoing, and things are heating up (quite literally). A little over 30 minutes left in the world finals of GIGABYTE GO OC 2010.
GO OC 2010 World Finals: Speedtime.wing and Stephenyeong Close in on Lead
Speedtime.wing is closing the gap with Matose quickly by getting his system bench-stable and clearing Pifast in only 13.91 seconds. His WPrime time is also marginally better which means that the point difference between top three is only two points. Speedtime.wing and Stephenyeong are now tied at 48 points and Matose is in the lead but only by two points.
GO OC 2010 World Finals: Matose Maintains Steady Lead
Two hours into the event, and seasoned overclocker Matose is staying ahead with an accumulate score of 68 points. He has had very few snags in reaching a clock speed of 6.08 GHz on his Core i7 980X Extreme Edition, cooled by liquid nitrogen. An impressive Pifast run clocked at 13.920 seconds along the way.
TechPowerUp LIVE from GIGABYTE GO OC World Finals 2010
TechPowerUp is coming to you LIVE from the GIGABYTE GO OC 2010 World Finals, Taipei. Throughout the weekend we will provide live coverage of events as they happen. GO OC 2010 is a congregation of some of the best overclockers in the scene who battle it out in various OC events. "Contestants from over 33 countries have competed in the local and then regional finals which were held in Indonesia, China, Mexico, Spain and USA from June to August. The victors of the regional events will meet on the battlefield in Taipei, Taiwan at the Hua-Shan Creative Park (East 3 Hall) on Saturday, September 25th, 2010," mentions GIGABYTE.
Live coverage follows:
Friday, September 24th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Processors
Oracle in Market for a Major Chipmaker
Oracle corporation is on a big buying spree after this year's acquisition of Sun Microsystems, a prominent server builder. Oracle wants to strengthen its enterprise IT business with the acquisition of a major chip-maker, right now AMD, IBM (its processor division), and NVIDIA are being named by prominent analysts. "You're going to see us buying chip companies," Ellison, 66, said yesterday at Oracle's annual meeting in San Francisco. Currently its subsidiary, Sun Microsystems has its own processor architecture, the SPARC. Gleacher & Co. analyst Doug Freedman predicts Oracle is chasing AMD, IBM (chip division) and NVIDIA. "You've got to think it's focused on enterprise hardware, on the server," he said. "AMD jumps off the screen."
AMD Orochi ''Bulldozer'' Die Holds 16 MB Cache
Documents related to the "Orochi" 8-core processor by AMD based on its next-generation Bulldozer architecture reveal its cache hierarchy that comes as a bit of a surprise. Earlier this month, at a GlobalFoundries hosted conference, AMD displayed the first die-shot of the Orochi die, which legibly showed key features including the four Bulldozer modules which hold two cores each, and large L2 caches. In coarse visual inspection, the L2 cache of each module seems to cover 35% of its area. L3 cache is located along the center of the die. The documents seen by X-bit Labs reveal that each Bulldozer module has its own 2 MB L2 cache shared between two cores, and an L3 cache shared between all four modules (8 cores) of 8 MB.
This takes the total cache count of Orochi all the way up to 16 MB. This hierarchy suggests that AMD wants to give individual cores access to a large amount of faster cache (that's a whopping 2048 KB compared to 512 KB per core on Phenom, and 256 KB per core on Core i7), which facilitates faster inter-core, intra-module communication. Inter-module communication is enhanced by the 8 MB L3 cache. Compared to the current "Istanbul" six-core K10-based die, that's a 77% increase in cache amount for a 33% core count increase, 300% increase in L2 cache per core. Orochi is built on a 32 nm GlobalFoundries process, it is sure to have a very high transistor count.
This takes the total cache count of Orochi all the way up to 16 MB. This hierarchy suggests that AMD wants to give individual cores access to a large amount of faster cache (that's a whopping 2048 KB compared to 512 KB per core on Phenom, and 256 KB per core on Core i7), which facilitates faster inter-core, intra-module communication. Inter-module communication is enhanced by the 8 MB L3 cache. Compared to the current "Istanbul" six-core K10-based die, that's a 77% increase in cache amount for a 33% core count increase, 300% increase in L2 cache per core. Orochi is built on a 32 nm GlobalFoundries process, it is sure to have a very high transistor count.
AMD Readies Faster Phenom II X6 Models, New Fast Quad-Core Chip
After AMD's recent mass-release of Athlon II and Phenom II series processors that included the Phenom II X6 1070T Black Edition priced at around $250, AMD is working on a new flagship processor that's even faster than the Phenom II X6 1090T Black Edition (the current flagship), given the model number Phenom II X6 1100T Black Edition (surprise!), and as always, it's yet another speed-bump. This chip is based on the 45 nm Thuban die, and is clocked a whole 100 MHz faster, at 3.30 GHz, with a Turbo Core frequency of 3.70 GHz. Surprisingly, it retains its TDP rating of 125W. As with every other chip based on this die, it features six cores with 128 KB L1, 512 KB L2 dedicated caches, and 6 MB L3 shared cache, it comes in the AM3 package and is backwards compatible with AM2+, supporting dual-channel DDR3-1333 and DDR2-1066 memory standards.
The 1100T Black Edition isn't the only new Phenom II series member down the line, there's the Phenom II X6 1065T (2.90 GHz, non-BE, 3.40 GHz Turbo); the slower Phenom II X6 1045T (2.50 GHz, non-BE, 3.20 GHz Turbo), and the company's next fastest quad-core chip, the Phenom II X4 975 (3.60 GHz, Deneb). It's not known whether the X4-975 is a Black Edition SKU.
The 1100T Black Edition isn't the only new Phenom II series member down the line, there's the Phenom II X6 1065T (2.90 GHz, non-BE, 3.40 GHz Turbo); the slower Phenom II X6 1045T (2.50 GHz, non-BE, 3.20 GHz Turbo), and the company's next fastest quad-core chip, the Phenom II X4 975 (3.60 GHz, Deneb). It's not known whether the X4-975 is a Black Edition SKU.
NVIDIA Adds GPU Acceleration for OpenCV Application Development
NVIDIA today announced CUDA support for OpenCV, the popular Computer Vision library used in developing advanced applications for the robotics, automotive, medical, consumer, security, manufacturing, and research fields.
With the addition of GPU acceleration to OpenCV, developers can run more accurate and sophisticated OpenCV algorithms in real-time on higher-resolution images while consuming less power. This will facilitate the development of scores of new, mainstream Computer Vision applications.
With the addition of GPU acceleration to OpenCV, developers can run more accurate and sophisticated OpenCV algorithms in real-time on higher-resolution images while consuming less power. This will facilitate the development of scores of new, mainstream Computer Vision applications.
AMD Readies Two Fusion ''Zacate'' Models for Q1 2011
At least two new Fusion APU models based on the "Zacate" silicon are slated for Q1 2011. The Fusion "Zacate" processors are meant for ultra-portables, nettops, and SFF PCs, with a small TDP of 18W, an even lower-power version codenamed "Ontario" is being worked on, with a TDP of 9W. The first two Zacate chips include Fusion E240 single-core, and Fusion E350 dual-core. These chips are based on the Bobcat architecture, and pack DirectX 11 compliant IGPs with UVD 3.0, a single-channel DDR3 memory controller. The platform release will include the supportive Hudson D1 chipset.
Samsung Mass Producing 40nm-class 8GB DDR3 Module for Laptops and Mobile Workstations
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world leader in advanced memory technology, announced today that it is mass producing the highest density memory module for laptops and mobile workstations ' an eight gigabyte (GB) small outline dual inline memory module (SoDIMM) or unbuffered dual inline memory module (UDIMM), based on 4-gigabit (Gb), 40 nanometer (nm)-class* DDR3. High-density DDR3 will benefit chip designers, CAD/CAM engineers and other professionals who need to work with large data sets at significantly faster speeds.
Samsung is shipping 1G x64 (8GB) configurations of its new high-density, high-performance 40nm-class DDR3-based modules. Dell, first to market with the new module, is offering it in the 17 inch Dell Precision M6500 mobile workstation, which features 32GBs of Samsung 40nm-class DDR3, or four 8GB SoDIMMs.
Samsung is shipping 1G x64 (8GB) configurations of its new high-density, high-performance 40nm-class DDR3-based modules. Dell, first to market with the new module, is offering it in the 17 inch Dell Precision M6500 mobile workstation, which features 32GBs of Samsung 40nm-class DDR3, or four 8GB SoDIMMs.
Thursday, September 23rd 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Memory
Processors
Cooler Master V6GT Review
Falling next in line in the footsteps of its predecessors such as the V8 and V10 coolers, the V6GT aims high to be the cooler everyone wants. With unique features such as "tilted asymmetrical fin design", "DynaLoop bearing technology" and unique "Double-V" heat-pipe setup will the V6GT live up to its expectations?
Panasonic Unveils the Toughbook U1 Ultra Portable PC
Panasonic Solutions Company, provider of collaboration, information-sharing and decision-support solutions for government and commercial enterprises, today announced the newest member of its Toughbook U1 ultra-mobile PC product family, the Toughbook U1 Ultra. All Toughbook U1 products combine the portability of a handheld computer, the benefits of a full Windows OS, the durability needed for enterprise applications and a suite of available integrated features. The new Toughbook U1 Ultra is equipped with a TransflectivePlus display for up to 6000 nit viewability in direct sunlight, 64GB solid state hard drive, 2GB of memory, an Intel Atom Processor (Z530 1.6Ghz) and Windows 7. The device is ideal for highly mobile jobs such as direct store delivery (DSD), eCitation and vegetation management in markets like supply chain management, public safety and utilities.
SteelSeries Introduces the Shift Gaming Keyboard
Today, as the leading manufacturer of gaming peripherals and accessories as well as product partner to some of the world's most successful game publishers, SteelSeries announced the new SteelSeries Shift gaming keyboard. Named for the ability to alter its appearance and functionality through interchangeable keysets, the SteelSeries Shift brings gamers advanced customization capabilities that improve the way they approach, experience, and master their game.
"With the introduction of the SteelSeries Shift, we're able to bring another unique and powerful gaming tool to consumers, said SteelSeries CEO, Bruce Hawver. "The Shift greatly expands the functionality and concept of the original Zboard, which joined our product line in 2008 as a result of our acquisition of Ideazon, with new SteelSeries features that will provide gamers with a keyboard experience that can be customized for all types of games. As we bring the SteelSeries Shift to market, we are continuing to work with the best developers and publishers in the games industry to offer player's unique layouts and functionalities that will enhance their entire gaming experience."
"With the introduction of the SteelSeries Shift, we're able to bring another unique and powerful gaming tool to consumers, said SteelSeries CEO, Bruce Hawver. "The Shift greatly expands the functionality and concept of the original Zboard, which joined our product line in 2008 as a result of our acquisition of Ideazon, with new SteelSeries features that will provide gamers with a keyboard experience that can be customized for all types of games. As we bring the SteelSeries Shift to market, we are continuing to work with the best developers and publishers in the games industry to offer player's unique layouts and functionalities that will enhance their entire gaming experience."
Kingston Introduces SSDNow V+ 180 Series
Kingston expanded its SSD product lineup for Europe with the new SSDNow V+ 180 series. These drives come in the 1.8-inch SATA form factor, and are suited for both enterprise (servers) and consumer (notebooks). Kingston started off its SSD lineup with Intel's expertise, and this seems to be similar. Making use of MLC NAND flash chips, the SSDNow V+ provides read/write speeds of upto 230 MB/s (read), 180 MB/s (write). The controller has its dedicated 128 MB of DDR3 memory, and uses the SATA 3 Gb/s interface, it supports the TRIM function in supported OSes. The MTBF of 1 million hours seems to add to its prospects of making it to enterprises. It is available in capacities of 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB; priced at €180, €312, €737, respectively.
KFA2 Intros GeForce GTX 480 ''Anarchy'' Graphics Card
Galaxy's brand for the European market, KFA2, released the GeForce GTX 480 "Anarchy" graphics card. Based on Galaxy's own PCB design, the card makes use of Arctic's expertise, with an Accelero Xtreme Pro triple-fan GPU cooler. To top it up, it also uses overclocked speeds out of the box, that's 760 MHz (core), 1520 MHz CUDA core, and 900 (3800 effective) MHz memory. Like every other GTX 480, it packs 480 CUDA cores, and 1536 MB of memory over a 384-bit GDDR5 memory interface. Display connectivity include two DVI and a mini-HDMI. The company did not give out a price yet.
Dell Redefines Home Entertainment with New Inspiron Family
Delivering on its promise to offer the best in next-generation entertainment, Dell has added to its award-winning Inspiron family a new Inspiron all-in-one desktop and a new Inspiron Zino HD offering the best home-theater capabilities in its class. At the center of the new lineup is the Inspiron One, with features that set it apart from other all-in-one PCs including: a full HD 23-inch LED-backlit LCD; an optional quad-core processor that zips through web surfing, movie watching, family photo album creation, video chats and more. It has a host of audio/visual inputs that instantly transform the PC into a TV, perfect for student dorm rooms and family settings. And it also offers a new Dell-designed intuitive user interface called Stage, which delivers one-touch access to favorite content, like music, photos and videos, and applications.
iBuyPower Launches Two New Phenom II X6 Systems in Limited Edition Dragon Chassis
iBUYPOWER, a leading innovator in gaming PCs, is excited to announce the new limited edition Dragon Chassis, designed in conjunction with AMD. The uniquely wrapped NZXT Lexa enclosure features the metallic AMD Dragon with its piercing red eyes, wings spread and jaws open poised to strike. The AMD Dragon Special Edition Chassis is designed to add an element of lethality to gamers' lifestyles.
"The AMD Dragon platform delivers the superior performance and stunning visuals gamers demand," said Darren Su, Vice President of iBUYPOWER. "We are proud to have one of our systems branded with an industry leader like AMD and a striking design any gamer would be proud to take into battle."
"The AMD Dragon platform delivers the superior performance and stunning visuals gamers demand," said Darren Su, Vice President of iBUYPOWER. "We are proud to have one of our systems branded with an industry leader like AMD and a striking design any gamer would be proud to take into battle."
AOC Europe Introduces New WLED-lit Full-HD Monitors
AOC Europe added two new full-HD (1920 x 1080) monitors to its lineup, the WLED backlit e2240Vwa (21.5") and e2440Vwa (24"). The displays sport a transparent bordering on the bezel, and feature nature-inspired motifs on the stand and back. Since there's no CCFL, the heat output is lower, and so lower number of vents. The power consumption is also lower, nearly half that of CCFL-illuminated flat-panels of the same size. Apart from its resolution, the panels feature 20,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 250 cd/m² brightness, 5 ms response time, and display connectors that include DVI and D-Sub. Prices are yet to be announced.
Wednesday, September 22nd 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Motherboards
Processors
- AMD Athlon II X3 450 and X2 265 Hi Tech Legion
- AMD Athlon II X4 635 eTeknix
- AMD Athlon II X4 645 Hi Tech Legion
- New Phenom II and Athlon II Models TechSpot
- AMD Phenom II X4 970 BE Hi Tech Legion
- AMD Phenom II 1075T BE and AMD Phenom II X4 970 BE Bjorn3D
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T BE and X2 560 BE Hi Tech Legion
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T and Phenom II X4 970 HT4U.net (de)
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T Black Edition Overclock3D.net
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T Black Edition Techware Labs
- Intel Core i5 760 X-bit labs
PSUs
Cray Builds Supercomputer Blades with Tesla 20 Series GPU Compute Processors
NVIDIA's Tesla 20 series GPU compute processors have made their way into CRAY's latest supercomputer, the XE6. In these, Tesla units are installed into blades, which are networked using Cray's fast Gemini system-interconnect increasing the throughput, or efficiency of these GPUs in HPC applications. "The combination of new Gemini system interconnect - paired with NVIDIA's Tesla - will provide XE6 a powerful combination of scalability and production-quality, GPU-based high performance computing (HPC) in a single system," said Cray VP Barry Bolding. According to him, the supercomputing giant's move to adopt Tesla into its blade systems (which populate the high-end segment) is after seeing the technology mature on the company's mid-range and deskside systems. Bolding noted that the company will collaborate further with NVIDIA in advancing GPU compute processors for HPC applications.
Toshiba Announces New Qosmio X500 Performance Notebook
Toshiba's Digital Products Division (DPD), a division of Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., today announced its award-winning Qosmio X500 Series laptops is getting a graphics performance boost from the new NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M graphics processor with 1.5 GB of discrete graphics memory. The high-performance Qosmio X500 Series laptops deliver elite mobile performance and high-end features for demanding tasks - games, media creation and HD entertainment - for an affordable price, starting at $1,299.99 MSRP.
"The Qosmio brand is about bringing the extreme performance gamers and HD content creators crave without the extreme price," said Carl Pinto, vice president of product development, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. "With the new NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M GPU, consumers can now take advantage of a sophisticated graphics engine optimized for the newest and most demanding DirectX 11 games. The Qosmio X500 delivers an enthusiast-class package equipped with everything needed to fully enjoy and create high-definition content."
"The Qosmio brand is about bringing the extreme performance gamers and HD content creators crave without the extreme price," said Carl Pinto, vice president of product development, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. "With the new NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M GPU, consumers can now take advantage of a sophisticated graphics engine optimized for the newest and most demanding DirectX 11 games. The Qosmio X500 delivers an enthusiast-class package equipped with everything needed to fully enjoy and create high-definition content."
Hyundai Introduces the W243S 3D-Monitor to Europe
Hyundai today rolled out the W243S 3D monitor in Europe. This 24-inch monitor suited for 3D entertainment uses a TN panel with a native resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels, dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000:1, brightness of 300 cd/m², and response time of 5 ms. Display inputs include Component, HDMI, DVI, and D-Sub. 3W stereo speakers are integrated. The stand allows height and tilt adjustments. A software that converts 2D video to 3D is bundled. Hyundai is pricing the W243S at €1,399.
Kingmax Announces PD-01 USB Flash Drive with Innovative Rotational Cap
A stylish and easy-to-use USB flash drive brings you the convenience of data access and brighten your days at the same time. The newly launched PD-01 USB flash drive offered by KINGMAX features a colorful array of covers that can rotate a full circle of 360° for greater joy and delight. Beside above characters, it also has lightweight, waterproof and dustproof advantages which make it a veritably functional product.
Streamlined design accompanied by candy mimic sweet colored casing makes you recall to your childhood happiness when holding this compact and adorable flash drive in your hand. Innovative 360° revolving protection cap, just rotate the color body out you can easy to use it and rotate in to store it. Its special design provides conveniences and extra delight for all users. The lovable appearance and unique design of the PD-01 correspond to the fashionable depression-healing products, thus making it the most ideal storage for office application to working people.
Streamlined design accompanied by candy mimic sweet colored casing makes you recall to your childhood happiness when holding this compact and adorable flash drive in your hand. Innovative 360° revolving protection cap, just rotate the color body out you can easy to use it and rotate in to store it. Its special design provides conveniences and extra delight for all users. The lovable appearance and unique design of the PD-01 correspond to the fashionable depression-healing products, thus making it the most ideal storage for office application to working people.
Sony Optiarc America Rolls Out Slim External Blu-ray Disc Rewritable Drive
Sony Optiarc America today announced its first slim, portable and external Blu-ray Disc (BD) rewritable drive to compliment notebooks, netbooks or desktop PCs. The new BDX-S500U model writes single BD-R media at up to 6X and dual layer BD-R media at up to 4X speeds, recording a full 25GB disc in about 20 minutes. The 6X recording speed is achieved using 6X compatible BD-R media, and one 25GB Sony BD-R blank disc comes included in the retail box. Also included with the drive is CyberLink's Media Suite 8 for capturing, authoring, editing, backing up, viewing high-definition personal content and playing back Blu-ray Disc movies including 3D Blu-ray movies.
Sony PlayStation 3 Officially Supports Blu-ray 3D Playback
When it first came out, Sony's PlayStation 3 game console was the easiest way to have a Blu-ray disc (BD) player, because the console uses BD as its primary media. With a new firmware update from Sony, users can add Blu-ray 3D support. It is especially interesting because not every older standalone Blu-ray player supports the latest 3D format. Firmware update 3.50 applies to all versions of the PlayStation 3 (that's Slim and the original design). The move to let the PS3 have Blu-ray 3D support was backed by an announcement that upcoming game titles on the PS3, such as Gran Turismo 5 and Killzone 3 will come in stereoscopic 3D.
PGI to Develop Compiler Based on NVIDIA CUDA C Architecture for x86 Platforms
The Portland Group, a wholly-owned subsidiary of STMicroelectronics and a leading supplier of compilers for high-performance computing (HPC), today announced it is developing a CUDA C compiler targeting systems based on the industry-standard general-purpose 64- and 32-bit x86 architectures. The new PGI CUDA C compiler for x86 platforms will be demonstrated at the SC10 Supercomputing conference taking place in New Orleans, LA, November 13-15, 2010.
The NVIDIA CUDA architecture was developed to enable offloading computationally intensive kernels to massively parallel GPUs. Through function calls and language extensions, CUDA gives developers explicit control over the mapping of general-purpose computational kernels to GPUs, as well as the placement and movement of data between an x86 processor and the GPU.
The NVIDIA CUDA architecture was developed to enable offloading computationally intensive kernels to massively parallel GPUs. Through function calls and language extensions, CUDA gives developers explicit control over the mapping of general-purpose computational kernels to GPUs, as well as the placement and movement of data between an x86 processor and the GPU.
Tuesday, September 21st 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Monitors
Motherboards
Notebooks
Processors
- AMD Athlon II X4 645 Benchmark Reviews
- AMD Athlon II X4 645 3.10 GHz TechPowerUp
- New Phenom II and Athlon II Models Benchmark Reviews
- New Phenom II and Athlon II Models HotHardware
- New AMD Processors PureOverclock
- New Phenom II and Athlon II Models Rage3D
- New Phenom II and Athlon II Models Tech Report
- AMD Phenom II X2 560 BE Benchmark Reviews
- AMD Phenom II X2 560 BE & Athlon II X4 645 NeoSeeker
- AMD Phenom II X4 970 BE Technic3D (de)
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T, X4 970BE and Athlon II X4 645 Guru3D
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T, X4 970BE & X2 560BE HardwareHeaven
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T, X4 970, X2 560, Athlon II X4 645, X3 450 Overclockers Club
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T Overclockers.com
- AMD Phenom II X6 1075T Planet 3DNow! (de)
- Phenom II X4 970 BE 3.50 GHz TechPowerUp
PSUs
NVIDIA Names Fermi Architecture Successors
At the GPU Technology Conference (GTC), an annual event hosted by NVIDIA, the company named the next two succeeding GPU architectures to Fermi (the current generation architecture on which are based GeForce 400 series GPUs). NVIDIA's next major GPU design change will come in the form of "Kepler", probably named after the German mathematician Johannes Kepler. The only concrete details about this architecture is that chips will be built on the 28 nanometer silicon fabrication process, and that going by the architecture's double-precision GPU compute performance per Watt represented on a graph, NVIDIA expects Kepler to be 4~5 times faster than Tesla, and over twice as fast as Fermi, again, at double-precision GPU compute performance per Watt.
Kepler is slated for 2011, though which part of the year will it be out (since AMD's answer to Fermi isn't far away), wasn't revealed. Looking much further away into the future, much like Intel mentioned Sandy Bridge's successor (Gesher) way back when unveiling Nehalem, NVIDIA talked about Kepler's successor slated for 2013. This one is called Maxwell, probably in honour of Scottish mathematician James Maxwell, with expectations of no less than three times the double-precision computation power per Watt of Kepler. These chips will be built on the 22 nanometer process.
Kepler is slated for 2011, though which part of the year will it be out (since AMD's answer to Fermi isn't far away), wasn't revealed. Looking much further away into the future, much like Intel mentioned Sandy Bridge's successor (Gesher) way back when unveiling Nehalem, NVIDIA talked about Kepler's successor slated for 2013. This one is called Maxwell, probably in honour of Scottish mathematician James Maxwell, with expectations of no less than three times the double-precision computation power per Watt of Kepler. These chips will be built on the 22 nanometer process.
LaCie Delivers Next Generation 24'' Display with a Premium IPS Panel
LaCie today announced the latest addition to its line of professional displays, the LaCie 324i - featuring a 10-bit P-IPS LCD panel. An ideal monitor for prepress, illustration, web design, and photographic workflows, the LaCie 324i delivers uniform and accurate colors thanks to its wide gamuts and backlight stabilization.
The LaCie 324i P-IPS panel offers a realistic presentation without discoloration or inconvenient pattern distortions. Distinguished by its impressive gamut spectrum, the LaCie 324i color is rated at 102% NTSC and 98% Adobe RGB. With wide gamuts that are not disturbed by irregular patterns, digital artists can rely on true colors that maintain the integrity of their work.
The LaCie 324i P-IPS panel offers a realistic presentation without discoloration or inconvenient pattern distortions. Distinguished by its impressive gamut spectrum, the LaCie 324i color is rated at 102% NTSC and 98% Adobe RGB. With wide gamuts that are not disturbed by irregular patterns, digital artists can rely on true colors that maintain the integrity of their work.
