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Friday, October 31st 2008
Vantec NexStar 3i HDD Enclosure Review
In today's market there are plenty of external hard disk enclosures to choose from, with a variety of colors, styles and features to set them apart. The Vantec NexStar 3i has some inherent qualities that deffinitely sets it apart from the rest. With fast read times and power saving features, read to find out more on how the Vantec NexStar 3i fares against the rest of the pack.
Razer Issues New Lachesis Firmware and Driver, Fixes All Lachesis Jumping Issues
Just wanted to give everyone a head's up that Razer has just released new updates for both the Lachesis and the Deathadder gaming mices. Deathadder owners may now download the new v1.9 drivers while Lachesis owners, me included, will be offered to download both the new Lachesis Driver v1.10 and firmware 1.91. The latest firmware for Lachesis improves the tracking performance and response time of the mouse. Also, if you're among the little that still experience jump issues with Lachesis, this firmware will help you. I'm starting to update my Lachesis right now. Finally, all bugs that plagued Razer's Lachesis are now fixed.
GTA IV for PC Delayed Until December 2nd
Rockstar has confirmed that the PC version of GTA IV will be delayed by more than a month until December 2nd. The reason behind this delay remains unknown, but the game maker has at least released the minimum and recommended system requirements for the game. Check them out below.
ELSA Innovates Efficient GeForce 9800 GTX+ Design
One look at ELSA's GLADIAC 998 GTX Plus V2, and you're bound to say "It looks familiar". ELSA has taken advantage of the smaller thermal and electrical footprints of the 55nm GeForce 9800 GTX+, and has borrowed heavily from the design of the GeForce 8800 GTS-512 to come up with this design, both with PCB and cooler designs, albeit a slightly larger fan.
This card will use reference NVIDIA clock speeds for the GeForce 9800 GTX+, that's 738/1836/2200 MHz (core/shader/memory). The PCB length gets a cut from 267mm (reference 9800 GTX(+) PCB) to 229mm. The company claims the card to run about 7 °C cooler than the reference cooler. It sports 512 MB of memory, SLI and dual-DVI connectors with HDCP-compliancy. The card is expected to become available in Japan in the next few days.
This card will use reference NVIDIA clock speeds for the GeForce 9800 GTX+, that's 738/1836/2200 MHz (core/shader/memory). The PCB length gets a cut from 267mm (reference 9800 GTX(+) PCB) to 229mm. The company claims the card to run about 7 °C cooler than the reference cooler. It sports 512 MB of memory, SLI and dual-DVI connectors with HDCP-compliancy. The card is expected to become available in Japan in the next few days.
ASUS Prepares Another MATRIX Graphics Card - EAH4850 MATRIX/HTDI/512M
ASUS has decided to run around and release a new MATRIX card, the EAH4850 MATRIX/HTDI/512M. The particular card is powered by a 55nm RV770 GPU with 800 Stream Processors, has 512MB of GDDR3 memory and the proprietary dual-slot Hybrid Cooler. While the EAH4850 MATRIX might sound like it's going to be an overclocked card thanks to its bigger cooler, it's not. It carries the stock 625MHz core and 1986MHz DDR memory clock. Instead the card comes with an integrated hardware and software set of controls that makes adjustments to the GPU and memory voltages depending on the card load and mode. ASUS software is also monitoring the card's GPU, memory, Power IC, and ambient temperatures. The MATRIX Radeon HD 4850 is expected to hit the stores in November.
Scythe Releases Kaze Master Ace Series Fan Controllers
The Japanese cooling specialist Scythe Co., Ltd. unveils the Kaze Master Ace. This fan controller is nothing else but the premium version of the popular and award-winning fan controller Kaze Master.
For the production of this product, only noble materials have been used. The brushed aluminum front accentuates the blue illuminated VFD display in an optimal way. By the material of the front panel, the Kaze Master Ace fits in every high-quality aluminum case perfectly.
For the production of this product, only noble materials have been used. The brushed aluminum front accentuates the blue illuminated VFD display in an optimal way. By the material of the front panel, the Kaze Master Ace fits in every high-quality aluminum case perfectly.
GIGABYTE Unwraps Latest X58 Series Motherboards for the Intel Core i7 Processors
GIGABYTE, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards today is pleased to announce their latest high performance X58 Series motherboards, the GA-EX58-EXTREME and GA-EX58-UD5 designed from the ground up to unleash the awesome power of Intel's new Core i7 processors. Equipped with a host of new features including the new QPI interface, 3 channel DDR3 support, 3 Way SLI and CrossFireX support, Ultra Durable 3 technology and the industry's most extensive range of overclocking features, the GIGABYTE X58 Series is bringing excitement back into the high performance motherboard industry.
The GIGABYTE X58 Series was designed specifically to take advantage of the raw power of the next generation Intel Core i7 processors and the Intel X58 Express chipset, whose new evolution in computing architecture is able to deliver an amazing performance break through from past processor generations. Replacing the Front Side Bus is the new Quick Path Interconnect, or QPI, whose 25.6 GB/sec transfer rate (double the bandwidth of the 1600MHz FSB) eliminates the communication bottleneck between the processor and chipset.
The GIGABYTE X58 Series was designed specifically to take advantage of the raw power of the next generation Intel Core i7 processors and the Intel X58 Express chipset, whose new evolution in computing architecture is able to deliver an amazing performance break through from past processor generations. Replacing the Front Side Bus is the new Quick Path Interconnect, or QPI, whose 25.6 GB/sec transfer rate (double the bandwidth of the 1600MHz FSB) eliminates the communication bottleneck between the processor and chipset.
GIGABYTE Debuts Richly Featured, High Performance GA-E7AUM-DS2H Motherboard
GIGABYTE, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards today is proud to debut the new GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H motherboard powered by the latest NVIDIA Geforce 9400 GPU for the Intel processor platform. Featuring the highest level of integrated graphics performance combined with rich multi-media connectivity options, the GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H promises to deliver an exceptional high-definition video and audio experience to enable the latest high-definition digital multimedia systems.
Delivering the industry's best integrated graphics performance Intel motherboard with an NVIDIA single chip IGP solution, the GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H features the NVIDIA Geforce 9400 GPU and NVIDIA PhysX Technology, providing a jaw-dropping home entertainment experience with enhanced 3D performance breaking 2400+* on 3DMark06. With support for Microsoft DirectX 10.0 and Shader Model 4.0, the NVIDIA Gefore 9400 ensures top-notch compatibility and the power to run today's most popular games and digital media applications with ease.
Delivering the industry's best integrated graphics performance Intel motherboard with an NVIDIA single chip IGP solution, the GIGABYTE GA-E7AUM-DS2H features the NVIDIA Geforce 9400 GPU and NVIDIA PhysX Technology, providing a jaw-dropping home entertainment experience with enhanced 3D performance breaking 2400+* on 3DMark06. With support for Microsoft DirectX 10.0 and Shader Model 4.0, the NVIDIA Gefore 9400 ensures top-notch compatibility and the power to run today's most popular games and digital media applications with ease.
Samsung Launches New Enterprise SLC SSDs for High-performance Applications
Samsung Electronics, the world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, announced today that it is now mass producing 25 and a 50 gigabyte (GB) solid state drives (SSDs) for performance-optimized server applications such as video on demand, web serving and on line transaction processing. Designed specifically for the enterprise market, the new Samsung single-level-cell (SLC) SSDs have about twice the random write performance of its standard 32GB and 64GB SLC SSDs.
Saints Row 2 Confirmed for PC, to be Released 6th January 2009
On the official Saints Row forums, a moderator has confirmed that there will definetly be a PC version of Saints Row 2 and that it will be released on the 6th January next year. They have explained the delay is due to the fact that they wanted to get the quality of the final release right, although it will be a port of the console version they are working on features only available on a PC, such as adjustable quality settings, multiplayer server features, using a keyboard and mouse, as well as being able to map your own keys as you see fit. Volition have admitted that it will be an external company undertaking the port, but they are working closely with the company to ensure "PC users [have] the same quality product and performance level which you've seen on Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3". Minimum and recommended system requirements are still yet to be announced but the Volition moderator has said they will be updating the thread as soon as they are allowed.
You can find the Saints Row forum thread here.
You can find the Saints Row forum thread here.
$200 Eee PC to be Available from ASUS in 2009
In a story by Digitimes, Jerry Shen, president of ASUS has said that the company will be adjusting the pricing and marketing position of their mid and entry level Eee PC's, as well as aiming to release a $200(US) Eee PC in 2009. Currently the average price of an entry level 8.9 inch Eee PC is around $400(US). Shen also went on to say that they expect 7 and 8.9 inch Eee PC's to be phased out to make way for 10 inch replacements.
Another 35 000 Sony Branded Batteries Recalled
It appears that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Dell, HP and Toshiba, have issued another laptop battery recall for Sony branded batteries. It's very unfortunate that the Sony battery fiasco is still a problem. According to the new data, Lithium-Ion batteries used in about 35,000 Hewlett-Packard, Toshiba and Dell Notebook Computers can overheat, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers. The information is based on 19 reports of laptop batteries still overheating, including 17 reports of flames/fire (10 resulting in minor property damage). Consumers should immediately remove the recalled battery from their notebook computer, and contact their computer manufacturer to determine if their battery is included in the recall and to request a free replacement battery. The bad battery packs are used in laptops from all kinds, including models retailing from $700 to models that cost around $3000. There's a list of the models in danger below, that might help.
Patriot Memory Releases 8GB DDR2 PC2-6400 Viper Series Kit
Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory module and flash memory solutions, today announced the released of their 8GB Viper series DDR2 PC2-6400 800MHz kits. The 8GB kit consists of two, 4GB single modules, which have been paired and tested to ensure maximum quality and compatibility. Designed to enhance the experience of Microsoft's 64-bit Vista operating system, these 8GB Viper series kits are the perfect choice for gamers and enthusiasts.
"Microsoft's 64-bit Vista operating system is becoming more common in high performance systems," says Les Henry, Technical Director for Patriot Memory. "PC enthusiasts who can utilize the full 8GB's of memory will see a significant performance boost in today's memory intensive applications."
"Microsoft's 64-bit Vista operating system is becoming more common in high performance systems," says Les Henry, Technical Director for Patriot Memory. "PC enthusiasts who can utilize the full 8GB's of memory will see a significant performance boost in today's memory intensive applications."
OCZ Announces the first 15'' DIY Notebook Solution Based on Intel Centrino 2 Platform
OCZ Technology Group, Inc., a worldwide leader in innovative, ultra-high performance and high reliability memory, components, and systems, today unveiled their latest 15"Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Gaming Notebook based on the Intel Centrino 2 platform. This next generation laptop offers enthusiasts and gamers and incredible options to perfect their own mobile powerhouse. OCZ continues to expand on their lineup of DIY solutions for users that want to build a notebook that is configured and built for their very own unique application in mind.
Gigabyte Readies GM-M8000 Gaming Mouse
First seen at CeBIT 2008 this March, Gigabyte GM-M8000 is the company's high-end mouse aimed at providing gamer-friendly features. This mouse uses a colour theme of graphite-black fused with red. It measures 126 (L)x 74 (W) x 43 (H) mm. Tracking is carried out by an AVAGO 6090 laser sensor with its resolution ranging between 400 and 4000 dpi, which the user can set.
Its weight is user-adjustable by up to 38 g over its standard weight. The mouse features five programmable buttons, with an 8 KB onboard memory to store button-profiles. It features USB connectivity and the bundled Gigabyte GHOST application. Pricing is yet to be known.
Its weight is user-adjustable by up to 38 g over its standard weight. The mouse features five programmable buttons, with an 8 KB onboard memory to store button-profiles. It features USB connectivity and the bundled Gigabyte GHOST application. Pricing is yet to be known.
Iomega Announces Screenplay Pro HD Multimedia Drive
Iomega, an EMC company and a global leader in data protection, today added to its ScreenPlay series of Multimedia drives with the new Iomega ScreenPlay Pro HD 1.0TB Multimedia Drive.
The new ScreenPlay Pro HD Multimedia Drive creates a convenient link between the home network and the home theater, giving users a convenient way to show off their family photos, play music, and enjoy their videos from the best seat in the house.
The new ScreenPlay Pro HD Multimedia Drive creates a convenient link between the home network and the home theater, giving users a convenient way to show off their family photos, play music, and enjoy their videos from the best seat in the house.
Intel Gains CPU Market-Share as AMD Loses Ground
Whichever way the global economy is headed, 3Q, 2008 hasn't been a bad period for computer hardware industry. The GPU market saw its bumper sale in six years, with both NVIDIA and AMD reaping inflows. Similar trends were also reported with other sections of the industry. The CPU for one, is commodity closely linked to the growth of the industry. 3Q 2008 saw record earnings for Intel as well, as the silicon giant continued its market-share gains into rival AMD, as recorded by market observer iSuppli.
According to iSuppli figures held by Information Week, Intel now holds a massive 80.4% of the CPU market share, which is up 1.7% from Q3 2007. AMD's share on the other hand fell 1.8 percentage points to 12.1% from 13.9% a year ago. Compared to Q2 2008, AMD's market share grew by 0.1%, and Intel's grew by 0.3%. There is a clear influence of smaller CPU vendors that has affected AMD's share. These smaller vendors are finding it increasingly difficult to compete on a global scale amidst the economic crisis.
According to iSuppli figures held by Information Week, Intel now holds a massive 80.4% of the CPU market share, which is up 1.7% from Q3 2007. AMD's share on the other hand fell 1.8 percentage points to 12.1% from 13.9% a year ago. Compared to Q2 2008, AMD's market share grew by 0.1%, and Intel's grew by 0.3%. There is a clear influence of smaller CPU vendors that has affected AMD's share. These smaller vendors are finding it increasingly difficult to compete on a global scale amidst the economic crisis.
Thursday, October 30th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Multimedia
Storage
Danamics to Launch its Liquid Metal LM10 Processor Cooler in November
Denmark's Danamics LM10 CPU cooler, the world's first commercially available liquid metal-based processor cooler, was reported today to have received a release date. The LM10 will land in Europe as of November 17th, but it will come in limited quantities. Outside of Europe, Danamics is still awaiting approval of its liquid metal-based technology, and after one is obtained the company can start selling.
Recently, Danamics engineers claimed to have developed a CPU cooler that will put to shame every air cooling solution available and most of the current water cooling kits. The LM10 has no moving parts and an unlimited mean time between failures. Inside is a yet-to-be-named liquid metal that's said to provide superior thermo physical properties and is circulated without moving parts thanks to a built-in electromagnetic pump. Expect more information next week.
Recently, Danamics engineers claimed to have developed a CPU cooler that will put to shame every air cooling solution available and most of the current water cooling kits. The LM10 has no moving parts and an unlimited mean time between failures. Inside is a yet-to-be-named liquid metal that's said to provide superior thermo physical properties and is circulated without moving parts thanks to a built-in electromagnetic pump. Expect more information next week.
Thermaltake Intros New Tube Like SpinQ Processor Cooler
Thermaltake has just launched SpinQ, a new CPU cooler compatible with Intel (Socket 775) and AMD (Sockets 939/754/AM2/AM2+) processors. The cooler might look strange, but it features the usual cooling components such as heat-pipes six of them, 50 waved aluminum fins in the form of a tube, and a 80mm Blow Fan. The fan's speed can be manually controlled from 1000 (19dBA) to 1600RPM (28dBA) and the fan also has blue LEDs. SpinQ weights 667g and still has to be priced. For more information, please click here.
Western Digital My Passport Studio Now Available with FireWire 800 Interface
WD today added a high-speed FireWire 800 interface to its popular My Passport Studio portable drive to give Mac computer users and creative professionals the fast performance they need. The new interface also makes this drive a perfect storage companion for the newly introduced Apple MacBook Pro computer. With FireWire 800/400 and USB interfaces, the new My Passport Studio portable drives offer up to 500 GB of storage capacity, are formatted for Mac computers and weigh less than 7 ounces.
Thermaltake Toughpower Series Upgraded to 80 PLUS Bronze
Thermaltake Technology is pleased to announce its high performance power supply line Toughpower series, had been upgraded to the 80 PLUS Bronze standard since September 2008. The first three Toughpower models certified as 80 PLUS Bronze ready are Toughpower 600W, Toughpower 700W, and Toughpower QFan 500W. With our commitment to offer users quality and environmental friendly products, the remaining models of Toughpower series, and QFan PSUs are all under the application process of 80 PLUS Bronze standard.
The Next Title in Bethesda's Elder Scrolls Series, Should Arrive in 2010
According to GameIndustry.biz, Paul Oughton, Bethesda's publishing executive has been briefly discussing the companies plans in general, as well as indicating that the next Elder Scrolls title should be with us sometime in 2010. It was also interesting to note that despite Nintendo's success with it's home and handheld consoles, Bethesda had no interest in releasing their games on other platforms.
At the moment we've got Fallout 3 for this year and potentially there's a new Elder Scrolls title in 2010... [and] at the moment we're not that interested in the Wii. We're going to stick to PS3, Xbox 360 and PC. We'll continue to pursue three or four titles a year and go for big titles.
VIA Unveils First Pico-ITXe Board with Stackable I/O Expansion at ESC Boston
VIA Technologies, Inc., a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms, today announced the VIA EPIA-P710, the world's first single board computer based on the new Pico-ITXe specification of the Small Form Factor Special Interest Group (SFF-SIG), providing a more rational approach to system design.
Supporting up to four customizable I/O expansion modules, the VIA EPIA-P710 Pico-ITXe enables a highly flexible and affordable implementation of serial connectivity options. Designed as the perfect baseboard, the VIA EPIA-P710 uses an intelligent board layout to allow efficient module stacking and aid heat dissipation.
Supporting up to four customizable I/O expansion modules, the VIA EPIA-P710 Pico-ITXe enables a highly flexible and affordable implementation of serial connectivity options. Designed as the perfect baseboard, the VIA EPIA-P710 uses an intelligent board layout to allow efficient module stacking and aid heat dissipation.
Dell Expands XPS One with 24 inch Screen
Dell XPS One is the company's monolithic space-saving desktop PC model. The company introduced a new model of the PC with a 24-inch model, with updated hardware. The 24-inch XPS One packs a 1920 x 1080 pixel high-definition display, along with under-the-hood enhancements that include an Intel Core 2 Quad Q8200 processor, 4 GB of memory, 320 GB of storage, and integrated Intel GMA X4500HD graphics. Optionally, you could choose the same model with NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT 512MB graphics or a Blu-ray drive. The system incudes sleek speaker units with a bundled sub-woofer, made by JBL. The system is available in three colours: Midnight Grey, Pure White and (PRODUCT) RED. Prices start at US $1,699.
AMD Appoints Former HP Exec Alberto Bozzo to Head EMEA Region
AMD today announced the appointment of Alberto Bozzo as corporate vice president and general manager of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Reporting to Emilio Ghilardi, AMD chief sales officer, Bozzo will have responsibility for all sales and marketing operations within EMEA. Bozzo starts his new role in January 2009. Bozzo, 44, brings more than 20 years of experience with HP, where he was most recently the vice president of HP's multi-billion dollar go-to-market consumer business unit in EMEA.
"We are pleased to add another seasoned professional to AMD who brings a strong combination of sales, marketing and organizational management experience," said Emilio Ghilardi, AMD senior vice president and chief sales officer. "Alberto's successful consumer and commercial computing record makes him the right person to help AMD execute on its aggressive plans in the strategic EMEA region."
"We are pleased to add another seasoned professional to AMD who brings a strong combination of sales, marketing and organizational management experience," said Emilio Ghilardi, AMD senior vice president and chief sales officer. "Alberto's successful consumer and commercial computing record makes him the right person to help AMD execute on its aggressive plans in the strategic EMEA region."
Catalyst Hotfix 71310 Restores Visual Elements at Expense of Performance
AMD had released an updated hotfix to its ATI Catalyst 8.10 drivers the other day, with hotfix 71310. It succeeded hotfix 70517 for the said version of Catalyst. Hotfixes specific to certain games, are intended to selectively improve hardware performance and/or visual quality. When AMD released the older hotfix for version 8.10 of Catalyst, it aimed to improve performance in general. It was later found by keen observers, that the hotfix manipulated with visual elements of the game in an attempt to gain performance. A popular example of this, was noted in the "lost rocks" issue in Far Cry 2, where the hotfix 70517 caused the texture and/or geometric loss of certain rocks along a track from a scene, presumably reducing load on the graphics processor(s).
With hotfix 71310 issued yesterday, AMD seems to have fixed the issue. Expreview put the hotfix to test, where it was found that the "lost rocks" issue was fixed. The larger issue was of the driver interfering with visual elements the game has to offer. The fix however, came at the expense of performance. Expreview used a test-bed consisting of Core 2 Extreme QX9650 CPU, ATI Radeon HD 4870 graphics, 2x 1 GB of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, all seated on an ASUS Striker II Extreme motherboard, running Windows Vista 32-bit operating system. The testers used Driver Sweeper to make sure a new variant of the driver installed on a purged environment. Testing Far Cry 2 revealed that the issue was addressed, but at a performance loss. The frame-rate dropped from 48.12 fps to 43.20, which is roughly a 10% loss in frame-rate.
With hotfix 71310 issued yesterday, AMD seems to have fixed the issue. Expreview put the hotfix to test, where it was found that the "lost rocks" issue was fixed. The larger issue was of the driver interfering with visual elements the game has to offer. The fix however, came at the expense of performance. Expreview used a test-bed consisting of Core 2 Extreme QX9650 CPU, ATI Radeon HD 4870 graphics, 2x 1 GB of DDR3 1066 MHz memory, all seated on an ASUS Striker II Extreme motherboard, running Windows Vista 32-bit operating system. The testers used Driver Sweeper to make sure a new variant of the driver installed on a purged environment. Testing Far Cry 2 revealed that the issue was addressed, but at a performance loss. The frame-rate dropped from 48.12 fps to 43.20, which is roughly a 10% loss in frame-rate.
S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky Patch Version 1.5.06 Released, Adds DirectX 10.1 Support
All STALKERs report to duty! A new S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky patch version 1.5.06 was released today clearing the game from a lot bugs and also adding official DirectX 10.1 compatibility. Saved games from previous 1.5.04 and 1.5.05 Clear Sky versions, will be compatible with the current latest patch 1.5.06. The full release notes follow below.
DOWNLOAD: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky Patch Version 1.5.06
DOWNLOAD: S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Clear Sky Patch Version 1.5.06
DFI LANParty Unveils New DDR3 Motherboard "DK P45-T3RSB Plus"
The LANParty (DFI) P45 series has received numerous favorable comments. It is no matter whether we speak of the DK P45-T2RS and DK P45-T2RS Plus which have created a new Super Pi world record, or the most powerful microATX mainboard JR P45-T2RS which has created excellent achievements in DDR2 platform.
LANParty will release the DK P45-T3RSB Plus with DDR3 supports in November which inherits the circuit design of three former star products, providing more choices of mainboards for fans.
LANParty will release the DK P45-T3RSB Plus with DDR3 supports in November which inherits the circuit design of three former star products, providing more choices of mainboards for fans.
ZOTAC Expands Mini-ITX Lineup, Introduces New nForce 630i-ITX WiFi Mini-ITX Mainboard
ZOTAC International, a leading manufacturer of NVIDIA-based graphics cards and motherboards, today unleashes its latest mini-ITX form factor motherboard -- the ZOTAC nForce 630i-ITX WiFi - a new high-performance platform that occupies minimal space. The new ZOTAC nForce 630i-ITX WiFi combines the power of NVIDIA GeForce 7 series graphics processing with Intel Core 2 processors and wireless network connectivity into a single 170mm2 package. New integrated 802.11b/g WiFi enables the ZOTAC nForce 630i-ITX WiFi to connect to wireless networks for wireless Internet connectivity. Integrated WiFi allows users to enjoy network connectivity without wires or the hassles of large and bulky external wireless cards.
Intel and ASUS Launch WePC.com Website, a Project to Create Community-Designed PCs
Consumers become product designers at WePC.com, a Web site launched today by Intel Corporation and ASUS. WePC.com is where consumers can collaborate with each other and with Intel and ASUS to design innovative new products. The plan is for the two companies to deliver to market what could be the world's first community-designed PCs. WePC.com will enable a global conversation about the ideal elements of PCs. Visitors to the site can share ideas, vote on submitted concepts and engage in discussions with other community members about the qualities of the "dream" PC.
Wednesday, October 29th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Vidabox Premium Wireless Keyboard Review
With HTPC's gaining more and more in popularity, various input devices and peripherals for them are becoming a more integral part of the market. With many options to choose from for keyboards, mice and the combination of both, it's hard to come to a conclusion on what suits the HTPC best. Vidabox may have an answer with their Vidabox Premium Wireless Keybaord w/ laser trackball as an all in one solution.
Patriot Memory Announces Xporter Magnum 64GB USB Flash Drive
Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory module and flash memory solutions, today announced the release of their 64GB Xporter Magnum USB flash drive. The 64GB Xporter Magnum comes in an aluminum two-tone housing, boasts "210x" read speeds and is Microsoft Certified for Windows Vista ReadyBoost.
"We are excited to offer the fastest 64GB USB flash drive on the market," says Meng Jay, Flash Product Manager for Patriot Memory. "Patriot's 64GB Xporter Magnum's speed and capacity is perfect for consumers who need to transport and share large files. Having Microsoft's certification, consumers are also assured of maximizing their Windows Vista experience."
"We are excited to offer the fastest 64GB USB flash drive on the market," says Meng Jay, Flash Product Manager for Patriot Memory. "Patriot's 64GB Xporter Magnum's speed and capacity is perfect for consumers who need to transport and share large files. Having Microsoft's certification, consumers are also assured of maximizing their Windows Vista experience."
Thermalright Ultra 120 True Copper Cooling Performance Tested
It did surprise people, when Thermalright decided to release a full-copper version of its iconic Ultra 120 CPU cooler, with one of the highlights being that this cooler tips the scales at close to 1.9 kg (roughly 4.19 lbs), while the other being that it's a limited edition product, priced at a little over $100.
Expreview got a hold of one of these coolers, and put it to test. The test-bed consisted of an Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 overclocked to 3.60 GHz running on an ASUS Maximus Extreme motherboard. With the machine idling, the cooler did not show any improvements over the cooling performance of the aluminum-built Ultra 120E. At load, the temperatures dropped by 4 °C, from 71 °C to 67 °C, a minor improvement. This leaves the looks of the cooler and its exclusiveness of being one in 3000 (being limited-edition) to justify its price tag.
Expreview got a hold of one of these coolers, and put it to test. The test-bed consisted of an Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 overclocked to 3.60 GHz running on an ASUS Maximus Extreme motherboard. With the machine idling, the cooler did not show any improvements over the cooling performance of the aluminum-built Ultra 120E. At load, the temperatures dropped by 4 °C, from 71 °C to 67 °C, a minor improvement. This leaves the looks of the cooler and its exclusiveness of being one in 3000 (being limited-edition) to justify its price tag.
ECS X58B-A Motherboard Pictured
Here's ECS with its X58 motherboard. Over the past month or two, motherboard manufacturers have been taking the opportunity of flashing their offering based on Intel's newest chipset, supporting the upcoming Core i7 Processors. Product launch dates for the processors itself had been see-sawing, with early estimates having pointed at an October launch, while other sections of the industry pointing at November 17, 2008 as D-day for Intel and its motherboard partners. Perhaps the November launch was chosen to give motherboard vendors some room to ready their products for the market that comes to be.
The ECS X58B-A is the company's X58 motherboard based on the Black-Series design, sporting a black PCB with yellow, red, orange and copper to form the design theme. It uses a rather simplistic layout, with two PCI-Express x16 slots, a close-ended PCI-Express x4 slot, and one PCI slot. It features a 5+1 phase power circuit for the CPU, and uses solid-state capacitors overall. The motherboard supports both ATI CrossFireX and NVIDIA SLI multi-GPU technologies, it features six onboard SATA II ports with headers to two e-SATA ports, among other standard features. The X58B-A is expected to start shipping around the time Intel launches the Core i7 processors, it is expected to be priced at US $260.
The ECS X58B-A is the company's X58 motherboard based on the Black-Series design, sporting a black PCB with yellow, red, orange and copper to form the design theme. It uses a rather simplistic layout, with two PCI-Express x16 slots, a close-ended PCI-Express x4 slot, and one PCI slot. It features a 5+1 phase power circuit for the CPU, and uses solid-state capacitors overall. The motherboard supports both ATI CrossFireX and NVIDIA SLI multi-GPU technologies, it features six onboard SATA II ports with headers to two e-SATA ports, among other standard features. The X58B-A is expected to start shipping around the time Intel launches the Core i7 processors, it is expected to be priced at US $260.
AMD Releases Newer Hotfix Driver, Addresses Far Cry 2 and STALKER: Clear Sky Issues
AMD updated the graphics driver hotfix titled, 737-38664: Far Cry 2 and Stalker Clear Sky HotFix. The hotfix aims to address issues with the two game titles and improves performance. Highlights include:
- Performance improvement for the DirectX 9 version of Far Cry 2 on CrossFire installations
- Performance improvement for the DirectX 10 version of Far Cry 2 on single GPU and CrossFire installations
- Improves performance for the DirectX 10 and DirectX 10.1 version of STALKER: Clear Sky on both single and CrossFireX configurations at higher resolutions
Super Talent Offers Limited-Edition 18 Carat Solid Gold Pen-Drive
Super Talent has announced that it would be taking orders for a limited-edition variant of the Pico-C pen-drive, that is fabricated with 18 carat gold. Gold is used to make its body, as well as its key-chain. The company guarantees the quality of its material with a serialized Certificate of Authenticity. Apart from its looks, the drive offers storage of 8 GB, and data-transfer speeds of up to 30 MB/s. Data security measures includes 256-bit AES encryption.
The company is taking orders, and offers laser-etched corporate logos, or any custom etch design on the body at no extra charge, making it an executive gifting option. The drive comes in a black velvet jewelery case. The product is available only on a pre-order basis for a limited time, with three to four weeks lead time. Part number STC8GBPCKG is offered to resellers at $599 a piece.
The company is taking orders, and offers laser-etched corporate logos, or any custom etch design on the body at no extra charge, making it an executive gifting option. The drive comes in a black velvet jewelery case. The product is available only on a pre-order basis for a limited time, with three to four weeks lead time. Part number STC8GBPCKG is offered to resellers at $599 a piece.
Ubuntu 8.10 Desktop Edition - Mobile, Flexible Computing for a Changing Digital World
Canonical Ltd. announced the upcoming availability of Ubuntu 8.10 Desktop Edition for free download on 30 October. In related news, Canonical also announced the simultaneous release of Ubuntu 8.10 Server Edition.
Ubuntu 8.10 Desktop Edition is designed for the pervasively connected digital lifestyle. With new 3G network support, users can move smoothly from wired and WiFi networks onto 3G cellphone networks while traveling. Ubuntu 8.10 is also built to be shared - users can start a quick "guest session" on the fly and let someone use their computer to surf the web or check email, while maintaining the security and integrity of their own data. And if that person really enjoys their brief session as an Ubuntu guest, they can put Ubuntu on any USB key and take it home to install on their own computer rather than having to burn a CD.
Ubuntu 8.10 Desktop Edition is designed for the pervasively connected digital lifestyle. With new 3G network support, users can move smoothly from wired and WiFi networks onto 3G cellphone networks while traveling. Ubuntu 8.10 is also built to be shared - users can start a quick "guest session" on the fly and let someone use their computer to surf the web or check email, while maintaining the security and integrity of their own data. And if that person really enjoys their brief session as an Ubuntu guest, they can put Ubuntu on any USB key and take it home to install on their own computer rather than having to burn a CD.
XFX Releases Low-Profile GeForce 9500 GT
GeForce 9500 GT makes for a decent graphics accelerator for HD entertainment, productivity and light-gaming. XFX has released a graphics card (model: PV-T95G-YALG) based on the said GPU, using a half-height PCB that makes it low-profile, and compatible with small form-factor PCs.
The card uses the GeForce 9500 GT running at reference speeds of 550 MHz (core) and 1400 MHz (shader). It sports 512 MB of DDR2 memory clocked at 1400 MHz. It provides a DVI and a D-Sub ports, it can be coupled with the low-profile kits XFX already has in store. The card is available for sale, and is priced as low as €56 in Europe.
The card uses the GeForce 9500 GT running at reference speeds of 550 MHz (core) and 1400 MHz (shader). It sports 512 MB of DDR2 memory clocked at 1400 MHz. It provides a DVI and a D-Sub ports, it can be coupled with the low-profile kits XFX already has in store. The card is available for sale, and is priced as low as €56 in Europe.
Left 4 Dead Available for Pre-Order over Steam, Demo Available Shortly
Valve, creators of best-selling game franchises (Half-Life, Portal, Team Fortress, and Counter-Strike) and leading technologies (Steam and Source), today announced a special promotion granting those who pre-order Left 4 Dead early access to the official demo.
Left 4 Dead is the new survival action game from Valve that blends the social entertainment experience of multiplayer games such as Counter-Strike and Team Fortress with the dramatic, narrative experience made popular in single player action game classics such as the Half-Life series of games.
Left 4 Dead is the new survival action game from Valve that blends the social entertainment experience of multiplayer games such as Counter-Strike and Team Fortress with the dramatic, narrative experience made popular in single player action game classics such as the Half-Life series of games.
MSI Launches GT627 Performance Notebook
With MSI exclusive Turbo Drive Engine Technology, while the GT627 is in AC mode, just touch the turbo button above the keyboard and you can increase the speed of your CPU. Your computer will run smoothly to the very best of its abilities.
GT627 provides with the enormous 15.4" LCD monitor for your viewing pleasure, and achieves the ultimate realism experience whether you are playing games or watching a DVD. Equipped with the best NVIDIA Geforce 9800M GS 3D graphic card (Build-in DDR3 1GB VRAM) and exclusive MSI vivid image enhancement technology, GT627 can create the most astonishingly realistic audio and visual effects. With 7.1 channel output, the GT627 presents rich sound effects ideal for multimedia applications.
GT627 provides with the enormous 15.4" LCD monitor for your viewing pleasure, and achieves the ultimate realism experience whether you are playing games or watching a DVD. Equipped with the best NVIDIA Geforce 9800M GS 3D graphic card (Build-in DDR3 1GB VRAM) and exclusive MSI vivid image enhancement technology, GT627 can create the most astonishingly realistic audio and visual effects. With 7.1 channel output, the GT627 presents rich sound effects ideal for multimedia applications.
Kingston Launches HyperX DDR3 2GHz Triple-Channel Memory Kits
After OCZ, Corsair and G.Skill, Kingston is now launching new HyperX DDR3 triple-channel kits designed specifically for the new Intel-based X58 motherboards.
"Kingston is excited to bring the fastest DDR3 triple channel memory products to market as we are the first to deliver 2000MHz gaming kits of three with Intel's reduced voltage," said Mark Tekunoff, senior technology manager, Kingston. "All of our triple-channel kits can be overclocked manually or by using XMP-ready profiles. The 2GHz modules have been tested to support up to that speed on ASUS P6T Deluxe motherboards while the Intel DX58SO motherboards have been tested up to 1600MHz."
In addition to the top-of-the-line 2000MHz modules, Kingston's family of triple-channel kits include 1866MHz, 1800MHz, and low-latency 1600MHz and 1375MHz speeds. Kingston ValueRAM kits of three are also available in 1333MHz and 1066MHz speeds:
"Kingston is excited to bring the fastest DDR3 triple channel memory products to market as we are the first to deliver 2000MHz gaming kits of three with Intel's reduced voltage," said Mark Tekunoff, senior technology manager, Kingston. "All of our triple-channel kits can be overclocked manually or by using XMP-ready profiles. The 2GHz modules have been tested to support up to that speed on ASUS P6T Deluxe motherboards while the Intel DX58SO motherboards have been tested up to 1600MHz."
In addition to the top-of-the-line 2000MHz modules, Kingston's family of triple-channel kits include 1866MHz, 1800MHz, and low-latency 1600MHz and 1375MHz speeds. Kingston ValueRAM kits of three are also available in 1333MHz and 1066MHz speeds:
- KHX16000D3K3/3GX - 3GB (3x1GB) 2000MHz CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.65V, optimized for XMP $334.00
- KHX14900D3K3/3GX - 3GB (3x1GB) 1866MHz CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.65V, optimized for XMP $317.00
- KHX14400D3K3/3GX - 3GB (3x1GB) 1800MHz CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.65V, optimized for XMP $312.00
- KHX12800D3LLK3/3GX - 3GB (3x1GB) 1600MHz CL8-8-8-24 @ 1.65V, optimized for XMP $285.00
- KHX11000D3LLK3/3GX - 3GB (3x1GB) 1375MHz CL7-7-7-20 @ 1.65V, optimized for XMP $192.00
- KVR1333D3N9K3/6G - 6GB (3x2GB) 1333MHz CL9-9-9 @ 1.5V, ValueRAM kit $240.00
- KVR1333D3N9K3/3G - 3GB (3x1GB) 1333MHz CL9-9-9 @ 1.5V, ValueRAM kit $132.00
- KVR1066D3N7K3/6G - 6GB (3x2GB) 1066MHz CL7-7-7 @ 1.5V, ValueRAM kit $240.00
- KVR1066D3N7K3/3G - 3GB (3x2GB) 1066MHz CL7-7-7 @ 1.5V, ValueRAM kit $132.00
Thermaltake Now Also Offers LGA 1366 Upgrade Kits for Existing Air and Water Coolers
With the official announcement from Intel on the new Intel Core i7 processors that close, and with some manufacturers already claiming to have compatibility solutions for their cooling products, Thermaltake is also taking responsibility for its air and water coolers by enhancing them with LGA 1366 mounting kits too. Beginning today, Thermaltake will be shipping a new version of its V1 air cooler with mounting clips that support socket LGA 1366. For existing customers who have previously purchased some of Thermaltake's top selling air coolers such as V1, V1 AX and BigTyp120 VX, Thermaltake will also provide the new Socket LGA 1366 mounting kit. For those who own a Thermaltake water cooling kit or just a TT CPU block, the thermal solution provider will also provide a new LGA 1366 mounting mechanism. Unfortunately, the Taiwanese company will charge a small fee for the new mounting brackets, pricing and availability are still unknown though.
Scythe Adds VGA Supplementary Cooling kit
Scythe has introduced a new VGA supplementary cooling kit today, the package SCVCH-1000, a kit consisting of heatsinks for cooling the memory chips, and the video card's VRM area. This becomes especially useful when you have replaced a card's stock cooler that happened to provide full-coverage cooling to all components, with a Scythe cooler that concentrates active cooling on the GPU, while leaving the rest of the card's components to cool under its airflow. Memory chips and VRM components do tend to have a direct impact on the overclock you could achieve, or simply increasing the card's longevity. The kit has been released, it sells for €6,90 in the EU and $10.50 in the US. It consists of:
- 16 x Large Chip Heatsinks (VRAM)
- 1 x Heatsink for HSI Chip
- 4 x Thin Chip Heatsinks
- 1 x Small Chip Heatsink
- 1 x Ultra narrow Chip Heatsink
Sapphire ATI Radeon HD 4850 X2 1GB GDDR3 Scores
After last week's brief introduction of the first dual RV770 Radeon HD4850 spotted in the wild, we've now managed to find some benchmark scores for you thanks to the guys over at VR-Zone. Apparently they have the Sapphire ATI Radeon HD 4850 X2 card in their lab and have decided to pair it with an Core i7/X58 platform to deliver the maximum out of it. This card is clocked at 625MHz for the core, 1000MHz for the 1GB GDDR3 memory and has 1600 stream processors (800 for each of the two RV770 GPUs). More pictures of the card and results from different widescreen resolutions can be seen here.
Microsoft Set to Release $99 60GB Xbox Live Starter Pack Next Week
The title pretty much says it all, next week Microsoft will start selling a Starter Pack for all Xbox 360 Arcade console fan that have never gone past the casual offline gaming. The pack includes everything you need to jump into Xbox LIVE with the Xbox 360: a spacious 60GB Hard Drive, Headset, 3-month LIVE Gold subscription, and Ethernet cable. The Xbox Live 60GB starter pack can be pre-ordered now from GameStop for $99.99, with an expected U.S. ship date of November 4th. (Ed. note: The same kit should be available on or before Nov. 21st in Europe for 79€)
G.Skill Announces Triple Channel Memroy Kits for Intel Core i7 Processors
Keeping up with the competition, G.Skill Memory is also making debut with a full line of DDR3 performance memory products designed for the Intel Core i7 processors and the Intel X58 Express chipset. Included are a total of four G.SKILL 3GB and 6GB triple memory kits with DDR3 1333MHz and 1600MHz frequencies for enthusiasts, overclockers, and early-adopters:
- F3-10666CL9T-3GBNQ: 3GB (1GB x 3) DDR3-1333 (PC3 10666), CL9-9-9-24 @ 1.5-1.6V
- F3-10666CL9T-6GBNQ: 6GB (2GB x 3) DDR3-1333 (PC3 10666), CL9-9-9-24 @ 1.5-1.6V
- F3-12800CL9T-3GBNQ: 3GB (1GB x 3) DDR3-1600 (PC3 12800), CL9-9-9-24 @ 1.5-1.6V
- F3-12800CL9T-6GBNQ: 6GB (2GB x 3) DDR3-1600 (PC3 12800), CL9-9-9-24 @ 1.5-1.6V
HP Launches the Mini Note 1000 Netbook
It didn't take HP too long to officially releases its new Mini 1000 netbook, HP's Mini Note 2133 little brother. Starting at $399 as of today, Mini 1000 features a sleek, ultra-portable design, less than 1-inch thickness and weight that is a little more than 2 pounds. HP offers the Mini 1000 in various configuration choices that include a 8.9-inch or 10.2-inch diagonal BrightView display with flush glass and LED backlight (both displays have 1024x600 resolution) as well as the option to choose between a 8GB or 16GB SSD or 60GB 4200rpm mechanical hard-drive. Processor options will be limited to the Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz CPU for now, but new models might become accessible later on. Except these few hardware options, all Mini shells will have the standard package of peripherals that include a built-in webcam and microphone, an Ethernet jack, two USB ports, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capabilities. Versions with 3G support are expected to be available in December. OS options include pre-installed Microsoft Windows XP Home or a Linux distribution.
In addition, HP is launching a special Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition with the same specs as the piano-black Mini, but painted in vibrant red with a peony-flower inspired design.
In addition, HP is launching a special Mini 1000 Vivienne Tam Edition with the same specs as the piano-black Mini, but painted in vibrant red with a peony-flower inspired design.
World of Warcraft surpasses 11 million subscribers worldwide
Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. announced today that the subscribership for World of Warcraft, its award-winning massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), now exceeds 11 million players worldwide. This milestone was reached as the beta test for Wrath of the Lich King, World of Warcraft's second expansion, nears completion. Wrath of the Lich King will launch in several regions around the world starting on November 13.
Logitech Acquires SightSpeed, Provider of Internet Video Communications Services
Logitech International today announced that the company has agreed to acquire privately held SightSpeed Inc. of Berkeley, Calif. for approximately $30 million in cash. SightSpeed is an award-winning provider of high-quality Internet video communications services. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in early November. The acquisition of SightSpeed will provide Logitech with video calling technology and a software and services development team that can be focused on future video calling initiatives that can enable cross-platform video communications with an intuitive, lifelike experience, for people sitting in front of a personal computer or with their family in a living room.
Tuesday, October 28th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Harddisks
Monitors
Motherboards
Multimedia
Scythe Kama Bay Amplifier Review
The Scythe Kama Bay Amplifier is made for all of you who want to use a pair of efficient passive speakers along with your PC without having to shell out the big bucks. Priced at only € 50 this amp could easily become an integrated part of your rig offering very solid performance for its price.
ASUS Triton 81 for Core i7 Processors Spotted
ASUS plans to launch a fleet of CPU coolers compatible with the LGA-1366 socket, and the upcoming Core i7 processors from Intel. It's newest entry is the Triton 81. VR-Zone pixellated the cooler, which provides support for a broad range of sockets and processors.
The Triton 81 cooler consists of a nickel-plated copper CPU contact base, from which four heat-pipes convey heat to a dense array of aluminum fins. Dissipation is powered by a push-pull mechanism of two PWM-controlled fans that light up blue, on either side of the heatsink. ASUS claims that during normal operation, the cooler maintains a small acoustic footprint of 18 dB despite having two fans. It tips the scales at close to 700g. An official announcement from ASUS is expected.
The Triton 81 cooler consists of a nickel-plated copper CPU contact base, from which four heat-pipes convey heat to a dense array of aluminum fins. Dissipation is powered by a push-pull mechanism of two PWM-controlled fans that light up blue, on either side of the heatsink. ASUS claims that during normal operation, the cooler maintains a small acoustic footprint of 18 dB despite having two fans. It tips the scales at close to 700g. An official announcement from ASUS is expected.
Microsoft Delivers Pre-Beta of Windows 7 to Developers and Previews Web Applications
Today at its Professional Developers Conference 2008 (PDC2008), Microsoft Corp. rallied software developers by sharing the first full public demo of Windows 7. Windows 7 extends developers' investments in Windows Vista and encourages the creation of new applications and services for the Windows platform. The company also delivered a pre-beta build of Windows 7 to PDC attendees and announced plans to release a full Windows 7 beta early next year.
Microsoft also demonstrated, for the first time, its new Web applications for Office, which are lightweight versions of Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote that are used from within standard Web browsers. The company showed how anyone can use all of the Web, phone, and PC versions of Office to edit the same rich document, switching among them seamlessly with lossless file compatibility.
Microsoft also demonstrated, for the first time, its new Web applications for Office, which are lightweight versions of Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote that are used from within standard Web browsers. The company showed how anyone can use all of the Web, phone, and PC versions of Office to edit the same rich document, switching among them seamlessly with lossless file compatibility.
Intel Recognized as EPA Green Power Partner of the Year
At an award ceremony hosted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) last evening, Intel Corporation received a 2008 Green Power Leadership Award and was also named a Green Power Partner of the Year. The EPA recognized the company's voluntary efforts to address climate change through green power purchases and its impact in advancing the renewable energy market.
"This is but one milestone in our long-term strategy to help make renewable energy more economically feasible and a realistic choice for individuals and corporations," said William Swope, vice president of Intel's Corporate Affairs Group. "Renewable energy investment is imperative to spur the growth of the nation's energy market and we'll continue this ramp along with our industry efforts."
"This is but one milestone in our long-term strategy to help make renewable energy more economically feasible and a realistic choice for individuals and corporations," said William Swope, vice president of Intel's Corporate Affairs Group. "Renewable energy investment is imperative to spur the growth of the nation's energy market and we'll continue this ramp along with our industry efforts."
Zotac Introduces GeForce 9800 GTX+ with 1GB of GDDR3 Memory
ZOTAC International, a leading manufacture of NVIDIA-based motherboards and graphics cards, today expands its GeForce 9800 series line up with the new ZOTAC GeForce 9800 GTX+ 1GB. The ZOTAC GeForce 9800 GTX+ 1GB pairs the powerful NVIDIA GeForce 9800GTX+ graphics processor with 1GB of high-speed GDDR3 graphics memory for phenomenal visuals in the latest DirectX 10 and OpenGL 2.1-enabled 3D games and applications. The new ZOTAC GeForce 9800 GTX+ 1GB is powered by NVIDIA's award winning unified architecture with 128 stream processors for power-packed experience in 3D games and CUDA-enabled applications. The new 1GB of GDDR3 memory ensures the NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GTX+ graphics processor is able to keep up with the latest texture-intensive and demanding DirectX 10 and OpenGL 2.1 3D games.