Silicon Power Rolls Out Pair of USB 3.0 Cards for Desktops and Notebooks
Silicon Power today added to the propagation of the USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interconnect standard, by releasing two 2-port expansion cards, one that uses the PCI Express x1 interface, and one suited for notebooks with the ExpressCard 34 slot. Both cards are fully compliant with Intel's xHCI (extensible Host Controller Interface) standard, and deliver up to 900 mA of current to connected devices (80% over USB 2.0), and 5 Gb/s of bandwidth (10 times over that of the USB 2.0). The cards come backed by 2-year warranties, though the company did not give out pricing.
Toshiba Introduces New Canvio Basics Portable Hard Drives
In an exceptional blend of data protection, portability and simplicity, Toshiba has unveiled the newest addition to its Canvio line of portable hard drive solutions - the Canvio Basics Portable Hard Drive family for the PC. Developed with ultimate usability in mind for the everyday consumer, the Canvio Basics requires only a single step to start saving and transporting important files: Plug it in. With no necessary software to install and available with 320 gigabytes (GB1), 500GB, or 750GB of storage space, the Canvio Basics offers a hassle-free, high capacity storage solution right out of the box.
"With the Canvio Basics line, we wanted to bring an effortless digital storage solution to the masses," said Manuel Camarena, product manager for consumer storage at Toshiba Storage Device Division. "This new drive offers a sleek solution with plenty of storage capacity for the growing amount of digital content, from photos and videos to music and documents. The Canvio Basics is a convenient and versatile choice for anyone who needs the peace of mind that comes with high capacity portable external storage."
"With the Canvio Basics line, we wanted to bring an effortless digital storage solution to the masses," said Manuel Camarena, product manager for consumer storage at Toshiba Storage Device Division. "This new drive offers a sleek solution with plenty of storage capacity for the growing amount of digital content, from photos and videos to music and documents. The Canvio Basics is a convenient and versatile choice for anyone who needs the peace of mind that comes with high capacity portable external storage."
ZOTAC Announces World’s First Quadruple-Display Capable GeForce GTX 460 Graphics Card
ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world's largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today unleashes the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP - the world's first NVIDIA Fermi-powered graphics card capable of up to four native display outputs. The ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP enables multi-monitor computing with up to four simultaneous displays from a single graphics card for enhanced productivity, gaming and multimedia.
The ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP packs three DisplayPort and one dual-link DVI connectors that are capable of driving up to four independent displays simultaneously with a combined resolution up to 6400 x 1200. Three DisplayPort connectors enable the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP to support resolutions up to 4800x1200 across three independent displays for true spanned triple-monitor computing. A dual-link DVI output enables connectivity to extreme high-definition displays with the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP for connectivity to a single monitor at resolutions up to 2560x1600 for users without DisplayPort capable displays.
The ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP packs three DisplayPort and one dual-link DVI connectors that are capable of driving up to four independent displays simultaneously with a combined resolution up to 6400 x 1200. Three DisplayPort connectors enable the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP to support resolutions up to 4800x1200 across three independent displays for true spanned triple-monitor computing. A dual-link DVI output enables connectivity to extreme high-definition displays with the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 3DP for connectivity to a single monitor at resolutions up to 2560x1600 for users without DisplayPort capable displays.
Buffalo Technology Unleashes High speed USB 3.0 Blu-ray Drive
Buffalo Technology, a global leader in the design, development and manufacturing of storage and wireless networking solutions, today launched its Blu-ray USB 3.0 drive. Available from September, early USB 3.0 adopters who require fast speed back up to Blu-ray technology will benefit from improved playback and burning performance of Blu-ray discs, DVDs, or CDs. Additionally, the 12-speed drive is ideal for creating back-up videos, photos and music and to standard DVD and CD.
The Buffalo Blu-ray USB 3.0 drive delivers a simple and affordable ultra high-speed Blu-ray writer that can write up to 50GB, on a double layer disc. Additionally the drive allows users to easily convert regular movies to 3D and upscale DVDs and video files to HD quality.
The Buffalo Blu-ray USB 3.0 drive delivers a simple and affordable ultra high-speed Blu-ray writer that can write up to 50GB, on a double layer disc. Additionally the drive allows users to easily convert regular movies to 3D and upscale DVDs and video files to HD quality.
Seagate Introduces Industry's First 1.5 TB Portable External Drive
Designed to address the explosive worldwide demand for digital storage, Seagate today launched the world's first 1.5 terabyte (TB) 2.5-inch portable external drive. Available immediately, the new 1.5TB FreeAgent GoFlex ultra-portable drive delivers an all-in-one, technically advanced solution to help store, share and enjoy libraries of digital content in one's preferred medium-whether on a Mac or PC, or a television, at home or on the go. With 1.5TB of capacity people can now store and carry up to 60 HD movies, 750 video games, thousands of photos or countless hours of digital music.
"Today's announcement is a 'triple-crown' of consumer technology-packaging record breaking capacity, blazingly fast USB 3.0 connectivity and the bonus of movie entertainment-making the 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drive an unprecedented and innovative solution," said Darcy Clarkson, vice president of Global Retail Sales and Marketing for Seagate. "Bringing this solution to market on the heels of our 3TB GoFlex Desk drive and the Momentus XT solid state hybrid drive is proof of Seagate's continuing technology leadership and tradition of setting storage industry milestones."
"Today's announcement is a 'triple-crown' of consumer technology-packaging record breaking capacity, blazingly fast USB 3.0 connectivity and the bonus of movie entertainment-making the 1.5TB GoFlex ultra-portable drive an unprecedented and innovative solution," said Darcy Clarkson, vice president of Global Retail Sales and Marketing for Seagate. "Bringing this solution to market on the heels of our 3TB GoFlex Desk drive and the Momentus XT solid state hybrid drive is proof of Seagate's continuing technology leadership and tradition of setting storage industry milestones."
Leaked HDCP Master Key Legit: Intel
Earlier this month, it was reported that the master-key that overrides or unlocks HDCP-encrypted digital content may have been leaked. The worst fears of the HDCP team are coming true, with Intel, a main developer of HDCP, confirming that the master-key leak is genuine. High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) is everywhere, wherever there's commercial high-definition video content, such as Blu-ray movie titles, HDTV set-top boxes, PCs capable of Blu-ray playback, and so on. It is an encryption layer that protects the HD content in its natural audio-video quality from being ripped. Without HDCP one would still be able to watch HD content, albeit with degraded quality.
The immediate repercussions of the master key leak are directed at consumer electronics manufacturers, they might hesitate to adopt HDCP paying its royalty for making use of the protocol, there is technically no fidelity left in it. Grey-market and el-cheapo consumer electronic manufacturers can circumvent HDCP compliance to offer near-perfect video playback. What's worse, it's party-time for pirates. Devices that recover digital content while retaining perfect picture/audio quality by stripping out the encryption can be made. Whatever the consequences Intel maintains it won't affect HDCP much.
The immediate repercussions of the master key leak are directed at consumer electronics manufacturers, they might hesitate to adopt HDCP paying its royalty for making use of the protocol, there is technically no fidelity left in it. Grey-market and el-cheapo consumer electronic manufacturers can circumvent HDCP compliance to offer near-perfect video playback. What's worse, it's party-time for pirates. Devices that recover digital content while retaining perfect picture/audio quality by stripping out the encryption can be made. Whatever the consequences Intel maintains it won't affect HDCP much.
BenQ Releases The 3D-Affine XL2410T Monitor
BenQ has finally released its talked about 120 Hz 3D-ready display, the XL2410T. This 23.6" display is best suited for 3D and gaming in general. The high refresh rate ensures each 3D plane is given a 60 Hz refresh rate, ensuring minimal flicker when viewing 3D video or playing games. The high refresh rate is complimented with 2 ms (GTG) response time. Apart from that, the display uses a TN-panel with LED backlit illumination. The screen is full-HD (1920 x 1080) capable, with 10,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, and 300 cd/m². Display inputs include DVI, HDMI, and D-Sub. The stand allows height and tilt adjustments. Set to reach stores in Europe first (in October), pre-orders opened, priced around €350.
AMD Releases Six New Athlon II, Phenom II Black Edition Processor Models
AMD released six new desktop processor models to the market, these include new SKUs in both Phenom II and Athlon II lines. Older SKUs may have been displaced from their price-points by some of the new models. To begin with, AMD introduced a new value dual-core model, the Athlon II X2 265 (3.30 GHz); triple-core Athlon II X3 450 (3.20 GHz); quad-core Athlon II X4 645 (3.10 GHz). The X2 265 is based on the 45 nm Regor die, it features 2 MB of L2 cache, rated TDP of 65W, and is priced at US $76. The X3 450 is based on the 45 nm Rana die, and is essentially a Propus die with one core disabled. It has TDP rated at 95W, this one goes for $87. The X4 645 makes use of the full Propus die, rated TDP at 95W, priced at $122.
Next up, AMD introduced a new "high-end" six-core model, probably in response to lowering of prices on some Intel Core i7 models such as the i7-860. The new Phenom II X6 1075T Black Edition is essentially the same as the Phenom II X6 1090T, except that it's clocked at 3.00 GHz (200 MHz lower). It is priced at $245. Next, a quad-core model that seems to be in response to Intel's release of the Core i5 760. The Phenom II X4 970 Black Edition is clocked at 3.50 GHz (highest AMD default clock speed till date), and is based on the older Deneb die instead of derivation from Thuban. So there's no Turbo Core feature, but thanks to its Black Edition marker, it has an upwards unlocked BClk multiplier. This SKU displaces the X4 965 BE, and is priced at $185. The speed-bump didn't affect the TDP, which is still at 125W.
Next up, AMD introduced a new "high-end" six-core model, probably in response to lowering of prices on some Intel Core i7 models such as the i7-860. The new Phenom II X6 1075T Black Edition is essentially the same as the Phenom II X6 1090T, except that it's clocked at 3.00 GHz (200 MHz lower). It is priced at $245. Next, a quad-core model that seems to be in response to Intel's release of the Core i5 760. The Phenom II X4 970 Black Edition is clocked at 3.50 GHz (highest AMD default clock speed till date), and is based on the older Deneb die instead of derivation from Thuban. So there's no Turbo Core feature, but thanks to its Black Edition marker, it has an upwards unlocked BClk multiplier. This SKU displaces the X4 965 BE, and is priced at $185. The speed-bump didn't affect the TDP, which is still at 125W.
Monday, September 20th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Harddisks
Headphones
Mouse
Netbooks
Processors
PSUs
AMD Athlon II X4 645 3.10 GHz Review
What started out as the first quad core processor under $ 100, has evolved into a powerful and very affordable all round performer. AMD's newest addition to the Athlon II Series, the quad core Athlon II X4 645 is stepping over the 3 GHz mark, clocking at impressive 3.10 GHz.
Phenom II X4 970 BE 3.50 GHz Review
Although frequency wars between AMD and Intel are long gone, this could be the day for the history books at AMD, as they let loose their fastest clocked retail processor. Based on the well known Deneb quad core, Phenom II X4 970 BE is clocked at 3.50 GHz and its goal is to refresh the upper end of AMD's offerings, replacing older X4 965 BE model but keeping the same price point and adding more pressure to Intel's Core i5 Series.
Club 3D Rolls Out its First PSU Lineup
Club 3D, known more for its graphics cards, rolled out its first lineup of PSUs, ranged from a 400W entry level non-modular model to a 1000W high-end modular one, with 600W non-modular, 700W and 850W modular models along the way. The 1000W CSP-X1000CB, to begin with, uses a 4-rail +12V circuit with 38A per rail, it boasts of 80 Plus Bronze efficiency rating. Connectors include (apart from the 24-pin ATX and 4+4-pin EPS(CPU)): two fixed + four modular PCI-E 6+2 pin; one modular 4+4-pin EPS(CPU); three fixed + six modular SATA power; two fixed + five modular Molex; one fixed + one modular Floppy. This PSU has a blue colored 120 mm temperature-controlled fan. Next is the 850W CSP-D850CB, this 80 Plus Bronze certified PSU also uses a four-rail +12V design, but with 34A rails. Connectors are the same the 1000W model, except for: two fixed + two modular PCI-E 6+2 pin. This one, along with the 750W model has a green-colored fan.
Speaking of the 750W CSP-D700CB, this 80 Plus Bronze certified model uses a four-rail +12V circuit with 32A rails. Its connector configuration is different from the 850W model: apart from the 24-pin ATX and 4+4-pin EPS(CPU), only three SATA connectors are fixed. Rest are modular, which include: six SATA power; two PCI-E 6+2 pin; two PCI-E 6 pin; five Molex; one 4+4 pin EPS(CPU); and a Floppy power. Next up, are the totally non-modular value models. The 600W CSP-S600 sports two PCI-E 6+2 pin; six SATA; five Molex; and one Floppy; while the cheapest 400W CSP-S400 gives you just one PCI-E 6+2 pin; four SATA; 3 Molex. The 600W and 400W models are just 80 Plus rated, and feature a yellow-colored fan. Club 3D did not give out any pricing details.
Speaking of the 750W CSP-D700CB, this 80 Plus Bronze certified model uses a four-rail +12V circuit with 32A rails. Its connector configuration is different from the 850W model: apart from the 24-pin ATX and 4+4-pin EPS(CPU), only three SATA connectors are fixed. Rest are modular, which include: six SATA power; two PCI-E 6+2 pin; two PCI-E 6 pin; five Molex; one 4+4 pin EPS(CPU); and a Floppy power. Next up, are the totally non-modular value models. The 600W CSP-S600 sports two PCI-E 6+2 pin; six SATA; five Molex; and one Floppy; while the cheapest 400W CSP-S400 gives you just one PCI-E 6+2 pin; four SATA; 3 Molex. The 600W and 400W models are just 80 Plus rated, and feature a yellow-colored fan. Club 3D did not give out any pricing details.
HP Advances the Touch Experience for Consumers and Businesses
Introducing a more personal, intuitive and entertaining computing experience for consumers, HP today unveiled the sleekly appealing HP TouchSmart310 PC, which features the most advanced version of the company's exclusive TouchSmart software to date. The company also announced the HP TouchSmart Apps Center for one-touch access to free and subscription-based applications, as well as the HP Omni100, which offers the performance users demand from a tower and monitor in an all-in- one design.
HP also is helping businesses make touch an integral part of the customer experience through relationships with American Airlines, ESPN and the National Football League's San Francisco 49ers. "Each generation of TouchSmart is a reflection of what HP has learned from its customers, complemented by the latest technologies," said James Mouton, senior vice president, Desktop Organization, Personal Systems Group, HP. "The TouchSmart PC's unique interface lets users do more than just basic computing - it acts as the anchor of one's digital lifestyle, encouraging creativity, organization and a truly immersive experience."
HP also is helping businesses make touch an integral part of the customer experience through relationships with American Airlines, ESPN and the National Football League's San Francisco 49ers. "Each generation of TouchSmart is a reflection of what HP has learned from its customers, complemented by the latest technologies," said James Mouton, senior vice president, Desktop Organization, Personal Systems Group, HP. "The TouchSmart PC's unique interface lets users do more than just basic computing - it acts as the anchor of one's digital lifestyle, encouraging creativity, organization and a truly immersive experience."
Tt eSports Announces the Shock USB Gaming Headset
With headsets rapidly becoming the standard accessory in eSports ie. Shooting games (FPS), role playing games (MMORPG) and real-time strategy games (RTS) - consumers will be looking to Tt eSPORTS for the most extreme gaming gears. Headsets equipped with a microphone can open up a whole new world of multiplayer gaming. The ability to taunt your enemies and strategize with your teammates all becomes possible as Tt eSPORTS unveils its newest product the SHOCK headset. Unlike many headsets out on the market, the Shock headset covers the ear entirely. This attention to detail makes a very big difference when it comes to comfort and noise cancellation giving players the satisfaction of knowing that Tt eSPORTS designs with their consumers in mind.
ASUS Finally Releases ROG Crosshair IV Extreme Motherboard
When we first saw the ASUS ROG Crosshair IV Extreme back in March, it seemed like just a beefier version of the Crosshair IV Formula with four well spaced out PCI-E x16 expansion slots, a stronger VRM, and a few more ASUS-exclusive goodies thrown in. Later in May, we learned that the Crosshair IV Extreme is different from its smaller, more popular sibling, in featuring the LucidLogix Hydra Engine chip that lets the users pair graphics cards across the lineups and GPU vendors, whichever way they want to upscale performance or add features. After quite some wait which led some of us to fear that ASUS shelved the product as Crosshair IV Formula seems to have been well received, the company surprised us by finally releasing the beast to the market.
The Crosshair IV Extreme that we see today is slightly different from the older iterations in featuring a different heatsink assembly design. It features bulkier, more groovy-looking heatsinks over the north-west cluster that houses the CPU VRM and AMD 890FX IOMMU, while the south-east cluster has a sleeker heatsink that cools the Lucid Hydra chip and the AMD SB850 southbridge. Most other features remain the same: expansion slots that include five PCI-E x16, one PCI; support for dual-channel DDR3-2000 MHz memory; a six-port SATA 6 Gb/s RAID controller, 2 SATA 3 Gb/s ports, two eSATA 3 Gb/s; connectivity that includes gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth, 8-channel SupremeFX X-Fi audio, USB 3.0; and a boat-load of OC-friendly features including ROG Connect, redundant BIOS, on-board voltage-measure, PCI-E gating and OC controls, etc. It is priced around 300 EUR.
The Crosshair IV Extreme that we see today is slightly different from the older iterations in featuring a different heatsink assembly design. It features bulkier, more groovy-looking heatsinks over the north-west cluster that houses the CPU VRM and AMD 890FX IOMMU, while the south-east cluster has a sleeker heatsink that cools the Lucid Hydra chip and the AMD SB850 southbridge. Most other features remain the same: expansion slots that include five PCI-E x16, one PCI; support for dual-channel DDR3-2000 MHz memory; a six-port SATA 6 Gb/s RAID controller, 2 SATA 3 Gb/s ports, two eSATA 3 Gb/s; connectivity that includes gigabit Ethernet, Bluetooth, 8-channel SupremeFX X-Fi audio, USB 3.0; and a boat-load of OC-friendly features including ROG Connect, redundant BIOS, on-board voltage-measure, PCI-E gating and OC controls, etc. It is priced around 300 EUR.
Gainward GTS 450 GOOD Low-Profile Card Pictured, Taken Apart
Palit's subsidiary Gainward has a low-profile GeForce GTS 450 graphics card in the making, much like Palit's card. Both these are yet to ship to major markets. In the mean time, Korean website Brainbox.com did a picture preview of Gainward's card, called GTS 450 GOOD Low-Profile. The pictures reveal a neatly-designed PCB and cooler assembly modeled along the lines of high-end graphics cards in which hot air is directed right out of the case. The assembly includes a blower, a shroud that directs air-flow, a large heatsink with densely packed aluminum fins that channel air through, and a heatsink over the MOSFETs.
The PCB seats the GF106 GPU right in the middle. While it looks long, it's only because the PCB is half-height to give that illusion. In reality the PCB is 7.4" long, not longer than the full-height NVIDIA reference PCB, and should fit in most SFF cases that have two expansion slots. The PCB uses a simple 4-phase VRM driven by an ON-Semi controller, there are four GDDR5 memory chips on either sides of the PCB, totaling 1 GB. The clock speeds stick to NVIDIA reference: 783/1566/900(3600) MHz, display outputs include and are limited to one DVI and an HDMI. Power is drawn in from one 6-pin PCI-E power connector facing downwards à la Radeon HD 4870 X2. Gainward's card may charge a slight premium over the full-height cards, for the convenience it offers. More pictures at the source.
The PCB seats the GF106 GPU right in the middle. While it looks long, it's only because the PCB is half-height to give that illusion. In reality the PCB is 7.4" long, not longer than the full-height NVIDIA reference PCB, and should fit in most SFF cases that have two expansion slots. The PCB uses a simple 4-phase VRM driven by an ON-Semi controller, there are four GDDR5 memory chips on either sides of the PCB, totaling 1 GB. The clock speeds stick to NVIDIA reference: 783/1566/900(3600) MHz, display outputs include and are limited to one DVI and an HDMI. Power is drawn in from one 6-pin PCI-E power connector facing downwards à la Radeon HD 4870 X2. Gainward's card may charge a slight premium over the full-height cards, for the convenience it offers. More pictures at the source.
Intel Gives Core i3 and Core i5 Dual-Core Processors K0 Stepping Update
Intel is giving some existing 32 nm "Clarkdale" based Core i3 and Core i5 processors an update. The processors will transition to the new K0 stepping from the existing C2 stepping. The parts that will be made on the K0 silicon are Core i3 models 530 (new sSPEC: SLBX7), 540 (new sSPEC: SLBTD) and Core i5 models 650 (new sSPEC: SLBTJ), 660/661 (SLBTK/SLBTB), 670 (SLBTL). Newer and upcoming models such as the i3-550, i3-560, i5-665K, and i5-680 are already being built on the K0 stepping die. Motherboards will require a BIOS update to support the new K0 stepping processors.
The K0 stepping change includes the following highlights:
The K0 stepping change includes the following highlights:
- New S-spec and MM numbers for the converting products
- Extended CPUID will change from 0x00020652 to 0x00020655
- Host RevID will change from 0x12 to 0x18
- K0 stepping package is pin compatible with C2 stepping package
- Adds Processor Context ID (PCID) support
Intel Wants $50 for Software Unlock of CPU Features
The Pentium G6951 dual-core LGA1156 processor may not have made any headlines when it was known to be almost identical to the Pentium G6950, until now. Intel designed the G6951 to support "hardware feature upgrades" by purchasing them and enabling them using a software, so users with this processor installed can upgrade their systems by enabling that are otherwise locked for the SKU. The $50 upgrade fetches support for HyperThreading Technology, enabling four threads on the processor; and unlocks the disabled 1 MB of the L3 cache (Clarkdale has 4 MB of L3 cache, of which 1 MB is disabled on the Pentium SKUs).
There isn't much value in buying a $99 Pentium G6951 and the $50 Upgrade Card upfront, but later down the line, companies can opt to mass-upgrade system performance without touching any of the hardware inside. The service works by the purchase of an upgrade key that the user has to feed into the software, which is then verified by Intel's activation server, following successful verification, the software unlocks the processor's features. This is a one-time process, portable between software reinstallations.
There isn't much value in buying a $99 Pentium G6951 and the $50 Upgrade Card upfront, but later down the line, companies can opt to mass-upgrade system performance without touching any of the hardware inside. The service works by the purchase of an upgrade key that the user has to feed into the software, which is then verified by Intel's activation server, following successful verification, the software unlocks the processor's features. This is a one-time process, portable between software reinstallations.
Addonics Announces the Compact RAID 2.5'' Drive RAID eSATA Enclosure
Addonics Technologies, announced a very small storage appliance which, despite being the size of a four inch cube, packs the power and features of RAID storage devices that are much larger and up to three times as expensive. Called the Compact RAID, the unit accommodates up to five 2.5", 9.5 mm height hard drives or SSDs to form high performance storage configurable to various RAID levels up to RAID 5. Drives can easily be removed or added to the Compact RAID, much like a tape cartridge without special tools.
In addition to the powerful RAID engine, the Compact RAID comes built-in with a high speed eSATA connection and can deliver a screaming throughput up to 300 Mbytes/sec. The Compact RAID weighs just over a pound without drive. It also features a silent operation and the ability to be used as a boot drive or as additional storage.
In addition to the powerful RAID engine, the Compact RAID comes built-in with a high speed eSATA connection and can deliver a screaming throughput up to 300 Mbytes/sec. The Compact RAID weighs just over a pound without drive. It also features a silent operation and the ability to be used as a boot drive or as additional storage.
Friday, September 17th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
- Xilence M606 Dexgo (de)
Graphics Cards
Headphones
NZXT Reveals the Sleeved LED Kit
NZXT, a company built on realizing the dreams of gamers worldwide, is proud to unveil a fresh approach to case lighting with the Sleeved LED Kit. Traditional lighting methods involve cold cathodes and even solid LED boards that take up additional case space. NZXT's unique design pairs sleeved wires with a high density of LED's, enabling enthusiasts to snake the lights between side panels and under components with ease. The end result is a beautiful glow throughout the case with a clean installation that doesn't detract from the internal aesthetics. Users can adjust the light brightness to low, medium, and high levels with red, green, blue, white, or orange kits.
Team Announces Fusion F108 Flash Drive
The Fusion Flash Drive Series from Team Group Inc is one of the global bestseller USB. Continuing with the clean cut design of the previous generation, the Fusion F108 delivers a maximum capacity up to 32GB, which can store up to over 40 movies in AVI format or 6,000 songs in MP3 format. The big capacity of Fusion Flash Drive can give user a worry free storing experience.
Inheriting the features from the globally bestselling Fusion family, the F108 catches the user attention with its sandblasted and anodized finishing. With the well-tempered color silver, black and brown, the F108 becomes an indispensable mobile storage for mature user seeks for reliable storage.