Patriot Bundles Selected DDR2 and DDR3 Viper Memory Kits with 3DMark Vantage Software
Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory modules and flash memory solutions, has decided to add some color to its Viper memory kits by bundling them with Futuremark's 3DMark Vantage benchmarking software. The bundle offers selected Patriot high-performance DDR2 and DDR3 Viper series gaming memory kits with the Advanced Edition of Vantage and even better, the software comes preloaded on a Patriot 2GB Xporter Razzo USB flash which is also included in the bundle. The product bundles are listed below:
- PVS32G2000LLKNB - DDR3 2GB 2000MHz Low Latency (9-9-9-24) with NVIDIA EPP 2.0 support
- PVS32G1800LLKNB - DDR3 2GB 1800MHz Low Latency (8-8-8-20) with NVIDIA EPP 2.0 support
- PVS34G1333LLKB - DDR3 4GB 1333MHz Low Latency (7-7-7-20)
- PVS24G8500ELKNB - DDR2 4GB 1066MHz Enhanced Latency (5-5-5-15) with NVIDIA EPP support
- PVS24G6400LLKNB - DDR2 4GB 800MHz Low Latency (4-4-4-12) with NVIDIA EPP support
AMD Posts ATI Catalyst Windows 7 Preview Driver Suite
Windows 7 is Microsoft's next major PC operating system. Early non-retail versions of this OS may have already made it to certain sections of the industry, and this calls for hardware support. AMD is ready with its ATI Catalyst driver suite for Windows 7. The driver itself is titled ATI Catalyst Windows 7 Preview Driver Package. As the name suggests, it is at an experimental/early stage, much like the OS itself. Use of it is not covered by any warranty. It provides support for ATI Radeon HD 2000 series, HD 3000 series, HD 4000 series, derived mobile GPUs, and AMD 7 series chipsets with integrated graphics.
The 32-bit version of the driver can be downloaded from here, and the 64-bit version here.
The 32-bit version of the driver can be downloaded from here, and the 64-bit version here.
VIA Launches 'Global Mobility Bazaar' Program to Drive Mobile Computing Adoption
VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms today announced the 'Global Mobility Bazaar' (GMB), an innovative industry infrastructure program aimed at driving the rapid global adoption of affordable mobile computing devices.
Through the GMB program, VIA is partnering with over 15 GMB manufacturers and infrastructure partners in China on the development of a wide variety of mini-notes, netbooks, and notebooks based around VIA's ultra low power processor platforms.
Through the GMB program, VIA is partnering with over 15 GMB manufacturers and infrastructure partners in China on the development of a wide variety of mini-notes, netbooks, and notebooks based around VIA's ultra low power processor platforms.
AMD Completes Sale of Digital TV Business to Broadcom
AMD today announced completion of the sale of its Digital TV (DTV) processor business to Broadcom Corporation. AMD announced a definitive agreement to sell its DTV business on August 25 as part of its strategy to become leaner and more focused, while seeking to create a business model to deliver sustainable profitability and leadership in core x86 computing and graphics businesses.
In connection with the business sale, AMD received approximately $141.5 million in cash, subject to certain escrows and adjustments pursuant to the terms of the definitive asset purchase agreement.
In connection with the business sale, AMD received approximately $141.5 million in cash, subject to certain escrows and adjustments pursuant to the terms of the definitive asset purchase agreement.
Thecus Technology Announces the N3200PRO NAS
The N3200 from Thecus has been finding its way into living rooms and home offices around the world thanks to a ton of friendly features, large capacity, and RAID 5 security. Today, Thecus is pleased to announce a successor to this groundbreaking product: the N3200PRO. Featuring the power of an AMD Geode CPU, the N3200PRO takes everything you love about the N3200 and improves its performance even further.
EVGA Precision 1.3.3 Released - Adds Fan Control Support for NVIDIA ForceWare 180.xx
EVGA have released a new version of their popular overclocking utility today. The most noticeable improvement is the support for fan control with the latest 180.xx series drivers from NVIDIA, many users were annoyed with the fact that all their fan control programs ceased to work, but EVGA has got their utility updated even before the 180.xx drivers reach WHQL standard. The changes since 1.3.2 are as follows:
- Added fan control support for NVIDIA Forceware 180.xx drivers family.
- EVGA On-Screen Display Server has been updated to version 2.8.0. Added new On-Screen Display rendering mode. Optional configurable On-Screen Display background improves On-Screen Display readability in some applications and prevents it from merging with solid color screen.
- Added G98 graphics processors support.
- Now Precision displays product version in On-Screen Display.
40nm High-End NVIDIA GPUs Slated for 2009, GT206 for Q4
NVIDIA is expected to continue on its monolithic high-end GPU approach with a few notable GPUs that have been slated for Q4, 2008 and throughout 2009. The visual computing giant will be rolling out a 55nm derivative of the existing G200 graphics processor, codenamed GT206. The GPU is expected to be essentially the same, albeit newer silicon process allowing higher clock-speeds, that push up the performance envelope. The GT206 will be released in Q4, 2008., presumably to cash-in on the X-mas shopping season. It is found that GT206 seems to be having problems with its shader domain, which has pushed its launch for that late.
Following GT206, GT212 and GT216 would be NVIDIA's entries to the 40nm silicon fabrication process. Earlier reports suggested that foundry companies in Taiwan could be ready with the infrastructure to manufacture 40nm GPUs by June/July 2009. For the late second quarter 2009, either GT212, GT216, or simply a new card based the GT206, in a dual-GPU configuration could lead the pack. GT212 and GT216 could release in Q2, 2009. The GT212, GT216 GPUs support GDDR5 memory on a broad memory bus. Towards the end of the year however, NVIDIA will have made its DirectX 11 GPU, the GT300.
Following GT206, GT212 and GT216 would be NVIDIA's entries to the 40nm silicon fabrication process. Earlier reports suggested that foundry companies in Taiwan could be ready with the infrastructure to manufacture 40nm GPUs by June/July 2009. For the late second quarter 2009, either GT212, GT216, or simply a new card based the GT206, in a dual-GPU configuration could lead the pack. GT212 and GT216 could release in Q2, 2009. The GT212, GT216 GPUs support GDDR5 memory on a broad memory bus. Towards the end of the year however, NVIDIA will have made its DirectX 11 GPU, the GT300.
F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin Coming Soon to D2D and Steam
Warner Bros. Digital Distribution announced today that the Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment game, F.E.A.R. 2: Project Origin will be available for digital download via partners in North America in conjunction with the day and date retail release. The game will be available through IGN Entertainment's digital retail store, Direct2Drive, and via Steam, a leading platform for the delivery and management of PC games with over 15 million accounts worldwide.
"More and more gamers are taking advantage of digital distribution to access videogames," said Thomas Gewecke, President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. "Digital distribution is going to be an important facet of the gaming world and we are glad to be a part of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's efforts to offer additional, convenient, and flexible options for players."
So now you can get F.E.A.R. 2 without even leaving your house. Users who have pre-ordered the game will be able to download it the same day the retail version hits store shelves on February 10, 2009.
"More and more gamers are taking advantage of digital distribution to access videogames," said Thomas Gewecke, President, Warner Bros. Digital Distribution. "Digital distribution is going to be an important facet of the gaming world and we are glad to be a part of Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment's efforts to offer additional, convenient, and flexible options for players."
So now you can get F.E.A.R. 2 without even leaving your house. Users who have pre-ordered the game will be able to download it the same day the retail version hits store shelves on February 10, 2009.
VIA Demos First VIA Nano Processor Board at ESC Boston 2008
VIA Technologies, a leading innovator and developer of silicon chip technologies and embedded platform solutions, today announced it will be demonstrating the first VIA Nano processor-based Mini-ITX board this week at the Embedded Systems Conference, Boston, MA in booth 914.
The VIA VB8001 board is a full featured Mini-ITX board using the eagerly-awaited 1.6GHz VIA Nano processor, which boasts support for up to 4GB of DDR2 memory, Gigabit LAN and two Serial ATA ports, delivering exceptional 64-bit performance within a rigidly low thermal envelope, while a mini-PC slot can extend connectivity to wireless broadband.
The VIA VB8001 board is a full featured Mini-ITX board using the eagerly-awaited 1.6GHz VIA Nano processor, which boasts support for up to 4GB of DDR2 memory, Gigabit LAN and two Serial ATA ports, delivering exceptional 64-bit performance within a rigidly low thermal envelope, while a mini-PC slot can extend connectivity to wireless broadband.
GeForce 9400M Projected to Grab 20% Market Share of Intel Notebook Platforms
NVIDIA seems to be striking gold with its newest platform core logic, the MCP7A, MCP79 chipsets, with the mobile version of MCP79 especially taking the limelight. This is the chipset that Apple uses in its updates to the Macbook Pro. Several PC industry majors such as Acer, ASUS, HP, and Dell, are planning to launch several notebook models based on the MCP79. Some players even project the chipset to grab a 20% share among Intel CPU-based notebook platforms.
ASUS is planning to launch the F50GX notebook using the said chipset with a 16-inch 16:9 aspect ratio panel, and GeForce 9600M discrete graphics card, targeting the gamer market. The company is also planning to launch more MCP79-based notebooks by the end of this year or beginning of next year, according to Tony Chen, general manager of notebook business in ASUS. The general manager of GeForce products at NVIDIA, Ujesh Desai, pointed out that over 10 models of notebooks from global first-tier notebook vendors, will be launched by the end of the year.
ASUS is planning to launch the F50GX notebook using the said chipset with a 16-inch 16:9 aspect ratio panel, and GeForce 9600M discrete graphics card, targeting the gamer market. The company is also planning to launch more MCP79-based notebooks by the end of this year or beginning of next year, according to Tony Chen, general manager of notebook business in ASUS. The general manager of GeForce products at NVIDIA, Ujesh Desai, pointed out that over 10 models of notebooks from global first-tier notebook vendors, will be launched by the end of the year.
ASUS Launches Limited Edition Gold-Aureate Axe Square CPU Cooler
ASUS, producer of top-notch thermal products, has today released the latest flagship model in the ASUS AMAzing series-the Axe Square. Decorated with a dazzling gold-aureate color that complements the uniquely axe-shaped design, this high performance cooler exudes the ultimate in aesthetic appeal; and comes in a limited edition luxury packaging. Furthermore, the Axe Square is also able to deliver enhanced cooling that support exceptional overclocking performances of up to 180W-all the while still retaining extremely low acoustic levels through the automatic PWM function.
AMD Demonstrates Optimum Cloud Computing Platform at Microsoft PDC 2008
AMD today announced that it is providing its Quad Core AMD Opteron processor for Windows Azure Compute Service, the cloud service operating system which is featured this week at PDC, as well as its selection as a key processor partner for cloud computing solutions by leading global web-based companies such as STRATO and DAUM Communications. Cloud Computing Environments (CCE) provide an opportunity for companies to increase capacity and capabilities without significantly increasing investments in software, personnel or infrastructure. The Quad-Core AMD Opteron processor with AMD Virtualization (AMD-V) technology and Direct Connect Architecture was selected because of its ability to deliver significant performance-per-watt efficiencies, successfully handle heavy peak workloads without sacrificing performance, enable massive cloud scaling and offer a reliable foundation that helps global, web-based CCE better manage the demands of a 24/7 uptime for enterprises large and small.
Monday, October 27th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Multimedia
Storage
G.Skill Announces New 64GB and 128GB 2.5-inch Solid State Drives
G.Skill International, a world leader in high quality, extreme performance memory, today unveils affordable ultra-performance SATA II 2.5" Solid State Drives (SSDs) with 64GB and 128GB capacities. With NAND MLC flash storage medium, G.SKILL SATA II 2.5" Solid State Drives (SSDs) provide cost effective, ultra reliable and power-efficient performance hard drives for general consumers who want to improve mobile products.
Microsoft Unveils Windows Azure at Professional Developers Conference
Today, during a keynote speech at the Microsoft Professional Developers Conference 2008 (PDC2008), Ray Ozzie, Microsoft Corp.'s chief software architect, announced Windows Azure, the cloud-based service foundation underlying its Azure Services Platform, and highlighted this platform's role in delivering a software plus services approach to computing. The Azure Services Platform is an industry-leading move by Microsoft to help developers build the next generation of applications that will span from the cloud to the enterprise datacenter and deliver compelling new experiences across the PC, Web and phone.
Ozzie described how this platform combines cloud-based developer capabilities with storage, computational and networking infrastructure services, all hosted on servers operating within Microsoft's global datacenter network. This provides developers with the ability to deploy applications in the cloud or on-premises and enables experiences across a broad range of business and consumer scenarios. A limited community technology preview (CTP) of the Azure Services Platform was initially made available to developers in attendance at PDC2008, giving them a chance to try out its features and functions and plan for their own future development.
Ozzie described how this platform combines cloud-based developer capabilities with storage, computational and networking infrastructure services, all hosted on servers operating within Microsoft's global datacenter network. This provides developers with the ability to deploy applications in the cloud or on-premises and enables experiences across a broad range of business and consumer scenarios. A limited community technology preview (CTP) of the Azure Services Platform was initially made available to developers in attendance at PDC2008, giving them a chance to try out its features and functions and plan for their own future development.
Noctua Offers Free Mounting kit for Intel Core i7
Noctua today announced the impending availability of a new mounting kit which makes it possible to install Noctua CPU coolers on Intel's upcoming Core i7 processors for socket LGA1366. The new SecuFirm2 mounting kit is compatible with all Noctua CPU coolers since 2005 and will be supplied to Noctua users free of charge after uploading a proof of purchase on Noctua's website.
"We always strive to provide premium quality service for premium quality products and we like to think of our coolers as safe long-term investments", explains Mag. Roland Mossig, Noctua CEO. "That's why we've decided to stick to our policy of providing mounting kits free of charge with the new LGA1366 socket so that our customers can continue to use their coolers on the new Core i7 CPUs."
"We always strive to provide premium quality service for premium quality products and we like to think of our coolers as safe long-term investments", explains Mag. Roland Mossig, Noctua CEO. "That's why we've decided to stick to our policy of providing mounting kits free of charge with the new LGA1366 socket so that our customers can continue to use their coolers on the new Core i7 CPUs."
Swiftech Updates its MCRES Micro Reservoir, Releases MCW60-4870 GPU Water Block
Recently water cooling guru Swiftech unveiled new revisions of two of its well known parts, the MCW60 GPU water block and the MCRES Micro reservoir. Let's start with MCW60-4870, a special revision made exclusively for AMD's ATI Radeon HD4870 video cards. This is Swiftech's first graphics water block to combine both heatpipe and liquid cooling in one package. Based on the award winning MCW60 water-block which employs Swiftech's proven Diamond Pin Matrix technology, the MCW60-4870 base plate is CNC machined from billet C110 copper, then electroless nickel and chrome plated. It cools the GPU, memory, and using a massive heatpipe extends the cooling area to the graphics card's mosfets. This product is compatible with AMD's HD4870 reference design graphics cards only. It is available now for $89.95.
Second comes the MCRES Micro Revision 2 reservoir. It shares all the good things that characterized the classic MCRES Micro in size, quality, and provided accessories, but it also includes additional enhancements and functionalities that have been requested by enthusiast users. The most noticeable feature is an additional port at the bottom of the unit, that can be used as an alternate outlet, to feed a second pump, to plug-in a temperature sensor or as a drain. Revision 2 also uses new 1/4" BSPP (G1/4) plugs made of high polish chrome plated brass, for both the fill-port and the alternate outlet port. A vent was also added to the anti-turbulence baffle to eliminate the formation of a small air bubble that occured in the previous model. The MCRES Micro Revision 2 is available now for a MSRP of $25.95.
Second comes the MCRES Micro Revision 2 reservoir. It shares all the good things that characterized the classic MCRES Micro in size, quality, and provided accessories, but it also includes additional enhancements and functionalities that have been requested by enthusiast users. The most noticeable feature is an additional port at the bottom of the unit, that can be used as an alternate outlet, to feed a second pump, to plug-in a temperature sensor or as a drain. Revision 2 also uses new 1/4" BSPP (G1/4) plugs made of high polish chrome plated brass, for both the fill-port and the alternate outlet port. A vent was also added to the anti-turbulence baffle to eliminate the formation of a small air bubble that occured in the previous model. The MCRES Micro Revision 2 is available now for a MSRP of $25.95.
Sapphire ATI Radeon HD 4850 X2 2GB GDDR3 Card Pictured
ATI Radeon HD 4850 X2 graphics card, which was formally announced way back in August and is still unavailable, was spotted today over at pchacc.cn leading us to believe that it will finally hit the market for real. The card below is build by ATI's major partner Sapphire and features custom dual-slot cooling system, 2GB of GDDR3 memory, a 256-bit memory interface, CrossFireX support and blue PCB. Last but not least are the two 55nm RV770 GPUs and the GPU bridge that links them. The card will require an extra 6-pin and 8-pin PCIe connectors. Currently, there's no exact release date, but the little brother of 4870 X2 is expected to become available later next month.
Thermaltake Introduces V9 Black Edition Mid Tower Gaming Chassis
Thermaltake has dropped a few lines on its home page, announcing its newest mid-tower case with an engine nomenclature. Measuring 462 (H) x 208 (W) x 485 (D) mm, the V9 Black Edition (sounds like an AMG with a supercharger) weights in 6.76kg, has a mesh design and what's more, comes with all-black powder coating including the interior. V9 Black Edition includes two 230mm (800rpm, 15dBA) fans on the side panel and on the top pushing the hot air out from the top. There are two more 120mm (1300rpm, 17dBA) turbo fans placed in front and out the back of the case, front fan also glows in red and can be replaced with a 140mm one. If you're looking for even more cooling, there's a cutout for a small 70x70x10mm fan that can be attached to the back of the motherboard. Inside the case you can put up to 4x 5.25-inch drives and up to 5x 3.5" HDDs, the PSU is bottom mounted and features a dust filter. For more details, please visit this page here. The V9 Black Edition is yet to be priced.
MSI X58 Eclipse Motherboard Preview
MSI has dropped a few pictures of its fancy X58 Eclipse motherboard featuring Intel's X58 and ICH10R chipsets. With this board MSI has decided to use normal copper and heat-pipe cooling rather than their circu-pipe cooling that in my humble opinion looks awful. The board is made out of high-quality components only such as solid aluminum capped capacitors, Hi-C capacitors around the CPU area, sealed ferrite chokes, and Intersil ISL6336 PMWs. The board features MSI's DrMOS MOSFET + Driver IC 6-phase power source design and removable PCIe x1 based 7.1 Creative X-FI audio controller with EAX 4.0 HD support. The board also features a handful of switches and buttons. MSI is providing power, reset, and DLED2 on/off buttons as well as a dip-switch for changing the base clock speeds to 133, 166, or 200MHz at POST time. Several LED status indicators are also informing you for everything from standby mode to QPI phase status. Finally the MSI X58 Eclipse can take up to three PCIe 2.0 x16 graphics cards, a total of ten SATA drives and twelve USB 2.0 devices. More pictures are available here.
Intel Preps Overclocking Application for its Core i7 Processors
During IDF Taipei earlier last week Intel demonstrated its DCC (Desktop Control Center) overclock software for the forthcoming Intel Core i7 processors. The DCC is a easy to work with software that will allow overclocking in Windows environment and help novice overclockers and experts. The Desktop Control Center can adjust CPU multiplier, voltage, memory timings and clock speed as well as various system voltage options such as the QPI voltage. The DCC also gives you the option to switch on and off Turbo Boost in Windows, and monitor system temperature readings.
The World’s First Commercially Available Total Liquid Submersion, High-Performance PC
Hardcore Computer, Inc., the industry's most innovative computer design and manufacturing company, announced the launch of Reactor, the world's first commercially available high-performance PC with total liquid submersion cooling technology.
Developed for hardcore computer users such as gamers, graphic artists, audiophiles, industrial designers, engineers, medical imaging technicians and military technologists, Reactor was designed for performance and quality with patented technologies and innovations never before available in a desktop system.
Developed for hardcore computer users such as gamers, graphic artists, audiophiles, industrial designers, engineers, medical imaging technicians and military technologists, Reactor was designed for performance and quality with patented technologies and innovations never before available in a desktop system.
Far Cry 2 Widescreen Resolution Fix Released
Ubisoft's Far Cry 2 suffers from the same issue Bioshock had when it was released. Both games have problems handling widescreen resolutions, but in Far Cry 2 the problem appears to be even bigger. When played in widescreen resolution, the game displays a cropped version of the original 4:3 video aspect. The wider screen resolution you use, the less you'll see because the game cuts the top and bottom edges to fit the wider aspect ratio. If you don't like the sound of that, there's a fix created by Racer_S over at Widescreen Gaming Forum. Please note that the fix only works with Far Cry 2 v1.00 and online players may receive a ban from the server they're playing if they use the hotfixer. The reason, Punkbuster may think you are a 1337 haxxor and ban you from the server. You may download the Far Cry 2 Widescreen fix from here.
AMD/ATI Report Growth in Every Graphics Card Segment
World economy may be at risk, but industry experts report that the graphics chip market is literally on fire. According to Jon Peddie Research (JPR), AMD's newly released credible video cards in both its desktop and laptop segments, led to the biggest increase in third-quarter shipments in six years. In the third quarter of 2008, more than 111 million GPUs were shipped, the market researcher said. During the same quarter last year, 91 million GPUs shipped, and 94 million units shipped in the previous quarter. That's an annual increase of 22.5 percent and a quarter-to-quarter increase of almost 18 percent, according to JPR. In the overall market AMD saw a good year-to-year growth of 22.8%, while NVIDIA lost 6.4% year-to-year. For desktop GPUs, AMD/ATI is also on the bright side claiming to 20.3%, while NVIDIA slipped to 32.6%, the other 43.9% of the portion are for Intel. On the laptop front, Intel GPU shipments dropped one point to 56.2 percent, while NVIDIA GPU shipments declined to 21.8 percent, and AMD jumped to 20.9 percent, JPR reported. It was about time and AMD desperately needed this good results, congratulations. ATI's graphics cards are temperately rising their share in the fight with rival NVIDIA.
Dell Launches the Inspiron Mini 12 Netbook
Dell today officially introduced the Inspiron Mini 12, a small, easy-to-carry Internet companion that you can fine tune to fit your specific needs and deeds. Like its counterpart the Inspiron Mini 9, the Mini 12 is ideal for surfing the Web, office work, videos, music and even some games. With a starting weight of only 2.72 lbs. and only 0.92 in. thick, current standard features on the Inspiron Mini 12 include a sharp 12.1-inch WXGA (1280x800 resolution) display, a 1.3GHz Atom Z520 or a 1.6GHz Atom Z530 processor, 1GB of RAM and a choice of 60GB or 80GB hard drive. The Inspiron Mini 12 also comes with a built-in 1.3MP camera, Bluetooth and 802.11b/g wireless connectivity, 3x USB ports, VGA out, and a 3-in-1 card reader. Initially the new netbook will be available in Japan through Bic Camera, Kojima and Sofmap stores and other retail outlets. It will launch online globally by late November with configurations starting under $600 (U.S.). Models with Ubuntu and Windows XP operating systems preinstalled will also be available before the end of the year.
Sunday, October 26th 2008
Today's Reviews
Case Modding
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Lian Li PC-A7010 Review
The Lian Li PC-A7010 takes many of the features found in the Armorsuite or X2000 and wraps it into a sophisticated, but understatement clean look. Every feature within the case aims for ease of use, reliability and to deliver a quiet computing experience.
NVIDIA GPUs Deliver “GRAPHICS PLUS” Features to new ASUS Gaming PC
When ASUS selected the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 280 GPU for its new CG6155 extreme gaming machine, it wasn't simply because of its raw graphics horsepower. Creating the best gaming PC used to be a simple matter of using CPUs and GPUs with highest available raw power to deliver the fastest gaming experience. But while CPU performance and raw graphics rendering are still important, new advances in physics, multi-GPU technology, 3D stereo, and parallel computing have amplified the importance of the GPU, making the right GPU a critical component in consumers' buying decisions.
Featuring the award-winning GeForce GTX 280 GPU and a motherboard built around the NVIDIA nForce 790i Ultra SLI MCP platform technology, the ASUS CG6155 gaming PC supports NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology enabling ASUS customers to equip their PC with one, two or even three GeForce GTX 280 GPUs. The CG6155 is a true "extreme gaming" machine, designed for hardcore gaming aficionados who want the maximum visual and physics fidelity possible.
Featuring the award-winning GeForce GTX 280 GPU and a motherboard built around the NVIDIA nForce 790i Ultra SLI MCP platform technology, the ASUS CG6155 gaming PC supports NVIDIA 3-way SLI technology enabling ASUS customers to equip their PC with one, two or even three GeForce GTX 280 GPUs. The CG6155 is a true "extreme gaming" machine, designed for hardcore gaming aficionados who want the maximum visual and physics fidelity possible.
NVIDIA Releases OpenGL 3.0 Supportive Beta Linux Driver
Following the release of OpenGL 3.0 compliant drivers for Windows back in August, NVIDIA has released drivers for Linux/Free BSD, that provide support for the said graphics API. OpenGL functionality is something driver provider manage. Each compliant display driver carries with it, an ICD (installable client driver) for OpenGL.
The driver, 177.61.02 supports OpenGL 3.0, and OpenGL Shader Language (GL-SL) 1.30, with a broad range of compatible hardware already out by NVIDIA. All GeForce 8 Series or newer, Quadro FX 370/360M or newer graphics accelerators are supported. The release supports x86 and x86-64 variants of most Linux and Free-BSD derived operating systems. The driver can be downloaded from NVIDIA's FTP directory here. Please note, that the driver is in a beta stage as of now.
The driver, 177.61.02 supports OpenGL 3.0, and OpenGL Shader Language (GL-SL) 1.30, with a broad range of compatible hardware already out by NVIDIA. All GeForce 8 Series or newer, Quadro FX 370/360M or newer graphics accelerators are supported. The release supports x86 and x86-64 variants of most Linux and Free-BSD derived operating systems. The driver can be downloaded from NVIDIA's FTP directory here. Please note, that the driver is in a beta stage as of now.
Foxconn Quantum-Force Blood Rage Release Grade Motherboard Pictured
Quantum Force is the series of motherboards by Foxconn aimed at serious overclockers, enthusiasts, and gamers alike. Blood Rage is the name of the motherboard Foxconn plans to release, that's based on Intel's newest X58 Express chipset, supporting the upcoming Core i7 processors from Intel.
This motherboard first came to light last week, when a few quick low-resolution snaps were passed on to the internet (covered here). VR-Zone now put up high resolution images, that reveal a lot more about this motherboard. Full-resolution versions of the first picture can be viewed here, and that of the second picture here.
This motherboard first came to light last week, when a few quick low-resolution snaps were passed on to the internet (covered here). VR-Zone now put up high resolution images, that reveal a lot more about this motherboard. Full-resolution versions of the first picture can be viewed here, and that of the second picture here.
Intel to Update Montevina Lineup, Mobile Nehalem Launch Speeds Up?
According to industry observer DigiTimes, Intel would be giving its Montevina mobile computing platform an update, with the introduction of new processors and core logic (chipsets). The update, for the most part, revolves around the mid/high range products. Intel would be introducing Core 2 Duo models T9900 and P8800. The T9900 would be Intel's flagship mobile dual-core chip, with the P8800 leading the performance mainstream range.
Intel also plans new chipsets. The Intel GM47 Express would be the company's next high-end mobile chipset, and is slated for Q1, 2009. Intel will also launch GM43 and GS43 Express chipsets for entry-level notebook and small form-factor (SFF) PCs. In other news, it is also expected that the company gets ready to launch the GM55 (Mobile Ibex-Peak) chipset between July and August, 2009. GM55 would be Intel's Nehalem processor supportive chipset for the Auburndale dual-core and Clarksfield quad-core processors, with the platform itself being codenamed Calpella.
Intel also plans new chipsets. The Intel GM47 Express would be the company's next high-end mobile chipset, and is slated for Q1, 2009. Intel will also launch GM43 and GS43 Express chipsets for entry-level notebook and small form-factor (SFF) PCs. In other news, it is also expected that the company gets ready to launch the GM55 (Mobile Ibex-Peak) chipset between July and August, 2009. GM55 would be Intel's Nehalem processor supportive chipset for the Auburndale dual-core and Clarksfield quad-core processors, with the platform itself being codenamed Calpella.
NVIDIA Responds to Radeon HD 4830 Launch, Claims GeForce 9800 GT is Better
NVIDIA has issued a slide-show, a consolidated presentation taking into account, the findings of some review sources. In short, NVIDIA claims that the GeForce 9800 GT is not only faster than Radeon HD 4830, but also that its value-added features such as the CUDA HPC foundation and PhysX acceleration amount to a superior product all in all. Donanim Haber got their hands on this slide-show before anyone could, so here goes: GeForce 9800 GT vs. Radeon HD 4830 - a presentation by NVIDIA.
Saturday, October 25th 2008
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Memory
Motherboards
MSI Wind BIOS 1.09 Enables Overclocking for Real
MSI recently released a new BIOS version 1.09 for their first netbook MSI Wind. Thanks to this new BIOS Wind owners may now overclock their netbooks by pressing Fn+F10 on the keyboard with an AC power plugged in. This enables 8%, 15% and 24% (1984MHz compared to 1600MHz stock) automatic overclocking. Enabling a 24% overclock will roughly give you a 30% increase in performance. The new BIOS also enhances Wind's performance by approximately 5% over the older BIOS version 1.08. The only downside of this BIOS is that it changes the fan speed, so your Wind may appear to be louder even when it is not overclocked. You can download the new BIOS directly from MSI here, but if you intend to upgrade I strongly recommend you to read this guide first.
Noctua to Offer Free LGA-1366 Compatibility Upgrades
With Intel Core i7 Processors and compatible motherboards around the corner, related hardware manufacturers such as memory and coolers, are having an equally busy time with product launches. Noctua on its part, has decided to provide its customers with free mounting plates and retention modules, that make all its coolers post-2005 compatible with Intel's new socket.
The Austrian manufacturer plans to throw this offer open shortly, with customers requiring to submit their proofs of purchase online to avail their free retention modules. A public announcement of this offer is expected shortly.
The Austrian manufacturer plans to throw this offer open shortly, with customers requiring to submit their proofs of purchase online to avail their free retention modules. A public announcement of this offer is expected shortly.
Microsoft Windows Vista Service Pack 2 Beta Next Week
Windows Vista Team Blog posted today some good information on the next service pack, second in row, for Windows Vista.
We are committed to continually improving Windows, and we've been getting some questions about the timing of the next service pack for Windows Vista. Following the success of Windows Vista Service Pack 1 last spring, we have been working hard on Windows Vista Service Pack 2. As a part of the development and testing process, we're going to start by providing a small group of Technology Adoption Program customers with Windows Vista SP2 Beta for evaluation next Wednesday, October 29. The final release date for Windows Vista SP2 will be based on quality. So we'll track customer and partner feedback from the beta program before setting a final date for the release.Windows Vista SP2 Beta will contain previously released fixes focused on addressing specific reliability, performance, and compatibility issues.
Friday, October 24th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Game Controllers
Graphics Cards
- HIS HD 4830 Bjorn3D
- HIS HD 4830 Elite Bastards
- HIS HD 4830 Guru3D
- ATI HD 4830 HotHardware
- AMD HD 4830 Legit Reviews
- HD4830 vs.MSI N9800GT NeoSeeker
- AMD HD 4830 Tech Report
- SAPPHIRE TOXIC HD4850 TweakNews
- ZOTAC GTX 260 AMP² Benchmark Reviews
- Zotac GTX 260 AMP² Bit-Tech
- EVGA GTX 260 NVNews
- nVidia GTX260 OCaholic
Memory
Motherboards
Processors
Corsair Dominator Series 4 GB DDR2 Kit 1066 MHz CL5 Review
The Corsair Dominator Series of 4 GB kits does not only manage to deliver a great overclock but also offers exceptional performance at lower speed settings, making this a kit for almost every scenario. Its attractive price of $125 is a very affordable way to get into the 4 GB club while still being able to run serious overclocks.
Scythe Introduces Kama Angle CPU Cooler
Scythe Co., Ltd (Tokyo, Japan) announces its newest CPU-Cooler. Together with Quietpc.com, there was a product developed which uses a unique design to fit everybodys' needs. The special angular shape of the cooler allows to optimize the airflow through a PC system by utilizing the PSU and rear case fans. For perfect compatibility and flexibility, Kama Angle can be mounted in four different directions.
Scythe supplies Kama Angle with a new ultra silent SlipStream-fan, which uses PWM. The PWM-technology allows a temperature-dependent regulation of fan speed directly controlled by mainboard BIOS and is supported by lots of motherboards available on the market. The supplied fan can be mounted in three different ways to supply optimal airflow inside the case.
Scythe supplies Kama Angle with a new ultra silent SlipStream-fan, which uses PWM. The PWM-technology allows a temperature-dependent regulation of fan speed directly controlled by mainboard BIOS and is supported by lots of motherboards available on the market. The supplied fan can be mounted in three different ways to supply optimal airflow inside the case.
AMD Responds to TechPowerUp Investigation, Issues Remedy
Earlier this week, when evaluating samples of the new Radeon HD 4830 GPU-based graphics card, W1zzard, who also authors the GPU-Z diagnostic utility, had found an anomaly with the stream processor (SP) counts on samples sent by AMD. The GPU could access only 560 out of its 640 SPs available. This affected the card's performance significantly, and TechPowerUp's findings were validated by several other reviewers with similar samples.
AMD on its part quickly followed up the issue with its engineering department, and released a video BIOS update that fixes the issue and makes available all the 640 SPs. AMD will be circulating this BIOS to all its press contacts and add-in-board (AIB) partners, to make sure the issue is isolated and fixed. The updated BIOS file can be downloaded from here. AMD also asserts that the issue isn't hardware related, and that updating the BIOS resolves the issue completely.
AMD on its part quickly followed up the issue with its engineering department, and released a video BIOS update that fixes the issue and makes available all the 640 SPs. AMD will be circulating this BIOS to all its press contacts and add-in-board (AIB) partners, to make sure the issue is isolated and fixed. The updated BIOS file can be downloaded from here. AMD also asserts that the issue isn't hardware related, and that updating the BIOS resolves the issue completely.
Microsoft Reports Record First-Quarter Revenue
Microsoft Corp. today announced revenue of $15.06 billion for the fiscal quarter ended Sept. 30, 2008, a 9% increase over the same period of the prior year. Operating income, net income and diluted earnings per share for the quarter were $6.00 billion, $4.37 billion and $0.48, respectively.
Microsoft showed particular strength in multiyear annuity sales, which grew more than 20% during the quarter from the combined businesses of Client, Microsoft Business Division and Server and Tools.
Microsoft showed particular strength in multiyear annuity sales, which grew more than 20% during the quarter from the combined businesses of Client, Microsoft Business Division and Server and Tools.
NVIDIA Readying AM3 Supporting Motherboards
Expreview have reported that NVIDIA are sending out samples to its partners for new AM3 supporting motherboards, containing the MCP85 chipset. The IGP will be based around the GeForce 8100/8200/8300, and the new chip is basically the same as the MCP78 which it is superseding, with the exception of the added AM3 support. There are two variants of motherboard using the new chipset and though the specifications appear the same, it is reported that there will be a difference in clock speeds and PureVideo version. It is expected for the new boards to hit retail in Q1 2009.
Silverstone Raven RV01 PC Chassis Final Design Spotted
First introduced back in June during Computex Taipei, Silverstone Raven RV01 delivers a new approach to the way computer hardware is supposed to fit inside a case. Silverstone has basically reinvented the case as we know it - inside the Raven RV01 the motherboard is angled 90 degrees pointing upwards instead of out the back. This means that the whole I/O side of your PC will go on the top of the case, as well as all the heat generated by the video cards will leave from the top of the case, not the back. VR-Zone has scored several photos of the final design of the case, to give you an idea. The unique design of Raven RV01 has already been patented by Silverstone, and cases that look the same as the one pictured are supposed to become available sometime around Christmas. The price of the case is set at MSRP of US$199. Unfortunately, there are no technical specs yet.
Intel Shows a New Jet Engine Style Notebook Cooling Technology
What with the likes of the Apple MacBook Air and similar ultrathin laptops in production, Intel is recognising that there will be an increasing problem with heat, especially with its new chips around the corner. Mooly Eden, general manager of Intel's Mobile Platforms Group was speaking at a keynote at the Intel Developer Forum in Taipei.
Fortunately this is not the only trick up Intel's sleeve, Eden also explained that laptop platform for Intel's Nehalem architecture will have the memory controller, IGP and CPU all on one die and that the native power saving features will allow processor cores to turn on and off without the use of software.
When you design a very thin system, cooling the skin is a very big challenge... If you put [a laptop] on your lap, it can feel very uncomfortable. Very hot.Eden went on to say that if this problem is not addressed there will be a limit as to how thin a laptop can me made. They used the example of a jet engine explaining that the high temperatures inside the engine (up to 1000 degrees centigrade) must not be transfered to the plane's wing, as that is where the fuel is stored. The technology used on aircraft to accomplish this is called laminar airflow cooling, which is what Intel plans license to manufacturers for use in cooling its products, it is a system in which a fluid flows in layers.
Fortunately this is not the only trick up Intel's sleeve, Eden also explained that laptop platform for Intel's Nehalem architecture will have the memory controller, IGP and CPU all on one die and that the native power saving features will allow processor cores to turn on and off without the use of software.
[It is done] automatically on the fly. It is transparent to the operating system
NVIDIA AIB Partners Start Bundling Far Cry 2
Following the formal launch of the Far Cry 2 frachise BFG and EVGA, two of the official NVIDIA AIB (Add-In-Board) partners, announced they'll start bundling the game with their GeForce GTX 200 range of graphics cards. That includes both GeForce GTX 260 and GeForce GTX 280.
For a limited time, and while supplies last only, customers who buy any BFG GeForce GTX 200 series graphics card starting from yesterday will get a free full copy of Far Cry 2 ($50 value), a full copy of 3DMark Vantage Advanced Edition ($20 value), and
a BFG branded mini super bright LED electric torch. Find more details here.
EVGA is also offering a free Far Cry 2 copy, as long as you meet the following terms and conditions written here. EVGA's offer is also limited while supplies last.
For a limited time, and while supplies last only, customers who buy any BFG GeForce GTX 200 series graphics card starting from yesterday will get a free full copy of Far Cry 2 ($50 value), a full copy of 3DMark Vantage Advanced Edition ($20 value), and
a BFG branded mini super bright LED electric torch. Find more details here.
EVGA is also offering a free Far Cry 2 copy, as long as you meet the following terms and conditions written here. EVGA's offer is also limited while supplies last.
HP Previews its All-In-One Multi-Touch PC
HP has been showing off its latest creation, the Touchsmart IQ518, an all-in-one PC with a 22" widescreen multi-touch panel. The expected launch price is to be around $1800 (US) and HP has said Pegatron Technology will be handling its manufacture. There have been no other details in terms of specification as yet but it is likely that systems such as this are preparing for the launch of Windows 7, as it has already been said that Microsoft will be implementing touchscreen technology as a key aspect of the upcoming OS.
Patriot Announces Viper Series Tri-Channel Memory Kits for Intel's X58 Chipset
Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory module and flash memory solutions, today announced the release of their Viper series Tri-Channel memory kits designed for the forthcoming Intel Core i7/Intel X58 Express Chipset. Available in both 3GB and 6GB kits, these newly engineered memory kits come with the award winning Viper series heat shields and are the perfect balance of speed and latency while achieving lower voltage requirements.
"Intel's Nehalem architecture shows significant improvements over previous platforms," says Les Henry, Technical Director for Patriot Memory.
"High performance DDR3 DIMMs from Patriot Memory, combined with the phenomenal memory bandwidth & processing capability of Intel's upcoming Core i7 microprocessors, will deliver exciting levels of performance to PC enthusiasts worldwide," said, Steve R. Peterson, Intel's Director of Chipset & Graphics Marketing.
"Intel's Nehalem architecture shows significant improvements over previous platforms," says Les Henry, Technical Director for Patriot Memory.
"High performance DDR3 DIMMs from Patriot Memory, combined with the phenomenal memory bandwidth & processing capability of Intel's upcoming Core i7 microprocessors, will deliver exciting levels of performance to PC enthusiasts worldwide," said, Steve R. Peterson, Intel's Director of Chipset & Graphics Marketing.
Aqua-computer Unveils LGA 1366 Conversion Kits for its Cuplex XT Series Water Blocks
Not long time since the first air coolers for Core i7 showed up, German water cooling expert aqua-computer has decided to let us know that some of their high-end cuplex series CPU waterblocks including the cuplex xt, cuplex xt di and cuplex hd are now also available with conversion kits/mounting brackets to suit Core i7 LGA 1366 sockets. The Cuplex XT series is one of the best CPU blocks offered with an attractive look and 100% German build quality. It is made out of two parts, a high-quality copper base, and a translucent blue acrylic top. The Cuplex XT fits only G1/8 threaded fittings, a G1/4 version is also in the works.
NEC Display Solutions Introduces New MultiSync P Series 22-Inch Widescreen LCD
NEC Display Solutions of America introduced today its new MultiSync P Series with the 22-inch P221W LCD monitor, the first display in this new family of desktop monitors. The P221W offers professionals working in color-critical environments the opportunity to take advantage of a professional grade desktop display without breaking their budgets. The P221W display can be seen at the Photo Plus Expo (Booth No. 263) today through October 24 in New York.
"Built upon the success of the 90 Series displays, the new MultiSync P Series has features specifically designed for the professional graphics user," said Stan Swiderski, Product Manager for NEC Display Solutions.
"Built upon the success of the 90 Series displays, the new MultiSync P Series has features specifically designed for the professional graphics user," said Stan Swiderski, Product Manager for NEC Display Solutions.
Thursday, October 23rd 2008
Today's Reviews
Intel Prepares to Phase Out Thirty One 65nm Server Xeon Processors
Intel informed today that it will be phasing out a large number of server Xeon processors during the next eight months. That's mainly because of the forthcoing Nehalem platform and the new Core i7 processors. Intel also said that it is already producing more 45nm processors than 65nm chips, so it's time for some of the 65nm parts to drop off the charts. The list includes six dual-core Xeon processors with Woodcrest core, these are the 1.86GHz Xeon 5120, 2.66GHz 5150, 2.33GHz LV 5148, 1.60GHz 5110, 2.0GHz 5130, 2.33GHz 5140 and 3.0GHz 5160. The list continues with nine quad-core models with Clovertown core, the 1.86GHz E5320, 1.86GHz L5320, 3.0GHz X5365, 2.66GHz X5355, 1.60GHz E5310, 2.33GHz E5345, 2.0GHz E5335 and 2.0GHz L5335. Sales of different variations of these CPUs are also going to be phased out. The total count is 31 server models, that won't be produced anymore. Final customer orders for these processors can be submitted until April 23, 2009. Intel plans the final shipment of these processors for July 23, 2009.
Nexus Unveils Wave Air, an External PCI Cooling Solution
It's time for some non ATI news. Nexus has unveiled an external PCI cooling solution today, called WaveAir and designed to fit on most computer cases. The part attaches to a standard PCI slot and blows fresh cool air to the inside of the case. It may become very handy in solving temperature problems with various small form factor cases, such as many HTPC systems. The WaveAir measures 89.5 (L) x 89.5 (W) x 98 (H) mm, weights in 160 grams and features a 80mm Real Silent Nexus fan that spins at 1500 RPM and has a noise output of just 17.6dB. The WaveAir is expected to be introduced next month and come with a 3-year warranty.
Shader-deficient Radeon HD 4830 Could be in the Channels
The ATI Radeon HD 4830, the newest foot-soldier from the red-camp, is AMD's answer to the GeForce 9800 GT, a gap left by the company, that may have been eating into its profits for months now. As usual, TechPowerUp received its review samples from TUL (PowerColor), AMD's long-standing partner, and AMD itself. We reviewed both of them, as soon as the product became official today. During the course of reviewing them, with the card from AMD in particular, our reviewer, W1zzard noticed an anomaly: the sample from AMD was showing an abnormal stream processor count of 560.
W1zzard also authors the GPU-Z diagnostic utility, and it is his routine chore to program the utility to detect a new GPU. The newest build of GPU-Z detected the card from AMD to have as many as 80 stream processors disabled from the original specifications for the Radeon HD 4830. In his article, W1zzard attempts to explain this anomaly.
W1zzard also authors the GPU-Z diagnostic utility, and it is his routine chore to program the utility to detect a new GPU. The newest build of GPU-Z detected the card from AMD to have as many as 80 stream processors disabled from the original specifications for the Radeon HD 4830. In his article, W1zzard attempts to explain this anomaly.
ASUS Announces its P6T WS Professional Workstation Motherboard
The P6T WS Professional workstation motherboard is the ideal foundation for a powerful workstation-capable of delivering powerful and dependable performance; together with unparalleled I/O scalability for the most demanding tasks and upgrades in the future. Through ASUS' innovative design, the P6T WS Professional is able to support both SLI and CrossFireX technologies in order to deliver extreme and incredible graphical processing performance. Furthermore, it is also equipped with 2 built-in SAS connectors and 2 PCI-X slots onboard to allow users the flexibility of choice in multiple storage solutions. With such diverse features; and the capability to deliver extreme power efficiency through the ASUS EPU, the P6T WS Professional is a 'thoroughbred' that delivers both performance and improvements in the quality of work.
ASUS Unveils its Most Powerful DirectX 10 Motherboard
ASUS is proud to announce an exclusive partnership with NVIDIA in the creation of the most powerful DirectX (DX) 10 motherboard-the ASUS P5N7A-VM motherboard. A showcase of intelligent and innovative motherboard design, the P5N7A-VM features an LGA775 socket for Intel Core 2 Extreme / Core 2 Quad / Core 2 Duo processors and supports the GeForce 9300 / nForce 730i chipset and memory expansion of up to a maximum of 16 GB with four DDR2 800/667 dual channel memory slots. With support for Hybrid SLI, CUDA and PhysX graphics acceleration, the P5N7A-VM promises to be the most powerful DX10 motherboard in the consumer market today.
LucasArts and BioWare Reveal Star Wars: The Old Republic
LucasArts and BioWare, a division of Electronic Arts Inc., today announced the development of Star Wars: The Old Republic, a story-driven massively multiplayer online PC game set in the timeframe of the Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic franchise. Star Wars: The Old Republic, being developed and published by BioWare and LucasArts, represents an innovative approach to interactive entertainment, featuring immersive storytelling, dynamic combat and intelligent companion characters.
In Star Wars: The Old Republic, players will explore an age thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader when war between the Old Republic and the Sith Empire divides the galaxy. Players can choose to play as Jedi, Sith, or a variety of other classic Star Wars roles, defining their personal story and determining their path down the light or dark side of the Force. Along the way, players will befriend courageous companions who will fight at their side or possibly betray them, based on the players' actions. Players can also choose to team up with friends to battle enemies and overcome incredible challenges using dynamic Star Wars combat.
In Star Wars: The Old Republic, players will explore an age thousands of years before the rise of Darth Vader when war between the Old Republic and the Sith Empire divides the galaxy. Players can choose to play as Jedi, Sith, or a variety of other classic Star Wars roles, defining their personal story and determining their path down the light or dark side of the Force. Along the way, players will befriend courageous companions who will fight at their side or possibly betray them, based on the players' actions. Players can also choose to team up with friends to battle enemies and overcome incredible challenges using dynamic Star Wars combat.
AMD Launches ATI Radeon HD 4830 Graphics Card
AMD today introduced the ATI Radeon HD 4830 graphics card, raising the performance bar for graphics cards priced at less than $150 (USD) and presenting gamers with even more affordable access to award-winning ATI Radeon HD 4800 series performance. Like all ATI Radeon HD 4800 series products, the new offering delivers class-leading game performance1 and superior HD multimedia capabilities, as well support for the latest DirectX 10.1 games soon to be released for the holiday season.
"The ATI Radeon HD 4830 graphics card is another example of how AMD's scalable design strategy is paying off," said Rick Bergman, senior vice president and general manager, Graphics Products Group, AMD. "With a single chip we have been able to quickly and efficiently bring to market graphics card designs ranging from below $150 through $549 SEP, with leading performance in every segment. The ATI Radeon HD 4830 continues that great trend, providing tremendous value to gamers for less than $150."
"The ATI Radeon HD 4830 graphics card is another example of how AMD's scalable design strategy is paying off," said Rick Bergman, senior vice president and general manager, Graphics Products Group, AMD. "With a single chip we have been able to quickly and efficiently bring to market graphics card designs ranging from below $150 through $549 SEP, with leading performance in every segment. The ATI Radeon HD 4830 continues that great trend, providing tremendous value to gamers for less than $150."
Wednesday, October 22nd 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Graphics Cards
Input Devices
Mousepads
PowerColor Radeon HD 4830 512 MB Review
PowerColor's new HD 4830 features the same 640 shader pipes as the AMD reference design, but comes with a big dual-slot cooler. Also new is a native HDMI output which supports HDCP and 7.1 channel audio. Thanks to a PowerColor designed PCB the card will retail about $10 cheaper than the reference design from AMD.
AMD's ATI Radeon HD 4830 512M Review
Today AMD launches their new HD 4830 Series. The cards come with a reduced shader count of 640 and lower clocks to fit into the $100 to $150 segment. In our testing we saw amazing overclocking of over 30% which should bring the card much closer to more expensive solutions.