Inheriting the features from the globally bestselling Fusion family, the F108 catches the user attention with its sandblasted and anodized finishing. With the well-tempered color silver, black and brown, the F108 becomes an indispensable mobile storage for mature user seeks for reliable storage.
Arctic Cooling Releases the Arctic Hub
ARCTIC is launching a new 4-port USB hub today - ARCTIC Hub - to expand single USB port into several ports so users can connect more devices to a host system. Since most new devices are integrated with USB connection nowadays, running these devices with ARCTIC Hub is very handy.
The ARCTIC Hub is designed as an umbrella shape to fit different sizes and shapes of USB sticks in different angles. An additional port on the top can be used to fit bulky shape of USB sticks or even ARCTIC Breeze Mobile! Its super lightweight and compact design is ideal for frequent travelers to use as a secondary charger for mobile phones and MP3 players.
The ARCTIC Hub is designed as an umbrella shape to fit different sizes and shapes of USB sticks in different angles. An additional port on the top can be used to fit bulky shape of USB sticks or even ARCTIC Breeze Mobile! Its super lightweight and compact design is ideal for frequent travelers to use as a secondary charger for mobile phones and MP3 players.
Viking Modular Solutions Announces Market-Leading SAS SSD Solution
Viking Modular Solutions, a division of Sanmina-SCI Corporation, and a leading manufacturer of innovative DRAM modules and flash solutions, today announced that the newest member of its SSD product family, the Element Serial Attached SCSI (SAS) SSD, is available for immediate qualification. This enterprise class 2.5" SAS SSD delivers unparalleled price-performance, helping to redefine server and storage SSD utilization.
The Element SAS SSD features a dual-ported 6GB SAS interface and an advanced parallel NAND channel architecture, providing unprecedented endurance capabilities to meet the high performance and high availability requirements of a variety of enterprise computing applications. Viking Modular's Element SSDs enable the use of Multi-Level Cell (MLC) and Enterprise MLC (eMLC) NAND flash technology for enterprise Input/Output (I/O) workloads, which have typically demanded the use of Single-Level Cell (SLC) flash.
The Element SAS SSD features a dual-ported 6GB SAS interface and an advanced parallel NAND channel architecture, providing unprecedented endurance capabilities to meet the high performance and high availability requirements of a variety of enterprise computing applications. Viking Modular's Element SSDs enable the use of Multi-Level Cell (MLC) and Enterprise MLC (eMLC) NAND flash technology for enterprise Input/Output (I/O) workloads, which have typically demanded the use of Single-Level Cell (SLC) flash.
Buffalo Intros LinkStation Ls-Wvl/R1 NAS
Buffalo revealed its newest small/home office NAS, the 2-bay LinkStation Ls-Wvl/R1. This new model is advertised to be faster than its predecessor, and connects using a gigabit Ethernet link, it offers one USB 2.0 port for auxiliary storage. The unit is actively cooled by a 60 mm fan. DLNA is supported that enables connectivity to a variety of devices on the network. Buffalo's NAS servers don't come empty, this one comes in capacities of 1 TB, 2 TB, 3 TB, and 4 TB, priced at US $356, $431, $554 and $679, respectively.
PhotoFast Also Readies GMonster PowerDrive-LSI PCI-E SSD
PhotoFast is working on yet another monster SSD, this time one that uses the PCI-Express x8 interface (fits inside x16 slots), the GMonster PowerDrive-LSI. As the name suggests, some of the drive's chippery (such as storage controller) is made by LSI, which runs an internal (abstract to OS) RAID a number of SSD modules. If 2 GT/s interface was any indication of the drive's speeds, then here goes: 1,400 MB/s read; 1,500 MB/s write. The controller has its own 512 MB of dedicated DDR2 memory. The GMonster PowerDrive-LSI comes in capacities of 240 GB, 480 GB, and 960 GB. It has a rated MTBF of 1.5 million hours. It is slated for next month. Once again, PhotoFast did not give out pricing.
PhotoFast Announces GMonster 3X V1 SATA 6 Gb/s SSDs
Flash-memory expert PhotoFast is releasing its fastest SATA solid state drive (SSD) series, the GMonster 3X V1. Based on a new controller, the drive supports SATA 6 Gb/s interface, and significantly relies on the higher interface bandwidth. These drives carry read speeds of up to 430 MB/s, writing at up to 300 MB/s. Available in 64 GB, 128 GB, and 256 GB variants, these drives have different read/write speeds: the 64 GB model reads/writes at up to 370/120 MB/s, the 128 GB model at 410/190 MB/s, with the 256 GB model running full throttle at 430/300 MB/s. The controller makes full use of the NAND flash memory installed as data-area, while it has its own 128 MB DDR3 memory to carry out its tasks and use as cache. Aimed at consumers, these drives carry MTBF of 1.5 million hours. October is when these will hit the shelves, though prices have not been announced yet.
MSI Unveils the CX413 Multimedia Notenook
MSI recently rolled out the CX413, the newest member of its Classic series of laptop computers. Under the hood, the 14-inch CX413 comes packed with AMD's all-new Vision (Danube) platform with AMD's most advanced Athlon II dual core processor which supports DDR3 system memory as well as the high performance ATI Mobility Radeon HD 5470 discrete graphics card (DDR3 512MB display memory) for multimedia for superior image capabilities and processing speeds. Your multimedia life was never so good.
MSI Marketing Director Sam Chern explains that the CX413 features MSI's own 45-degree beveled construction, a cinema-class 16:9 ratio, power-sipping LED display, and MSI's ECO engine power saving technology. This machine has it all-an aesthetically pleasing exterior, outstanding multimedia performance, and exceptionally long battery life. It's your best choice for reasonably priced mobile multimedia entertainment.
MSI Marketing Director Sam Chern explains that the CX413 features MSI's own 45-degree beveled construction, a cinema-class 16:9 ratio, power-sipping LED display, and MSI's ECO engine power saving technology. This machine has it all-an aesthetically pleasing exterior, outstanding multimedia performance, and exceptionally long battery life. It's your best choice for reasonably priced mobile multimedia entertainment.
AeroCool Intros Strike-X Multichannel Touchscreen Fan-Controller
Close to month after releasing the Strike-X ATX mid-tower case, AeroCool released a new touchscreen multichannel fan-controller under the same banner. The Strike-X fan-controller occupies two 5.25" drive bays on your case (designed to look best with the Strike-X case), and has a fuzzy-looking LED display that looks like one of the touchscreen computers from the retro generation of the USS Enterprise (in which William Shatner plays Capt. Kirk). The controller supports five independent fan channels, with fan-speed and thermal-zone monitoring. The unit also doubles up as a 2-port USB 2.0 and front-panel audio hub (by relaying the same from the motherboard). It is available with red+black and all-black bezel options. Available soon, the Strike-X fan-controller from AeroCool will sell for €54.90.
New Memorex Mirror for Photos Simplifies Photo Backup
Today's consumers are looking for simple technology solutions that allow them to swiftly and safely back up their ever-growing digital photo collection. With a quick, one-time software installation, the Memorex Mirror for Photos external hard drive automatically backs up photos when connected to the computer without having to open numerous settings, dialogs or having to navigate multiple menus.
Mirror for Photos is a fast, smart and maintenance-free method of backing up photos and takes the guesswork out of protecting one's precious memories. Its built-in software automatically runs each time the device is connected to a PC or MAC, finds photos and backs them up. This eliminates the hassle of manually backing up photos each time they are uploaded on a computer. A unique monitoring feature detects when new photos are present and reminds the user to connect Mirror for Photos.
Mirror for Photos is a fast, smart and maintenance-free method of backing up photos and takes the guesswork out of protecting one's precious memories. Its built-in software automatically runs each time the device is connected to a PC or MAC, finds photos and backs them up. This eliminates the hassle of manually backing up photos each time they are uploaded on a computer. A unique monitoring feature detects when new photos are present and reminds the user to connect Mirror for Photos.
Thursday, September 16th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
Processors
AMD ''Barts'' GPU Detailed Specifications Surface
Barely a week after pictures of AMD's "Barts" prototype surfaced, it wasn't long before a specifications sheet followed. The all-important slide from AMD's presentation to its add-in board partners made it to sections of the Chinese media. "Barts" is a successor to "Juniper", on which are based the Radeon HD 5750 and HD 5770. The specs sheet reveals that while indeed the GPU looks to be larger physically, there are other factors that make it big:
Memory Controller
Barts has a 256-bit wide memory interface, which significantly increases its pin-count, and package-size. The "Pro" and "XT" variants (which will go on to be HD 6x50 and HD 6x70, respectively), have memory clocked at 1000 MHz and 1200 MHz, respectively, so that's nearly 100% increase in memory bandwidth .
Memory Controller
Barts has a 256-bit wide memory interface, which significantly increases its pin-count, and package-size. The "Pro" and "XT" variants (which will go on to be HD 6x50 and HD 6x70, respectively), have memory clocked at 1000 MHz and 1200 MHz, respectively, so that's nearly 100% increase in memory bandwidth .
ZOTAC Introduces GeForce GTX 460 with 2 GB GDDR5 Memory
ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world's largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today announces the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2GB - the first ZOTAC graphics card powered by NVIDIA Fermi architecture with 2 GB of graphics memory. The new ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2 GB delivers best-in-class performance with unmatched features for a superior gaming experience gamers can rely on.
High-resolution gaming receives a performance boost with the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2 GB and the large 2GB graphics memory. Paired with an ultra-wide 256-bit memory interface, the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2 GB can communicate between the GPU and 2 GB of graphics memory at lightning-fast speeds to transfer ultra-quality textures for phenomenal in-game details that blur the line between the virtual world and reality.
High-resolution gaming receives a performance boost with the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2 GB and the large 2GB graphics memory. Paired with an ultra-wide 256-bit memory interface, the ZOTAC GeForce GTX 460 2 GB can communicate between the GPU and 2 GB of graphics memory at lightning-fast speeds to transfer ultra-quality textures for phenomenal in-game details that blur the line between the virtual world and reality.
VLI Designs New Performance USB 3.0 Flash Drive Controller
VIA's subsidiary that deals with cutting-edge technology devices (while its parent company works on proven/stable technologies) VLI, is out with a new SuperSpeed USB 3.0 flash drive controller, the VLI VL750, that lets manufacturers design flash drives with transfer speeds of over 100 MB/s at cost-effective price points. The controller connects USB 3.0 to a 30 nm class or 20 nm class NAND flash chip. In USB 2.0 mode, the controller still supports transfer rates of up to 35 MB/s. Other notable features of this controller include support for USB-attached SCSI Protocol (UASP), Bulk-only Transport (BOT), wear-leveling that minimizes reduction in stability over time, and ECC to minimize data errors caused by hardware faults. The new chip is currently sampling, with the company designing a reference-design flash drive driven by it. Flash drives based on this shouldn't be too far away.
Verbatim Launches the Red Dot Design Award-winning Store 'n' Go Clip-it USB Drive
Verbatim is launching a simple and ingenious solution for combining digital media with paper: the Red dot 'Best of the Best' Award-winning Verbatim Store 'n' Go Clip-it USB Drive. Available in a range of vibrant colours, Verbatim's Clip-it USB drive combines flash storage with the simple functionality of a paperclip, making it a wonderfully practical solution for daily business or private users. The Verbatim Clip-it USB Drive is now available with storage capacities of 2GB and 4GB.
Swiftech Announces MCP35X High Performance Pump
Swiftech today announced the release for retail sales of the new MCP35X pump. The product was initially unveiled earlier this month as the engine powering the Company's new H20-X20 Edge Kits. As a standalone pump, the MCP35X is a substantial step forward from the long established MCP355 series. It receives considerable hydraulic performance enhancements, its operating speed is adjustable via the motherboard, and the inlet/outlet ports now meet the G1/4" standard. System integration is also improved thanks to an optional "built-in" reservoir, which further reduces the device's overall footprint and should ease installation into space constrained cases.
Scythe Introduces Slim Stream 120 PWM High-RPM Fan
Japanese Cooling expert Scythe is announcing the availability of a new High RPM version of the popular Slip Stream PWM fan series. Slip Stream 120 PWM High-RPM is equipped with PWM feature which allows the mainboard to automatically control the fan speed in a range between 500 (+200 rpm) and 1,900 rpm (±10%) whereas the airflow of up to 110.31 CFM is being created which equals ca. 187,41 m³/h. This allows the High RPM version to cover a wider range compared to the already existing Slip Stream 120 PWM fan which is spinning in a range of 0 (+200 rpm) and 1,300 rpm (±10%) making the High RPM version suitable for high performance systems as well as overclocking use.
Besides the Slip Stream 120 PWM Adjustable which allows to adjustment of the PWM bandwidth and the Slip Stream 120 PWM & V.R. which additionally gives the possibility to manually control the fan speed using the Voltage Regulation, new Slip Stream 120 PWM High-RPM is equipped with the standard PWM feature allowing the automatic fan control via the mainboard.
Besides the Slip Stream 120 PWM Adjustable which allows to adjustment of the PWM bandwidth and the Slip Stream 120 PWM & V.R. which additionally gives the possibility to manually control the fan speed using the Voltage Regulation, new Slip Stream 120 PWM High-RPM is equipped with the standard PWM feature allowing the automatic fan control via the mainboard.
Lian Li Adds Two New Models to Its V-Series – PC-V1020 Mid-Tower & PC-2120 Full-Tower
Lian Li Industrial Co. Ltd. today announces two additional V-series - PC-V1020 mid-tower chassis & PC-V2120 full-tower chassis for the professional PC users. Continuously following the layout from the previous V-series models, Lian Li also upgrades functionality to the latest requirements of performance computing. Huge internal space for the largest graphics cards, support for 8 or 11 PCI slots, enough space for the gigantic HPTX motherboard, easily removable motherboard tray, front door for security and quality...plus the front grill design with holes are all the advanced features of this series. No matter if it's for professional workstation, server or high-end system, gamers or pro-users, the all aluminum alloy with simple and yet stylish look of Lian Li's PC-V1020 & PC-V2120 are made for users looking for absolute choices.
MSI Intros IM-PV-N with Intel Pineview D525/D425 for NAS and Network Applications
In the view of the demand for an ultra-low power platform with fan-less design strongly inquired from customers, MSI IPC debuts the IM-PV-N based on thelatest Intel Pineview-D D525/D425 processor and the Intel ICH9R chipset to provide the latest ultra-low power platform. With a compact 6.7"x6.7" size, IM-PV-N is designed with rich I/O functionality and has the new levels of performance and graphics for customer's demanding in network security applications such as VPN (Virtual Private Network ), VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol ) and NAS (Network Attached Storage ). Powered by the Intel Pineview-D D525/D425+ICH9R chipset, consisting of the Intel Integrated Graphics GMA 3150 Engine, MSI IM-PV-N delivers high performance and powerful graphics.
MSI IM-PV-N supports 4 Gigabit LAN, and 2 LAN support Bypass function relay modes. With two DDR3 800 MHz So-DIMM sockets up to 4GB system memory, IM-PV-N is for better memory supply. For the storage application, it supports 4 SATA ports. Onboard I/O advantages include 10 COM ports and 6 USB 2.0 ports. Moreover, it features one compact flash slot, two PCI, one PCIex1 slot and one mini-PCIe slot for easy expansion.
MSI IM-PV-N supports 4 Gigabit LAN, and 2 LAN support Bypass function relay modes. With two DDR3 800 MHz So-DIMM sockets up to 4GB system memory, IM-PV-N is for better memory supply. For the storage application, it supports 4 SATA ports. Onboard I/O advantages include 10 COM ports and 6 USB 2.0 ports. Moreover, it features one compact flash slot, two PCI, one PCIex1 slot and one mini-PCIe slot for easy expansion.
AMD Releases ATI Catalyst 10.9a Hotfix for Radeon HD 4800 X2 Series Graphics Cards
Less than a day after releasing the ATI Catalyst 10.9 WHQL driver suite, AMD rolled out the Catalyst 10.9a Hotfix driver for users of the ATI Radeon HD 4870 X2 and Radeon HD 4850 X2 graphics accelerators. Applicable for Windows Vista and Windows 7, Catalyst 10.9b Hotfix improves performance of the said graphics cards, eliminating a bug that lets the OS make use of only one of the two GPUs.
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.9a Hotfix
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.9a Hotfix
MSI Debuts MSI IA-Q45 Motherboard for ATMs, Kiosks
MSI debuts the IA-Q45 based on the Intel Core 2 Duo / Core 2 Quad processor and the Intel Q45+ Intel ICH10DO chipset to provide the most powerful Micro-ATX form factor platform into ATM and Gaming applications. MSI IA-Q45 is a high performance industrial-grade Micro ATX motherboard with a full-range of integrated peripherals for high-end industrial and embedded applications like ATM and gaming applications. Based on Intel Q45+ Intel ICH10DO chipset and featured LGA775 socket for Intel Core 2 Duo and Core 2 Quad different level processors, IA-Q45 enables customers to deploy more responsive, high-performance, low-power, or even cost-effective systems and can fit in any Micro ATX chassis.
Microsoft Rolled Out First Public Beta of Internet Explorer 9
Microsoft released the first public beta of its sceptically-anticipated web-browser, the Windows Internet Explorer 9 (or IE9). Sceptical, because the previous two versions did not really shine compared to other web-browsers in performance, and anticipated, because it promised revolutionary changes in the rendering engine and the way it works. IE9 is one of the first browsers that uses GPU (graphics processors) for rendering almost every page element, including text and layout. It features a new Javascript engine codenamed "Chakra" that has higher JS performance, and supports HTML5 web standards. The UI itself looks very lean and modelled along the lines of Google Chrome, with just the bare-essential controls, and menus. The address bar doubles up as a search bar. There are loads of functionality improvements, including detachable tabs, Windows Aero Snap tabs, and the ability to pin favourite websites to the Windows 7 taskbar. A performance manager monitors plugins and advices you to disable those which are slowing down the browser.
DOWNLOAD: Microsoft Windows Internet Explorer 9 beta
Please note, the software works only on Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Please note, the software works only on Windows Vista and Windows 7.
Wednesday, September 15th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
CPU Coolers
Gaming PC
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Memory
Motherboards
Multimedia
Processors
Speakers
JH AUDIO JH|16Pro Custom In-ears Review
High end in-ear manufacturer JH AUDIO recently launched a new top-of-the-line in-ear dubbed the JH|16Pro. Featuring a grand total of eight drivers per in-ear these set the benchmark when it comes to cramming a lot of balanced armatures into one set of in-ears, retailing at $1,200. This brings forth the old question of whether more really is better, read on to find out.
AMD Releases ATI Catalyst 10.9 WHQL Driver Suite
AMD released the latest version of the ATI Catalyst software suite. Version 10.9 WHQL comes rather early for this time of the month, when normally it's out towards the end or last week. ATI Catalyst installs drivers and system software for ATI Radeon graphics processors (HD 2000 series and above), AMD chipset integrated graphics, and other ATI multimedia products. Although Catalyst 10.9 does not mention any notable feature changes, it does offer some game-specific performance improvements across the board, as well as CrossFireX profiles that make the graphics driver take advantage of CrossFireX specific to games. Notable improvements include up to 20% in STALKER: Call of Pripyat Benchmark on Radeon HD 5800 series, and up to 6% on The Chronicles of Riddick: Assault on Dark Athena, when running Radeon HD 5970 single or CrossFireX. A usual load of bug fixes goes with this version.
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.9 WHQL for Windows 7/Vista 64-bit, Windows 7/Vista 32-bit, Windows XP 32-bit, Windows XP 64-bit
A complete list of changes follows.
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.9 WHQL for Windows 7/Vista 64-bit, Windows 7/Vista 32-bit, Windows XP 32-bit, Windows XP 64-bit
A complete list of changes follows.
Valve, AMD Team Up to Provide Gamers with Easy ATI Catalyst Driver Updates on Steam
AMD today announced its collaboration with Valve to deliver ATI Catalyst graphics driver updates via its Steam platform, a leading platform for PC games and digital entertainment. Steam users can now detect and install the latest ATI Catalyst driver for their ATI Radeon graphics card directly from within Steam. Valve's most recent Steam Hardware Survey shows that fully 87 percent of DirectX 11 gamers are enjoying ATI Radeon or ATI Mobility Radeon hardware.
"Steam represents an evolution for PC and online gaming, and the availability of ATI Catalyst graphics driver updates directly on the Steam platform can help further enhance the PC gaming experience for users of ATI Radeon products," said Ben Bar-Haim, corporate vice president of software for AMD. "AMD Gaming Evolved and Valve share the belief that 'Gamers Come First' - we now have the opportunity to work together to help ensure the best possible experience for PC gamers."
"Steam represents an evolution for PC and online gaming, and the availability of ATI Catalyst graphics driver updates directly on the Steam platform can help further enhance the PC gaming experience for users of ATI Radeon products," said Ben Bar-Haim, corporate vice president of software for AMD. "AMD Gaming Evolved and Valve share the belief that 'Gamers Come First' - we now have the opportunity to work together to help ensure the best possible experience for PC gamers."
Thermalright Readies Shaman 140 mm VGA Cooler
Air-cooling specialist Thermalright is readying a VGA cooler that makes use of a 140 mm fan, and uses no less than eight 6 mm thick heat pipes to convey heat to a large aluminum fin array. The Shaman from Thermalright uses a large rectangular base from which eight heat pipes twist their way to the heatsink. Shaman supports nearly all high-end GPUs in the market, including GeForce GTX 480, GTX 470, GTX 465, GTX 460, Radeon HD 5800 series, Radeon HD 5700, and upcoming Radeon HD 6800 series as well as HD 6700 series. Bundled with this is a TY-140 fan, which spins between 900~1300 rpm, with a noise output of 21 dBA.
A video preview of the Thermalright Shaman follows.
Logitech Unveils New Wireless Trackball
Today Logitech unveiled the Logitech Wireless Trackball M570, delivering a different level of comfort and control. If you're searching for an alternative to touchpads or traditional mice, the Wireless Trackball M570 is uniquely designed for all-day comfort and features the leave-in Logitech Unifying receiver.
"Based on overwhelming demand from our dedicated trackball users, we're delighted to announce the introduction of a new wireless trackball - the Logitech Wireless Trackball M570," said Rory Dooley, senior vice president and general manager of Logitech's control devices business unit. "Everything about our newest trackball is built to improve the experience and give trackball enthusiasts the comfort and control they deserve."
"Based on overwhelming demand from our dedicated trackball users, we're delighted to announce the introduction of a new wireless trackball - the Logitech Wireless Trackball M570," said Rory Dooley, senior vice president and general manager of Logitech's control devices business unit. "Everything about our newest trackball is built to improve the experience and give trackball enthusiasts the comfort and control they deserve."
LaCie Introduces World’s First USB 3.0 RAID Storage Solution
LaCie today announced the availability of the first RAID storage solution to incorporate the new USB 3.0 technology - the LaCie 2big USB 3.0. In addition to the 2big USB 3.0, LaCie also announces the availability of its award-winning single-disk professional solution with a USB 3.0 port - the LaCie d2 USB 3.0. Developed for professionals who require high capacity and fast transfer speeds, the LaCie 2big USB 3.0 offers the highest performances ever achieved in a USB 3.0 external storage solution, up to 205 MB/s - setting a new standard in the market.
The LaCie 2big USB 3.0 is available with up to 4TB, allowing users to store and transfer large files without waiting. In fact, you can transfer a 50GB Blu-ray disk in less than five minutes, which is six times faster than USB 2.0. The 2big USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0, making it dependable for transfers with any workstation.
The LaCie 2big USB 3.0 is available with up to 4TB, allowing users to store and transfer large files without waiting. In fact, you can transfer a 50GB Blu-ray disk in less than five minutes, which is six times faster than USB 2.0. The 2big USB 3.0 is backward compatible with USB 2.0, making it dependable for transfers with any workstation.
ASRock Rolls Out Calpella-Based DirectX 11 Ready Mini PC
Without making much noise, ASRock introduced its latest compact PCs, the Vision 3D 135B. Original name aside, the 135B is essentially a mobile-on-desktop system, that is powered by the Intel Calpella mobile platform. At the center of this is a Core i3 370M dual-core processor clocked at 2.40 GHz, and an NVIDIA GeForce GT 425M DirectX 11 compliant GPU that packs 96 CUDA cores and dedicated memory. There's 4 GB of dual-channel DDR3-1066 MHz memory on board. Apart from these, there's 500 GB of storage, a Blu-ray + DVD-RW slot-in combo drive, and connectivity that includes WiFi b/g/n, gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, 8-channel HD audio, and display outputs that include DVI and HDMI. The unit itself measures 200(W) x 70 (H) x 200 (L) mm, and comes in matte black and silver options. ASRock did not give out a price.
SandForce Closes $25 Million Series D Funding
SandForce Inc., the pioneer of SSD (Solid State Drive) Processors that enable standard NAND Flash deployment in enterprise, client and industrial computing applications, today announced that it has closed $25 million in Series D funding, led by Canaan Partners. Existing investors who also participated include DCM, Storm Ventures, Translink Capital, LSI Corporation & UMC Capital.