HIS Radeon HD 4830 Pictured, Looks Familiar
HIS is ready with its newest graphics card, based on the upcoming Radeon HD 4830 graphics processor, and what do you know? It looks identical to the HD 4850 Fan the company released earlier. This can be attributed to the fact that the RV770 LE GPU uses the same pin-layout as the HD 4850, and uses the same memory sub-system (256-bit GDDR3). The only difference comes with the newer GPU featuring 640 stream processors, and slightly lower clock-speeds of 575 MHz (core) and 1800 MHz (memory).
The card features a blue PCB with a 2 phase power circuit, it features 512 MB of GDDR3 memory. It uses a simplistic GPU cooler, with a blue LED-illuminated fan. The card supports 4-way CrossfireX. It is expected that the card sells for a price between US $140 and $150.
The card features a blue PCB with a 2 phase power circuit, it features 512 MB of GDDR3 memory. It uses a simplistic GPU cooler, with a blue LED-illuminated fan. The card supports 4-way CrossfireX. It is expected that the card sells for a price between US $140 and $150.
ASUS Unleashes its Highest Performing Enthusiast Motherboard: ROG Rampage II Extreme
ASUS, the world's leading producer of motherboards, today unveiled the most advanced and highest performing enthusiast motherboard at present: the Republic of Gamers (ROG) Rampage II Extreme. In keeping with ROG's commitment to producing cutting-edge, boundary-redefining products for the serious gaming and overclocking community, the ROG Rampage II Extreme incorporates the latest innovations and components into its architecture, such as the latest Intel chipset and SLI/CrossFireX on Demand-delivering blistering performance through its support for the new range of Intel processors and multi-GPU technologies such as 3-Way SLI and CrossFireX. To enable users to push the capabilities of the new platform to the limit, the ROG Rampage II Extreme features ROG Extreme Engine, a true multi-phase power management system-16 phases for the CPU and 3 phases each for QPI/DRAM, the Northbridge and memory-with premium Multilayer type Polymer Capacitors (ML Caps) that keep the power supply stable even under the most demanding loads.
Pre-release EVGA X58 Motherboard Pictured
Thanks to a nice spot by one of our community members, a picture of EVGA's Bloomfield-supportive motherboard has emerged, on Xtreme Systems Forums. The motherboard marks the first motherboard by EVGA, based on an Intel chipset. The X58 motherboard would offer 3-way SLI among other overclocker-friendly features, as listed below:
- Socket LGA-1366, Intel Core i7 Support
- Features Intel X58 + ICH10R chipset
- Six DDR3 DIMM slots for tri-channel memory
- Sports 100% Solid-state capacitors, enthusiast-grade design
- Enthusiast layout supporting 2-way, 3-way NVIDIA SLI and ATI CrossFireX
- EVGA VDroop control, EVGA E-LEET Utility
- 10 SATA II ports with 1 E-SATA
Intel Out with a Quad-Core Embedded CPU for Industrial PC
Intel has ported the Core 2 Quad Q9400 to the embedded platform, where it would be used in industrial PCs. The Q9400 is a 64-bit x86 quad-core processor based on the 45nm Yorkfield core. On the embedded platform, the Q9400 would be supported by the Intel Q45 and 3210 core-logic (chipset).
According to Doug Davis, vice president of Intel's Digital Enterprise Group and general manager of the Embedded and Communications Group, the company assures seven years of support and product lifetime for the new processor. The provision of four advanced execution units would step up parallelism and responsiveness in multi-threaded and multi-tasking environments.
According to Doug Davis, vice president of Intel's Digital Enterprise Group and general manager of the Embedded and Communications Group, the company assures seven years of support and product lifetime for the new processor. The provision of four advanced execution units would step up parallelism and responsiveness in multi-threaded and multi-tasking environments.
Leading Motherboard Manufacturers Turn to NVIDIA SLI for new Intel Bloomfield
NVIDIA Corporation today announced that the world's preeminent motherboard manufacturers, ASUS, EVGA, MSI, Gigabyte, and DFI, have all licensed NVIDIA SLI technology for their new lineup of motherboards designed to work with Intel Bloomfield CPUs and X58 chipsets. The addition of SLI to these motherboards and adoption by major OEMs including Dell and others means consumers will be able to harness the power of award-winning GeForce GPUs in single, SLI, or 3-way SLI configurations for the fastest visual computing experience on upcoming Intel Bloomfield platforms.
"Dell Gaming is known for industry-leading graphics and unparalleled performance," said Patrick Cooper, Director of Product Planning for Dell Gaming. "With the marriage of NVIDIA SLI and the latest generation of Intel chipsets, we will continue to offer hardcore gamers the opportunity to push their Alienware systems beyond the limits of today's hottest titles."
"Dell Gaming is known for industry-leading graphics and unparalleled performance," said Patrick Cooper, Director of Product Planning for Dell Gaming. "With the marriage of NVIDIA SLI and the latest generation of Intel chipsets, we will continue to offer hardcore gamers the opportunity to push their Alienware systems beyond the limits of today's hottest titles."
NVIDIA Partners Turn to Intel Chipsets?
The tier-one partners of NVIDIA, namely EVGA, XFX and BFG, sell motherboards based on NVIDIA nForce chipsets, with motherboards designed by NVIDIA itself, with a few exceptions where EVGA improvised their designs. With NVIDIA licensing SLI to Intel, allowing their upcoming Bloomfield-supportive X58 chipset to support the SLI multi-GPU technology, and for $5 per supportive board, it took less than guess work to think NVIDIA's partners would start using Intel X58 chipsets to grab their share of Core i7 motherboard market as quickly as they can.
In a recent press release, NVIDIA counted EVGA in the partial list of motherboard vendors who are working on motherboards based on the X58 platform, and offer SLI support. In the same press release, Joe Darwin, Director of Technical Marketing at EVGA was quoted saying "By licensing NVIDIA SLI technology, the EVGA X58 motherboard will deliver the ultimate 2-way and 3-way SLI platform to, once again, meet the enthusiast's demand." So we beg to ask: Will NVIDIA actually work on a LGA-1366 chipset, or will the new found love with selling high performance chipsets for the mainstream, such as MCP7A, replace it? Only time will tell. In the mean time, and on a rather comic note, get ready for the first EVGA motherboard to support ATI Crossfire X.
In a recent press release, NVIDIA counted EVGA in the partial list of motherboard vendors who are working on motherboards based on the X58 platform, and offer SLI support. In the same press release, Joe Darwin, Director of Technical Marketing at EVGA was quoted saying "By licensing NVIDIA SLI technology, the EVGA X58 motherboard will deliver the ultimate 2-way and 3-way SLI platform to, once again, meet the enthusiast's demand." So we beg to ask: Will NVIDIA actually work on a LGA-1366 chipset, or will the new found love with selling high performance chipsets for the mainstream, such as MCP7A, replace it? Only time will tell. In the mean time, and on a rather comic note, get ready for the first EVGA motherboard to support ATI Crossfire X.
Tuesday, October 21st 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Harddisks
Keyboards
Monitors
Motherboards
PSUs
Super Talent Rolls-out Luxio 64GB USB Drives
Super Talent Technology, a leading manufacturer of Flash storage solutions and DRAM memory modules, today launched a new family of high performance, feature rich Luxio USB drives in capacities up to 64GB.
A 64GB Luxio drive can store as many as 20,000 six megapixel photos or 16,000 MP3 songs. Luxio drives are housed in a sleek 21 x 76 x 10 mm UV coated ABS/PC case with chrome plated zinc trim. All models include advanced AES-256 hardware encryption as a standard feature for fast, convenient data security. Offered in three colors, black, silver and wood grain, Luxio drives are packaged in an elegant gift box and also include a custom made black leather carrying case.
A 64GB Luxio drive can store as many as 20,000 six megapixel photos or 16,000 MP3 songs. Luxio drives are housed in a sleek 21 x 76 x 10 mm UV coated ABS/PC case with chrome plated zinc trim. All models include advanced AES-256 hardware encryption as a standard feature for fast, convenient data security. Offered in three colors, black, silver and wood grain, Luxio drives are packaged in an elegant gift box and also include a custom made black leather carrying case.
Corsair Launches Triple Pack Memory modules for Intel Core i7 processors
Corsair, a worldwide leader in high performance computer and flash memory products, announced today that it is launching a full line of DDR3 performance memory products designed for Intel Core i7 processor.
Designed to take advantage of the Core i7 processor's triple-channel memory controller, Corsair will offer memory solutions supporting three different DDR3 memory speeds in triple memory packs: 1333MHz, 1600MHz and 1866MHz. The 1866MHz Corsair DDR3 modules will be the world's fastest Intel Core i7 solution. Each memory speed will feature kits of three 1 Gigabyte or 2 Gigabyte modules for a total of 3 Gigabyte or 6 Gigabyte kits. The 1600MHz and 1866MHz DDR3 memory kits will also feature the industry's highest performance memory technology, Corsair's patented Dual-Path Heat Exchange (DHX), for maximum performance and reliability. With six total products available, Corsair is launching the most comprehensive product line available for the Intel Core i7 processor.
Designed to take advantage of the Core i7 processor's triple-channel memory controller, Corsair will offer memory solutions supporting three different DDR3 memory speeds in triple memory packs: 1333MHz, 1600MHz and 1866MHz. The 1866MHz Corsair DDR3 modules will be the world's fastest Intel Core i7 solution. Each memory speed will feature kits of three 1 Gigabyte or 2 Gigabyte modules for a total of 3 Gigabyte or 6 Gigabyte kits. The 1600MHz and 1866MHz DDR3 memory kits will also feature the industry's highest performance memory technology, Corsair's patented Dual-Path Heat Exchange (DHX), for maximum performance and reliability. With six total products available, Corsair is launching the most comprehensive product line available for the Intel Core i7 processor.
Intel Slashes the Prices of Several Core 2 and Xeon Processors by up to 15%
As promised, today Intel sliced the prices of several of its Core 2 and Xeon processors, just before the Nehalem launch. Below is the list that describes best all price reductions.
Samsung Tries to Impress with CX-2233GW LCD Monitor
Samsung has released a new 22-inch CX-2233GW LCD display today. It comes in a sleek white finish and offers a 22-inch wide diagonal, 1680x1050 resolution, 300cd/m2 brightness, 1,000:1 contrast ratio (dynamic 20,000:1), 5ms response time and a DVI HDCP compatible port. That's pretty much everything about the CX-2233GW, it's an ordinary 22-inch LCD with "new" look. You will be able to pick up one for under €200 when it becomes available in Korea.
ASUS Prepares Xonar Essence STX, the World's First Audio Card to Achieve 124dB SNR
ASUSTek is reportedly prepping ASUS Xonar Essence STX, the next installment in the Xonar sound card lineup. The report does not include information on EAX support or gaming experience with Essence STX, but it's the music that will really matter with this card. According to ASUS, the Xonar Essence STX will boast a Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) of 124dB with 0.0003% distortion, and will be the first card available with an onboard headphone amp. The amp will drive up to 600ohms headphones with less than 100dB distortion. Whats more, Xonar Essence STX will provide independent outputs for headphones and normal audio. The whole card will be using high-quality Nichicon capacitors. The frequency response for Xonar Essence STX is <10~90 kHz @ 3.5dB. That's not all, just like some high-end Auzentech sound cards, the Xonar STX will also allow changing the original op-amp ICs, without having any soldering skills. Under the plastic of the card, there are op-amp sockets that will allow a replacement operational amplifier to be installed very easy. The release date and pricing information for this pure audiophile card are still to be proclaimed.
NVIDIA Releases 180.42 Beta Drivers, Enables SLI on Intel X58
The latest NVIDIA beta driver release 180.42, that was reported in the previous article, has just been uploaded on NVIDIA's home page. As promised this version works with GeForce 200-series, 9-series, and 8800-series desktop GPUs and also enables NVIDIA SLI technology on SLI-certified Intel X58-based motherboards with the following GPUs: GeForce GTX 280, GeForce GTX 260, GeForce 9800 GX2, GeForce 9800 GTX+, and GeForce 9800 GTX. This release is compatible with all major Microsoft Windows operating systems, that includes both Windows XP 32/64-bit and Windows Vista 32/64-bit. Hit the link below.
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce Release 180.42 Beta
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce Release 180.42 Beta
SLI Performance Previewed on X58 with GTX260 216SP and Forceware 180.32
Expreview has got its hands on the NVIDIA Forceware Beta Driver 180.32 and used it to setup and enable SLI with two Galaxy GTX260-216, on an Asus P6T Deluxe motherboard. The cards scored a 3DMark Vantage score of P21623, compared against a single card score of P10920 gives an approximate 98% increase. Currently it is only possible to enable SLI officially on NVIDIA based chipsets, only AMD's equivalent Crossfire system works on Intel chipsets. It is evident that the 180 series of Forceware drivers from NVIDIA (dubbed Big Bang II) not only brings multi-monitor SLI support, but also paves the way to enabling SLI on the Intel X58 Chipset. In another article, Expreview have also mentioned that the beta driver 180.42, will be officially released from NVIDIA later on today, with the final version set for November 17th this year, coinciding with the launch of Intel's Core i7 and X58.
MSI Unveils PX600 Prestige Collection Notebook
MSI has invited leather craftsmen with decades of experience in order to select the finest leather, determined with the highest standards in every detail, taking over 2 months to produce the very limited amount of the MSI PX600 Prestige Collection with real handmade craftsmanship, the warm and tender leather in texture offering the most unique quality of the PX600 Prestige Collection.
The PX600 Prestige Collection is the primary example for the combination of classic leather with modern brushed aluminum thread, demonstrating exquisite classic and simplistic modern. The NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS DDR3 256MB VRAM provides a more fluid, more detailed, and more realistic 3D high-definition viewing experience. Never a moment of delay to occur, feel the excitement.
The PX600 Prestige Collection is the primary example for the combination of classic leather with modern brushed aluminum thread, demonstrating exquisite classic and simplistic modern. The NVIDIA GeForce 9300M GS DDR3 256MB VRAM provides a more fluid, more detailed, and more realistic 3D high-definition viewing experience. Never a moment of delay to occur, feel the excitement.
Corsair Releases Tri-Channel DDR3 Memory for X58 Platform
Corsair has announced the availability of two tri-channel DDR3 memory kits for the upcoming Core i7-supportive X58 platform. Corsair claims to have extensively tested these kits for stable operation on various X58 chipset-based motherboards. The kits are value-oriented, and come under the XMS3 series.
There's a 3GB (3x 1GB, model: TR3X3G1333C9) kit, and a 6 GB (3x 2GB, model: TR3X6G1333C9) kit. Both kits operate at 1333 MHz, with timings of 9-9-9-24. The modules use simplistic aluminum heatspreaders, with no fancy DHX cooling mechanisms. This could be attributed to the fact that they are value oriented, and that they could be operating at low voltages of 1.60V, and therefore, small thermal footprint. The 3 GB kit is priced at US $ 167, while the 6 GB kit is priced at $ 316.
There's a 3GB (3x 1GB, model: TR3X3G1333C9) kit, and a 6 GB (3x 2GB, model: TR3X6G1333C9) kit. Both kits operate at 1333 MHz, with timings of 9-9-9-24. The modules use simplistic aluminum heatspreaders, with no fancy DHX cooling mechanisms. This could be attributed to the fact that they are value oriented, and that they could be operating at low voltages of 1.60V, and therefore, small thermal footprint. The 3 GB kit is priced at US $ 167, while the 6 GB kit is priced at $ 316.
Microsoft Announces Global Anti-Piracy Day
Microsoft Corp. today announced Global Anti-Piracy Day, a simultaneous launch of education initiatives and enforcement actions in 49 countries on six continents to combat the sophisticated, illegal trade of pirated and counterfeit software. The programs announced today include intellectual property awareness campaigns, engagements with partner businesses, educational forums, local law enforcement training, and new legal actions against alleged software counterfeiters and pirates.
Microsoft is taking these steps as part of its commitment to working with communities, national governments and local law enforcement agencies around the world to help protect its customers and partners and promote the value of intellectual property as a driver of innovation. An interactive map detailing specific legal actions and education efforts being announced today can be found here.
Microsoft is taking these steps as part of its commitment to working with communities, national governments and local law enforcement agencies around the world to help protect its customers and partners and promote the value of intellectual property as a driver of innovation. An interactive map detailing specific legal actions and education efforts being announced today can be found here.
AMD Launches Faster X3 8850 and X2 5050e Processors
Today, AMD is announcing two new processors to its products line - AMD Phenom X3 8850 Black Edition and AMD Athlon X2 5050e. The Socket AM2+ triple core X3 8850 (TRAY OPN# HD8850WCJ3BGH) works at 2.5GHz, has a TDP of 95W and 2MB of L3 cache. The Phenom X3 8850 is the first triple-core Phenom processor to be part of the company's Black Edition series and as such it has unlocked multiplier for overclocking. The AMD Athlon X2 5050e (TRAY OPN# ADH5050IAA5DO) is a dual-core 45W processor that operates at 2600MHz.
Sooner or later AMD is also expected to commence shipments of two low-power chips - the single-core 1.6GHz Athlon 2650 (TDP 15W), and the dual-core Athlon X2 3250e, running at 1.5GHz and requiring up to 22W. November will also see AMD's "Ultra-Value Client (UVC) Solutions", the chips that will possibly compete with Intel Atom CPUs for netbooks. These are only for the OEM customers, though.
Sooner or later AMD is also expected to commence shipments of two low-power chips - the single-core 1.6GHz Athlon 2650 (TDP 15W), and the dual-core Athlon X2 3250e, running at 1.5GHz and requiring up to 22W. November will also see AMD's "Ultra-Value Client (UVC) Solutions", the chips that will possibly compete with Intel Atom CPUs for netbooks. These are only for the OEM customers, though.
Leadtek Announces WinFast GTX 260 EXTREME+
Rising to the expectations of international gamers, Leadtek Research Inc., a global front runner in extreme visual graphics technology development, announces the upgrade of its graphics card, WinFast GTX 260 EXTREME+. Based on the NVIDIA GTX 260 chipsets, the enthusiastic graphics card has been upgraded to 216 stream processors and ready to bring users into an impressive new era.
Featuring the powerful GeForce GTX 260 GPU with upgraded 216 stream processors, WinFast GTX 260 EXTREME+ has a scorching GPU clock speed of 602MHz and GDDR3 896MB memory. GTX 260 EXTREME+ can power extreme HD gaming and entertainment, and also represent an effective shift of everyday processing tasks from the CPU to the GPU.
Featuring the powerful GeForce GTX 260 GPU with upgraded 216 stream processors, WinFast GTX 260 EXTREME+ has a scorching GPU clock speed of 602MHz and GDDR3 896MB memory. GTX 260 EXTREME+ can power extreme HD gaming and entertainment, and also represent an effective shift of everyday processing tasks from the CPU to the GPU.
AMD and Celsia Technologies Collaborate on a New GPU Cooling Solution
AMD and Celsia Technologies announced today a strategic partnership in which Celsia may become the cooling system manufacturer for ATI's next generation video cards. For now both companies are working on a vapor chamber based cooling solution for high end graphics cards and that's all we have. The cooling module includes Celsia's patented NanoSpreader that "significantly outperforms competing heat pipe based solutions." A NanoSpreader is a patented copper encased two-phase vapor chamber into which pure water is vacuum sealed. The liquid is absorbed by a copper-mesh wick and passed as vapor through a micro-perforated copper sheet where it cools and returns as liquid to the wick. NanoSpreaders are half the weight of solid copper, and yet they perform 14% better than heat pipes.
"Working with AMD, we were able to meet all of the design criteria for a new GPU cooler. Namely, it had to be lighter, perform better and be lower cost than the current heat pipe based design," said Joe Formichelli, Celsia's CEO. "Unlike thermal modules using heat pipes, our two-phase NanoSpreader comes in direct contact with the heat source whereby removing costly, heavy base plates."
As part of AMD's technology development project, Celsia has been invited to present at the 2008 AMD Technical Forum and Exposition tomorrow in Taiwan. Additionally, a short video explaining Celsia's NanoSpreader vapor chamber technology will be shown as part of the conference's opening presentation.
"Working with AMD, we were able to meet all of the design criteria for a new GPU cooler. Namely, it had to be lighter, perform better and be lower cost than the current heat pipe based design," said Joe Formichelli, Celsia's CEO. "Unlike thermal modules using heat pipes, our two-phase NanoSpreader comes in direct contact with the heat source whereby removing costly, heavy base plates."
As part of AMD's technology development project, Celsia has been invited to present at the 2008 AMD Technical Forum and Exposition tomorrow in Taiwan. Additionally, a short video explaining Celsia's NanoSpreader vapor chamber technology will be shown as part of the conference's opening presentation.
Mobile Nehalem Chips Not Expected Until Late 2009?
Intel Clarksfield, the company's Nehalem based mobile platform, was reported on Monday to begin production in the second half of 2009. Although mass production of the first Core i7 processors is scheduled for next month, on the mobile front Intel users will have to wait until late next year. Clarksfield will be produced using the same 45-nanometer production process that's used to make Intel's current chip lineup. The upcoming chip will be the heart of a new Intel Centrino platform, codenamed Calpella. As its desktop variant, Clarksfield CPUs will have all the enhancements Nehalem offers, as well as the brand new integrated memory controller all in one package. Clarksfield is also expected to include more advanced power-management features than Intel's current mobile chips.
Toshiba and SanDisk to Reallocate NAND Flash Memory JV Production Capacity
Toshiba Corporation today announced that Toshiba and SanDisk have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding on the reallocation of wafer output and equipment ownership and funding at their two joint ventures producing NAND flash memory on 300 millimeter (mm) wafers at Toshiba's Yokkaichi Operations in Japan, in response to a proposal from SanDisk. The move is designed to enhance the production flexibility of NAND flash memory in line with the rapidly changing marketplace and to optimize each company's business strategies. The details will be set forth in definitive agreements.
PowerColor Adds to the Radeon HD 4830 Range
PowerColor will be making its addition to the range of graphics cards based on AMD's newest GPU, the Radeon HD 4830. The PowerColor card features a custom-design for cooler and the PCB. The GPU is cooled by a circular cooler with radial fins. The memory is provided with a heatspreader.
The card is likely to use reference speeds by ATI, of 575 MHz core, and 1800 MHz memory. It provides a HDMI port on the card, apart from D-Sub and DVI connectors. It is also likely that this card will be released on October 23, the day AMD unveils the Radeon HD 4830 GPU.
The card is likely to use reference speeds by ATI, of 575 MHz core, and 1800 MHz memory. It provides a HDMI port on the card, apart from D-Sub and DVI connectors. It is also likely that this card will be released on October 23, the day AMD unveils the Radeon HD 4830 GPU.
NVIDIA Announces New Motherboard GPUs, Pack Big Punch in a Small Package
NVIDIA's engineering team was given a challenge: deliver a desktop GPU which integrates full system I/O and discrete-level performance in one-half the size of previous integrated graphics solutions. The result: a 16-core CUDA-capable graphics architecture that enables mainstream PC users to play the latest top-selling PC games and enjoy silky-smooth, high-definition Blu-ray video playback-all without breaking the bank.
NVIDIA Introduces the GeForce 9400 and 9300 motherboard GPUs for desktop PCs on the Intel platform.
NVIDIA Introduces the GeForce 9400 and 9300 motherboard GPUs for desktop PCs on the Intel platform.
Monday, October 20th 2008
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
FSP Readying New Kilowatt PSUs
FSP is the brand of power supplies that is popular for using Fortron-made components. The company plans to release three Everest Pro models in November, all of which are kilowatt offerings for high-end PCs and workstations. All three models are essentially the same, except for their load capacities: there's a 1250W model, followed by 1200W and 1100W models.
The PSUs are modular. They come with blue-coloured shells, that measure 165 (L) x 150 (W) x 86 (H) mm. The PSUs are cooled by 135mm fans with LED lighting. They are ATX 12V V2.2 and EPS 12V V2.92 compliant, and sport six +12V rails of 20A each. The PSUs flaunt an 80 Plus efficiency-rating sticker, with FSP declaring the efficiency to be over 90%. The PSUs are NVIDIA SLI and ATI Crossfire ready. The power supplies feature an Active PFC, over-current, over-voltage and spike protection. Pricing is yet to be known.