"We are increasing volume shipments of our Enterprise and Client SSD Processors to leading drive manufacturers around the globe and continue to receive exceptional market acceptance of our DuraClass technology in I/O intensive storage applications," said Michael Raam, president and CEO of SandForce. "This new funding will help us bring our next-generation products to market, expand our customer and partner support infrastructure, and accelerate our core technology development that will extend our market leadership."
"We are increasing volume shipments of our Enterprise and Client SSD Processors to leading drive manufacturers around the globe and continue to receive exceptional market acceptance of our DuraClass technology in I/O intensive storage applications," said Michael Raam, president and CEO of SandForce. "This new funding will help us bring our next-generation products to market, expand our customer and partner support infrastructure, and accelerate our core technology development that will extend our market leadership."
Intel Opens Software App Store, Offers New Intel Atom Chips
During keynote presentations today at the Intel Developer Forum, Intel Corporation executives outlined several software- and hardware-related efforts as the company intensifies its System-on-a-Chip (SoC) product plans based on the Intel Atom processor family.
Amid predictions of billions of additional Internet-connected devices going online, Renée James, senior vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Services Group, and Doug Davis, vice president and general manager, Embedded and Communications Group, discussed the expansion of these processors into high-growth areas including netbooks, tablets, CE, embedded, and smart phones.
Amid predictions of billions of additional Internet-connected devices going online, Renée James, senior vice president and general manager, Intel Software and Services Group, and Doug Davis, vice president and general manager, Embedded and Communications Group, discussed the expansion of these processors into high-growth areas including netbooks, tablets, CE, embedded, and smart phones.
Prolimatech Blue Vortex 14 and Red Vortex 14 Fans Hit Shelves
Prolimatech's 140 mm Blue Vortex 14 and Red Vortex 14 case fans have hit the shelves, priced at €9.90. As their names suggest, these fans come in blue and red, with the red one being translucent (illuminated by four LEDs). The fans spin at speeds around 1000 rpm ± 10%. These have noise output levels of around 18.1 dBA, and push 87 CFM of air.
Dell Develops New Convertible Tablet Notebook Design Concept
At the ongoing Intel Developer Forum event, Dell showed off its latest convertible tablet notebook concept, which breaks away from the conventional "screen-swivel" design which tends to make the device thicker due to the big rotary joint. Dell's design is as slim as any normal notebook, with a typical lid hinge, except that the screen is held by two joints on either sides, allowing it to flip, thus converting it between a multi-touch tablet and a notebook. The only downside we so far is that the web-camera is fixed on the bezel facing the notebook side. Dell may capitalize heavily on this concept building a number of models with different sizes and specifications.
Tuesday, September 14th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Motherboards
PSUs
SSD
Point of View, TGT Tuning Team Develop GTX 480 Ultra Charged TFC Graphics Card
Point of View and the TGT Tuning team, which develops pre-overclocked graphics cards, are developing a new high-end variant based on the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 480 GPU, the GeForce GTX 480 Ultra Charged TFC (triple fan cooling). The company has "Charged" and "Ultra Charged" GeForce GTX 480 already out, but the two use NVIDIA reference cooling assembly. The TFC variant makes used of a triple-fan cooler made by Arctic Cooling (likely the Accelero Xtreme Pro), which comes with individual heatsinks over the memory chips and VRM area, alongside the main heatsink that makes use of a dense aluminum fin array to which heat is conveyed from a copper base by a number of heatpipes. This card features out of the box overclocked speeds of 763/1526/950(3800) MHz (core/shader/memory(memory effective)) compared to reference speeds of 700/1401/924(3696) MHz. Pricing and availability are not known.
Kingston Announces its First USB 3.0 Flash Drives: Data Traveller Ultimate Series
Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced it is shipping its first USB 3.0 Flash drive. The Kingston DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 Flash drive takes advantage of the faster USB 3.0 specification that has up to ten times the data transfer rates of the current USB 2.0 specification.
The DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 has a read speed of 80 MB/sec. and a write speed of 60MB/sec. It is available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities. The combination of speed and size makes it ideal for data backup or fast transferring of large files including music, photos and videos. To ensure backwards compatibility, Kingston is also including a Y cable as some USB 2.0 ports require it to initialize USB 3.0 drives.
The DataTraveler Ultimate 3.0 has a read speed of 80 MB/sec. and a write speed of 60MB/sec. It is available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities. The combination of speed and size makes it ideal for data backup or fast transferring of large files including music, photos and videos. To ensure backwards compatibility, Kingston is also including a Y cable as some USB 2.0 ports require it to initialize USB 3.0 drives.
OCZ Announces Next Generation Ultra-Low and Extreme-Low Voltage DDR3 Memory Kits
OCZ Technology Group, Inc., a leading provider of high-performance solid-state drives (SSDs) and memory modules for computing devices and systems, unveils new Ultra-Low Voltage (ULV) and Extreme-Low Voltage (ELV) high-speed DDR3 desktop memory, providing the optimal balance of performance and power efficiency in one solution. Committed to staying ahead of the curve, OCZ is offering enthusiast-grade memory that complies with the latest JEDEC "DDR3L" low-voltage standards which ensures that system RAM runs cooler and more efficiently during intensive multi-tasking, gaming, and productivity applications.
"We are pleased to announce a complete range of low-voltage memory offerings designed for the latest crop of energy efficient platforms," said Eugene Chang, Vice President of Product Management. "In the past, lower voltage meant lower performance, but now with our extreme-low voltage optimized memory, consumers don't have to sacrifice high performance to also achieve energy savings."
"We are pleased to announce a complete range of low-voltage memory offerings designed for the latest crop of energy efficient platforms," said Eugene Chang, Vice President of Product Management. "In the past, lower voltage meant lower performance, but now with our extreme-low voltage optimized memory, consumers don't have to sacrifice high performance to also achieve energy savings."
Shuttle Launches the XS35 Series 38 mm Thin Fanless HD-Ready Nettop
Shuttle Inc., a leading developer and manufacturer of multi-form-factor solutions such as the world-famous XPC Mini-PC Barebones, today announces the official European sales launch of the XS35 series. There are in total eleven versions of the new model available, which all boast a compact format of just 38 mm in width, high connectivity and a completely passive (fanless) cooling system.
As the smallest-ever Mini-PC from Shuttle (25.2 x 3.85 x 16.2 [cm, DWH]) the XS35 offers particularly low energy consumption. The series is based on efficient technologies and uses the Intel Atom D510 dual-core processor (2x 1.66 GHz), SO-DIMM memory, 2.5 inch hard disks and slim-line drives. Since no fans are used at all, any models work virtually silently even under heavy load. Using no fans also means less maintenance is required.
As the smallest-ever Mini-PC from Shuttle (25.2 x 3.85 x 16.2 [cm, DWH]) the XS35 offers particularly low energy consumption. The series is based on efficient technologies and uses the Intel Atom D510 dual-core processor (2x 1.66 GHz), SO-DIMM memory, 2.5 inch hard disks and slim-line drives. Since no fans are used at all, any models work virtually silently even under heavy load. Using no fans also means less maintenance is required.
Corsair Announces Gaming Series PSUs: GS600W, GS700W, and GS800W
Corsair, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced the Corsair Gaming Series Power Supplies. These PSUs are an ideal price-performance solution for building or upgrading a gaming PC.
The Gaming Series PSUs feature a single +12V rail, providing up to 65A of reliable, continuous power for multi-core gaming PCs with single or multiple graphics cards. The ultra-quiet, dual ball-bearing fan automatically adjusts its speed according to temperature, so it will never intrude on your music and games. Tri-color LEDs illuminate the transparent fan blades with blue, red, or white at your command; they can be turned off at the press of a button. (The GS600 features only blue LEDs). The entire family is 80 PLUS certified to deliver 80% efficiency or higher at normal load conditions, generating a minimal amount of excess heat.
The Gaming Series PSUs feature a single +12V rail, providing up to 65A of reliable, continuous power for multi-core gaming PCs with single or multiple graphics cards. The ultra-quiet, dual ball-bearing fan automatically adjusts its speed according to temperature, so it will never intrude on your music and games. Tri-color LEDs illuminate the transparent fan blades with blue, red, or white at your command; they can be turned off at the press of a button. (The GS600 features only blue LEDs). The entire family is 80 PLUS certified to deliver 80% efficiency or higher at normal load conditions, generating a minimal amount of excess heat.
PowerColor Expands its Product Lineup into Power Supply Units
TUL Corporation, a manufacturer under the leading graphics card brand PowerColor, today introduces a completely new product lineup for computer enthusiasts: the PowerColor Power Supply Unit (PSU) series. The series includes Extreme 1000W, 850W and Gaming 600W, 500W power supplies, targeting high-end to upper mid-range segments.
The PowerColor Extreme and Gaming series features 80 Plus Bronze and 80 Plus rated separately, offering more than 85% power efficiency in Extreme series and 80% in Gaming series, decreasing wasted power while increasing power transmission.
The PowerColor Extreme and Gaming series features 80 Plus Bronze and 80 Plus rated separately, offering more than 85% power efficiency in Extreme series and 80% in Gaming series, decreasing wasted power while increasing power transmission.
18W AMD Fusion Beats Intel Core i5 at Graphics Performance
As with every IDF event, AMD camped nearby at hotel suites, showing off its latest. Even as Intel is busy selling Sandy Bridge to the press, AMD has some goods of its own. The green team displayed a notebook development platform built around the Fusion "Zacate" APU, which a dual-core APU based on the Bobcat architecture, with a DirectX 11 compliant GPU embedded into it. A more interesting specification is its TDP, just at 18W, with a more energy-efficient die suited for netbooks, at just 9W (codenamed "Ontario". The test platform was pitted against an Intel Core i5 processor-driven notebook, and the two were tested on casual gaming a run of City of Heroes, and HTML5 web-rendering performance using Microsoft Internet Explorer 9 test suite.
The Intel HD graphics embedded intro the Intel Core i5 managed just 6~7 fps @ 1024 x 768, while the Fusion "Zacate" managed close to 5 times that, around 30 fps, which made the game playable. Next up, the two setups were compared with MSIE9 HTML5 demos. In one such graphics-intensive demo that shows a virtual bookshelf from which you can pick up books, read a teaser, and then buy it off Amazon.com, the Fusion "Zacate" was able to deliver smooth animations, while that from the Core i5 looked choppy. Lastly, a close look at the demo board reveals that Fusion is indeed a 2-chip solution (APU + chipset). Compared to current AMD mobile platforms, it will significantly cut down board area, letting manufacturers build faster, and smaller ultraportables and netbooks. A video of the demo can be watched here.
The Intel HD graphics embedded intro the Intel Core i5 managed just 6~7 fps @ 1024 x 768, while the Fusion "Zacate" managed close to 5 times that, around 30 fps, which made the game playable. Next up, the two setups were compared with MSIE9 HTML5 demos. In one such graphics-intensive demo that shows a virtual bookshelf from which you can pick up books, read a teaser, and then buy it off Amazon.com, the Fusion "Zacate" was able to deliver smooth animations, while that from the Core i5 looked choppy. Lastly, a close look at the demo board reveals that Fusion is indeed a 2-chip solution (APU + chipset). Compared to current AMD mobile platforms, it will significantly cut down board area, letting manufacturers build faster, and smaller ultraportables and netbooks. A video of the demo can be watched here.
Point of View Announces its GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Card
Point of View - leading European manufacturer of NVIDIA based 3D graphics cards and desktop-, mobile- and touch screen computer systems - announces the newest GeForce 400 graphics card; the POV GeForce GTS 450. The everlasting battle between price and performance has been settled with a perfectly balanced graphics card. A combination of raw processing power, ground breaking technologies and a very, very interesting pricetag may very well nominate the GeForce GTS 450 graphics card for the 'most bang for the buck' award.
The GeForce 'FERMI' 400 series continues with this mainstream performance card. With the NVIDIA technologies PhysX, SLI and 3dVision you will play every game 'The Way It's Meant To Be Played'. Experience the ultimate DirectX 11 gaming immersion with higher frame rates, better lighting effects and more detail in both game environments as well as character models.
The GeForce 'FERMI' 400 series continues with this mainstream performance card. With the NVIDIA technologies PhysX, SLI and 3dVision you will play every game 'The Way It's Meant To Be Played'. Experience the ultimate DirectX 11 gaming immersion with higher frame rates, better lighting effects and more detail in both game environments as well as character models.
Leadtek launches WinFast GTS 450 Extreme Graphics Cards
Next-generation gaming has arrived. A GPU with performance at twice the speed for your online games is available right now. Leadtek Research Inc., known globally for its extreme visual graphics technology development, today announced the arrival of the overclocking version of WinFast GTS 450 Extreme GDDR5 1GB graphics card. Much like a race car in appearance, it delivers the best and coolest performance in comparison to others. The new product can lower GPU temperature by 10%-15% and be overclocked to up to 850 MHz.
Compared to the same level of product in the previous generation, WinFast GTS 450 Extreme dominates the competition with more than 2x the DirectX 11 geometry processing power for unparalleled game realism. Built on next-generation GeForce Fermi architecture, it is equipped with NVIDIA GeForce 106 GPU and 192 cores. The new release is specially designed to effectively dissipate heat away from the graphics card. The WinFast GTS 450 Extreme can quickly transfer heat away from the GPU and lower the temperature by a whopping 12ºC in comparison to reference designs.
Compared to the same level of product in the previous generation, WinFast GTS 450 Extreme dominates the competition with more than 2x the DirectX 11 geometry processing power for unparalleled game realism. Built on next-generation GeForce Fermi architecture, it is equipped with NVIDIA GeForce 106 GPU and 192 cores. The new release is specially designed to effectively dissipate heat away from the graphics card. The WinFast GTS 450 Extreme can quickly transfer heat away from the GPU and lower the temperature by a whopping 12ºC in comparison to reference designs.
Pioneer Intros New Blu-ray 3D Ready Internal Burner
Pioneer Japan rolled out the BDR-S06J internal Blu-ray disc writer drive. It is available in three bezel options: white (BDR-S06J-W), piano black (BDR-S06J-BK), and matte black (BDR-S06J-KR). The drive uses the standard SATA interface, and has a 4 MB buffer. It can burn Blu-ray discs at 12X, and has Blu-ray 3D support using PowerDVD. Along with this, it also supports AVCREC DRM (2D or 3D). Scheduled to arrive in November, the drive goes for ¥30,000 (or US $360).
Silicon Power Introduces Unique 530 USB Flash Drive
Leading flash memory manufacturer, Silicon Power today (9/14) announced their Unique 530 that features a sporty style. The "green" silica gel material is pliable and simple in design showing an original sports styling look. The Unique 530 is trendy and available for customers who are fashion conscious.
Silicon Power is always in tune with the ever changing trend and to satisfy various customer needs. The result is the creation of Unique 530, in response to the LOHAS lifestyle, wrapped in an eco-friendly silica gel that is clean, natural and sporty for you to express personal style.
Silicon Power is always in tune with the ever changing trend and to satisfy various customer needs. The result is the creation of Unique 530, in response to the LOHAS lifestyle, wrapped in an eco-friendly silica gel that is clean, natural and sporty for you to express personal style.
DisplayLink USB 3.0 Chip Platform Takes Major Step Toward Any Device or Connectivity
DisplayLink Corp., the market share leader with more than three million USB graphics users worldwide, today provided a glimpse at its new SuperSpeed USB (USB 3.0) chip platform for next generation displays, docking stations and other integrated devices to be showcased next week at the Intel Developer Forum in San Francisco, California, in booth #948.
The new DisplayLink single-chip family, DL-3000 and DL-1000 series, includes integrated display and networking connectivity, high performance audio and HD video support, as well as third generation DisplayLink adaptive real-time compression technology that dynamically manages bandwidth, taking full advantage bi-directional throughput of SuperSpeed USB. This means multiple full HD videos, high resolution graphics and networking data can be processed simultaneously, while also substantially increasing today's HighSpeed USB (USB 2.0) graphics performance and enabling graphics delivery over gigabit Ethernet.
The new DisplayLink single-chip family, DL-3000 and DL-1000 series, includes integrated display and networking connectivity, high performance audio and HD video support, as well as third generation DisplayLink adaptive real-time compression technology that dynamically manages bandwidth, taking full advantage bi-directional throughput of SuperSpeed USB. This means multiple full HD videos, high resolution graphics and networking data can be processed simultaneously, while also substantially increasing today's HighSpeed USB (USB 2.0) graphics performance and enabling graphics delivery over gigabit Ethernet.
Sharkoon Announces Rapid Case 2.5'' USB 3.0 Enclosure
Sharkoon equips another product from its inventory with a SuperSpeed port: Also the Rapid Case drive enclosure for 2.5" SATA hard drives is available with USB3.0 access and thus available with data rates up to 5 Gbit/s.
Sharkoon now has nine comprehensive Rapid Case series models aimed at users searching for beneficial and solid external hard drive enclosures for daily use. The sturdy aluminum housings are ideal for flexible data transfer, disk use is completed within a few simple steps. The Rapid Case 2.5" USB3.0 provides space for 2.5" SATA hard drives with a maximum overall height of 9.5mm, and is quickly and easily connected via USB3.0 to a PC or Notebook. The Plug&Play housing dimensions are 123 x 78 x 11 mm with an empty weight of 70 grams; the colors black, red and blue are available to own. In shipping you will find a brief instruction manual, screwdriver, a 100 centimeter long USB3.0 cable (Plug A / Mini USB3.0) and a transport bag.
Sharkoon now has nine comprehensive Rapid Case series models aimed at users searching for beneficial and solid external hard drive enclosures for daily use. The sturdy aluminum housings are ideal for flexible data transfer, disk use is completed within a few simple steps. The Rapid Case 2.5" USB3.0 provides space for 2.5" SATA hard drives with a maximum overall height of 9.5mm, and is quickly and easily connected via USB3.0 to a PC or Notebook. The Plug&Play housing dimensions are 123 x 78 x 11 mm with an empty weight of 70 grams; the colors black, red and blue are available to own. In shipping you will find a brief instruction manual, screwdriver, a 100 centimeter long USB3.0 cable (Plug A / Mini USB3.0) and a transport bag.
Intel Reveals New Logos and a Die Shot of Second Generation Core Processors
At the keynote of Intel Developer Forum 2010, the silicon giant gave a sneak-peak into its upcoming processor brand, revealing new product logos (case badges), and a die-shot of the Sandy Bridge quad-core silicon. Intel retains the Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7 brand identifiers, but refers to the family of processors based on the Sandy Bridge architecture as second-generation Core processors or the 2011 Intel Core processors. For the same reason, processor model numbers start with the 2000 series as detailed in this article.
The die shot reveals integration of the IGP-embedded northbridge component completely into the processor die. In "Clarkdale" Core i3 and Core i5 processors, the northbridge component was present on a separate die from the CPU die, with a QPI link connecting the two dies on the same package. The Sandy Bridge quad-core die is known to feature 6 MB of L3 cache, a dual-channel DDR3 IMC, and a DirectX 10.1 compliant graphics processor. Apart from merely driving graphics, the IGP also feature several media-acceleration features that speed up video encoding. Sandy Bridge is fabricated on the 32 nanometer HKMG process. The evolution of Intel's architectures is shown on the last picture. The "Nehalem" chip there is the Lynnfield quad-core processor that completely lacks an IGP, "Westmere" is the Clarkdale dual-core processor that has an IGP and memory controller on a second (larger) 45 nm die. The chip to the right is a 32 nm Sandy Bridge that integrates a quad-core chip with an IGP-embedded northbridge.
The die shot reveals integration of the IGP-embedded northbridge component completely into the processor die. In "Clarkdale" Core i3 and Core i5 processors, the northbridge component was present on a separate die from the CPU die, with a QPI link connecting the two dies on the same package. The Sandy Bridge quad-core die is known to feature 6 MB of L3 cache, a dual-channel DDR3 IMC, and a DirectX 10.1 compliant graphics processor. Apart from merely driving graphics, the IGP also feature several media-acceleration features that speed up video encoding. Sandy Bridge is fabricated on the 32 nanometer HKMG process. The evolution of Intel's architectures is shown on the last picture. The "Nehalem" chip there is the Lynnfield quad-core processor that completely lacks an IGP, "Westmere" is the Clarkdale dual-core processor that has an IGP and memory controller on a second (larger) 45 nm die. The chip to the right is a 32 nm Sandy Bridge that integrates a quad-core chip with an IGP-embedded northbridge.
OCZ Shows off RevoDrive X2 PCI-Express SSD
At the ongoing Intel Developer Forum event, OCZ Technology showed off its upcoming RevoDrive X2 PCI-Express SSD. For those unfamiliar with RevoDrive, it is a PCI-Express addon card that holds a couple of SandForce-drive SSDs in an internal (abstract to OS) RAID 0. The SATA bandwidth bottleneck is eliminated, as the drive connects to the system bus over PCI-Express x4. The RevoDrive X2, uses no less than four SandForce-driven SSDs in an internal RAID. The drive connects to the system over PCI-E x4, and is bootable. According to OCZ's internal testing, the drive offers read speeds of up to 740 MB/s, writes of up to 730 MB/s, and 4K random write performance of up to 120,000 IOPS. An IOMeter session running on the demo rig measured 107,124 IOPS live.
Gigabyte's First Black-PCB Motherboards: P67A-UD5 and P67A-UD7
Here's something you'll need to see to believe: Gigabyte made its first motherboards with black-colored PCBs, breaking away from its blue PCB mold! The company's high-end LGA1155 motherboard lineup includes two models: the GA-P67A-UD5 and the GA-P67A-UD7. Apart from the black-colored PCB, the color scheme also includes graphite-colored heatsinks with a dash of blue (UD5) or with a dash of gold (UD7), black-colored memory and expansion slots, mostly black internal ports and headers. The GA-P67-UD7 uses a 24-phase VRM to power the LGA1155 processor. Its expansion slots include four PCI-E 2.0 x16, there seems to be a PCI-E bridge chip (likely nForce 200 or something from PLX), which lets it run in 2-slot x16, or 4-slot x8 modes. There are two PCI and a PCI-E x1. Connectivity on this includes six SATA 3 Gb/s, two SATA 6 Gb/s internal ports, two gigabit Ethernet, 8-channel HD audio, four USB 3.0 ports, FireWire, and eSATA.
The GA-P67A-UD5 has a 20-phase VRM, a slightly lighter expansion area with three PCI-Express x16 slots (likely x16, NC/x8, x8), the third slot could be electrical x4. Connectivity on this one includes two SATA 6 Gb/s, four SATA 3 Gb/s, two eSATA, 8-channel HD audio, gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, and FireWire. Both motherboards feature Ultra Durable 3 construction. The two could be part of the company's first wave of LGA1155 motherboards.
The GA-P67A-UD5 has a 20-phase VRM, a slightly lighter expansion area with three PCI-Express x16 slots (likely x16, NC/x8, x8), the third slot could be electrical x4. Connectivity on this one includes two SATA 6 Gb/s, four SATA 3 Gb/s, two eSATA, 8-channel HD audio, gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0 ports, and FireWire. Both motherboards feature Ultra Durable 3 construction. The two could be part of the company's first wave of LGA1155 motherboards.
Intel DP67BG Extreme Series Desktop Board Pictured
If you recall, at this year's Computex event held in Taipei, almost every motherboard vendor scuffled to show of their first motherboards based on the Intel P67 and H67 chipsets, that support new socket LGA1155 socket processors based on the next-generation Sandy Bridge architecture. The Intel Developer Forum (IDF) 2010 event is presenting many of them a second chance, and we're beginning to see some new designs that didn't make it to Computex. Intel's own Desktop Board division came up with a new Extreme Series motherboard, the DP67BG "Burrage". As with every other Intel Desktop Board, this one looks clean, and well spaced-out. While there's nothing fancy about the heatsinks, the glowing skull is there, and this time it's positioned properly.
The processor is powered by a 4+2 phase PWM circuit, it's wired to four DDR3 DIMM slots for dual-channel memory support. Among few of its kind, the Burrage makes room of all seven expansion slots in the ATX specification. There are two PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (x8, x8 when both are populated), three PCI-E x1, and two PCI. Apart from six SATA 3 Gb/s ports from the P67 PCH, there's an additional Marvell-made SATA controller that drives an eSATA port. Connectivity includes 8-channel HD audio, gigabit Ethernet, a number of USB 2.0 ports, FireWire, and eSATA. After being neophobic toward USB 3.0, Intel has finally embraced it on its Desktop Board brand, an NEC/Renesas controller gives out two ports on the rear-panel. This feature-set should put rest to rumors of Intel embedding USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s into its chipset. The DP67BG from Intel should be out when the first-wave of LGA1155 processors make it to the market.