The PSUs are modular. They come with blue-coloured shells, that measure 165 (L) x 150 (W) x 86 (H) mm. The PSUs are cooled by 135mm fans with LED lighting. They are ATX 12V V2.2 and EPS 12V V2.92 compliant, and sport six +12V rails of 20A each. The PSUs flaunt an 80 Plus efficiency-rating sticker, with FSP declaring the efficiency to be over 90%. The PSUs are NVIDIA SLI and ATI Crossfire ready. The power supplies feature an Active PFC, over-current, over-voltage and spike protection. Pricing is yet to be known.
Intel Releases Core 2 Duo E7400
Intel made an addition to its desktop processor lineup, by making Core 2 Duo E7400 official. The E7000 series dual-core processors mark the company's attempt to offer the benefits of the 45nm Penryn architecture with great value. Intel on its part, has respected the US $133 mark, with the new chip displacing the older E7300 chip to $113.
The Core 2 Duo E7400 is based on the 45nm Wolfdale-3M core. It features a clock speed of 2.80 GHz, and FSB speed of 1066 MHz. What it also means, is that it comes with a relatively high 10.5x FSB multiplier value. The processor features 3 MB of L2 cache.
The Core 2 Duo E7400 is based on the 45nm Wolfdale-3M core. It features a clock speed of 2.80 GHz, and FSB speed of 1066 MHz. What it also means, is that it comes with a relatively high 10.5x FSB multiplier value. The processor features 3 MB of L2 cache.
ASUS Launches Four New Full HD LCD Monitors
Cognizant that the brilliant reproduction of colors is the key to believability and immersion during movie watching and gaming, ASUS today launched the VK266H and VW266H widescreen (16:10 aspect ratio) LCD monitors which support 1920x1200 high resolution, Full HD 1080p video playback via an HDMI input, a high 20000:1 contrast ratio, 2 ms (gray-to-gray) response time and ASUS' exclusive Splendid Video Intelligence Technology. Splendid utilizes a color engine that analyzes the properties of video content being played back and automatically optimizes image quality for the best visual results in any usage scenario-ultimately making for a vastly improved personal entertainment experience. In keeping with ASUS' recent drive to integrate video conferencing features into its monitors, the ASUS VK266H is also equipped with a rotatable 2.0 megapixel webcam with Smart EV (Exposure Value) Control technology to enable high quality and convenient real-time video communications under different lighting conditions.
Intel Demonstrates World's First Working 'Moorestown' Platform
In his keynote today at the Intel Developer Forum in Taiwan, Intel's senior vice president and general manager of Intel's Ultra Mobility Group discussed how technology innovation and strong industry collaboration have driven the digital economy over the past 40 years, and the universal impact that the Internet and mobile Web has had in people's lives. Also highlighted was the progress Intel is making in the Mobile Internet Devices (MID) market segment with the world's first working "Moorestown" platform demonstration. Scheduled for the 2009-2010 timeframe, the Moorestown prototype comprises of an SOC, codenamed "Lincroft," which integrates a 45nm processor, graphics, memory controller and video encode/decode onto a single chip and an I/O hub codenamed "Langwell". Langwell supports a range of I/O ports to connect with wireless, storage, and display components in addition to incorporating several board level functions. The Moorestown platform will support a range of wireless technologies including 3G, WiMAX, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth and mobile TV. During his keynote Chandrasekher also stated that Intel hopes to revolutionize the MID world with Moorestown when released.
Saturday, October 18th 2008
Buffalo TeraStation Pro 6 TB NAS in the works
Buffalo is preparing a new NAS system, the 6 TB TeraStation Pro. The system has four drive bays, with four pre-installed 1.5 TB hard drives. These drives can be configured in RAID 0, 1, 5 and 10 modes. An LCD displays the system's activity. It has one gigabit ethernet interface and two USB 2.0 ports The unit measures measures 170 (W) x 235 (H) x 310 (D) mm. Buffalo will start shipping this unit later this month and ask an estimated US$2080 for it.
Red Sea LGA-1366 Version Released
The entry of the LGA-1366 socket Intel Core i7 processors puts a whole section of the industry into business: compatible motherboards, compliant memory kits, and CPU coolers to name some. Overclocker 3 PC Cooler, a relatively unknown brand to the west, that concentrates on Asian markets, has released an LGA-1366 compatible variant of the Red Sea cooler.
While not meant to be an extreme-level cooler, the Red Sea is intended to be an inexpensive stock-cooler replacement, with some overclocking thrown in. The cooler consists of a contact block, in which two heatpipes make direct contact with the CPU. The heatpipes go through 44 aluminum fins. These fins are dimpled, to effectively increase their surface-area of dissipation. The cooler uses push-clip mechanism for motherboard retention.
While not meant to be an extreme-level cooler, the Red Sea is intended to be an inexpensive stock-cooler replacement, with some overclocking thrown in. The cooler consists of a contact block, in which two heatpipes make direct contact with the CPU. The heatpipes go through 44 aluminum fins. These fins are dimpled, to effectively increase their surface-area of dissipation. The cooler uses push-clip mechanism for motherboard retention.
Gigabyte EX58-UD5 Release Version Pictured
As a portion of the PC hardware industry gears up for the Nehalem November, with sources pointing at a Nov. 17 launch for the Core i7 processors by Intel, motherboard vendors are just about ready with their products. Gigabyte on its part, is ready with a complete range of motherboards based on the Intel X58 chipset.
The Gigabyte EX58-UD5 has been pictured by XFastest. This model forms the mid/high offering in its X58 range, with the Extreme variant holding the flag at the top. The board uses Gigabyte's newest Ultra Durable 3 PCB construction. In its range, the EX58-UD5 provides the same set of features the Extreme variant does, albeit the brute cooling system the Extreme sports. Gigabyte also made changes to its colour scheme, with memory slots getting rid of the melon-pink and green colours, deep blue for southbridge-routed SATA ports, white for external controller-routed ones, white also makes it to the lone IDE connector, FDD connector, and the PCI-E x1 slot. All in all, Gigabyte made sure the board doesn't look gaudy for buyers particular about its looks.
The Gigabyte EX58-UD5 has been pictured by XFastest. This model forms the mid/high offering in its X58 range, with the Extreme variant holding the flag at the top. The board uses Gigabyte's newest Ultra Durable 3 PCB construction. In its range, the EX58-UD5 provides the same set of features the Extreme variant does, albeit the brute cooling system the Extreme sports. Gigabyte also made changes to its colour scheme, with memory slots getting rid of the melon-pink and green colours, deep blue for southbridge-routed SATA ports, white for external controller-routed ones, white also makes it to the lone IDE connector, FDD connector, and the PCI-E x1 slot. All in all, Gigabyte made sure the board doesn't look gaudy for buyers particular about its looks.
ECS Ready with MCP7A-S based Motherboard
Elitegroup Computer Systems (ECS), is ready with an ATX motherboard based on the NVIDIA nForce 730i (MCP7A-S) chipset, the ECS GF9300T-A Black Series. The motherboard gets its Black Series tag from the range of boards ECS makes, which offer great value for their features, performance and board design.
The GF9300T-A comes with support for all Intel LGA-775 processors, with FSB of 1333 MHz. It supports DDR2-800 memory. It features a GeForce 9300-class IGP, which is expandable with the provided PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot. Apart from a D-Sub connector, a HDMI port is provided. HybridPower and GeForce Boost technologies are supported. It features six SATA-II ports, three PCI and two PCI-E x1 slots.
The GF9300T-A comes with support for all Intel LGA-775 processors, with FSB of 1333 MHz. It supports DDR2-800 memory. It features a GeForce 9300-class IGP, which is expandable with the provided PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot. Apart from a D-Sub connector, a HDMI port is provided. HybridPower and GeForce Boost technologies are supported. It features six SATA-II ports, three PCI and two PCI-E x1 slots.
MSI Radeon HD 4830 Spotted, Benchmarked
On October 23rd, AMD would release its answer to the GeForce 9800 GT, the Radeon HD 4830 graphics processor. The company has succeded in giving the 9800 GTX/GTX+ some serious competition in the form of the HD 4850 and HD 4850 1GB, and looks to take the attack across all segments. MSI is ready with its HD 4830 512 MB model.
Simplistic as it may look, the card features a strong power circuit in the form of a 4+1 phase power design. The GPU is actively cooled by an aluminum cooler, consisting of radially-projecting aluminum fins cooled by a fan. The memory is air-cooled. The card uses reference speeds of 575/1800 MHz (core/memory). It has been benchmarked using 3DMark Vantage, where under extreme settings, it secured a score of X2372.
Simplistic as it may look, the card features a strong power circuit in the form of a 4+1 phase power design. The GPU is actively cooled by an aluminum cooler, consisting of radially-projecting aluminum fins cooled by a fan. The memory is air-cooled. The card uses reference speeds of 575/1800 MHz (core/memory). It has been benchmarked using 3DMark Vantage, where under extreme settings, it secured a score of X2372.
Sapphire Radeon HD 4830 Spotted
AMD's add-in board (AIB) partners are ready with graphics cards based on the company's newest GPU, the ATI Radeon HD 4830. Sapphire, on its part, is ready with a card based on its own PCB/cooler design. The company has already released a Radeon HD 4850 based card on the PCB and cooler. Identical pin layout of the GPU (RV770LE) and memory wiring, makes this possible. Features are listed below:
- ATI RV770 LE graphics processor, made on 55nm silicon process(by TSMC)
- 256-bit GDDR3 memory bus
- 575 MHz GPU core, 1800 MHz (900 MHz actual) memory
- 512 MB memory
- 640 Stream Processors, DirectX 10.1
- Supports ATI Crossfire X
- Supports UVD 2.0 hardware video acceleration
Friday, October 17th 2008
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Mousepads
Processors
Storage
S3 Graphics Showcases GPGPU with S3FotoPro Imaging Application
S3 Graphics, a leading provider of graphics and HD Multimedia technologies, today announced the availability of S3FotoPro, a GPGPU application using the latest programmable architecture powered by the Chrome 400 Series GPUs. Utilizing an array of S3 stream processors, the GPUs can accelerate parallel data workloads and perform work on thousands of concurrent threads to achieve Gigaflops (GFLOPS) of high-throughput computations.
S3FotoPro is an example of a computationally expensive process for image quality improvements that is best achieved on a GPU instead of a CPU due to the S3 stream processor architecture. The algorithm complexity and high calculation requirements required by S3FotoPro enables the parallel workload speedup to be magnitudes (>100x) of times faster than the latest CPUs in the market today. In addition, the GFLOPS-per-Watt and GFLOPS-per-Dollar favor the GPU computational efficiency over standard CPU calculations.
S3FotoPro is an example of a computationally expensive process for image quality improvements that is best achieved on a GPU instead of a CPU due to the S3 stream processor architecture. The algorithm complexity and high calculation requirements required by S3FotoPro enables the parallel workload speedup to be magnitudes (>100x) of times faster than the latest CPUs in the market today. In addition, the GFLOPS-per-Watt and GFLOPS-per-Dollar favor the GPU computational efficiency over standard CPU calculations.
AMD Issues Far Cry 2 Hotfix for Most ATI Radeon Video Cards
Odd enough, AMD has just issued a hotfix for the yet to be released PC game title Far Cry 2. The patch is meant to be used for the Radeon X1000, HD 2000, HD 3000 and HD 4000 series cards to improve the performance of Far Cry 2 in DirectX 9 and DirectX 10. Both single and CrossFire compatible systems will benefit from it. The hotfix download package includes both the Display Driver and Catalyst Control Center. The hotfix can be downloaded by clicking on this link here. After all this might be a smart move for AMD/ATI. The official launch date for Far Cry 2 is October 24th, and the game will launch simultaneously on the PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Now ATI owners will be prepared and hopefully won't have problems running the game when it is released.
AMD Co-Founder, Ed Turney Dies
This story won't inform you about any sort of new hardware, but will only remind you that everything we like today is made by human hands and when some of these people dies we should give him the deserved respect. Yesterday, at the age of 79 died Ed Turney, one of the eight founders of semiconductor-industry giant Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). The cause of his departure from this world is brain cancer. Turney was born March 26, 1929, in Brooklyn, N.Y. Known as "Fast Eddie," Turney's initial assignments at the fledgling AMD involved buying equipment and overseeing construction of the company's first chip factory. At the same time, as director of sales, Turney was charged with building a sales organization, including developing a network of electronic distributors - a vital step in enabling the company to compete with established companies such as Intel, Fairchild, National Semiconductor, Texas Instruments, Motorola and other companies that no longer exist. In late 1974 Turney left AMD, going on to work at various small semiconductor manufacturing and distribution companies. He later became a consultant to firms trying to get started or funded. Ed Turney will be buried in St. Theresa's Court next to his mother, Rose.
DFI Launches Blood Iron IP45-T2RS Motherboard
DFI motherboard has been served as the pronoun for highest efficiency with its top efficiency and efficiency contributing to the first choice for super frequency manufacturers. Besides the excellent performance, DFI main board boasts of the other two main properties including product stability and long lifespan.
Many players pay more attention to the stability than super frequency performance. In order to satisfy the demand of "stability" from the customers, DFI specially puts Blood Iron series meaning strong as iron into market for providing more options to consumers besides super frequency.
Many players pay more attention to the stability than super frequency performance. In order to satisfy the demand of "stability" from the customers, DFI specially puts Blood Iron series meaning strong as iron into market for providing more options to consumers besides super frequency.
Foxconn Turns on the Heat with X58 Blood Rage
Foxconn has definitely taken serious steps to claim its place in the race for market supremacy with premium motherboards these days. Their high-end motherboard range is diversified into the Digital Life series for the premium all-rounder motherboards, and Quantum-Force for enthusiast and gamer-grade boards. Foxconn's addition to the Quantum-Force series based on the new Nehalem-supportive X58 chipset, is the Blood Rage.
To quickly run you through the features, it is an enthusiast board for overclockers and gamers alike. It only features three DDR3 DIMM slots, while featuring four PCI-Express x16 slots, supporting both ATI CrossfireX and NVIDIA SLI. It supports DDR3 1800 memory (OC), and a 14 phase hybrid CPU power circuit featuring DirectFET MOSFET technology. The board features a 4-in-1 chipset cooler technology, which can serve purposes of a air-cooling (DIY), water-cooling, and cavity for liquid-nitrogen cooling, much like the Black Ops motherboard. Sound is modularised, with a bundled Foxconn SONAR X-Fi sound card. The board supports SAS storage. What a drool!
To quickly run you through the features, it is an enthusiast board for overclockers and gamers alike. It only features three DDR3 DIMM slots, while featuring four PCI-Express x16 slots, supporting both ATI CrossfireX and NVIDIA SLI. It supports DDR3 1800 memory (OC), and a 14 phase hybrid CPU power circuit featuring DirectFET MOSFET technology. The board features a 4-in-1 chipset cooler technology, which can serve purposes of a air-cooling (DIY), water-cooling, and cavity for liquid-nitrogen cooling, much like the Black Ops motherboard. Sound is modularised, with a bundled Foxconn SONAR X-Fi sound card. The board supports SAS storage. What a drool!
Adobe Updates Flash Player to ver. 10, Adds GPU Acceleration
Adobe announced its major update to the Flash technology. The company released Flash Player 10, which is available for download for all popular browsers and platforms. This release of Flash Player provides a new consumption platform for content created by the new and enhanced Adobe Creativity Suite CS4. Notable features include:
- 3D Effects, GPU accelerated graphics that utilize the power of GPU to render animations
- Custom Filters and Effects
- Advanced Text Support
- Dynamic Sound Generation
Intel to Add More Mobile CPUs, Ibex Peak in 3Q'09
Industry sources tell DigiTimes, that Intel would be launching a fleet of mid-thru-high end mobile processors on December 28, later this year. These processors fall under the 35W Core 2 Duo range, for use in notebooks. The processors include Core 2 Duo models T9800, P9600, T9550 and T8700. It also includes Core 2 Quad Q9000. The dual-core chips are priced (in above order) US$530, $348, $316 and $241, while the Q9000 will sell for $348, in thousand-unit tray quantities.
Around the same time, Intel would give the desktop Core 2 Duo E8600, a much needed price cut sending its price from $241 to $209. In other news, the P55 PCH chipset for LGA-1160 socket, would be available in the third quarter of 2009, note sources at motherboard manufacturers.
Around the same time, Intel would give the desktop Core 2 Duo E8600, a much needed price cut sending its price from $241 to $209. In other news, the P55 PCH chipset for LGA-1160 socket, would be available in the third quarter of 2009, note sources at motherboard manufacturers.
NVIDIA Slates nForce 700 (AMD) Series Successors for 2009
NVIDIA had been a little behind AMD for releasing high-performance chipsets supporting HyperTransport 3.0 interface for the Phenom series processors. The green giant managed to release the nForce 780a and 750a chipsets. It was recently, that AMD released a new overclocking algorithm call Advanced Clock Calibration (ACC), that basically puts clock-generators into the chipset for fine-tuning clock speeds. The companion SB750 southbridge by AMD handled this feature, on some of the newer 790 FX and 790 GX motherboards. As for NVIDIA, the 780a isn't really a SPP + MCP design. The so called northbridge here is the MCP itself (MCP78A), and the so called southbridge on 780a motherboards, is actually an nForce 200 chip that handles PCI-Express lanes and broadcasts data to multiple graphics cards, so the MCP had to be equipped with the feature.
NVIDIA Introduces NVIDIA Quadro CX - The Accelerator For Adobe Creative Suite 4
NVIDIA today introduced its new accelerator for Adobe Creative Suite 4 software, the NVIDIA Quadro CX. This new GPU provides creative professionals with a faster, better, more reliable way to maximize their creativity. Quadro CX was architected to deliver the best performance for the new GPU-optimized features of Adobe Creative Suite 4.
NVIDIA 180 Series Driver with Multi-Monitor SLI Support Previewed
VR-Zone has posted a preview of NVIDIA's 180.10 drivers also known as the "Big Bang II" that will bring multi-monitor SLI support for GeForce owners. The VR article shows what this driver will offer in terms of SLI with multi monitor support and the performance effects of implementing multiple monitors in SLI mode. NVIDIA was supposed to publish the "Big Bang II" driver in September, but that never happened. There's still no release date, but at least now there's a prove that this driver is in development and will hopefully be ready before the end of this year. Check VR-Zone's preview here. If you want to give the early beta driver a try, you can download it here, but be adviced it's for Windows Vista 64-bit only.
AMD Reports Third Quarter Results
AMD today reported third quarter 2008 revenue from continuing operations of $1.776 billion, including process technology license revenue of $191 million. Third quarter 2008 revenue increased 32 percent compared to the second quarter of 2008 and 14 percent compared to the third quarter of 2007.
In the third quarter of 2008, AMD reported a net loss of $67 million, or $0.11 per share. For continuing operations, third quarter 2008 income was $41 million, or $0.07 per share, including the process technology license revenue of $191 million, or $0.31 a share. Third quarter 2008 operating income was $131 million. Loss from discontinued operations was $108 million, or $0.18 a share.
Read the complete earnings release here.
In the third quarter of 2008, AMD reported a net loss of $67 million, or $0.11 per share. For continuing operations, third quarter 2008 income was $41 million, or $0.07 per share, including the process technology license revenue of $191 million, or $0.31 a share. Third quarter 2008 operating income was $131 million. Loss from discontinued operations was $108 million, or $0.18 a share.
Read the complete earnings release here.
OCZ Technology Announces New Triple Channel Memory Kits
OCZ Technology Group, a worldwide leader in innovative, ultra-high performance and high reliability memory, today unveiled the industry's first triple channel memory kit designed specifically for the impending Intel Core i7 processor / Intel X58 Express Chipset. Optimized for the Core i7's triple channel mode, these new 3GB and 6GB kits ensure optimal performance via an ideal combination of low voltage requirements, speed, and latency.
Thursday, October 16th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Harddisks
Keyboards
Motherboards
Sound Cards
Storage
NEC Joins the Netbook Market with LaVie Light
NEC announced today its entry into the netbook market with the introduction of its first netbook - LaVie Light. I have to admit this is an odd name for a computer part although Eee is not a better one too, but people seem to like and buy them regardless of their strange model names. The NEC LaVie Light serves up the typical netbook specs - a 8.9-inch display with 1024x600 resolution, Intel Atom N270 CPU, 1GB of RAM, 160GB hard drive, and last but not least a Windows XP Home Edition operating system. The LaVie Light weighs in 2.6 pounds and also includes a 802.11b/g Wi-Fi, three USB 2.0 ports, an SD card slot, and a built-in 1.3MP camera. The 8.9-inch NEC LaVie netbook will be released in Japan on November 6th this year. Exact price for the model wasn't announced, but its price is estimated to be around $650.
Dell Vostro Desktop Line Gets a Makeover
Dell today announced its redesigned Vostro desktop line for small businesses, with enhancements such as increased storage and expandability based on ongoing customer feedback. Starting at $319, the Vostro 220, 220s and 420 are available today in North America, tomorrow in most of South America, followed by Asia Pacific and Japan Oct. 20, Europe, Middle East and Africa Nov.3 and Brazil Nov. 11. For more information, visit Dell Vostro and Dell's new small-business blog to join the conversation.
G.Skill Readies New 4GB GT1 PC3-16000 RAM Kit with Thermaltake RamOrb Heatsinks
Co-operation between manufacturers have become a common thing these days. That helps them to better sell and promote their products and satisfy user's hunger for new products. G.Skill International in partnership with Thermaltake launched today new GT1 DDR3 series memory running at PC3-16000 and featuring Thermaltake's unique RamOrb heatsinks. The RamOrb thermal solution combines a RAM sink, single heatpipe and a blower fan that lowers the temp significantly. Available in 4GB (2x2GB) kits, the new G.SKILL PC3-16000 GT1 memory is also optimized for NVIDIA's 790i chipset platforms, of course that does not mean it would not work on other DDR3 compatible systems just as well. With each G.SKILL memory you'll also receive a lifetime warranty and free technical support, the PC3-16000 GT1 is no exception. For more information please go here.
HIS Releases Radeon HD 4650 iSilence 4
HIS made an addition to its lineup, with a silent Radeon HD 4650 graphics card. The card is passively cooled by a passive cooler by Zalman, the VNF100. The PCB is sandwiched between parts of the cooler. On the top side of the PCB, is the GPU contact block which has some aluminum fins, while three heatpipes arise from it. The heatpipes convey heat to a large and dense array of alumium fins behind the PCB. With the location of these fins being above the PCB in most installations, better cooling is achieved with air heated by the card moving upwards.
The GPU is clocked at 600 MHz. The card uses 512 MB of DDR2 memory clocked at 1000 MHz. The card has started selling in Europe for 77€.
The GPU is clocked at 600 MHz. The card uses 512 MB of DDR2 memory clocked at 1000 MHz. The card has started selling in Europe for 77€.
Kuma Manifests into Athlon X2 7550, 7750
Industry sources reveal that AMD would be branding its Kuma dual-core processor as Athlon X2 7000 series. These processors are aimed to compete with Intel's Core 2 Duo E7000 series processors. Kuma continues to use the 65nm SOI fabrication process. The core sports 512 KB L2 cache per core, and a shared 2 MB L3 cache. Surprisingly, despite having sub-3.00 GHz clock speeds, the processors have rated TDP of 95W.
These processors use a broader 3600 MT/s HyperTransport interface, and feature DDR2 memory controllers that support the PC2-8500 (1066 MHz) standard. As for the models, the Athlon X2 7550 has a clock speed of 2.50 GHz, and an FSB multiplier of 12.5x. The Athlon X2 7750 comes with the clock speed of 2.70 GHz, and a FSB multiplier of 13.5x. Both processors are expected to be out by Q1 2009.
These processors use a broader 3600 MT/s HyperTransport interface, and feature DDR2 memory controllers that support the PC2-8500 (1066 MHz) standard. As for the models, the Athlon X2 7550 has a clock speed of 2.50 GHz, and an FSB multiplier of 12.5x. The Athlon X2 7750 comes with the clock speed of 2.70 GHz, and a FSB multiplier of 13.5x. Both processors are expected to be out by Q1 2009.
Galaxy Ready with nForce 740i SLI Motherboards, Integrated 9400 GT and SLI on Offer
Picture this: DDR2 and DDR3 memory, Integrated GeForce 9400 GT graphics, and SLI, all rolled into one. Galaxy has announced such a motherboard, that utilises a special variant of the NVIDIA MCP7A core logic, the MCP7A-D SLI. Galaxy is ready with its fleet of MCP7A-series motherboards. It has released three models based on this chipset, two of which, offer integrated graphics and SLI. When in SLI mode, 16 PCI-Express lanes are split into dual x8 lanes for both the graphics cards.