The processor is powered by a 4+2 phase PWM circuit, it's wired to four DDR3 DIMM slots for dual-channel memory support. Among few of its kind, the Burrage makes room of all seven expansion slots in the ATX specification. There are two PCI-Express 2.0 x16 (x8, x8 when both are populated), three PCI-E x1, and two PCI. Apart from six SATA 3 Gb/s ports from the P67 PCH, there's an additional Marvell-made SATA controller that drives an eSATA port. Connectivity includes 8-channel HD audio, gigabit Ethernet, a number of USB 2.0 ports, FireWire, and eSATA. After being neophobic toward USB 3.0, Intel has finally embraced it on its Desktop Board brand, an NEC/Renesas controller gives out two ports on the rear-panel. This feature-set should put rest to rumors of Intel embedding USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s into its chipset. The DP67BG from Intel should be out when the first-wave of LGA1155 processors make it to the market.
Monday, September 13th 2010
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
- GTS 450 SLI Scaling Benchmark Reviews
- NVIDIA GTS 450 1GB Benchmark Reviews
- GTS 450 Review Roundup with 10 Cards Guru3D
- Gigabyte GTS 450 1GB HardwareCanucks
- NVIDIA GTS 450 1GB Single & SLI HardwareCanucks
- ASUS ENGTS450 DirectCU TOP HardwareCanucks
- EVGA GTS 450 1GB FTW Single & SLI HardwareCanucks
- GTS 450 Launch Review: Gainward, Gigabyte, Zotac HardwareHeaven
- NVIDIA ASUS GTS 450 Hexus
- NVIDIA GTS 450 Hi Tech Legion
- EVGA GTS 450 FTW Hi Tech Legion
- NVIDIA GTS 450 1GB HotHardware
- NVIDIA GTS 450 SLI Video Card Review w/ ASUS, EVGA & MSI Legit Reviews
- NVIDIA GTS 450 NeoSeeker
- EVGA GTS 450 FTW Ninja Lane
- Zotac GTS 450 AMP! Overclock3D.net
- NVIDIA, ASUS, Inno3D GTS 450 Overclockers Club
- Gigabyte GTS 450 PureOverclock
- ASUS ENGTS450 DirectCU TOP PureOverclock
- EVGA GTS 450 FTW Rage3D
- EVGA GTS 450 FTW Tech Report
- Axle GTS 450 OC 1 GB TechPowerUp
- NVIDIA GTS 450 SLI TechPowerUp
- ASUS ENGTS450 TOP DirectCU 1 GB TechPowerUp
- MSI N450GTS Cyclone OC 1 GB TechPowerUp
- Palit GTS 450 Sonic Platinum 1 GB TechPowerUp
- ZOTAC GTS 450 AMP! Edition 1 GB TechPowerUp
- EVGA GTS 450 FTW TechReaction
- NVIDIA GTS 450 SLI and Palit GTS 450 Sonic Platinum TechSpot
- Galaxy GTS 450 Super OC Tweaktown
- MSI GTS 450 Cyclone Tweaktown
- POV/TGT GTX 460 BEAST Hardware Overclock
Motherboards
Mousepads
Turtle Beach Announces DX11 7.1 Channel Gaming Headset
Turtle Beach, a leader in premium gaming headsets and audio entertainment accessories, today announced its new Ear Force DX11 7.1 Surround Sound System Bundle, available exclusively at Best Buy stores nationwide. The Ear Force DX11 combines the exceptional audio quality and comfort of Turtle Beach's battle-tested Ear Force X11 gaming headset with the Ear Force DSS Dolby 7.1 surround sound processor. This dynamic duo delivers a rich and immersive surround sound experience with full chat support during Xbox 360 or PC gaming and while enjoying movies, TV and music.
"The DX11 headset bundle represents the ultimate in value and performance for discriminating gamers seeking a Dolby surround sound experience." Explains Michael Arzt, vice president, marketing and business development at Turtle Beach. "Players will gain a competitive edge and greater enjoyment of all their games (and movies) thanks to the well-defined directional cues and immersive power of the DX11."
"The DX11 headset bundle represents the ultimate in value and performance for discriminating gamers seeking a Dolby surround sound experience." Explains Michael Arzt, vice president, marketing and business development at Turtle Beach. "Players will gain a competitive edge and greater enjoyment of all their games (and movies) thanks to the well-defined directional cues and immersive power of the DX11."
Club 3D Rolls Out its GeForce GTS 450
Club 3D rolled out its GeForce GTS 450 graphics card. This design sticks to NVIDIA specifications, except for the PCB being colored blue, a slightly more ventilated cooler shroud, and a slightly different heatsink that has radially-projecting forked aluminum fins. Club 3D's card also sticks to the reference clock speeds of 783 MHz core, 1566 MHz CUDA core, and 900 MHz (3600 MHz effective) memory. Like every other GTS 450, the GPU packs 192 CUDA cores, and connects to 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface. The card supports the latest consumer graphics APIs, including DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4. Expect this card to be priced on par with the base-models out there.
Arctic Releases MX-4 High Performance Thermal Compound
ARCTIC introduces a new thermal compound, ARCTIC MX-4, which features a new formula that guarantees exceptional heat dissipation from components and maintains the needed stability to push your computer system to its maximum. Similar to the performance of existing and acclaimed ARCTIC MX-series, ARCTIC MX-4 continues to be overclocker's ultimate choice when choosing thermal compounds. Prior to its introduction into the market, ARCTIC MX-4 has already received a Top Product Award from PC Games Hardware in a Germany print magazine in August 2010 as it prevailed against 11 other thermal compounds in the market.
ZOTAC Takes Fermi Mainstream with New GeForce GTS 450 Series
ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world's largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today takes NVIDIA Fermi architecture mainstream with the new GeForce GTS 450 series. The new ZOTAC GeForce GTS 450 series is the perfect companion for gamers looking to upgrade to Microsoft DirectX 11-class graphics while gaining performance in existing DirectX 10 titles.
The new ZOTAC GeForce GTS 450 series takes 192 unified shaders and pairs it with 1GB of high-speed GDDR5 memory for lightning-fast performance in the latest game titles. A 128-bit wide memory interface connects the memory to the graphics processor for high-quality textures and details in the latest games and applications.
The new ZOTAC GeForce GTS 450 series takes 192 unified shaders and pairs it with 1GB of high-speed GDDR5 memory for lightning-fast performance in the latest game titles. A 128-bit wide memory interface connects the memory to the graphics processor for high-quality textures and details in the latest games and applications.
Colorful Intros Non-Reference OC GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Card
Colorful launched its GeForce GTS 450 offering, a hardcore-looking design that makes use of a custom-design PCB and cooler. The cooler uses a heatsink-fan assembly with forked radially-projecting aluminum fin, a GPU base under it gives out two 6 mm heat pipes, that convey heat to aluminum fin arrays on either sides of the fan. Colorful is said to be using factory overclocked speeds, although the exact speeds are not known. The company also has a plain reference design card that runs at reference speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz. Colorful primarily targets the Asian markets, along with distribution in some European markets as well.
Galaxy Intros Non-Reference GTS 450 Graphics Cards with Detachable Fans
Galaxy introduced its first own-design GeForce GTS 450 graphics cards, the Galaxy GTS 450 GC and Galaxy GTS 450 Super OC. Both models feature out of the box factory overclock settings. The cards feature a blue non-reference PCB, and a cooling solution that has a detachable fan that helps with cleaning the fins underneath to maintain optimal cooling performance. While the GC variant features clock speeds of 825/1650/924(3696) MHz core/shader/memory(effective memory) against reference speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz, the Super OC variant features higher-quality 0.4 ns memory chips, and offers clock speeds of 888/1776/1000(4000) MHz. Both cards should be available anytime now, US prices are not known as yet.
EVGA Intros its GeForce GTS 450 Lineup
EVGA released four GeForce GTS 450 graphics card models, all four based on the NVIDIA reference design, and designated by a factory-overclock setting. There is no reference clock speed model, the series starts off with the "GeForce GTS 450 FPB (Free Performance Boost)" variant (01G-P3-1450-TR), which is priced on par with various reference design, reference clock speed models, at $129.99. The FPB variant is clocked at 822/1645/902(3608) MHz. Next up is the first "official" OC model, the SuperClocked variant (01G-P3-1452-TR). Priced at $139.99, this card carries clock speeds of 882/1764/950(3800) MHz. Further up is the ForTheWin or FTW variant featuring the company's best factory OC setting, at 920/1840/1026(4104) MHz, this one goes for $149.99.
ASUS Announces the ENGTS450 DirectCu Series Graphics Cards
ASUS today announced the latest addition to its Fermi series of high-performance DirectX 11 graphics cards - the ENGTS450 DIRECTCU Series. Powered by the NVIDIA GeForce GTS450 graphics processor, the ASUS-designed PCI Express 2.0 card is a gamer's dream come true. ENGTS450 DirectCU performs 20% cooler and 35% quieter with DirectCU thermal technology and overclocks full throttle to 150% faster than reference via Voltage Tweak. The use of top quality components ensures that the ENGTS450 DirectCU Series stays stable during overclocking and durable for long-term use. Plus, the self-designed ENGTS450 DirectCU TOP is certified to deliver 118% faster speeds.
SPARKLE Also Introduces Calibre X450G Graphics Card with Arctic Cooling Solution
SPARKLE Computer Co., Ltd., the professional VGA card manufacturer and supplier, today also introduced the Calibre X450G graphics card with Arctic Cooling Solution,providing extremely cooling performance and powerful gaming experience. With more gaming horsepower than ever before and 1024MB of memory, the Calibre X450G graphics card's 192 processing cores make DX11 games such as Dirt2, Metro 2033 feel like the real thing.Its powerful NVIDIA PhysX Technology creates rich, immersive physical effects with stunningly accurate realism. Experience absolute immersion and pure performance boost than prior generation GPUs with the the Calibre X450G graphics card.
NVIDIA CUDA Technology With 192 cores CUDA C/C++ Support and 32 Texture Units
CUDA Technology unlocks the power of the Calibre X450G Graphics Card's 192 processor cores to accelerate the most demanding system tasks such as video transcoding. The 32 Texture Units embedded in the GF106 can dramatically improve the texture processing efficient in latest DirectX 11 games, resulting in higher fps than the competitor's products.
NVIDIA CUDA Technology With 192 cores CUDA C/C++ Support and 32 Texture Units
CUDA Technology unlocks the power of the Calibre X450G Graphics Card's 192 processor cores to accelerate the most demanding system tasks such as video transcoding. The 32 Texture Units embedded in the GF106 can dramatically improve the texture processing efficient in latest DirectX 11 games, resulting in higher fps than the competitor's products.
Sparkle Announces GeForce GTS 450, First Silent GTS 450 Graphics Card
SPARKLE Computer Co., Ltd., the professional VGA card manufacturer and supplier, today unveils two SPARKLE GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Cards, offering a variety of cooling solutions and bringing premium gaming performance and the fun of use to mainstream gamers. SPARKLE introduced two versions of the SPARKLE GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Cards:
Active Cooling Version: This version of the SPARKLE GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Card uses the non-reference cooling fan from SPARKLE, featuring 1 big size PWM fan with 92mm diameter (12mm bigger than the reference one) and directional cooling fins with the directional guidance technology, effectively creating huge of wind for the heat dissipation of GPU / Memory / MOS circuit / capacitors. The non-reference cooling fan use the quiet design to operate extremely silence.It dissipate heat up to 5% more efficiently during gameplay and enable up to 9% quieter operation than the stock fan for GeForce GTS 450 graphics card.
Active Cooling Version: This version of the SPARKLE GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Card uses the non-reference cooling fan from SPARKLE, featuring 1 big size PWM fan with 92mm diameter (12mm bigger than the reference one) and directional cooling fins with the directional guidance technology, effectively creating huge of wind for the heat dissipation of GPU / Memory / MOS circuit / capacitors. The non-reference cooling fan use the quiet design to operate extremely silence.It dissipate heat up to 5% more efficiently during gameplay and enable up to 9% quieter operation than the stock fan for GeForce GTS 450 graphics card.
Gigabyte Officially Releases GeForce GTS 450 Series Graphics Cards
GIGABYTE Technology Co. LTD., a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, is pleased to launch the latest GeForce GTS 450 series, GV-N450OC-1GI and GV-N450-1GI. Built on highly anticipated NVIDIA Fermi architecture, GV-N450OC-1GI and GV-N450-1GI are designed from the ground up for DirectX 11 tessellation that they are able to bring users incredibly vivid visual experience. GV-N450OC-1GI features industry-leading innovative cooling design, WINDFORCE 2X-Smart Dust-Reducing. It effectively reduces fan dusts and creates ultimate silent environment. For GV-N450-1GI, copper core fan helps lower the temperature by 14%. GIGABYTE GTS 450 series is also equipped with the latest graphics technologies including NVIDIA 3D Vision and PhysX to set a new standard for HD gaming.
MSI Launches Latest N450GTS Cyclone Series Graphics Cards
MSI, the world's renowned graphics card and motherboard manufacturer, today officially launched the N450GTS Cyclone series of graphics cards, which are equipped with NVIDIA GeForce GTS 450 GPU core. With MSI-exclusive Cyclone thermal design and a 9cm PWM fan, not only its airflow enhanced by 50%, but a whopping 17 °C temperature reduction can be achieved when compared the reference design. Using MSI's exclusive overclocking software, Afterburner, users can adjust the GPU voltage and increase the overclocking rate significantly. In addition, all-solid capacitor components are used in this series, which gives users high stability and a long product lifespan. Also supported is the NVIDIA PhysX & 3DVision technology, which offers gamers an all-new visual experience and makes this series of graphics cards from MSI the superior choice for serious gamers who want to get the most value out of their card.
New NVIDIA GeForce GTS 450 Delivers DX11 Done Right to Even More PC Gamers
NVIDIA today announced the latest addition to its Fermi-class of graphics processing units (GPUs), the NVIDIA GeForce GTS 450 -- which was designed to deliver the best DX11 price/performance in the $129 USD price category. According to the latest Steam survey, a leading indicator of the hardware used by PC gamers today, 56 percent(i) of gamers play at mainstream resolutions, typically between 1600x1050 and 1280x1024. The GTS 450 was specifically designed to excel at these resolutions, delivering awesome DX11 performance with 4X antialiasing turned on, enabling more gamers than ever before to experience incredibly detailed characters, terrain and game environments with blazing fast performance and awesome visuals.
For games and applications that feature tessellation -- the key feature of DX11 -- the GTS 450 is up to 65% faster than the closest competitive product(ii). Even in last generation DX9 and DX10 games, the GTS 450 is faster by over 30%(iii), including in the blockbuster PC title StarCraft II. This makes the GTS 450 a terrific GPU for playing this year's hottest games including the upcoming holiday titles like Civilization V and HAWX 2, both of which feature support for DX11 and tessellation, and other games, such as Dead Rising 2.
For games and applications that feature tessellation -- the key feature of DX11 -- the GTS 450 is up to 65% faster than the closest competitive product(ii). Even in last generation DX9 and DX10 games, the GTS 450 is faster by over 30%(iii), including in the blockbuster PC title StarCraft II. This makes the GTS 450 a terrific GPU for playing this year's hottest games including the upcoming holiday titles like Civilization V and HAWX 2, both of which feature support for DX11 and tessellation, and other games, such as Dead Rising 2.
Saturday, September 11th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Netbooks
Notebooks
PSUs
MSI Readies N480GTX Lightning Graphics Card
Here is MSI's latest creation, the N480GTX Lightning. This GeForce GTX 480 based monstrosity is geared for extreme overclocking, and caters to the highest-end consumer segments, but at a surprisingly modest price (relatively) of $550. It features a factory-overclocked GTX 480 GPU clocked at 750/1500/1000(4000) MHz, with standard memory amount of 1.5 GB across a 384-bit wide memory interface, 480 CUDA cores, and 4-way SLI support. Where the fun kicks in is its design. The card uses a beastly-looking dual-fan double-slot air cooler that makes use of dense aluminum fin arrays, and distributed heat zones.
Under the hood, is a powerful power circuit that makes use of a 17-phase VRM, with four super ML Proadlizer capacitors for power conditioning, and high-C flatbed capacitors overall. There are noiseless solid-state chokes and high-grade direct FETs Power is drawn in from two 8-pin and one 6-pin power connectors. Apart from consolidated voltage measure points, DIP switches provide a certain amount of control over some settings. Overclocker-friendly feature include dual BIOS. Display outputs include dual DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort. MSI did not reveal exactly when this card will make it to the market, or whether it's a Limited Edition product.
More pictures follow.
Under the hood, is a powerful power circuit that makes use of a 17-phase VRM, with four super ML Proadlizer capacitors for power conditioning, and high-C flatbed capacitors overall. There are noiseless solid-state chokes and high-grade direct FETs Power is drawn in from two 8-pin and one 6-pin power connectors. Apart from consolidated voltage measure points, DIP switches provide a certain amount of control over some settings. Overclocker-friendly feature include dual BIOS. Display outputs include dual DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort. MSI did not reveal exactly when this card will make it to the market, or whether it's a Limited Edition product.
Gigabyte Readies GeForce GTS 450 Duo
Gigabyte is readying not one, but two distinct GeForce GTS 450 graphics card designs, which will deck up the company's launch catalogue for this SKU: the first is a more cost-effective design, on which is based the GV-N450-1GI, while the second one is geared for OC variants (such as the GV-N450OC-1GI) and is designed for overclockers. The easiest way to identify this design on a sealed box is the mention of a "WindForce 2X" cooler that features a dust-reducing design.
Specifications wise, the GV-N450-1GI sticks to the essentials, and features a no-frills PCB and cooler. Its cooler makes use of a heatsink with forked, spirally-projecting aluminum fins, which draw heat away from a copper GPU base. This model sticks to NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz core/shader/memory(memory effective). Along with every other base model, it is priced at $129.99. The second card, the GV-N450OC-1GI, features a longer PCB, with better components that support higher clock speeds, and is overclocker-friendly, in case you decide to go beyond its clock speeds of 830/1620/902(3608) MHz. This card features a robust-looking cooler that features a dense aluminum fin array, to which heat is conveyed by two 8 mm thick heat pipes, cooled by two fans. This card is priced just $10 over the base model. Both will launch early next week.
Specifications wise, the GV-N450-1GI sticks to the essentials, and features a no-frills PCB and cooler. Its cooler makes use of a heatsink with forked, spirally-projecting aluminum fins, which draw heat away from a copper GPU base. This model sticks to NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz core/shader/memory(memory effective). Along with every other base model, it is priced at $129.99. The second card, the GV-N450OC-1GI, features a longer PCB, with better components that support higher clock speeds, and is overclocker-friendly, in case you decide to go beyond its clock speeds of 830/1620/902(3608) MHz. This card features a robust-looking cooler that features a dense aluminum fin array, to which heat is conveyed by two 8 mm thick heat pipes, cooled by two fans. This card is priced just $10 over the base model. Both will launch early next week.
GeForce GTS 450 Gets Listed on US Store, Reference Clock Model Pegged at $129.99
A couple of days ahead of its worldwide launch, NVIDIA's GeForce GTS 450 based graphics cards from various board partners have been listed on American e-tailer Newegg.com. The list of cards shows an interesting mix of prices and variants. To begin with, the base-model (those which stick to NVIDIA's reference clock speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz core/shader/memory, are pegged at US $129.99. These are followed by mild-overclock variants (those with 4~5% increase in clock-speeds) being priced at around $135, those with higher overclock settings out of the box (that's 9% to 12%) are priced between $135 and $140. The GeForce GTS 450 is NVIDIA's lower-mainstream SKU based on the 40 nm GF106 GPU, it has 192 CUDA cores, 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface, and support for the latest PC graphics APIs including DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4. It is slated for early next week.
Friday, September 10th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
- ATI FirePro V9800 4GB Phoronix
- Gigabyte HD 5770 SuperOverclock Real World Labs
- Gigabyte HD 5770 Silent Cell 1GB Tweaktown
- Zalman VF3000A VGA Cooler Benchmark Reviews
- ECS GTX 460 Black Series Overclockers Club
- ECS GTX 460 Black Series T-Break
- Point of View GTX 460 TGT Beast 1 GB TechPowerUp
- Zotac GTX 460 Vortez
Monitors
Motherboards
Multimedia
Notebooks
Point of View GeForce GTX 460 TGT Beast 1 GB Review
The cards for Point of View's GTX 460 TGT Beast are pre-selected based on their overclocking potential. This allows them to run the high clock speed of 855 MHz core and 1005 MHz memory. We take a closer look at this card that is just as fast as the much more expensive GeForce GTX 470.
AMD to Demonstrate Next Generation PC Experience Powered by AMD Fusion ''Zacate'' APU
Next week in San Francisco, AMD will unveil the first North America public demonstrations of its AMD Fusion Accelerated Processing Unit (APU) codenamed "Zacate," a new dual-core, 18-watt TDP processor containing discrete-level graphics capabilities on die and designed to dramatically improve the user's PC experience. Targeting value and mainstream notebooks and desktops, "Zacate" APU-based platforms bring many of the vivid digital computing experiences once reserved for high-end PCs into the opening price points of the mainstream segment.
AMD will conduct demonstrations of the experience consumers can expect to see early in 2011 from a broad range of mainstream notebook and desktop PCs based on the AMD Fusion APU codenamed "Zacate", including:
AMD will conduct demonstrations of the experience consumers can expect to see early in 2011 from a broad range of mainstream notebook and desktop PCs based on the AMD Fusion APU codenamed "Zacate", including:
- Full HD streaming online video, showcasing the versatility of the "Zacate" APU-based platform to handle the most demanding multimedia tasks
- Immersive online gaming with high image-quality settings, demonstrating the DirectX 11-compliant "Zacate" APU-based platform
- Preview of accelerated Internet browsing, showing how "Zacate" APU-based platforms support the future of GPU-enabled web browsing today and how these platforms perform side-by-side against currently available AMD- and Intel processor-based notebooks
Scythe Chouriki 2 and Chouriki 2 Plug-in PSUs get 80 Plus Certifications
Scythe Group hereby officially announces the updated information of the Chouriki 2 650 Watt Power Supply. In contrary to the 750, 850 and 1,000 watt models, which are specified with the efficiency standard 80 PLUS Silver certificate, 650 W model has lifted up to a higher level and was certified with even higher efficiency of 80 PLUS GOLD. This upgrade automatically complies to the plug-in version with cable management for more comfort as well as standard version with soldered cable strands. Hence, this implies that the already supplied 650 Watt Versions of Chouriki 2 PSU comply with this high efficiency standard of 80 PLUS GOLD.
As usual for Scythe, all components meet Japanese standards and are designed for long life. The attractive brushed steel surface makes a fine impression which makes this PSU to be visually attractive and blend into your PC case without any disturbance. Scythe grants owner of the Chouriki 2 Power Supply Units manufacturer warranty period of 5 years.
As usual for Scythe, all components meet Japanese standards and are designed for long life. The attractive brushed steel surface makes a fine impression which makes this PSU to be visually attractive and blend into your PC case without any disturbance. Scythe grants owner of the Chouriki 2 Power Supply Units manufacturer warranty period of 5 years.
AMD ''Barts'' XT Prototype Pictured
After recent photo exposés of the Cayman XT (Radeon HD 5870 successor) and Caicos (Radeon HD 5400 series successor), the third, juicy set of pictures exposes the XT variant of Barts reference board (Radeon HD 5770 successor), which will likely go on to become Radeon HD 6770.
While the specifications of the GPU are not known, what we can tell from the pictures is that the card is powered by two 6-pin power connectors, uses 4+1 phase digital PWM circuitry, and looks to have a 256-bit wide memory interface for a near 80~100% increase in memory bandwidth compared to the previous generation. Display outputs include two DVI, one HDMI, and two mini-DisplayPort. There is one CrossFire connector for 2-way CrossFire support. AMD will kickstart its next-generation Radeon graphics series launches later this year. Don't mind the puny looking GPU-cooler, AMD uses it on prototypes. The actual cooler's outline is drawn on the PCB.
While the specifications of the GPU are not known, what we can tell from the pictures is that the card is powered by two 6-pin power connectors, uses 4+1 phase digital PWM circuitry, and looks to have a 256-bit wide memory interface for a near 80~100% increase in memory bandwidth compared to the previous generation. Display outputs include two DVI, one HDMI, and two mini-DisplayPort. There is one CrossFire connector for 2-way CrossFire support. AMD will kickstart its next-generation Radeon graphics series launches later this year. Don't mind the puny looking GPU-cooler, AMD uses it on prototypes. The actual cooler's outline is drawn on the PCB.
Silicon Power Introduces Four New High-Capacity DDR3 Memory Kits
Silicon Power, the world's leading manufacturer in flash memory and DRAM module, today (9/10) announced the royal launch of DDR3 large-capacity series with 256Mx8 advanced procedure, adding a brand-new golden troop with enhanced performance to Silicon Power's DRAM family! The product line includes 4GB (single channel), 8GB (dual kit), and 12GB (triple kit), fully compatible with the latest platforms such as Intel Core series, AMD AM3 series, etc.
Silicon Power DDR3 large-capacity series are perfect for Windows 7 64 bits. With such combination, end-users may open numerous programs simultaneously. Even if your computer operates overtime with power-consuming editing / gaming programs, you may still experience the ultimate enjoyment of ultra high-speed and outstanding performance.
Silicon Power DDR3 large-capacity series are perfect for Windows 7 64 bits. With such combination, end-users may open numerous programs simultaneously. Even if your computer operates overtime with power-consuming editing / gaming programs, you may still experience the ultimate enjoyment of ultra high-speed and outstanding performance.
LG Intros Four Flatron LED-Backlit IPS Monitors at IFA, Berlin
At the IFA event in Berlin, LG introduced four new LED-backlit monitors with IPS technology, of which one is intended to be of professional-grade. The LG IPS2062T, IPS226V, IPS236V and IPS231P are sized at 20", 21.5", 23" and 23", respectively. With the exception of the IPS2062T (which has a resolution of 1600 x 900), all are full-HD (1920 x 1080) ready. All four models have dynamic contrast ratios rated at 5,000,000:1; brightness of 250 cd/m²; and response time of 6 ms. Maximum viewing angles measure at 178°/178°.
While the IPS2062T takes in DVI and D-Sub inputs, IPS226V, IPS236V take DVI, D-Sub and HDMI, the IPS231P lacks HDMI, but has stereo speakers and takes audio in. Another feature that sets the IPS231P apart from the other models is its stand that allows you to adjust its height (by up to 11 cm), tilt, swivel, pivot. LG did not give out pricing and availability details.
While the IPS2062T takes in DVI and D-Sub inputs, IPS226V, IPS236V take DVI, D-Sub and HDMI, the IPS231P lacks HDMI, but has stereo speakers and takes audio in. Another feature that sets the IPS231P apart from the other models is its stand that allows you to adjust its height (by up to 11 cm), tilt, swivel, pivot. LG did not give out pricing and availability details.
Thursday, September 9th 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
PSUs
ASUS ENGTX460 DirectCU 1 GB Review
As the names suggests, the ASUS ENGTX460 DirectCU comes with an ASUS DirectCu thermal solution. It also features increased clock speeds of 775 MHz core and 1000 MHz memory which result in about 10% real life improvement. What makes this card really attractive is the low price of $229 which is the same as you would pay for the plain NVIDIA reference design.
EIZO Releases 23-inch Full-HD Home Entertainment Monitor
Eizo Nanao Corporation today announced the FORIS FS2331, a 23-inch full high-definition (1920 x 1080 native resolution) monitor for home entertainment. "The FORIS FS2331 is designed to do many things very well at a competitive price," said Minoru Kontani, senior manager of EIZO's Overseas Sales & Marketing Department. "We expect it to appeal to a wide range of consumers who are looking for a stylish monitor on which they can enjoy gaming, watching movies, photo editing, and reading ebooks."
The FORIS FS2331's versatile connections include dual HDMI inputs to connect with devices such as Blu-ray disc players, HD game consoles, and computers. Up to four PCs can be connected at once using DVI-D (digital) and D-Sub (analog) PC inputs along with the HDMI inputs.
The FORIS FS2331's versatile connections include dual HDMI inputs to connect with devices such as Blu-ray disc players, HD game consoles, and computers. Up to four PCs can be connected at once using DVI-D (digital) and D-Sub (analog) PC inputs along with the HDMI inputs.
AMD Releases FirePro V9800 Professional Graphics Card
AMD released the FirePro V9800 professional graphics card. This is the company's top professional offering, based on the 40 nm Evergreen architecture. The GPU features 1600 stream processors, 256-bit GDDR5 memory interface connecting to 4 GB of memory, and display outputs that include six mini-DisplayPort connectors. The card supports the latest industry-standard 3D APIs including Microsoft DirectX 11, OpenGL 4, and includes support for OpenCL GPU-compute API. The card is meant for mission-critical environments such as oil and gas exploration, 3D medical imaging, design and engineering, and 3D content production. Apart from supporting the ATI Eyefinity6 technology, it also packs support for stereoscopic 3D technologies. The card will be sold directly under the AMD brand by board partners, it is priced at US $3,500.
LaCie Introduces the World's Smallest Mobile and Desktop USB 3.0 Hard Drives
LaCie debuted sleek USB 3.0 hard drives for your desktop or pocket - the LaCie Minimus and LaCie Rikiki USB 3.0. Proving size does matter, LaCie delivers the industry's fastest transfer speeds at 5 Gb/s* in its ultra-small Rikiki form factor - perfect for users that refuse to sacrifice performance for mobility; and the LaCie Minimus - for users that enjoy their terabytes as much as desk space. Complementing their remarkably small sizes, the Rikiki and Minimus hard drives are encased in sturdy brushed aluminum for an elegant aesthetic appeal. The aluminum offers resilience from blunders, improved heat dissipation, and is fully recyclable.
Designed to be simple from the inside out, the Rikiki and Minimus come with LaCie's Software Suite to ensure seamless setup and backup support for Mac or PC. Additionally, each product comes with 10GB of Wuala online storage so you can securely store and share files online.
Designed to be simple from the inside out, the Rikiki and Minimus come with LaCie's Software Suite to ensure seamless setup and backup support for Mac or PC. Additionally, each product comes with 10GB of Wuala online storage so you can securely store and share files online.
Dell Intros Four New Mainstream Widescreen LCD Displays
Dell started adding to its display lineup for fall 2010, the company released four new 16:9 widescreen display models in sizes ranging from 20-inch to 23-inch. The offer starts with the 20-inch IN2020M that has a native resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels; 22-inch ST2220M and ST2220L; and 23-inch ST2320L. These three models are full-HD (1920 x 1080) ready. These monitors have dynamic contrast ratios as high as 8,000,000:1, with response times as low as 5 ms. DVI and D-Sub are standard inputs, while the ST2220L and ST2320L add HDMI input to the mix. Expect these models to reach stores in the weeks to come.
ATI Rolls out Catalyst 10.8b Hotfix for Radeon HD 4870 X2 and HD 4850 X2 Accelerators
AMD released an untimely Catalyst 10.8b Hotfix driver specifically targeted at users of the ATI Radeon HD 4870 X2 and HD 4850 X2 graphics cards on Windows 7 and Windows Vista. The new driver claims to improve multi-GPU performance scaling, and improves image-quality in Tom Clancy H.A.W.X. 2 by forcing anisotropic filtering from ATI Catalyst Control Center.
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.8b Hotfix
DOWNLOAD: ATI Catalyst 10.8b Hotfix
Evercool Releases Cross Flow System Cooler to Market
EVERCOOL Thermal Corp., Ltd., one of the famous and professional cooler and fan brands in Taiwan. To be the solver to deal with the computer heat problem, EVERCOOL not only pays attention on computer cooling performance, but also keeps adding classic and aesthetic into product design to make the coolers have attractive appearance. In the end of 2009, EVERCOOL launched one cooler for system named "Cross Flow System Cooler", which has a classic appearance.
Cross Flow System cooler is compatible with 5.25 Driver Bay. Its design is like a turbine to inhale outside air into case, and increases the air convection for effective heat dispersion. In addition, adjustable speed is a convenient design for users, they can adjust the wind speed by themselves, and the maximum of airflow is 100CFM. Moreover, the easy installation makes users install this cooler quickly and easily.
Cross Flow System cooler is compatible with 5.25 Driver Bay. Its design is like a turbine to inhale outside air into case, and increases the air convection for effective heat dispersion. In addition, adjustable speed is a convenient design for users, they can adjust the wind speed by themselves, and the maximum of airflow is 100CFM. Moreover, the easy installation makes users install this cooler quickly and easily.
Lian Li Introduces Two New Mini-Q Series Mini-ITX Chassis: PC-Q09 & PC-Q09F
Lian Li Industrial Co. Ltd. today announces two additional Mini-Q Series - PC-Q09 and PC-Q09F. Even more compact and light, Lian Li designed these two new models with space, convenience and style in mind - a combination of art and technology! Both the PC-Q09 and PC-Q09F support Mini-ITX motherboards, and are available in four trendy colors including the eye-catching piano white. With a genuine user-friendly idea, both the PC-Q09 and PC-Q09F are offered with an optional VESA mounting kit, including a foot-stand to support the weight. Users now have the option to easily mount the case on the back of their monitor and turn it into an all-in-one PC.
EVGA Intros Pair of GeForce GTX 460 1 GB FTW Graphics Cards
EVGA rolled out its fastest GeForce GTX 460 1 GB graphics cards under the FTW variant. FTW in gamer jargon abbreviates "for the win", and is EVGA's highest factory-overclock variant. Available in reference-design (01G-P3-1377-TR) and EVGA's custom-designed "External Exhaust" (01G-P3-1378-TR) models, the FTW cards use clock speeds of 850 MHz core, 1700 MHz CUDA core, and 1000 (4000 MHz effective) memory, as a tiny design deviation from other models, EVGA included MOSFET heatsinks on these cards that cool the VRM area. The external exhaust model is priced at US $269.99, and the standard-design one at $259.99. Both are available at the EVGA Store.
Wednesday, September 8th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Notebooks
PSUs
Speakers
Acer Announces Aspire Revo 3700, Top Entertainment in an Extra-Small Form Factor
Whether tucked away on a corner of your desk or nicely concealed on the back of your monitor, the Aspire Revo 3700 is the perfect machine to satisfy all basic computing requirements: surfing the Internet, downloading and watching rich HD content, playing videos and games, running typical office programs or socializing via the optional webcam.
In a form factor that is just 1 liter, the Acer Aspire Revo 3700 offers advanced graphic capabilities for full enjoyment of multimedia contents in high definition. The innovative and ultra-slim design makes it the perfect fit for any room in the house while full PC capabilities make it a true entertainment center for the entire family, offering immediate access to music, video and images, and permitting to transmit and stream HD content.
In a form factor that is just 1 liter, the Acer Aspire Revo 3700 offers advanced graphic capabilities for full enjoyment of multimedia contents in high definition. The innovative and ultra-slim design makes it the perfect fit for any room in the house while full PC capabilities make it a true entertainment center for the entire family, offering immediate access to music, video and images, and permitting to transmit and stream HD content.
Spire Introduces BlueStar LED Series Case Fans
Spire Corp introduced today their new line of BlueStar DC Fan LED Series. The BlueStar LED fans are high quality, LED colored and silent cooling fans for the PC gamer and PC enthusiast. Based on the original BlueStar fan blade design these new LED series are destined to be a big hit. Top of the line components and features are applied to build these powerful LED fans.
Included is a PWM auto fan speed control and for the ones who like to keep control in their own hands we have also included PCI manual fan speed control unit. To make the BlueStar fan series extra silent we have included 4 rubber anti-vibe mounts to install the fan and stop any fan vibration. Trust the brand with the industry leading experience and 3-year warranty, Spire.
Included is a PWM auto fan speed control and for the ones who like to keep control in their own hands we have also included PCI manual fan speed control unit. To make the BlueStar fan series extra silent we have included 4 rubber anti-vibe mounts to install the fan and stop any fan vibration. Trust the brand with the industry leading experience and 3-year warranty, Spire.
QNAP Refreshes Its Business Series Turbo NAS Lineup with New Turbo NAS Pro+ Models
QNAP Systems, Inc., a leading manufacturer of world class NAS servers today announced the Fall 2010 refresh of its Business Series Turbo NAS servers which are hugely popular with SMB and corporate users for their sheer performance and business-ready features. Announced today are the 2-drive TS-259 Pro+, the 4-drive TS-459 Pro+, the 5-drive TS-559 Pro+, and the 6-drive TS-659 Pro+ with up to a whopping 12TB of online storage (using 2TB hard drives). The new Business Series Turbo NAS Pro+ models incorporate new dual-core Intel Atom processor D525 with 1.80 GHz clock speed and 1GB RAM, which can achieve up to 116 MB/s transfer rates (FTP/Samba reads) while maintaining guaranteed low power consumption.
Zotac Introduces ZBOX Blu-ray Mini-PC, Packs Integrated Slot-in Blu-ray Drives
ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world's largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today announces the new ZOTAC ZBOX Blu-ray series mini-PCs -- the world's first shipping mini-PCs with an integrated slot-load Blu-ray drive and slim and stylish design. The new ZOTAC ZBOX Blu-ray mini-PCs combine a powerful graphics processor with an energy-efficient system processor, premium integrated features and class-leading expansion capabilities to form mini-PCs capable of deliver premium high-definition video playback online and offline.
Next-Generation NVIDIA ION graphics technology with 16 unified shaders and 512MB of DDR3 memory enables the ZOTAC ZBOX Blu-ray series to deliver stunning high-definition Blu-ray video playback at resolutions up to 1080p. Hardware-accelerated Adobe Flash video support enables smooth playback of streaming high-definition content.
Next-Generation NVIDIA ION graphics technology with 16 unified shaders and 512MB of DDR3 memory enables the ZOTAC ZBOX Blu-ray series to deliver stunning high-definition Blu-ray video playback at resolutions up to 1080p. Hardware-accelerated Adobe Flash video support enables smooth playback of streaming high-definition content.
KFA2 Introduces GTX 460 1 GB SLI Pack and GTX 460 768 MB Green Edition Graphics Card
KFA2, the new European premium brand of Galaxy, announced today its launch of two next generation enthusiast graphics card products; the KFA2 GTX 460 SLI pack, aimed at the 3D gamer and the first energy saving KFA2 GTX 460 Green Edition.
The KFA2 GeForce GTX 460 SLI pack is the perfect dual card bundle to give you all of the tools you need to immerse yourself into the new dimension of 3D Gaming. Packed with 2X GTX 460's, this will not only give you the performance that you need, but with amazing DirectX 11 tessellation performance. The GeForce GTX 460 packs highly detailed visuals into your games - without sacrificing high frame rates and with NVIDIA 3D Vision, PhysX, and CUDA technologies, the GeForce GTX 460 powers all of the incredibly realistic effects that your games can throw its way.
The KFA2 GeForce GTX 460 SLI pack is the perfect dual card bundle to give you all of the tools you need to immerse yourself into the new dimension of 3D Gaming. Packed with 2X GTX 460's, this will not only give you the performance that you need, but with amazing DirectX 11 tessellation performance. The GeForce GTX 460 packs highly detailed visuals into your games - without sacrificing high frame rates and with NVIDIA 3D Vision, PhysX, and CUDA technologies, the GeForce GTX 460 powers all of the incredibly realistic effects that your games can throw its way.
Buffalo Intros MiniStation HD-PCTU2 Series Portable Hard Drives
Buffalo Japan is readying the new MiniStation HD-PCTU2 series portable hard drives, these will start selling next week. The HD-PCTU2 comes in piano black and pearl white colors, and capacities that include 320 GB, 500 GB, and 640 GB, priced at around $119, $149 and $200, respectively. Measuring 77 x 14 x 114 mm, the drives weigh 165 g. USB 2.0 handles power and connectivity. The bundled EcoManager software cuts down power draw by 20%.
Super Talent Introduces USB 3.0 Express RAM Cache Drive Series
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, today announced they are now shipping their new "USB 3.0 Express RAM Cache drive". Available in 32 & 64GB capacities, this new drive implements a DRAM caching system to boost small block random performance by up to 300%. As most manufacturers are announcing their first USB 3.0 flash drive, SuperTalent we is announcing their fourth. SuperTalent is also currently the only USB flash manufacturer offering a caching system on their drives.
"We've made the first, fastest, hardware encrypted, and most affordable USB flash 3.0 flash drives, now with the Express RAM Cache, we are offering affordable cache support on USB 3.0." - SuperTalent COO, CH Lee. Sequential read and write speeds only show how a drive will perform when copying large files. In "real world" applications, we are often reading and writing 100's of smaller files and in some cases even booting to the drive. In these instances traditional flash designs show their weakness and a caching system can dramatically improve performance. For example, say you wanted to copy 40 MP3 files to your flash drive. By adding a caching system, the Express RAM Cache drive can now write these same files 260% faster; instead of taking 13 seconds, this transfer now takes less than 5 seconds. As the file size decreases and the file count increase, this time savings becomes even more apparent.
"We've made the first, fastest, hardware encrypted, and most affordable USB flash 3.0 flash drives, now with the Express RAM Cache, we are offering affordable cache support on USB 3.0." - SuperTalent COO, CH Lee. Sequential read and write speeds only show how a drive will perform when copying large files. In "real world" applications, we are often reading and writing 100's of smaller files and in some cases even booting to the drive. In these instances traditional flash designs show their weakness and a caching system can dramatically improve performance. For example, say you wanted to copy 40 MP3 files to your flash drive. By adding a caching system, the Express RAM Cache drive can now write these same files 260% faster; instead of taking 13 seconds, this transfer now takes less than 5 seconds. As the file size decreases and the file count increase, this time savings becomes even more apparent.
Corsair Dominator GT (GTX6) Breaks Two DDR3 Memory Speed World Records
Corsair, a worldwide designer and supplier of high-performance components to the PC gaming hardware market, today announced that its Dominator GT GTX6 ultra-high performance DDR3 memory was used to set two new world records for dual-channel memory frequency at CAS 7 and CAS 8. The record-setting frequencies of 3078.2 MHz, CL8-11-8-31, 1T, and 3059.4 MHz, CL7-11-8-31, 1T, were achieved by renowned extreme overclocker "Mat", aka Matthias Zronek, from Overclockers.at.
"I've worked with the Corsair Dominator GT memory for quite some time now, and can easily say that these are great memory modules, dedicated to world-record overclocking," stated Matthias Zronek. "What surprised me the most is the potential of the Domintator GT GTX6. Even at 3000MHz and higher frequencies, at CL7, there is still headroom for lots of optimization."
"I've worked with the Corsair Dominator GT memory for quite some time now, and can easily say that these are great memory modules, dedicated to world-record overclocking," stated Matthias Zronek. "What surprised me the most is the potential of the Domintator GT GTX6. Even at 3000MHz and higher frequencies, at CL7, there is still headroom for lots of optimization."
GlacialTech Introduces AC090N Slim Type Notebook Adaptor
GlacialTech Inc., an eco-friendly solution provider of cost-effective cooling, power, LED products, etc. for industrial and commercial applications, is going to catch your eye with a slim type GlacialPower-branded notebook adapter AC090N that doubles as a battery charger for 3C devices.
On the side of the diminutive AC090N is a 5V/1A USB port, allowing you to charge batteries of 3C devices such as music players, mobile phones, etc. while running your laptop. Therefore, it's another battery charger that goes with the power adaptor AC090N. This slim & portable adaptor AC090N is compatible with most of the laptops worldwide, and 2 years warranty is the most valuable promise GlacialTech makes to you.
On the side of the diminutive AC090N is a 5V/1A USB port, allowing you to charge batteries of 3C devices such as music players, mobile phones, etc. while running your laptop. Therefore, it's another battery charger that goes with the power adaptor AC090N. This slim & portable adaptor AC090N is compatible with most of the laptops worldwide, and 2 years warranty is the most valuable promise GlacialTech makes to you.
Tuesday, September 7th 2010
Today's Contests
Today's Reviews
Cases
- Cooler Master HAF 912 Benchmark Reviews
- Cooler Master HAF 912 HardwareCanucks
- Cooler Master HAF 912 Hi Tech Legion
- Cooler Master HAF 912 Legit Reviews
- Cooler Master HAF 912 Overclock Intelligence Agency
- Cooler Master HAF 912 TechReaction
- Cooler Master HAF 912 Tweaktown
- Cooler Master HAF 912 XSReviews
- Corsair Graphite 600T Overclock3D.net
- In Win Dragon Slayer TweakNews
- Lian-Li Pitstop T7 eTeknix
- Lian Li PC-Q06 PureOverclock
- Thermaltake Armor A60 Think Computers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Nettops
PowerColor HD 5750 Low Profile 1 GB Review
PowerColor's HD 5750 Low Profile is the first HD 5700 Series low-profile card on the market. This seems to be a godsend for compact media PC systems that can also handle the latest games at decent resolution and settings. We take this card for a spin to see if it can hold its promise.
GELID Introduces Wing 14 UV Blue Case Fan
Thermal Solutions specialist GELID Solutions launches their first 140mm silent UV reactive waterproof blue case fan with multi-award winning unique Nanoflux bearing technology. The WING 14 UV Blue (140mm case fan) was added to the series of multi-award winning WING 8, 9 and 12 UV Blue. Matching the other WING fans this fan is created especially for gamers and modders and features a unique Nanoflux bearing whose motor bearing is not only water - and dustproof but also allows the impeller to be removed for cleaning. The 11 fan blades with additional winglet design were created to achieve an airflow of approx. 80CFM by a fan speed of 1200 RPM. The fan also enables a great static pressure and is UV reactive. Even the slightest vibrations generated by the running fan will be absorbed by 4 Anti-vibration fan mounts which are provided in addition to traditional screws. Further a fan speed reduction cable is included in the package to lower the fan speed to a super silent 900 RPM.
Palit Readies Low-Profile GeForce GTS 450 1 GB
Palit is indeed working on a low-profile GeForce GTS 450 graphics card, apart from the full-height model which was pictured earlier. While this card is low-profile (half-height), it occupies two expansion slots, and looks somewhat longer than the full-height card. Other than its size and shape, the card sticks to NVIDIA reference specifications and clock speeds, that's 789/1566/900(3600) MHz core/shader/memory, 192 CUDA cores, and 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface. It draws power from one 6-pin PCI-E power connector. Palit's low-profile card could cost a small premium over standard cards.
Origin PC Announces The Big O Gaming PC, Fuses PC Might with Xbox 360 Capability
ORIGIN PC is proud to unveil The Big O, their latest creation designed for dominance and destined to make high performance computing enthusiasts and gamers to drool uncontrollably. The Big O fuses the capabilities of the fastest computing hardware on the market, ORIGIN's expert overclocking, and a built in Xbox 360 to create the ultimate gaming weapon.
The Big O is featured in CPU Magazine's annual Dream Machine review roundup, an epic competition between system builders. "If you want the ultimate PC, the Big O is it" said CPU Magazine. "By integrating an Xbox 360, the Big O offers everything and the kitchen sink."
The Big O is featured in CPU Magazine's annual Dream Machine review roundup, an epic competition between system builders. "If you want the ultimate PC, the Big O is it" said CPU Magazine. "By integrating an Xbox 360, the Big O offers everything and the kitchen sink."
HP Announces Mini 5103 Touch-Enabled Netbook with Intel Atom N550
HP introduced the new HP Mini 5103 - HP's latest touch-enabled mini notebook, designed for mobile professionals. From a starting weight of 1.2kg, the HP Mini 5103 incorporates Intel's latest Atom N550 dual-core processor, in addition to the new Atom N455 and N475 processors, all of which support DDR3 memory. Available in standard or touch-enabled versions. the HP Mini 5103 features a sturdy, lightweight, anodized-aluminum display enclosure with a brushed finish in three colors - red, blue and espresso. It also comes with an optional handle for easy transport.
Palit Readies Non-Reference GeForce GTS 450 Graphics Card
Palit is ready with its own-design GeForce GTS 450-based graphics card. Palit's design looks nearly identical to that of its GeForce GTX 460. It uses a red-colored custom-design PCB, a fan heatsink with a shroud that spans along the length of the card, and display connectivity that includes two DVI, an HDMI, and a DisplayPort. Palit will release a base-model that sticks to the reference clock speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz core/shader/memory, while Sonic, and Sonic+ factory-overclocked models could be in the works. The company is also said to be working on a SFF-friendly low-profile model based on the GTS 450. Palit's base model card is priced around the $136 mark.
Samsung Expands its 'Green Memory' Initiative
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., the world leader in advanced memory technology, announced today that it has expanded its 'Green Memory' initiative going beyond DRAM and solid state drives (SSDs) to include several memory products for PC and mobile application areas. At the seventh annual Samsung Mobile Solutions Forum being held here today, Samsung announced that its 'Green Memory' initiative will now include Samsung LPDDR2 and GDDR5 green memory as well as its GreenDDR3 and Green SSDs.
Stepping up its efforts to increase worldwide interest in Green IT products and eco-friendly solutions, a new website has been launched to promote the expanded initiative to OEM customers and consumers. It provides detailed information on Samsung's green product strategies and green-focused partners, for all three market areas, as well as industry-wide green IT trends.
Stepping up its efforts to increase worldwide interest in Green IT products and eco-friendly solutions, a new website has been launched to promote the expanded initiative to OEM customers and consumers. It provides detailed information on Samsung's green product strategies and green-focused partners, for all three market areas, as well as industry-wide green IT trends.
ASUS Launches Republic of Gamers G53 and G73 Notebooks Featuring the GeForce GTX 460M
New from ASUS Republic of Gamers, G53 and G73 gaming notebooks now ship with the just-released NVIDIA GTX 460M graphics engine, utilizing hardware optimized for DirectX 11, with full support for high definition 3D gaming. They also feature a gaming-dedicated design, with rear vented cooling and an ergonomic keyboard surface.
Based on the latest generation of graphics cards from NVIDIA, known to media and the public as Fermi, the NVIDIA GTX 460M offers extreme graphics performance tailored to portable PCs. It employs DirectX11 graphics with effects such as real time ray tracing and advanced tessellation. This offers the most sophisticated graphics engine from NVIDIA ever on a notebook PC.