There is an upscale version that sports 100% sold capacitor design, and 8-channel audio and DVI + D-Sub output, while a lite version sports solid capacitors on the VRM area, and 6-channel audio. Both motherboards sport active cooling for the chipset, with a fan blowing air on the horizontal plane of the cooler. Both motherboards provide an HDMI port, support DDR2 and DDR3 memory, support Hybrid SLI and GeForce Boost technologies, and provides as many as eight SATA II ports on board. There is a third m-ATX board, that is an entry-level offering. It uses the MCP7A-S core, nForce 730i chipset and embeds a GeForce 9300-class IGP. It supports DDR2 memory, and provides six SATA II ports on board. Galaxy is yet to announce pricing and release dates.
There is an upscale version that sports 100% sold capacitor design, and 8-channel audio and DVI + D-Sub output, while a lite version sports solid capacitors on the VRM area, and 6-channel audio. Both motherboards sport active cooling for the chipset, with a fan blowing air on the horizontal plane of the cooler. Both motherboards provide an HDMI port, support DDR2 and DDR3 memory, support Hybrid SLI and GeForce Boost technologies, and provides as many as eight SATA II ports on board. There is a third m-ATX board, that is an entry-level offering. It uses the MCP7A-S core, nForce 730i chipset and embeds a GeForce 9300-class IGP. It supports DDR2 memory, and provides six SATA II ports on board. Galaxy is yet to announce pricing and release dates.
ASUS Considering New Touch Panel Eee PC Netbooks for Next Year
DigiTimes reporters have posted information that ASUS is working on a touch-screen equipped Eee PC. The new netbook will start appearing during the first or the second quarter of 2009, according to the report which claims to have the information from various panel makers. ASUS is also expected to ship the touch panel netbooks with Windows 7, Microsoft's latest OS. AU Optronics (AUO) and Chi Mei Optoelectronics (CMO) will most likely supply the touch panels. They both plan to launch 11.6-inch and 12.1-inch touch panels in February next year, so if the calculations are right the new Eee PCs will be assembled with their panels. ASUSTeK is yet to decide what panel size to use.
EVGA Announces the nForce 730i Motherboard with Integrated GeForce 9300 GPU
Following a news article about the launch of the 730i which we covered here, EVGA has launched its first motherboard based on the Nvidia 730i Chipset with onboard graphics. You can find out more information on EVGA's Product Page, and a video overview is available here.
EVGA is proud to announce the latest product to the EVGA Motherboard family; the EVGA nForce 730i. With support for DirectX 10 and NVIDIA GeForce Boost Technology, the EVGA nForce 730i represents the latest in graphics technology and can provide up to a 70% increase in overall visual performance! All of these innovations are combined to make the EVGA nForce 730i the best single GeForce Graphics platform available.
Get it all with from The Force Within: With support for NVIDIA PhysX and CUDA Technology, the EVGA nForce 730i will provide you a full spectrum of visual nirvana and unsurpassed graphics processing power.
Intel Ships Enterprise-Class X-25E Extreme Solid-State Drives
Intel Corporation has begun shipping its highest- performing solid-state drive (SSD), the Intel X-25E Extreme SATA Solid-State Drive, aimed at server, workstation and storage systems. Unlike mechanical drives, the SSDs contain no moving parts and instead feature 50nm single-level cell (SLC) NAND flash memory technology. Systems equipped with these drives will not suffer from the performance bottlenecks associated with conventional drives. By reducing the total infrastructure, cooling and energy costs, SSDs can lower total cost of ownership for enterprise applications by more than five times.
ZOTAC Unleashes New GeForce 9300 Platform
ZOTAC International, a leading manufacturer of NVIDIA based motherboards and graphics cards, today injects the power of NVIDIA's GeForce 9 graphics architecture into the latest platform for Intel socket LGA775-based processors - the ZOTAC GeForce 9300. The new ZOTAC GeForce 9300 platform is a graphics powerhouse with its GeForce 9 series graphics processor, NVIDIA CUDA, Hybrid SLI, PhysX and PureVideo HD technologies. A new NVIDIA GeForce 9300 integrated graphics processor forms the heart of the new ZOTAC GeForce 9300 platform. The NVIDIA GeForce 9300 iGPU features NVIDIA's Unified Architecture with 16 blazing-fast stream processors for high-performance in Microsoft DirectX 10, OpenGL 2.1 and CUDA-based 3D games and software applications.
Wednesday, October 15th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
SilverStone Launches SST Clear CMOS Button for Everyone
Coming out of nowhere I just found that SilverStone, a company that specializes in building high-end enclosures, has just launched a neat product that will certainly please all overclockers and computer enthusiasts. SilverStone SST-CLEARCMOS, as it is called, is an universal clear CMOS button on a backplate which works with every motherboard that has 3-pin clear CMOS pinouts. That allows you to quickly clear the CMOS for recovering from failed overclocking attempts, updating BIOS, or resetting BIOS without the need to open your PC. It's pretty cool, all you need to do is take away the CMOS jumper from your motherboard, connect the three SST-CLEARCMOS wires, and fix the backplate to a free PCI slot in your case.
ATI Catalyst 8.10 Released, Adds Manual Fan Speed Control
By some coincidence, right after NVIDIA's 178.24 WHQL driver release, ATI also published new Catalyst version 8.10. There're two major features that come with the new Catalyst 8.10 and they are:
DOWNLOAD: Catalyst 8.10
- Catalyst Control Center Fan speed control - this release of the ATI software driver introduces the ability for users to control the speed of the GPU fan when running in accelerated graphics.
- Force Component Video Detection - this feature allows users the option in Catalyst Control Center to force Component Video detection in the Display Options aspect. By selecting this option user are able to adjust the Component Video property settings (without a device being physically attached) allowing user to change format and frequency to a desired value. The selected values will be applied to the display once a component video display device get connected. The feature is applicable for all AMD products supporting Component Video.
DOWNLOAD: Catalyst 8.10
NVIDIA GeForce Release 178.24 WHQL Driver Available
New GeForce release 178.24 WHQL driver is up for grabs at NVIDIA. This release is for all GeForce 6-series, 7-series, 8-series, 9-series, and 200-series GPUs. The newly-released GeForce 9-series motherboard GPUs are also supported. The 178.24 driver also includes several application compatibility fixes and some performance improvements in various game titles (read below).
DOWNLOAD: GeForce Release 178.24 WHQL
DOWNLOAD: GeForce Release 178.24 WHQL
MSI MCP7A-S Motherboards Pictured
MCP7A series are one of NVIDIA's first nForce chipsets for the Intel platform with a monolithic design. The chipset isn't split-up into northbridge and southbridge anymore. This space-saving design is supposed to be very economical for the company to produce, and for motherboard vendors to come out with attractively priced boards. The chipset embeds a GeForce 9300-class IGP, and supports energy efficient Hybrid SLI and GeForce Boost technologies. The IGP itself is DirectX 10 compliant, and supports Purevideo HD.
MSI on its part, seems to be ready with two such micro-ATX boards, as pictured by Fudzilla. The P7NGM-Digital (black PCB) is the higher end board, with HTPC-friendly features. It features an HDMI port, along with DVI and D-Sub ports for display. It features four DDR2 DIMM slots supporting DDR2-800 memory. It uses a 100% solid state capacitor design. The P7NGM-FI (red PCB) is the value offering, that aims to spread the GeForce advantage at a low price-point. It features two DIMM slots, a single D-Sub port, and solid capacitors restricted to the CPU and chipset power circuits.
MSI on its part, seems to be ready with two such micro-ATX boards, as pictured by Fudzilla. The P7NGM-Digital (black PCB) is the higher end board, with HTPC-friendly features. It features an HDMI port, along with DVI and D-Sub ports for display. It features four DDR2 DIMM slots supporting DDR2-800 memory. It uses a 100% solid state capacitor design. The P7NGM-FI (red PCB) is the value offering, that aims to spread the GeForce advantage at a low price-point. It features two DIMM slots, a single D-Sub port, and solid capacitors restricted to the CPU and chipset power circuits.
P55 to Succeed P45 as Mainstream Core Logic
In the weeks to come Intel and its partners, would be buzzing with activity, in the form of product launches. Three models of the Core i7 series processors, accompanied by supportive motherboards, and possibly tri-channel DDR3 memory kits, would hit shelves. The LGA-1366 socket would serve as an extreme and performance segment offering, on the whole. The mainstream segment would continue in the form of the newer LGA-1160 socket, and the Ibex Peak platform. Processors would essentially use the same architecture as the upcoming i7 processors, but feature dual-channel memory interfaces, and continue using the DMI front-side bus as the system interface.
As for its supportive chipset, Intel plans to label them under the P5x series. Chipsets without IGPs, would have so little machinery, with the memory controller shifted to the CPU, that even high-performance chipsets could be monolithic. A single chip would handle the system's peripherals, storage, and connect it to the CPU. There are indications that the CPU could house PCI-Express switches on-die. This would provide direct connections between PCI-E devices such as graphics cards, and the CPU. The P5x series chipsets could include a confirmed P55 chipset that rules its roost, with P53 and P51 chipsets that fabricate the lineup.
As for its supportive chipset, Intel plans to label them under the P5x series. Chipsets without IGPs, would have so little machinery, with the memory controller shifted to the CPU, that even high-performance chipsets could be monolithic. A single chip would handle the system's peripherals, storage, and connect it to the CPU. There are indications that the CPU could house PCI-Express switches on-die. This would provide direct connections between PCI-E devices such as graphics cards, and the CPU. The P5x series chipsets could include a confirmed P55 chipset that rules its roost, with P53 and P51 chipsets that fabricate the lineup.
Sparkle Presents GeForce 8400 GS PCI Express x1
SPARKLE Computer Co., Ltd., the professional VGA card manufacturer and supplier, today presents the SPARKLE GeForce 8400 GS PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards, the first PCI Express x1 solution on SPARKLE family product. SPARKLE GeForce 8400 GS PCI Express x1 Graphics Cards create upgrade possibility on your generic PC, bringing advanced SM 4.0 and 2nd PureVideo HD technology, promising the best HDTV video, the best office and the best multimedia experience to non-mainstream users.
NVIDIA and AMD to begin 40nm GPU Conquests in 2009
Reports suggest that the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) could receive manufacturing contracts by AMD, and long-time customer NVIDIA, for graphics processors based on the newest 40nm silicon fabrication process. The two giants in the visual computing industry, are expected to skip the 45nm process altogether. This is seen as a move to cut down manufacturing costs, and use the most feasible manufacturing technologies. Miniaturizing circuitry at that scale would allow them to build even more complex silicon machinery, with much higher transistor counts, while maintaining size constraints.
AMD on its part would have to use the services of TSMC, since the foundry company's fab in Dresden is only capable of 45nm SOI fabrication process, and that it would take as long as 2010, by the time the expected 32nm process is ready at the New York fab. The next star-entry for AMD would be the ATI RV870, and as for NVIDIA, it would continue development of monolithic high-end GPUs with GT216, a successor to the G200 GPU. Meanwhile, the companies could continue aggressive competition, with projections of up to 20% price-cuts by Christmas 2008 shopping season. Their 40nm GPU designs could be ready by the end of this year, and 40nm GPUs could be supplied by June, 2009.
AMD on its part would have to use the services of TSMC, since the foundry company's fab in Dresden is only capable of 45nm SOI fabrication process, and that it would take as long as 2010, by the time the expected 32nm process is ready at the New York fab. The next star-entry for AMD would be the ATI RV870, and as for NVIDIA, it would continue development of monolithic high-end GPUs with GT216, a successor to the G200 GPU. Meanwhile, the companies could continue aggressive competition, with projections of up to 20% price-cuts by Christmas 2008 shopping season. Their 40nm GPU designs could be ready by the end of this year, and 40nm GPUs could be supplied by June, 2009.
Thermalright Preps Ultra 120 eXtreme with LGA 1366 Socket Compatibility
It appears that Thermalright is getting ready for the upcoming Core i7 series processors and their new LGA 1366 socket. The company is going to unveil a new revision of its famous Ultra 120 eXtreme heat-pipe cooler. The third party cooler will actually be nothing more then the standard Thermalright Ultra eXtreme with a different mounting kit. Thermalright is only going to change the backplate and the bolt-through kit to fit the new socket. Our collegues from MADSHRIMPS have a test sample of the new cooler. From the pictures we can tell that Thermalright is also planning on shipping the Ultra 120 eXtreme with their own 120mm fan and a new mounting mechanism for it. Specs of the fan are unavailable, though.
Tuesday, October 14th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
- Apevia X-Sniper G Type Hardwarelogic
- Cooler Master GeminII S Overclockers Club
- Coolermaster HAF 932 ProClockers
- Lian Li PC-V1010 Allround-PC (de)
- Moneual Moncaso 972 HardwareSecrets
- NZXT KHAOS Gaming Case DriverHeaven
- Sunbeam Rheobus Extreme Dreamware Computers
- Thermaltake Blacx Docking Station N0028USU Benchmark Reviews
- Thermaltake V9 Gaming Case TweakNews
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Multimedia
Netbooks
Ultrasone HFI-680 Headphones Review
The newest addition to the HFI headphone lineup from Ultrasone is called the HFI-680. These new mid to high end cans should effectively fill in the gap between the old Ultrasone lineups 650 and recently launched HFI-780.
Intel Posts Record Third-Quarter Revenue of $10.2 Billion
Intel Corporation today announced record third-quarter revenue of $10.2 billion along with operating income of $3.1 billion, net income of $2 billion and earnings per share (EPS) of 35 cents.
"Intel delivered the best third-quarter revenue in its history," said Paul Otellini, Intel president and CEO. "We were solidly profitable, with operating income of over $3 billion, reflecting strong across-the-board execution and best-of-class products."
To read the complete earnings release, click here.
"Intel delivered the best third-quarter revenue in its history," said Paul Otellini, Intel president and CEO. "We were solidly profitable, with operating income of over $3 billion, reflecting strong across-the-board execution and best-of-class products."
To read the complete earnings release, click here.
GPU Defect Plague Spreads to Desktops, HP Slimline First Blood
Over the last year or so, there have been a disturbingly high number of manufacturers reporting defects with NVIDIA graphics processors, on the mobile front. Up until recently, even some Macbooks have been diagnosed with problems related to NVIDIA GPUs. The latest victim of this, is a desktop line: HP's Pavilion Slimline series. The PC major is reporting as many as 38 models of desktop PCs under the Slimline series.
HP on its part has implemented a Limited Warranty Service Enhancement that provides for a motherboard replacement at no charge for 12 months from the date your one-year Hardware Limited Warranty expires or until December 31, 2009 (whichever comes first). Owners who may have paid for repairs relating to this issue, could contact HP for reimbursement. Repairs on HP's part could include a complete replacement of the systems' motherboards, since the graphics processor (read: IGP) is embedded on to the motherboard. NVIDIA's Director of Public Relations EMEAI, Luciano Alibrandi told PC Pro, that they were working closely with HP to determine if/how the failures were related to NVIDIA chipsets.
HP on its part has implemented a Limited Warranty Service Enhancement that provides for a motherboard replacement at no charge for 12 months from the date your one-year Hardware Limited Warranty expires or until December 31, 2009 (whichever comes first). Owners who may have paid for repairs relating to this issue, could contact HP for reimbursement. Repairs on HP's part could include a complete replacement of the systems' motherboards, since the graphics processor (read: IGP) is embedded on to the motherboard. NVIDIA's Director of Public Relations EMEAI, Luciano Alibrandi told PC Pro, that they were working closely with HP to determine if/how the failures were related to NVIDIA chipsets.
Toshiba Intros Satellite Pro S300, S300M Notebooks
Toshiba made two new additions to the mainstream notebook scene, with the 15.4" Satellite Pro S300, and 14.1" Satellite Pro S300M. These notebooks are largely business-class, with features aiding business applications. They feature built-in business card readers, face-recognition systems, a USB Sleep-and-Charge/eSATA combo port, built-in support for docking and the fourth-generation EasyGuard technology, which is a preventative maintenance utility that keeps check on the performance and functionality of the notebooks's critical hardware components.
Under the hood, these notebooks feature a Centrino 2 class 45nm Core 2 Duo processor, 2~4 GB of memory, up to 250 GB of hard-drive space, DVD SuperMulti drive. The integrated Intel GMA 4500MHD IGP handles graphics. As for the software, Windows Vista Business is the standard OS, users could opt for Windows XP Professional. The S300 starts at US$ 829, with the S300M at $899.
Under the hood, these notebooks feature a Centrino 2 class 45nm Core 2 Duo processor, 2~4 GB of memory, up to 250 GB of hard-drive space, DVD SuperMulti drive. The integrated Intel GMA 4500MHD IGP handles graphics. As for the software, Windows Vista Business is the standard OS, users could opt for Windows XP Professional. The S300 starts at US$ 829, with the S300M at $899.
Sony Firmware Updates for PLAYSTATION3 v2.50 and PSP v5.00 Revealed
As part of its frequent updates, Sony announced today that new firmware versions for its PLAYSTATION3 and PSP (PlayStation Portable) consoles will very soon be available to their owners. Let's start with the v5.00 update for PSP. In this version, you'll notice the addition of the PlayStation Network icon on the XMB. You can now sign up for PlayStation Network, manage your account and access PlayStation Store directly from your PSP - meaning you can download games, demos and trailers directly to your PSP while you are on-the-go. Update v5.00 also adds a sleep timer option that can be used while you are playing music on your PSP. In addition, v5.00 adds a full screen keyboard option for text entry and redesigned background of the XMB. You'll be able to find all of the information on Firmware v5.00 here once it goes live. The PLAYSTATION3 firmware version 2.50 includes a ton of new enhancements. To see each one of them, you'll need to go past the "Read full story" marker.
Apple Introduces New MacBook Family
Also introduced today were two Apple laptops, the new MacBook and 15-inch MacBook Pro. Both new laptops are housed in an all-metal enclosures and feature a stylish new glass surface trackpad that has no buttons, but relays on tapping only. We already knew about the new multi-touch trackpad from previous news so it comes as no big surprise to everyone.
Apple Unveils 24-inch LED Cinema Display Designed for New MacBook Family
After a long period of stagnation, Apple today unveiled a brand new 24-inch LCD monitor for all Apple lovers. The new LED Cinema Display features a stunning 24-inch LED-backlit widescreen display with built-in iSight video camera, mic, and speakers in an elegant, thin aluminum and glass enclosure. Other specs include a native resolution of 1920x1200, a 3-port USB hub and a new Mini DisplayPort. Expect the 24-inch LED Cinema Display to become available in November for $899. We'll also have more technical information (panel type, response time, contrast, brightness etc.) as the release date approaches.
Corsair Launches New Power Series Power Supply Line
Corsair, a worldwide leader in high performance computer and flash memory products, announced today a new line of economical, quiet, and energy-efficient desktop computer power supplies. Dubbed Corsair Power, the new series provides unprecedented features at a surprisingly affordable price point. Building on the tremendous success of previous Corsair units such as the award-winning HX1000W, the new Power series was developed using the same extensive engineering knowledge and rigorous testing to produce a best-in-class power supply for mainstream users.
Patriot Memory Introduces ''LITE'' Series 32GB & 64GB SSD for ASUS Eee PC
Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory module and flash memory solutions, today announced the Lite Series SSD storage solutions. Available in both 32GB and 64GB capacities, these upgrade solutions are designed specifically for the ASUS Eee PCs.
"Small form-factor mobile PC's are becoming extremely popular among consumers," says Meng Jay Choo, Flash Product Manager for Patriot Memory. "Patriot's new Lite Series SSD solutions offer consumers the perfect storage upgrade to store their important music, video and data files without worrying about running out of space on their ASUS Eee PC."
"Small form-factor mobile PC's are becoming extremely popular among consumers," says Meng Jay Choo, Flash Product Manager for Patriot Memory. "Patriot's new Lite Series SSD solutions offer consumers the perfect storage upgrade to store their important music, video and data files without worrying about running out of space on their ASUS Eee PC."
VIA Nano Processor Claims Most Efficient Cryptography for Netbooks
VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms, today showed that the cryptographic performance of the VIA Nano processor is the most power efficient on the market, due to its dedicated VIA PadLock Security Engine, a suite of security tools integrated directly into the processor die.
The hardware security implementation within the VIA Nano processor means that user data is handled more efficiently and safely by circuitry deep inside the silicon, rather than by using more vulnerable operating system, memory and software resources.
The hardware security implementation within the VIA Nano processor means that user data is handled more efficiently and safely by circuitry deep inside the silicon, rather than by using more vulnerable operating system, memory and software resources.
IKONIK ‘Kick Start’ Competition - Win a Taiwan Trip
IKONIK is organizing the 'Kick Start' competition, starting on October 13th until January 31st, 2008. This competition is open to anyone and there are many cool prizes to win. Such as a trip to Taiwan!
IKONIK is making it possible for you to visit Taiwan. When you are going to buy an IKONIK product before January 31st, you have the chance to visit Taiwan and IKONIK's headquarters. Join the competition by registering yourself on the website. If you are one of the lucky winners you will be informed personally by e-mail before February 20, 2009.
IKONIK is making it possible for you to visit Taiwan. When you are going to buy an IKONIK product before January 31st, you have the chance to visit Taiwan and IKONIK's headquarters. Join the competition by registering yourself on the website. If you are one of the lucky winners you will be informed personally by e-mail before February 20, 2009.
Thermalright Ultra 120 Full-Copper On Sale this Month
Thermalright Ultra 120 has been one of the most successful high-performance air coolers. The company planned to release a pure-copper version of this cooler. The cooler will indeed hit shelves later this month, but only limited quantities would make it. The company plans to make only 2000 units of these, dismissing earlier reports of 3000. Its price could range between US $100~110. A full list of features has been issued.
Hybrid SLI Could be Part of Updated Macbook Pro
Apple's switch to x86 and Intel was seen as a change for the better. The company seems to have gone on a visual-computing drive, with closer associations with NVIDIA, and increased inclusion of NVIDIA's technologies into its products. Word is, that the next update to the Macbook Pro, could have NVIDIA's core-logic (chipset), with the likely candidate being MCP79. There's also widespread speculation in the industry, that some models of the Macbook Pro could come with two GPUs.
It is certainly possible, that the MCP79 could provide Hybrid SLI support. The chipset embeds a GeForce 9300 class integrated graphics processor (IGP), and provides additional PCI-Express connections to an external GPU. In this case, Apple could use a powerful GeForce board that handles graphics. The IGP could work in tandem with the GeForce board, or handle graphics all by itself, to save power. Pictures of the new Macbook model had surfaced yesterday, revealing the slick new Macbook Pro chassis. The range could start for as low as US $899.
It is certainly possible, that the MCP79 could provide Hybrid SLI support. The chipset embeds a GeForce 9300 class integrated graphics processor (IGP), and provides additional PCI-Express connections to an external GPU. In this case, Apple could use a powerful GeForce board that handles graphics. The IGP could work in tandem with the GeForce board, or handle graphics all by itself, to save power. Pictures of the new Macbook model had surfaced yesterday, revealing the slick new Macbook Pro chassis. The range could start for as low as US $899.
Microsoft Announces Silverlight 2
Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of Silverlight 2, one of the industry's most comprehensive and powerful solutions for the creation and delivery of applications and media experiences through a Web browser. Silverlight 2 delivers a wide range of new features and tools that enable designers and developers to better collaborate while creating more accessible, more discoverable and more secure user experiences.
Microsoft also announced further support of open source communities by funding advanced Silverlight development capabilities with the Eclipse Foundation's integrated development environment (IDE) and by providing new controls to developers with the Silverlight Control Pack (SCP) under the Microsoft Permissive License.
Microsoft also announced further support of open source communities by funding advanced Silverlight development capabilities with the Eclipse Foundation's integrated development environment (IDE) and by providing new controls to developers with the Silverlight Control Pack (SCP) under the Microsoft Permissive License.
OCZ Announces Availability of Vista 64-bit Drivers for the NIA
After much anticipation from Gamers and Enthusiasts, the 64-bit Windows Vista drivers are now available for OCZ's ground-breaking Neural Impulse Actuator (the nia). New drivers have been in constant development since the release of the nia, and with this latest availability gamers using 64-bit Vista can now fully integrate the nia into their systems as a revolutionary new gaming device.