Based on the latest generation of graphics cards from NVIDIA, known to media and the public as Fermi, the NVIDIA GTX 460M offers extreme graphics performance tailored to portable PCs. It employs DirectX11 graphics with effects such as real time ray tracing and advanced tessellation. This offers the most sophisticated graphics engine from NVIDIA ever on a notebook PC.
VIA Introduces EPIA-M850 Mini-ITX Board, Packs Multimedia Muscle
VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms, today announced the VIA EPIA-M850 Mini-ITX board, the first board to feature the latest VIA VX900 media system processor, creating the ideal solution for today's HD-intensive, commercial multimedia-centric devices.
The VIA EPIA-M850 is targeted at OEM and ODM manufacturers of commercial multimedia embedded devices. Featuring a 64-bit, high performance VIA Nano E-Series processor and the VIA VX900 unified all-in-one media system processor, the VIA EPIA-M850 delivers a highly optimized platform that boasts comprehensive HD video performance, HD audio and HDMI support in a compact, power-efficient package.
The VIA EPIA-M850 is targeted at OEM and ODM manufacturers of commercial multimedia embedded devices. Featuring a 64-bit, high performance VIA Nano E-Series processor and the VIA VX900 unified all-in-one media system processor, the VIA EPIA-M850 delivers a highly optimized platform that boasts comprehensive HD video performance, HD audio and HDMI support in a compact, power-efficient package.
Zalman Intros ZM-Fx-FDB Series Case Fans
Zalman has started shipping its newest low-noise case fans, the ZM-Fx-FDB series (where "x" is 1,2,3, representing 80 mm, 92 mm, 120 mm, respectively). The fan uses three means to lower noise output: a PWM-based speed control, silicone pins that attach it to the case instead of metal screws, and fluid-dynamic bearing (FDB) that has a long life and makes low noise. The FDB ensures the fan has a service life of 150,000 hours. The impeller is made of translucent (frost) plastic, though it isn't LED-lit. A low-noise speed mode can be selected by placing the provided resistor.
The ZM-F1-FDB spins at 1,400~2,000 rpm with 18~23 dBA noise output, ZM-F2-FDB at 1,300~2,000 rpm with the same 18~23 dBA noise, and ZM-F3-FDB at 1,000~1,500 with 18~23 dBA noise as well. With the ZM-RC56 resistor in place, the fans spin at a lower speed, with a constant noise output of 18 dBA. While the ZM-F2-FDB is due for market release on the 25th of September, the ZM-F1-FDB is priced at 7.9 EUR, and ZM-F3-FDB at 9.5 EUR.
The ZM-F1-FDB spins at 1,400~2,000 rpm with 18~23 dBA noise output, ZM-F2-FDB at 1,300~2,000 rpm with the same 18~23 dBA noise, and ZM-F3-FDB at 1,000~1,500 with 18~23 dBA noise as well. With the ZM-RC56 resistor in place, the fans spin at a lower speed, with a constant noise output of 18 dBA. While the ZM-F2-FDB is due for market release on the 25th of September, the ZM-F1-FDB is priced at 7.9 EUR, and ZM-F3-FDB at 9.5 EUR.
Cooler Master Follows Up with HAF-912 Plus Case
Quickly following up with the release of HAF 912, Cooler Master rolled out the HAF 912 Plus, an upscale variant of the HAF 912 with more features for a small premium. The case is has the same exact dimensions: 30 x 480 x 496 mm, weighs 8 kg, every feature of the HAF 912, except that it includes an eSATA port on the front-panel, has a largely tool-free design comprising of tumbscrews, all-black interiors, a red LED-lit 200 mm front fan, and a top 200 mm fan. The base model has two 120 mm fans and no fan on the top (with just the room to install one). The expansion slot covers are perforated for more ventilation. The Cooler Master HAF 912 Plus is available now, priced at $79, close to $20 over the base model.
MSI Unveils GX660 and GT660 High Performance Gaming Notebooks
MSI's GT660 and GX600, the ultimate gaming machines, are the answer to your quandary. They feature the latest Intel Core i7 quad core CPU and top end discrete graphics card-your best weapons in a melee. The GT660 comes with the Intel Core i7 quad core processor and NVIDIA's best GTX285M discrete graphics card under the hood, while the GX660 packs the Intel Core i7 quad core processor and ATi finest HD5870 discrete graphics card, to take you deeper into your favorite high definition 3D games. So if games and films like StarCraft 2, Avatar, or Resident Evil 5 are your cup of tea, these notebooks are the perfect choice for you.
AMD ''Caicos'' Radeon HD 6300 Series Reference Board Pictured, Too
Here are the first pictures of the AMD "Caicos" Radeon HD 6300 Series GPU, the company's next entry-level graphics product, successor to the Radeon HD 5400 series. The new GPU is seated on the AMD reference design board which already seems to taken shape as a qualification sample. The design reveals a low-profile, single-slot, passively-cooled card that makes do with just a small heatsink to cool the GPU and two memory chips on the obverse side. While the GPU-Z shot doesn't reveal much, it does give out the GPU identifier "6779", which corresponds to "Caicos" in the latest Catalyst driver. The GPU is said to be built on the 40 nm process, and from the looks of it, connects to DDR3 memory.
More pictures follow.
Leadtek Loads four SpursEngine Video Processors on One Board
Leadtek has decided to make its SpursEngine video processor more palatable to production houses and studios, by multiplying its performance by four. SpursEngine accelerates video encoding/decoding performance of full HD MPEG-2 or MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 videos many times over compared to the CPU, it uses the CELL Broadband Engine architecture, the same which is used in supercomputers, PlayStation 3, and HDTVs in various forms. The WinFast HPCC1111 from Leadtek uses four SpursEngine chips on a single board, that connects to the system over a PCIe bridge chip, through PCI-Express x4. With the new HPCC1111, one can encode full HD MPEG-2, or MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 in real time, or even faster than real time, if the rest of the hardware permits. SpursEngine has already made its way to single-chip cards and mobile workstations. Scheduled to release in Japan this September, the HPCC1111 is expected to cost JP ¥99,000 (US $1,175).
Monday, September 6th 2010
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EVGA GeForce GTS 450 SuperClocked Pictured, Detailed
A picture of EVGA's GeForce GTS 450 SuperClocked graphics card made its way to the internet, along with some details. SuperClocked is EVGA's level-1 factory-overclocked variant. This card features clock speeds of 882 MHz core, 1764 MHz CUDA core, and 950 MHz (3800 MHz effective) memory, which are significantly higher than the NVIDIA reference speeds of 783/1566/900(3600) MHz core/CUDA core/memory. If this is any indication, the GeForce GTS 450 should be a nice treat for overclockers.
While EVGA's card uses NVIDIA reference-design cooler, it uses a black-colored seemingly-custom PCB. Perhaps it's developed by EVGA, sticking to NVIDIA's design-guide but isn't exactly reference-design. The card from this angle also shows the cooler's internals. If you've noticed the GTX 460 reference cooler from the inside, you'll notice a GPU base on which there's a heatsink with spirally-projecting, forked aluminum fins, and heat is also conveyed to two arc-shaped dense aluminum fin blocks on either sides of the heatsink by two heat pipes. With the GTS 450, it looks like the heatsink is completely discoid, with radially-projecting fins all around the core, meaning that it does away with those two additional fin blocks. EVGA's card features 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface. DonanimHaber expects its price to be US $150-160.
While EVGA's card uses NVIDIA reference-design cooler, it uses a black-colored seemingly-custom PCB. Perhaps it's developed by EVGA, sticking to NVIDIA's design-guide but isn't exactly reference-design. The card from this angle also shows the cooler's internals. If you've noticed the GTX 460 reference cooler from the inside, you'll notice a GPU base on which there's a heatsink with spirally-projecting, forked aluminum fins, and heat is also conveyed to two arc-shaped dense aluminum fin blocks on either sides of the heatsink by two heat pipes. With the GTS 450, it looks like the heatsink is completely discoid, with radially-projecting fins all around the core, meaning that it does away with those two additional fin blocks. EVGA's card features 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface. DonanimHaber expects its price to be US $150-160.
Fractal Design Launches the Define XL PC Case
As the name implies, Define XL is the larger sibling of the acclaimed and award winning Define R2/R3 case. Similar to Define R2/R3, it offers a number of interesting functions with a very stylish appearance. It's a case focused on low noise level, without neglecting other important features such as cooling, expandability and ease of use.
The XL is pre-fitted with dense noise absorbing bitumen material, covered with a soft foam texture. This material effectively absorbs noise generated by the components and fans inside. Paired with other noise preventing features such as a covered top panel with a 180mm fan mounted with an angle to blow out air in the rear and silicone grommets for hard drive mounting, the XL truly excels in delivering a low noise solution.
The XL is pre-fitted with dense noise absorbing bitumen material, covered with a soft foam texture. This material effectively absorbs noise generated by the components and fans inside. Paired with other noise preventing features such as a covered top panel with a 180mm fan mounted with an angle to blow out air in the rear and silicone grommets for hard drive mounting, the XL truly excels in delivering a low noise solution.
Cooler Master Intros HAF-912 ATX Mid-Tower Case
Cooler Master introduced its latest case in the high-airflow (HAF) series, the value-segment HAF-912. This case lives up to its series name of being extremely airy, with a completely perforated front, a large fan on the top, apart from fans-slots on the side and rear, apart from a number of builder-friendly features. This ATX mid-tower 230 x 480 x 496 mm, weighs 8 kg, and is made up of SECC and plastic. Front drive bays include four 5.25" of which one is 3.5" convertible. The front-panel is located entirely on the front, and not the top.
There are six internal drive bays, which are split between two sets of 4 bays and 2 bays, each. The bays can be detached for cleaning, or to accommodate extremely long graphics cards. The bottom set can accommodate 2.5" drives. There are 7+1 expansion slots (8th one being vertical, for expansion brackets, etc.). Ventilation includes two front 120 mm fans, one rear 120 mm fans, while there's room for either two 120 mm fans (or a 2x 120 mm radiator), or one 200 mm fan on the top, one 120 mm fan on the side panel. The motherboard tray has a hole around the CPU slot area which makes it easy to deal with CPU coolers with backplates, there are three water-cooling holes, the third smaller hole could be for wiring to fans or pumps located outside. Cooler Master is asking US $60 for this case.
There are six internal drive bays, which are split between two sets of 4 bays and 2 bays, each. The bays can be detached for cleaning, or to accommodate extremely long graphics cards. The bottom set can accommodate 2.5" drives. There are 7+1 expansion slots (8th one being vertical, for expansion brackets, etc.). Ventilation includes two front 120 mm fans, one rear 120 mm fans, while there's room for either two 120 mm fans (or a 2x 120 mm radiator), or one 200 mm fan on the top, one 120 mm fan on the side panel. The motherboard tray has a hole around the CPU slot area which makes it easy to deal with CPU coolers with backplates, there are three water-cooling holes, the third smaller hole could be for wiring to fans or pumps located outside. Cooler Master is asking US $60 for this case.
Picture of AMD ''Cayman'' Prototype Surfaces
Here is the first picture of a working prototype of the AMD Radeon HD 6000 series "Cayman" graphics card. This particular card is reportedly the "XT" variant, or what will go on to be the HD 6x70, which is the top single-GPU SKU based on AMD's next-generation "Cayman" performance GPU. The picture reveals a card that appears to be roughly the size of a Radeon HD 5870, with a slightly more complex-looking cooler. The PCB is red in color, and the display output is slightly different compared to the Radeon HD 5800 series: there are two DVI, one HDMI, and two mini-DisplayPort connectors. The specifications of the GPU remain largely unknown, except it's being reported that the GPU is built on the TSMC 40 nm process. The refreshed Radeon HD 6000 series GPU lineup, coupled with next-generation Bulldozer architecture CPUs and Fusion APUs are sure to make AMD's lineup for 2011 quite an interesting one.
Update (9/9): A new picture of the reverse side of the PCB reveals 8 memory chips (256-bit wide memory bus), 6+2 phase VRM, and 6-pin + 8-pin power inputs.
GeForce GTS 450 Slides Confirm Specs, Reveal Positioning
Chinese website IT168 posted slides leaked from the GeForce GTS 450 press presentation. The slides reveal the final specifications of the upcoming GPU, as well as show the market positioning. To begin with, the GTS 450, as mentioned in numerous occasions, has 192 CUDA cores, 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide memory interface, and clock speeds which include 783/1566/900 MHz (core/shader/memory); but the slides confirm that NVIDIA's reference design cooler looks nearly identical to the GeForce GTS 460, at least as far as the cooler shroud and fan goes. Other specifications confirmed are the TMU count: 32, four Polymorph engines (should translate into 16 ROPs), power input being just one 6-pin PCI-Express connector, and card max power draw of just 106W, nearly 2/3 that of the GTX 460.
NVIDIA is positioning this SKU to be the successor to the popular GeForce GTS 250, which held the sub-$200 and later sub-$160 markets for NVIDIA, for quite some time. Its target buyers are those which need a light on the pocket graphics card for LANParty rigs. The card can afford users smooth gameplay of the latest DirectX 11 titles at 1680x1050 with 4xAA. Unfortunately, what we're looking out for the most (price), isn't mentioned. Perhaps NVIDIA will stabilize the price of this SKU based on how it plays out against competing SKUs. Speaking of which, the ATI Radeon HD 5700 series is in this card's crosshair.
NVIDIA is positioning this SKU to be the successor to the popular GeForce GTS 250, which held the sub-$200 and later sub-$160 markets for NVIDIA, for quite some time. Its target buyers are those which need a light on the pocket graphics card for LANParty rigs. The card can afford users smooth gameplay of the latest DirectX 11 titles at 1680x1050 with 4xAA. Unfortunately, what we're looking out for the most (price), isn't mentioned. Perhaps NVIDIA will stabilize the price of this SKU based on how it plays out against competing SKUs. Speaking of which, the ATI Radeon HD 5700 series is in this card's crosshair.
VIA Developing DirectX 11 IGP Chipset, Quad-Core x86 Processor for 2011
VIA, in its recent announcement about posting a net loss of US $45 million for 1H 2010, revealed plans about future products and manufacturing process transitions with which it hopes to return to profits. These include release of dual-core VIA Nano processors based on a new manufacturing process due for released later this year, the new VN11 chipset that will embed DirectX 11 compliant integrated graphics, which it will released next year. The company also announced that it will release a new quad-core CPU in 2011, which is the company's first. VIA is only the third company that is an active license-holder of the x86 instruction set. Even as much larger x86 manufacturers such as Intel and AMD battle it out, VIA designs processors for low-power applications such as embedded industrial computers, and netbook/ULPC processors such as the VIA Nano and VIA C3.
New Smaller LIFEBOOK T580 Is The Gateway to Fujitsu's Tablet Line Up
Fujitsu introduces a new smaller fully featured tablet PC, the LIFEBOOK T580, measuring up with a 10.1-inch screen size. Leveraging Fujitsu's 20 years of convertible PC experience, the slate-beating LIFEBOOK T580 squeezes full-size notebook features and technology into a smaller, lighter and lower-priced package.
Fujitsu's LIFEBOOK T580 is the flexible alternative mobile working on a slate - removing the frustration of slow responses by packing much more processor power, and delivering convenient practicalities for all-day working, such as a keyboard, two USB slots, SD card and SmartCard readers, a webcam, and outputs for both VGA monitors and high-definition HDMI displays.
Fujitsu's LIFEBOOK T580 is the flexible alternative mobile working on a slate - removing the frustration of slow responses by packing much more processor power, and delivering convenient practicalities for all-day working, such as a keyboard, two USB slots, SD card and SmartCard readers, a webcam, and outputs for both VGA monitors and high-definition HDMI displays.
Friday, September 3rd 2010
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Mushkin Callisto Deluxe 60 GB SSD Review
Mushkin's Callisto 60 GB comes at a very affordable $145 which makes it the cheapest 60 GB Sandforce-driven SSD on the market today. With a capacity of 60 GB it is a great choice for a Windows 7 boot drive. TRIM is also supported, so you get the maximum out of your SSD even after it's aged a bit.
AMD's Fusion ''Ontario'' APU Chip Pictured
At the ongoing IFA event in Berlin, AMD displayed one of the first derivatives of its Bobcat low-power x86 processor architecture, codenamed "Ontario". This Fusion APU (accelerated processing unit), which is a combination of an x86 CPU and a DirectX 11 compliant GPU is built for low-power devices such as netbooks, handhelds, and tablets. AMD also showed off the chip package itself, which is roughly the size of a 1 Euro coin. The package, like AMD's mobile Athlon/Phenom processors, has no integrated heatspreader (IHS), but like the Intel Atom, uses a ball-grid array (BGA) to permanently fix itself to the system board.
AMD claims that the chip offers "mainstream performance" at less than half the die area (in this case, below 100 mm²), and a fraction of the power. Speaking of which, the "Ontario" Fusion APU has a TDP of 9W, while a higher-performance APU codenamed "Zacate", which is probably competitive with Intel's CULV processors, and is built for ultra-thin notebooks, nettops and slim all-in-one PCs, has a TDP of 18W. AMD claims that the two will ship (to OEMs, because these are not end-user products) in Q4 2010. For the desktop, AMD is developing the "Llano" Fusion APUs that are of a different form-factor and package altogether.
AMD claims that the chip offers "mainstream performance" at less than half the die area (in this case, below 100 mm²), and a fraction of the power. Speaking of which, the "Ontario" Fusion APU has a TDP of 9W, while a higher-performance APU codenamed "Zacate", which is probably competitive with Intel's CULV processors, and is built for ultra-thin notebooks, nettops and slim all-in-one PCs, has a TDP of 18W. AMD claims that the two will ship (to OEMs, because these are not end-user products) in Q4 2010. For the desktop, AMD is developing the "Llano" Fusion APUs that are of a different form-factor and package altogether.
Eurocom is First to Support NVIDIA GeForce GTX 460M and GTX 470M GPUs
Eurocom is proud to announce an addition to its already extensive list of multi vendor upgradeable VGA solutions with the introduction of NVIDIA's new GeForce GTX 460M and GTX 470M MXM 3.0b based graphics modules. Eurocom currently supports both NVIDIA GeForce and Quadro as well as ATi Radeon Mobility in its notebooks in single and Dual (SLI or CrossFireX) operation.
The addition of the NVIDIA newest 4xxM family of GeForce GTX 460M and GeForce GTX 470M gives Eurocom customers an even greater choice of GPU's to power their machines with a graphics card to fit every budget and every performance level. Eurocom will be supporting the GTX 460M and GTX 470M in single and Dual (SLI) configurations which will allow customers to intelligently scale graphics performance. NVIDIA SLI technology delivers up to twice the performance with 2 cards, compared to a single graphics solution.
The addition of the NVIDIA newest 4xxM family of GeForce GTX 460M and GeForce GTX 470M gives Eurocom customers an even greater choice of GPU's to power their machines with a graphics card to fit every budget and every performance level. Eurocom will be supporting the GTX 460M and GTX 470M in single and Dual (SLI) configurations which will allow customers to intelligently scale graphics performance. NVIDIA SLI technology delivers up to twice the performance with 2 cards, compared to a single graphics solution.
NVIDIA Slips in GeForce GT 420 Desktop Graphics Card
Without making any public announcement (because it's not meant for retail sale), NVIDIA listed its GeForce GT 420 graphics card. This product is available to OEMs only. The GT 420 is derived from the Fermi architecture, and is fully compliant with the latest PC graphics technologies, including DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4. NVIDIA's reference design is low-profile and single-slot, it draws all its power from the PCI-Express slot.
Under the hood is a 40 nm graphics core (perhaps GF108), it has 48 CUDA cores, and connects to 2 GB of memory across a 128-bit wide DDR3 memory interface, with 28.8 GB/s of memory bandwidth. The core is clocked at 700 MHz, CUDA cores at 1400 MHz, and memory at 900 MHz (1800 MHz effective). Display outputs include DVI, HDMI (full-size), and a detachable D-Sub connector. The card has a maximum power draw of 50W. Later down the line, one can expect NVIDIA to make a consumer GeForce SKU with the same specifications.
Under the hood is a 40 nm graphics core (perhaps GF108), it has 48 CUDA cores, and connects to 2 GB of memory across a 128-bit wide DDR3 memory interface, with 28.8 GB/s of memory bandwidth. The core is clocked at 700 MHz, CUDA cores at 1400 MHz, and memory at 900 MHz (1800 MHz effective). Display outputs include DVI, HDMI (full-size), and a detachable D-Sub connector. The card has a maximum power draw of 50W. Later down the line, one can expect NVIDIA to make a consumer GeForce SKU with the same specifications.
NVIDIA Announces New GeForce 400M GPUs, Geared for Next-Gen Optimus, 3DVision Laptops
NVIDIA today introduced the NVIDIA GeForce 400M series of graphics processing units (GPUs) -- the building blocks for the next-generation of NVIDIA Optimus and NVIDIA 3D Vision notebooks that are coming onto the market from leading vendors, including Acer, Asus, Dell, Lenovo, Samsung and Toshiba, with others set to announce soon.
A critical component of the GeForce 400M Series is support for NVIDIA Optimus technology, which enables extra-long battery life by automatically switching on and off the GPU so that it runs only when needed. It has been described by reviewers as among the most important notebook technologies to come to market in recent years.
A critical component of the GeForce 400M Series is support for NVIDIA Optimus technology, which enables extra-long battery life by automatically switching on and off the GPU so that it runs only when needed. It has been described by reviewers as among the most important notebook technologies to come to market in recent years.
LaCie Packs An Elephant’s Memory into a MosKeyto
Today LaCie spawns a new breed of USB key - the LaCie MosKeyto, an ultra-small flash drive that's anything but pesky. Joining LaCie's line-up of award-winning USB keys, MosKeyto ups the ante for power, portability and ease of use. LaCie MosKeyto measures less than 20mm and weighs 10 grams, making it one of the smallest USB keys on the market. Offering capacities up to 16GB, you'll be pleasantly amazed at how many bytes you can get from such a tiny MosKeyto.
The stealthy MosKeyto becomes nearly invisible when plugged into your computer, and can even travel alongside it in a protective sleeve or briefcase - just plug it, and forget it. Because it lies flush against your device, there is no risk of damage to the port, computer or key if the drive is knocked or bumped. Additionally, if it's in your laptop, you won't lose it.
The stealthy MosKeyto becomes nearly invisible when plugged into your computer, and can even travel alongside it in a protective sleeve or briefcase - just plug it, and forget it. Because it lies flush against your device, there is no risk of damage to the port, computer or key if the drive is knocked or bumped. Additionally, if it's in your laptop, you won't lose it.
Samsung Announces Fall 2010 Laptop Lineup
Samsung Electronics America Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Corporation, today announced a series of new mobile PC products that combine Samsung's signature style and premium performance for use at home, in the office, or on-the-go. The new QX410, SF510, RF510 and RF710 laptops and the NF series netbooks showcase Samsung's continued dedication to innovation in mobile computing, and set a new standard for premium and functional design at any price point.
"Samsung continues to evolve our mobile PC line-up creating a sleeker, more stylish and technologically superior product perfect for professionals, students, or multimedia-focused consumers," said Todd Bouman, director of product marketing at Samsung Enterprise Business Division. "More importantly, the technological innovations within the QX, SF, RF and NF series of mobile PCs underscore Samsung's position as a leader in mobile computing, offering consumers the performance they've come to expect in an aesthetically pleasing package."
"Samsung continues to evolve our mobile PC line-up creating a sleeker, more stylish and technologically superior product perfect for professionals, students, or multimedia-focused consumers," said Todd Bouman, director of product marketing at Samsung Enterprise Business Division. "More importantly, the technological innovations within the QX, SF, RF and NF series of mobile PCs underscore Samsung's position as a leader in mobile computing, offering consumers the performance they've come to expect in an aesthetically pleasing package."
Toshiba to Launch the World’s Fastest SDHC Memory Card
Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. and its parent company Toshiba Corporation, a leading innovator in NAND flash memory technologies and solutions, today announced the launch of 8GB (gigabyte) 16GB and 32GB SDHC UHS-I cards compliant with the SD Memory Card Standard Ver. 3.0 (SD 3.0), UHS104. These new SD cards offer the world's fastest SDHC data read and write speeds.
Toshiba also extended its industry leadership in memory card solutions by unveiling the world's first 4GB, 8GB and 16GB microSDHC UHS-I cards compliant with (SD 3.0), UHS50. Mass production of the new SDHC UHS-I cards and sample shipments of the new microSDHC UHS-I cards will start this November.
Toshiba also extended its industry leadership in memory card solutions by unveiling the world's first 4GB, 8GB and 16GB microSDHC UHS-I cards compliant with (SD 3.0), UHS50. Mass production of the new SDHC UHS-I cards and sample shipments of the new microSDHC UHS-I cards will start this November.
Thursday, September 2nd 2010
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TechPowerUp Announces GPU-Z 0.4.6, MSI GPU-Z Giveaway
TechPowerUp today released version 0.4.6 of GPU-Z, the popular graphics subsystem diagnostic utility that provides you with detailed tech-specs of your installed graphics processors, and lets you monitor clock speeds, voltages, temperatures and fan speeds. The new version packs with it support for new GPUs that are being released in the weeks to come, detection for some future GPUs, and a range of stability enhancements. It features detection of upcoming GeForce GTS/GT 400 GPUs, elementary support for AMD Radeon HD 6000 series GPUs, improved BIOS reading, and stability fixes pertaining to certain sensor chips.
With this release, MSI and TechPowerUp are teaming up for a new Hardware Giveaway, that lets six lucky winners win some rad graphics hardware from MSI over two months (three each month). We are giving away two each of the MSI R5870 Lightning, MSI N460GTX HAWK, and MSI R5770 HAWK. To participate, simply fill out the "MSI Giveaway" tab in GPU-Z. Be sure to check more details about the giveaway linked inside that tab. Good Luck!
DOWNLOAD: TechPowerUp GPU-Z 0.4.6
The complete list of changes with this version follows.
With this release, MSI and TechPowerUp are teaming up for a new Hardware Giveaway, that lets six lucky winners win some rad graphics hardware from MSI over two months (three each month). We are giving away two each of the MSI R5870 Lightning, MSI N460GTX HAWK, and MSI R5770 HAWK. To participate, simply fill out the "MSI Giveaway" tab in GPU-Z. Be sure to check more details about the giveaway linked inside that tab. Good Luck!
The complete list of changes with this version follows.
Sharkoon Announces Bandit ATX Case with Integrated Hard Drive Docking Station
Sharkoon expands on their PC-housings portfolio: The ATX Case Sharkoon Bandit brings together comfortable installation options, an elaborate airflow concept, integrated card reader and as a special feature, a practical docking station for 2.5 and 3.5 inch SATA hard drives.
Thus, Sharkoon has integrated for the first time their highly-demanded external QuickPort docking station into a housing. SATA hard drives of both sizes can be easily plugged into the PC without any complicated assembly. Another distinctive feature on the top of the housing is the blue illuminating 180mm LED fan, which blows warm air out of the housing. Also, easily accessible on the housing surface are Power and Reset switches, audio connections, a power and hard drive LED, an eSATA and two USB ports. A card reader is installed in the highest front panel which supports SD, SDHC, MS, as well as CF I formats and contains an additional USB port.
Thus, Sharkoon has integrated for the first time their highly-demanded external QuickPort docking station into a housing. SATA hard drives of both sizes can be easily plugged into the PC without any complicated assembly. Another distinctive feature on the top of the housing is the blue illuminating 180mm LED fan, which blows warm air out of the housing. Also, easily accessible on the housing surface are Power and Reset switches, audio connections, a power and hard drive LED, an eSATA and two USB ports. A card reader is installed in the highest front panel which supports SD, SDHC, MS, as well as CF I formats and contains an additional USB port.
Elpida and Spansion Develop 4-Gigabit Charge-Trapping NAND Flash Memory
Elpida Memory, Inc. and Spansion Inc., today announced they have created the industry's first charge-trapping 1.8 V, 4-gigabit SLC (Single Level Cell) NAND Flash memory. This NAND memory, based on Spansion's MirrorBit charge-trapping technology, is being produced at Elpida's Hiroshima factory. The advanced technical expertise and strong cooperation of the two companies has made it possible to develop and manufacture the world's first charge-trapping NAND Flash memory.
Compared to floating-gate NAND Flash memory, charge-trapping NAND Flash memory is more scalable and has a simpler cell structure. It offers superior performance, faster read and faster programming speeds.
Compared to floating-gate NAND Flash memory, charge-trapping NAND Flash memory is more scalable and has a simpler cell structure. It offers superior performance, faster read and faster programming speeds.
Acer Intros Aspire One D255 Happy Netbook
Acer rolled a new variant of its recently released Aspire One D255 netbook called "Happy". The D255 Happy features a pleasant looking white and olive-green color scheme on its body. Other than this, it's the same exact on the inside as the Aspire One D255. The netbook makes use of Intel's new Atom N550 dual-core processor, has a 10.1" 1024x600 display, 1 GB of DDR3 memory, integrated GMA 3150 graphics, 250 GB HDD. Connectivity includes 10/100 Ethernet, and WiFi b/g/n. Other features include a 4-in-1 memory card reader, webcam, a multigesture touchpad, and a 6-cell, 8-hour battery. There is no word on the pricing, but we don't see why it shouldn't carry the same price as the other D255s, that's $399.
Creative Labs Announces Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Series Gaming Headsets
Creative today announced a new line of gaming headsets that create a completely 360-degree, 3D audio experience, surpassing even 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound headsets. The new gaming headsets, called the Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Alpha and Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Sigma, are the first Sound Blaster headsets to feature a unique 360-degree audio system, which is also fully customizable. Using THX TruStudio technology created by sound engineers at Creative Labs in conjunction with THX, the Tactic 3D headsets can create audio above, below and all around the wearer.
Wearers can completely customize their audio experience through the software included with the headsets. The headsets will also ship with pre-made audio profiles created by professional gamers such as Johnathan 'Fatal1ty' Wendel, as well as members from international professional gaming teams compLexity and Dignitas.
Wearers can completely customize their audio experience through the software included with the headsets. The headsets will also ship with pre-made audio profiles created by professional gamers such as Johnathan 'Fatal1ty' Wendel, as well as members from international professional gaming teams compLexity and Dignitas.
MSI Announces the N460GTX HAWK 1 GB High-Performance Graphics Card
Following the global success of the R5770 Hawk graphic card, internationally renowned graphic card and mainboard manufacturer MSI today launches the brand new N460GTX Hawk to the great expectation of global gamers to conquer the market. The world's first graphic card with triple overvoltage function supporting core voltage, memory voltage and PLL voltage adjustments, the N460GTX Hawk is also the only model on the market that has successfully achieved 1GHz under air-cooling during overclocking.
Also, the design tradition of the Hawk series continues on the GTX460 GPU, including 7+1 PWM power design, V-Check Points, APS (active phase switching), Twin Frozr II dual-fan thermal design, and military class components, to deliver unrivaled performance in thermal solution, power supply, stability, noise reduction and performance.
Also, the design tradition of the Hawk series continues on the GTX460 GPU, including 7+1 PWM power design, V-Check Points, APS (active phase switching), Twin Frozr II dual-fan thermal design, and military class components, to deliver unrivaled performance in thermal solution, power supply, stability, noise reduction and performance.
Manli GeForce GTS 450 Pictured, Suggests NVIDIA Reference Design
NVIDIA is just a couple of weeks ahead of launching its new GeForce GTS 450 mid-range graphics processor. After the recent exposé of the ASUS GTS 450 DirectCu, another set of pictures have surfaced, this time of Chinese AIC partner Manli's GeForce GTS 450. Manli's card seems to suggest what could be the NVIDIA reference design of the GTS 450. The card superficially looks nearly identical to the GeForce GTX 460 reference design, except for its green-colored PCB. It carries NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 789/1566/900 MHz (core/CUDA core/memory), and features 1 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 128-bit wide interface, with a bandwidth of 57.7 GB/s. It is reportedly priced at US $130.
Samsung Unveils New Wireless USB Chipset, Provides Higher Speeds, at Lower Power Draw
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., a worldwide leader in advanced semiconductor technology solutions, today introduced its latest wireless universal serial bus (USB) solution, developed using Ultra Wide Band (UWB) technology. Offered in a two-chip set, Samsung's newest S3C2680/ S5M8311 WUSB solution enables high definition content to be wirelessly transmitted from a mobile host device to a tethered device for viewing. Initial applications are high-resolution cameras, camcorders, TVs and PCs with prospects for adoption in other applications including tablet PCs, printers, beam projectors, portable HDDs, Blu-ray players, and mobile handsets.
"The ability to handle wireless high-speed data transmission while consuming less power is a key requirement for many consumer electronic devices," said Yiwan Wong, vice president, System LSI marketing, Samsung Electronics. "Due to power/performance issues, previous generations of WUSB products were unable to meet the consumers' expectations. Samsung's new WUSB chipset delivers up to 480Mbps (Megabit per second) data transmission rate, at an average power consumption of less than 300mW. This level of power efficiency greatly increases the attractiveness of WUSB connectivity in consumer electronic and mobile applications.
"The ability to handle wireless high-speed data transmission while consuming less power is a key requirement for many consumer electronic devices," said Yiwan Wong, vice president, System LSI marketing, Samsung Electronics. "Due to power/performance issues, previous generations of WUSB products were unable to meet the consumers' expectations. Samsung's new WUSB chipset delivers up to 480Mbps (Megabit per second) data transmission rate, at an average power consumption of less than 300mW. This level of power efficiency greatly increases the attractiveness of WUSB connectivity in consumer electronic and mobile applications.
Transcend Revamps Solid State Drive Lineup with Speed and Capacity Enhancements
Transcend Information, Inc, a global leader in storage and multimedia products, today announced a radical upgrade of its 2.5" solid state drives (SSD). The new SSDs boast transfer speeds reaching 260 MB/s and storage capacities up to 512 GB, offering performance-minded enthusiasts a perfect combination of speed, high-capacity storage and long-term reliability.
To boost overall performance, Transcend's new 2.5-inch SATA SSDs feature an upgraded controller chip that supports a maximum sequential transfer speed of 260 MB/s read and 200 MB/s write. This dramatically improved performance translates into significantly faster system boot up and application launch speed, while offering the lag-free responsiveness and stability necessary for storage-intensive computing and high-end gaming systems.
To boost overall performance, Transcend's new 2.5-inch SATA SSDs feature an upgraded controller chip that supports a maximum sequential transfer speed of 260 MB/s read and 200 MB/s write. This dramatically improved performance translates into significantly faster system boot up and application launch speed, while offering the lag-free responsiveness and stability necessary for storage-intensive computing and high-end gaming systems.
Bulldozer-based Orochi and Fusion Llano Die Shots Surface in GlobalFoundaries Event
The first official die-shots of the first Bulldozer architecture derivative, the eight-core "Orochi" Opteron die was displayed at Global Technology Conference, by GlobalFoundries, AMD's principal foundry-partner. While AMD did not give out a die-map to go with it, the structures we can make out are four Bulldozer modules holding two cores and a shared L2 cache each, a L3 cache spread across four blocks that's shared between all cores, the northbridge-portion cutting across the die at the center, and the integrated memory controller along its far-right side. Various I/O portions are located along the other three sides.
Next up is the Llano die. This is AMD's very first Fusion APU (accelerated processing unit) die. It is based on the K10 architecture and integrates a graphics processor and northbridge completely into one die. It precedes APUs based on the Bobcat architecture. Fortunately, there is a die-map at hand, which shows four K10 cores with dedicated 1 MB L2 caches per core, no L3 cache, an integrated SIMD array that holds 480 stream processors. The GPU component is DirectX 11 compliant. Other components include an integrated northbridge, integrated memory controller, integrated PCI-Express root complex, and HyperTransport interface to the chipset.
Next up is the Llano die. This is AMD's very first Fusion APU (accelerated processing unit) die. It is based on the K10 architecture and integrates a graphics processor and northbridge completely into one die. It precedes APUs based on the Bobcat architecture. Fortunately, there is a die-map at hand, which shows four K10 cores with dedicated 1 MB L2 caches per core, no L3 cache, an integrated SIMD array that holds 480 stream processors. The GPU component is DirectX 11 compliant. Other components include an integrated northbridge, integrated memory controller, integrated PCI-Express root complex, and HyperTransport interface to the chipset.
Wednesday, September 1st 2010
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Netbooks
MSI GTX 460 HAWK 1 GB Review
MSI's GTX 460 HAWK is the flagship GeForce GTX 460 from MSI. It comes with a quiet Twin Frozr II cooler, 1 GB of memory and 781 MHz core clock out of the box. MSI has also expanded on the voltmodding capability of the card which supports software control for three voltages.
Swiftech Announces the H20-X20 Edge Series High-Performance Liquid Cooling Kits
Rouchon Industries, Inc. dba Swiftech today announced the release of the H20-X20 EDGE series of "all-in-one" liquid cooling kits. The kits are composed of a patent pending heat exchanger combining pump and reservoir, and a CPU waterblock, which considerably simplifies the task of installation for the users. The patent pending heat exchangers called MCR Drive (Rev2) come in two sizes: for dual 120mm fans and for triple 120mm fans; they incorporate a new high power pump with variable speed control managed by the motherboard. The Apogee XTL CPU water-block included in the kits is derived from Swiftech's award winning Apogee XT.
Swiftech is counting on the versatility and performance superiority of their kits 'design to attract an expanded range of users. A key factor with respect to versatility is the kit's ability to easily support additional devices such as liquid cooled graphics coolers or extra radiators which is a must-have among power users; the extremely broad performance range of the H20-X20 kits is of equal importance in terms of competitive advantage, as the kits can be tuned to satisfy both ends of the users 'spectrum: from silent operations to extreme cooling; and finally the ease of installation is expected to appeal to quality oriented first-time users.
Swiftech is counting on the versatility and performance superiority of their kits 'design to attract an expanded range of users. A key factor with respect to versatility is the kit's ability to easily support additional devices such as liquid cooled graphics coolers or extra radiators which is a must-have among power users; the extremely broad performance range of the H20-X20 kits is of equal importance in terms of competitive advantage, as the kits can be tuned to satisfy both ends of the users 'spectrum: from silent operations to extreme cooling; and finally the ease of installation is expected to appeal to quality oriented first-time users.
Zalman Announces the VF3000F VGA Cooler
Zalman released the VF3000F for the end users who wants to cool their latest VGA card from nVidia. The company's first Dual Fan VGA cooler promises you for the maximum performance with less noise. On top, VF3000F is specially designed for the Fermi Series from nVidia (GTX480/470/465) and comes with the dedicated RAM/FET Heatsinks to maximize the cooling performance on the GPU as well as FET/RAM with lower noise. ZM-STG2 will help the heat transfer from the heat source to the heatsink for efficient cooling.
Fanmate 2 will enable variable fan speed so users can choose either silent operation or performance setting. Please note that VF3000F comes in 2 different models: a model for GTX 480 and one for GTX 470 and GTX 465 graphics cards.
Fanmate 2 will enable variable fan speed so users can choose either silent operation or performance setting. Please note that VF3000F comes in 2 different models: a model for GTX 480 and one for GTX 470 and GTX 465 graphics cards.
Stealth.com Introduces a New Rugged Keyboard Built for Outdoor and Harsh Environments
Stealth.com Inc., a leading ISO 9001 manufacturer of industrial rugged computers and peripherals has released a new rugged, vandal resistant keyboard with built-in trackball mouse and adjustable backlit keys.
The Stealth model KYBX-400 series keyboard is an industrial grade keyboard with built-in optical trackball that is environmentally sealed to NEMA 4, 4X, IP65 specifications. This tough keyboard is housed in a rugged, vandal resistant, stainless steel enclosure that stands up to harsh, wet and dirty environments.
The Stealth model KYBX-400 series keyboard is an industrial grade keyboard with built-in optical trackball that is environmentally sealed to NEMA 4, 4X, IP65 specifications. This tough keyboard is housed in a rugged, vandal resistant, stainless steel enclosure that stands up to harsh, wet and dirty environments.
TechPowerUp and PowerColor Hardware Giveaway August 2010 Winners Announced
Here are the winners of PowerColor and TechPowerUp giveaway for the month of August, 2010, the final month of the Giveaway. For the months of July and August, three lucky participating users each month of GPU-Z got to win some groovy hardware from PowerColor. This month's winners are as follows:
- Quanlin from China wins PowerColor PCS+ HD 5870
- Puneet from India wins PowerColor PCS+ HD 5850
- Aleksander from Poland wins PowerColor Vortex HD 5770
Gigabyte Sells HD 5670 512 MB HyperMemory Card as 1 GB
Gigabyte is allegedly into dubious marketing schemes once again. A disgruntled user in East Asia who picked up the company's GV-R567HM-1GI graphics card was shocked to find half the "advertised" memory available to him. The GV-R567HM-1GI is an ATI Radeon HD 5670 based graphics card that physically has only 512 MB of GDDR5 memory, yet advertises on its box and labels that the card provides 1 GB GDDR5 memory with ATI HyperMemory technology. The "HyperMemory" part is very inconspicuous and nowhere on the front box is the actual memory amount mentioned.
For the uninitiated, HyperMemory technology is an age-old technique used by ATI usually on its lowest-end SKUs, to increase the amount of memory available to the GPU, by sharing a fixed amount of memory from the system's main memory. NVIDIA has an identical technology called TurboCache. The allegation here is not entirely that of false marketing, but dubious marketing practices. For starters, the card is a GV-567D5-512I that is rebadged, next, the actual memory amount is not mentioned on the front of the box, making it difficult for unsuspecting buyers who don't know what HyperMemory is, to determine the actual memory, and third, there is pure false marketing involved in calling "512 MB GDDR5 + 512 MB system shared" as "1 GB GDDR5", there's no DDR5 PC memory standard. AMD's guidelines (refer pg. 14) are clear on the matter of dealing with HyperMemory branding. If you come across this card priced close to 1 GB models, you're definitely not signing up for a "1 GB GDDR5 card".
For the uninitiated, HyperMemory technology is an age-old technique used by ATI usually on its lowest-end SKUs, to increase the amount of memory available to the GPU, by sharing a fixed amount of memory from the system's main memory. NVIDIA has an identical technology called TurboCache. The allegation here is not entirely that of false marketing, but dubious marketing practices. For starters, the card is a GV-567D5-512I that is rebadged, next, the actual memory amount is not mentioned on the front of the box, making it difficult for unsuspecting buyers who don't know what HyperMemory is, to determine the actual memory, and third, there is pure false marketing involved in calling "512 MB GDDR5 + 512 MB system shared" as "1 GB GDDR5", there's no DDR5 PC memory standard. AMD's guidelines (refer pg. 14) are clear on the matter of dealing with HyperMemory branding. If you come across this card priced close to 1 GB models, you're definitely not signing up for a "1 GB GDDR5 card".
Samsung Launches New SF Series NotePCs and NF Series Netbooks
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and digital convergence technologies, today announced the launch of the SF series of ultra-portable notePCs and NF series netbooks. Without compromising on powerful performance and enhanced features, the Samsung SF Series notePCs and NF Series netbooks set a new standard for design in mobile computing.
Coupling a unique, streamlined design with optimal features for mobile convenience, the new lineup of SF series notePCs and NF series netbookshave been designed to match the dynamic and ever-changing lives of mobile users. Smooth and refined body design attracts the most sophisticated of today's computer users.
Coupling a unique, streamlined design with optimal features for mobile convenience, the new lineup of SF series notePCs and NF series netbookshave been designed to match the dynamic and ever-changing lives of mobile users. Smooth and refined body design attracts the most sophisticated of today's computer users.
MSI IPC Launches WindBOX III Intel Core 2 Duo Powered Fanless System
MSI, the global leading brand in motherboard, announced the launch of the upgrade version of WindBOX III (MS-9A35) to IPC market in August, 2010. This is the latest ultra-low power system with fanless solution. Following the fanless design of WindBOX series, MSI debuts the WindBOX III based on the Intel Core 2 Duo processor and the Intel GS45 + ICH9M chipset to provide the latest ultra-low power and slim form factor into solid embedded applications. For clients' strong demand of supporting high resolution video, MSI debuts WindBOX III (MS-9A35) with great 3D graphics performance for a high definition up to 1080P.
It supports directX10, shader model 4.0 and Intel Clear Video Technology. MSI enhances I/O connectivity covers 6 USB 2.0 ports, 2 powered COM ports, and multiple video output (DVI-I for VGA and DVI-D, HDMI) for dual independent display. To fulfill the expansion demand, WindBOX III improves two mini-PCIe slots. For the internet demand, WindBOX III comes with a module that has a built-in WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth module.
It supports directX10, shader model 4.0 and Intel Clear Video Technology. MSI enhances I/O connectivity covers 6 USB 2.0 ports, 2 powered COM ports, and multiple video output (DVI-I for VGA and DVI-D, HDMI) for dual independent display. To fulfill the expansion demand, WindBOX III improves two mini-PCIe slots. For the internet demand, WindBOX III comes with a module that has a built-in WiFi 802.11b/g/n and Bluetooth module.
HP Unveils Stylish New Notebook PCs Featuring Advanced 3-D and Cooling Technologies
HP today revealed new consumer notebook PCs that fuse advanced technologies with stylish designs to deliver a superior computing experience. For maximum sensory appeal, HP delivers the thrill of 3-D entertainment to the HP ENVY 17 3D - the first 17-inch notebook PC to support 1080p 3-D and Blu-ray - and superb audio to the HP ENVY 14 Beats Edition. The HP Pavilion dm3 notebook PC features an HP-developed intelligent cooling system to minimize heat and provide consumers with advanced comfort. HP Wireless TV Connect allows customers to wirelessly experience 1080p high-definition (HD) Blu-ray multimedia content.
With these new technology and design enhancements, we offer customers visually stunning entertainment and an overall better computing experience, said Kevin Frost, vice president and general manager, Consumer Notebooks, Personal Systems Group, HP. These new HP notebooks and accessories deliver breakthrough technology, power and advanced styling to satisfy the most discerning user.
With these new technology and design enhancements, we offer customers visually stunning entertainment and an overall better computing experience, said Kevin Frost, vice president and general manager, Consumer Notebooks, Personal Systems Group, HP. These new HP notebooks and accessories deliver breakthrough technology, power and advanced styling to satisfy the most discerning user.
Antec's New soundscience Speaker System Delivers Full High-Definition 3D Performance
Antec Inc., the global leader in high-performance computer components and accessories, for the gaming, PC upgrade and Do-It-Yourself markets presents the formation of soundscience (a wholly-owned subsidiary of Antec) and introduces the all new 3D 2.1 speaker system: soundscience rockus. The new soundscience speaker system will be introduced at this year's IFA trade show held in Berlin, from September 3 - 8, 2010 at the IFA Reseller Park, Hall 9, Booth 101.
Designed to deliver an audio experience matching the visual immersion of 3D video, the soundscience rockus 3D 2.1 speaker system is the best way to experience game and movie sound in 3D. 3Dsst, soundscience's proprietary 3D technology, actively analyses incoming stereo audio signals and intelligently places them into a 3D sound field. The results are realistic, immersive 3D soundscapes for your movies and games from 2.1 speakers.
Designed to deliver an audio experience matching the visual immersion of 3D video, the soundscience rockus 3D 2.1 speaker system is the best way to experience game and movie sound in 3D. 3Dsst, soundscience's proprietary 3D technology, actively analyses incoming stereo audio signals and intelligently places them into a 3D sound field. The results are realistic, immersive 3D soundscapes for your movies and games from 2.1 speakers.
SPARKLE Unveils GeForce 210/GT220/GT240 PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards
SPARKLE Computer Co., Ltd., the professional VGA card manufacturer and supplier, today unveils the SPARKLE GeForce 210/GT220/GT240 PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards, creating upgrade possibility for user's generic PC, providing 1080p HD video acceleration, DX10.1 gaming and premium Windows 7 experience for ordinary users.
With latest PCI Express technology, SPARKLE GeForce 210/GT220/GT240 PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards use PCI Express x1 bus type, they can be added on the motherboard which have at least one PCI Express x1 slot as the second graphics card, providing multiple monitors supports for computer users and certain industries, in addition to industrial users, they also support the upgrading of Intel Pine Trail motherboard which has only one PCI Express x1 slot.
With latest PCI Express technology, SPARKLE GeForce 210/GT220/GT240 PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards use PCI Express x1 bus type, they can be added on the motherboard which have at least one PCI Express x1 slot as the second graphics card, providing multiple monitors supports for computer users and certain industries, in addition to industrial users, they also support the upgrading of Intel Pine Trail motherboard which has only one PCI Express x1 slot.
Tuesday, August 31st 2010
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Desktop PC
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Mouse
- Roccat Pyra TweakPC (de)
Notebooks
SSD
BitFenix Colossus Review
BitFenix may be a new brand but their first product has landed. The Colossus case is so large that you simply cannot miss it. It is packed to the rim with new and unique features, which make you wonder what we did without them before. We take an in-depth look at the retail version of this massive EATX case that goes for a very affordable 159 Euros.
HP Collaborates with Hynix to Bring the Memristor to Market in Next-generation Memory
HP today announced that it has entered into a joint development agreement with Hynix Semiconductor Inc., a world-leading memory supplier, to bring memristor, a new circuit element first intentionally demonstrated in HP Labs, to market in future memory products. Memristors require less energy to operate, are faster than present solid-state storage technologies and can retain information even when power is off. The memristor, short for "memory resistor," was postulated to be the fourth basic circuit element by Prof. Leon Chua of the University of California at Berkeley in 1971 and first intentionally reduced to practice by researchers in HP Labs, the company's central research arm, in 2006.
Earlier this year, HP announced the discovery that the memristor also can perform logic, showing that memristor-based devices could change the standard paradigm of computing by enabling computation to one day be performed in chips where data is stored, rather than on a specialized central processing unit.
Earlier this year, HP announced the discovery that the memristor also can perform logic, showing that memristor-based devices could change the standard paradigm of computing by enabling computation to one day be performed in chips where data is stored, rather than on a specialized central processing unit.
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