"The migration to the Vista 64 environment with the unified ver. 2.0 software suite required a complete recoding of the human interface device library, but in view of the increasing acceptance of 64-bit computing, the effort was worthwhile," commented Dr. Michael Schuette, VP of Technology at OCZ Technology. "Adding the 64-bit executable into a unified driver package to embrace Windows XP-32, Vista -32, and Vista-64 once again demonstrates OCZ's commitment to the cutting-edge gaming community that is our most loyal customer base."
"The migration to the Vista 64 environment with the unified ver. 2.0 software suite required a complete recoding of the human interface device library, but in view of the increasing acceptance of 64-bit computing, the effort was worthwhile," commented Dr. Michael Schuette, VP of Technology at OCZ Technology. "Adding the 64-bit executable into a unified driver package to embrace Windows XP-32, Vista -32, and Vista-64 once again demonstrates OCZ's commitment to the cutting-edge gaming community that is our most loyal customer base."
Windows 7 Stays as the Product's Final Name
Windows 7 is Microsoft's next client operating system. It will succeed the current release, Windows Vista. There has been some talk about whether the company would retain the name "Windows 7", which has been used so far, to refer to the OS, and it is the name that release candidates carry. Mike Nash, Vice President for Microsoft's Windows Product Management has confirmed in his recent blog post, that the OS retains the name "Windows 7", for its commercial release. Nash stated that since it's the seventh major release of the client OS, it would make sense calling it Windows 7.
Nash explained the thought behind not giving it a name based on its release date (eg. Windows 95/98) or using "aspirational monikers" (eg. Windows eXPperience/Vista), by saying that since the company doesn't release a new Windows version every year, and that using an aspirational name did not do justice to what they were trying to achieve. It made all the more sense caling it Windows 7, being the seventh release.
Nash explained the thought behind not giving it a name based on its release date (eg. Windows 95/98) or using "aspirational monikers" (eg. Windows eXPperience/Vista), by saying that since the company doesn't release a new Windows version every year, and that using an aspirational name did not do justice to what they were trying to achieve. It made all the more sense caling it Windows 7, being the seventh release.
US Dept. of Justice Spares ATI of Antitrust Charges
The United States Department of Justice had issued notices to both NVIDIA corporation and AMD for their alleged involvement in malpractices with fixing prices in the graphics processor market, and inducing staged competition. Both companies were to be penalized if the antitrust investigations found the charges to be true. In its most recent press release, AMD states that the Dept. of Justice closed its investigation into these charges, and that no action would be taken against the company, in this regard. Press release follows:
On October 10, 2008, the U.S. Department of Justice informed AMD [NYSE: AMD] and ATI Technologies that it has closed its investigation into ATI Technologies' pricing and marketing practices in the sale of graphics processing units ("GPUs"). On December 1, 2006, AMD announced that ATI had received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice.
On October 10, 2008, the U.S. Department of Justice informed AMD [NYSE: AMD] and ATI Technologies that it has closed its investigation into ATI Technologies' pricing and marketing practices in the sale of graphics processing units ("GPUs"). On December 1, 2006, AMD announced that ATI had received a subpoena from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Monday, October 13th 2008
XFX Unleashes the ''Mother'' of all nForce 750i Motherboards
Mom may have been able to help you with your algebra, but all the homemade cookies in the world can't compare with the performance features you get with ultimate "mother," the XFX nForce 750i SLI motherboard.
Our motherboard delivers performance straight out of the box, for the ultimate gaming experience. And, the 750i SLI comes with exceptional game support and bar none the fastest multi-GPU gaming platform available in the performance category.
Our motherboard delivers performance straight out of the box, for the ultimate gaming experience. And, the 750i SLI comes with exceptional game support and bar none the fastest multi-GPU gaming platform available in the performance category.
Zepto Nox A14 -- The World's Fastest 14'' Notebook
Zepto computers, a Danish computer manufacturer, has just unveiled its new Zepto Nox A14, the fastest notebook in its class. The laptop features the P9500 CPU from Intel, paired with up to 8GB of RAM. A GeForce 9600M deals with the graphics. All of this in a 14.1" package. Pricing starts at $1,411.
SteelSeries Teases WoW-sphere with Themed Mouse and Zboard
SteelSeries is a well known brand with gaming peripherals, such as input-devices, headsets, and mousing surfaces. They now have plans to release themed input-devices for World of Warcraft players, that include a highly customizable mouse and an ergonomic, limited-edition Wrath of the Lich King Zboard. The WoW mouse features as many as 15 programmable buttons that come with a button profile, that could be changed by its software to the gamer's convenience. It features over 130 predefined commands for drag-and-drop macro creation and 16 million illumination choices with 3 intensity and pulsation levels.
The Zboard comes with a themed bezel, and button caps that make predefined functions easy to perform. It connects to the system using two USB ports. This aides its anti-ghosting technology, and allows up to 7 simultaneous keystrokes and one-touch macros for raiding and PvP gameplay. The two have already been placed on pre-order on etailers, with the WoW mouse being priced at 90€ and the limited-edition Zboard at 65€.
The Zboard comes with a themed bezel, and button caps that make predefined functions easy to perform. It connects to the system using two USB ports. This aides its anti-ghosting technology, and allows up to 7 simultaneous keystrokes and one-touch macros for raiding and PvP gameplay. The two have already been placed on pre-order on etailers, with the WoW mouse being priced at 90€ and the limited-edition Zboard at 65€.
SUPoX AP58+ GTR Motherboard Pictured
SUPoX follows other tier-one manufacturers such as ASUS, MSI and Gigabyte, with its motherboard based on the Intel "Tylersburg" X58 chipset. The motherboard supports the upcoming Intel Core i7 series processors, with its LGA-1366 socket. Perhaps it sticks to older memory specifications from Intel, that stated the i7 processors to support DDR3-1066 memory standard. It features three long PCI-Express x16 slots. The two red ones do x16, x16 when two video cards are connected. When all three slots are populated, the PCI-Express lanes arrange as x16 (red), x8 (red 2), x8 (yellow).
Optionally, the package includes Q-Fi wireless network controller. The six SATA II ports routed to the ICH10R southbridge provide RAID functions. Additional controllers handle E-SATA and two internal ports, and the E-IDE port. As with most X58 motherboards, it features six DDR3 DIMM slots for tri-channel memory. There's no word out on its pricing and availability yet.
Optionally, the package includes Q-Fi wireless network controller. The six SATA II ports routed to the ICH10R southbridge provide RAID functions. Additional controllers handle E-SATA and two internal ports, and the E-IDE port. As with most X58 motherboards, it features six DDR3 DIMM slots for tri-channel memory. There's no word out on its pricing and availability yet.
Thermaltake Releases V14 Pro CPU Cooler
Thermaltake, famed of their variety in air cooler selection, has released another one of their best performing CPU coolers today, V14Pro. Claiming to have reached the highest cooling performance ever, the new V14Pro comes with the giant size 140mm fan, 6 copper heatpipes, and 98 extended copper fins. The spec along had shown its design focus on the satisfaction of extreme overclockers and gamers. V14Pro will support mainstream and certainly, most of the high performance processors (Intel LGA775 and AMD Socket AM2/AM2+).
V14Pro, the new ideal air cooler for gaming enthusiasts, is the extended designed of dual-VTM architecture from the award winning V1 cooler. The structural design of V14Pro had shown the obvious intention on breaking the cooling record: Pure copper construction for best effective heat conductivity and dissipation; 6 long heatpipes penetrating the beautiful fin packs for instant cooling effect; and the impossible to ignore 140mm fan in between the fin packs giving a final strong push to accelerate cooling process and maximum cooling performance.
V14Pro, the new ideal air cooler for gaming enthusiasts, is the extended designed of dual-VTM architecture from the award winning V1 cooler. The structural design of V14Pro had shown the obvious intention on breaking the cooling record: Pure copper construction for best effective heat conductivity and dissipation; 6 long heatpipes penetrating the beautiful fin packs for instant cooling effect; and the impossible to ignore 140mm fan in between the fin packs giving a final strong push to accelerate cooling process and maximum cooling performance.
Lian Li Introduces New PC-9 Mid Tower Aluminum Chassis
Lian Li Industrial has officially introduced its latest midi-tower aluminum chassis, the PC-9 series. Standing at 209 x 435 x 488mm (W,H,D), the PC-9 series is not among the biggest Lian Li cases, but manages to offer 5x 5.25" bays and space for four hard drives thanks to a hot swappable SATA cage. The HDD cage is also cooled by a ball bearing 120mm side fan. The motherboard tray of PC-9 can accomodate standard ATX and micro ATX form factor motherboards as well as 7x PCI slots. The back of the case reveals one more 120mm exhaust fan that spins according to user's needs (there's a three speed fan speed switch at the back of the case) and pre-drilled holes for water cooling. The PSU bay is at the bottom, and from what I see is not compatible with every PSU, at least I would not use a 120-140mm fan PSU with this case, although Lian Li says it's OK. If you look closer, for some reason there aren't any ventilation holes at the bottom of the case from where a PSU with big fan can suck in cold air. The Lian Li PC-9 chassis is already shipping and has a MSRP of $190. For more information please visit Lian Li's official page here.
Core i7 940 Review Shows SMT and Tri-Channel Memory Let-down
As the computer enthusiast community gears up for Nehalem November, with reports suggesting a series of product launches for both Intel's Core i7 processors and compatible motherboards, Industry observer PC Online.cn have already published an in-depth review of the Core i7 940 2.93 GHz processor. The processor is based on the Bloomfield core, and essentially the Nehalem architecture that has been making news for over an year now. PC Online went right to the heart of the matter, evaluating the 192-bit wide (tri-channel) memory interface, and the advantage of HyperThreading on four physical cores. In the tests, the 2.93 GHz Bloomfield chip was pitted against a Core 2 Extreme QX9770 operating at both its reference speed of 3.20 GHz, and underclocked to 2.93 GHz, so a clock to clock comparison could be brought about.
The evaluation found that the performance increments tri-channel offers over dual-channel memory, in real world applications and games, are just about insignificant. Super Pi Mod 1.4 shows only a fractional lead for tri-channel over dual-channel, and the trend continued with Everest Memory Benchmark. On the brighter side, the integrated memory controller does offer improvements over the previous generation setup, with the northbridge handling memory. Even in games such as Call of Duty 4 and Crysis, tri-channel memory did not shine.
The evaluation found that the performance increments tri-channel offers over dual-channel memory, in real world applications and games, are just about insignificant. Super Pi Mod 1.4 shows only a fractional lead for tri-channel over dual-channel, and the trend continued with Everest Memory Benchmark. On the brighter side, the integrated memory controller does offer improvements over the previous generation setup, with the northbridge handling memory. Even in games such as Call of Duty 4 and Crysis, tri-channel memory did not shine.
Micron Strengthens its Partnership with Nanya, Acquires 35.6% of Inotera Memories
Micron Technology today announced that it is expanding its partnership with Nanya Technology Corporation and signing a definitive agreement to acquire Qimonda AG's 35.6 percent ownership stake in Inotera Memories, a leading Taiwanese DRAM memory manufacturer, for $400 million in cash. To help fund the purchase price, Micron has obtained $285 million in term loan financing commitments from strategic sources at favorable terms.
Saturday, October 11th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Harddisks
Keyboards
Motherboards
Core i7 965 XE Races Through to 4.20 GHz
It's high time to break the dogma. Core i7 965 Extreme, Intel's next generation flagship desktop processor based on the Nehalem architecture, does indeed overclock satisfactorily. IT OC Taiwan overclocked the chip, which sports an unlocked FSB multiplier, to a respectable 4.20 GHz, at a FSB speed of 200 MHz, and multiplier value of 21.0xFSB. A vCore setting of 1.72 V was used, which is above the danger-mark, taking Intel's own warnings into account. The CPU was aided by dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory operating at timings of 8-7-7-24. It provided a tested bandwidth of close to 16,000 MB/s. The CPU took 3DMark Vantage for a spin, with 3596.76 plans/s in CPU Test 1, and 32.87 steps/s in Test 2. The chip used in the attempt was an engineering sample.
Scythe Launches Musashi Full Throttle VGA Cooler
Scythe announces its first original VGA Cooler, "Musashi" to the worldwide market. After several years of intensive and deep market research as well as our product development without compromise, the Musashi VGA Cooler is proudly ready with the various features, which users can take the advantages for silencing and cooling of VGA. Not to mention the importance of having wider compatibility with today's VGA cards, the independent dual super thin 100mm fans allow users to independently control each fan speed to fulfill the demand for silent to over-clocking purposes.
Furthermore, single fan mode can be arranged by simply detaching 1 fan and place another fan onto the middle of the VGA cooler to intensively cool the GPU. By integrating the Scythe original "Kaze Jyu Slim 100mm Fan", thickness of the VGA cooler becomes very thin, which can be fitted into the PC case in a compact way. Airflow can be directed to the entire graphic card to ensure the complete cooling of the graphic card. Ideal for gamers or simply replacing the noisy original cooler comes with your VGA, Scythe "Musashi" is here to fulfill your needs.
Furthermore, single fan mode can be arranged by simply detaching 1 fan and place another fan onto the middle of the VGA cooler to intensively cool the GPU. By integrating the Scythe original "Kaze Jyu Slim 100mm Fan", thickness of the VGA cooler becomes very thin, which can be fitted into the PC case in a compact way. Airflow can be directed to the entire graphic card to ensure the complete cooling of the graphic card. Ideal for gamers or simply replacing the noisy original cooler comes with your VGA, Scythe "Musashi" is here to fulfill your needs.
MSI Releases Bravo EX620, the Best Audio-Video Enjoyment
MSI Bravo EX620 features Cinema Pro Technology, which offers consumers the finest movie viewing experience. With a simple touch of the exclusive Cinema Pro button; you may immediately switch to Movie Mode. The quality on screen will be more detailed, the richness in sound and the subwoofer as well as Dolby sound will be activated, providing the finest sensory of the theaters. Furthermore, the embedded high performance subwoofer design can create shocking effects.
Combing Color Film Print Technology with ocean wave patterns in design, the EX620 has been injected with a brand new texture to personal notebook computers. The most advanced ATI Mobility Radeon HD3470 graphic card with 256MB VRAM, for a more fluid, more detailed, more realistic 3D high-definition viewing experience. In the other hand, EX620 selects the brand new ECO Engine Technology, the outstanding and unique power saving function by MSI Notebook, as the power management function to extend the battery running time while performing different tasks.
Combing Color Film Print Technology with ocean wave patterns in design, the EX620 has been injected with a brand new texture to personal notebook computers. The most advanced ATI Mobility Radeon HD3470 graphic card with 256MB VRAM, for a more fluid, more detailed, more realistic 3D high-definition viewing experience. In the other hand, EX620 selects the brand new ECO Engine Technology, the outstanding and unique power saving function by MSI Notebook, as the power management function to extend the battery running time while performing different tasks.
Friday, October 10th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Harddisks
Memory
Motherboards
PSUs
ASUS Ready with Workstation-class X58 Motherboards
After flaunting the P6T Series motherboards, and the monstrous Rampage II Extreme, ASUS decided to expand its Bloomfield CPU-supportive motherboard lineup with its workstation-class offerings. ASUS is known for bringing in workstation boards on desktop platforms. They have had Intel 975P based workstation boards, just as they had nForce 590 SLI boards. These desktop-thru-worksation platforms are usually single CPU socket platforms, with certain workstation features, such as PCI-X interface, enterprise-grade storage controllers, among other features that make them durable and suitable for mission-critical environments. They don't sport enterprise chipsets, and hence carry batch-leading desktop chipsets.
With Nehalem and the new Socket 1366, ASUS did just that, with the inclusion of two single-socket workstation boards. These motherboards, at the outset support the upcoming Core i7 processors, and have the potential to support Xeon processors that use the same socket, or even the same core. There are two models lined-up: P6T6 WS Revolution and P6T6 WS Pro. The P6T6 WS Revolution is the flagship board. It features six full-length PCI-Express slots, which might have variable number of available PCI-Express lanes, depending on the number of PCI-E cards connected. It features a 16+2 phase CPU power circuit. The board features the Tylersburg X58 chipset, along with an ICH10 series southbridge. There is passive cooling for the VRM area, northbridge, and a large southbridge block, that could be possibly cooling a supplementary PCI-Express switch chip. Storage options include Serial-attached SCSI (SAS), SATA II and e-SATA ports.
With Nehalem and the new Socket 1366, ASUS did just that, with the inclusion of two single-socket workstation boards. These motherboards, at the outset support the upcoming Core i7 processors, and have the potential to support Xeon processors that use the same socket, or even the same core. There are two models lined-up: P6T6 WS Revolution and P6T6 WS Pro. The P6T6 WS Revolution is the flagship board. It features six full-length PCI-Express slots, which might have variable number of available PCI-Express lanes, depending on the number of PCI-E cards connected. It features a 16+2 phase CPU power circuit. The board features the Tylersburg X58 chipset, along with an ICH10 series southbridge. There is passive cooling for the VRM area, northbridge, and a large southbridge block, that could be possibly cooling a supplementary PCI-Express switch chip. Storage options include Serial-attached SCSI (SAS), SATA II and e-SATA ports.
Blizzard Unveils New Diablo III Character Class: The Wizard
Blizzard Entertainment, Inc. today offered the public the first-ever opportunity to play an early version of its highly anticipated action-role-playing game, Diablo III. Players at the BlizzCon 2008 gaming convention in Anaheim, California, adventured alongside fellow attendees, fighting the hordes of the Burning Hells in one of the game's early dungeons. "Until now, no one outside the company has been able to play Diablo III -- we're excited to offer the first such opportunity to the gamers here at BlizzCon," said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. "We're working hard to make sure Diablo III lives up to the high standards of the first two games in the series, and we look forward to hearing what players think." During the show, Blizzard Entertainment also unveiled the game's third playable class: the wizard.
Some Apple MacBook Pro Notebooks are Affected by the NVIDIA Faulty GPUs After All
Back in July 2008, NVIDIA publicly acknowledged that it had a higher than normal failure rate for some of their graphics processors due to a packaging defect. After the announcement NVIDIA agreed to pay up to $200 million to cover the whole case and repair, return or replace the faulty chips. At the time NVIDIA admited the high failure rate, it also assured Apple that Mac computers with these graphics processors were not affected. However, after an Apple-led investigation, today Apple has determined that some MacBook Pro computers with the NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT graphics processor may be affected after all. If the NVIDIA graphics processor in your MacBook Pro has failed, or fails within two years of the original date of purchase, a repair will be done free of charge, even if your MacBook Pro is out of warranty. Here's what to look for in your Mac, if you receive a distorted or scrambled video on the computer screen or in the worst scenarion if you have no video signal on the computer screen (or external display) even though the computer is on, you should immediately go to an Apple Retail Store or an Apple Authorized Service Provider (AASP) for evaluation, or you should call your local Apple Contact Center for help. Among the models affected are those that were manufactured between approximately May 2007 and September 2008. They include the following models: MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2.4/2.2GHz), MacBook Pro (17-inch, 2.4GHz), and MacBook Pro (Early 2008).
ASUS Introduces Dark Knight series Graphics Cards
In order to cater to users who require excellent graphical performance boosts and exceptional cooling from their graphic cards, ASUS, world-leading producer of top quality graphic solutions, has today introduced a range of self-designed version graphics cards comprising the latest EAH4870 DK and EN9800GTX+ DK Series. These ASUS designed graphics cards will come equipped with the Dark Knight Fansink that delivers extreme cooling and low noise-levels-greatly enhancing gaming enjoyment. The inclusion of the EMI Shield, DIP Spring Chokes, LF PAK MOS, and Japan-made Solid Capacitors will allow users extreme performance and peace of mind at the same time; and furthermore, users will enjoy up to 9% performance improvements for gaming experiences with the ASUS EAH4870 DK TOP and EN9800GTX+ DK TOP.
Mushkin-Exceleram Introduces New DDR3 Kits
Earlier this year, Mushkin acquired Exceleram to expand its technological expertise and manufacturing footprint. Exceleram had been in the business of high-performance gaming system memory modules for quite some time. Post acquisition, Mushkin lets Exceleram products, both current and future, retain the Exceleram brand name and product logos. News is, that the company launched two dual-channel DDR3 memory kits.
The EX3-21800X2-S2 is a 2x 1GB kit, that operates at 1800 MHz DDR, with timings of 8-8-8-24 and DIMM voltage of 1.85~1.90 V. The EX3-41600Q2-SM is a 2x 2GB kit. This is where the bank density eats into other parameters such as timings and frequency. It operates at 1600 MHz DDR, with looser timings of 9-9-9-27. On a positive note, the module voltage has been pushed down to 1.7 V, and it won't be too far-fetched to estimate, that the modules could operate at 1333 MHz at much lower voltages. While there's no word out on the pricing yet, Mushkin on its part states that the products would sell at "unbeatable prices".
The EX3-21800X2-S2 is a 2x 1GB kit, that operates at 1800 MHz DDR, with timings of 8-8-8-24 and DIMM voltage of 1.85~1.90 V. The EX3-41600Q2-SM is a 2x 2GB kit. This is where the bank density eats into other parameters such as timings and frequency. It operates at 1600 MHz DDR, with looser timings of 9-9-9-27. On a positive note, the module voltage has been pushed down to 1.7 V, and it won't be too far-fetched to estimate, that the modules could operate at 1333 MHz at much lower voltages. While there's no word out on the pricing yet, Mushkin on its part states that the products would sell at "unbeatable prices".
Micron to Cut 15% of its Workforce During the Next Two Years
After reporting a $344 million fourth-quarter loss last week Micron today said it is going to reduce its global workforce by approximately 15 percent during the next two years. Most of the workforce cuts will occur in Boise.
As a result, IM Flash Technologies (IMFT), a joint venture between Micron and Intel, will discontinue the supply of NAND flash memory from Micron's Boise facility. The NAND operation shutdown will reduce IMFT's NAND flash production by approximately 35,000 (200 millimeter) wafers per month, according to Micron. Production in the other two joint ownership NAND flash facilities in Lehi and Utah will continue operating at full speed for now.
The combination of declining customer demand and product oversupply in the marketplace has driven selling prices for NAND flash memory significantly below manufacturing costs,Micron said in a statement.
As a result, IM Flash Technologies (IMFT), a joint venture between Micron and Intel, will discontinue the supply of NAND flash memory from Micron's Boise facility. The NAND operation shutdown will reduce IMFT's NAND flash production by approximately 35,000 (200 millimeter) wafers per month, according to Micron. Production in the other two joint ownership NAND flash facilities in Lehi and Utah will continue operating at full speed for now.
Thursday, October 9th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Harddisks
Input Devices
Motherboards
Mousepads
PSUs
Storage
AMD's ATI Radeon HD 4550 passive 512M Review
AMD's new Radeon HD 4550 comes in a passively cooled version without fan. Such a noiseless experience is crucial in media PC designs where you don't want to be distracted by any fan noise. Also included is a native HDMI and DisplayPort output for connection to your big screen. With a price of around $50 the card even offers some potential for casual gaming.
AMD Responds to Intel's Publication Earlier Today
AMD spokesman reassured today that the deal between AMD and Advanced Technology Investment Company won't violate any of the patent agreements AMD made with its main competitor Intel. Let me remind you that earlier that day Intel said it would review its processor licensing agreement with AMD, especially the agreement which allows AMD to use Intel's x86 chip instruction set, to ensure the ATIC deal does not violate any patent agreements. Phil Hughes, an AMD spokesman, wrote in an e-mail today:
"We are completely confident the structure of this transaction takes into account our cross-license agreements,"
"Rest assured - we plan to continue respecting Intel's intellectual property rights, just as we expect them to respect ours."
Financial analyst Hans Mosesmann even believes that the dispute between the two giants may become a weapon for Intel to solve some of its problems in court. If Intel manages to find something is wrong with this deal it can use it against Advanced Micro Deviced and make AMD drop the long-standing anti-trust suits against the company. Continue reading the full story here.
"We are completely confident the structure of this transaction takes into account our cross-license agreements,"
"Rest assured - we plan to continue respecting Intel's intellectual property rights, just as we expect them to respect ours."
Financial analyst Hans Mosesmann even believes that the dispute between the two giants may become a weapon for Intel to solve some of its problems in court. If Intel manages to find something is wrong with this deal it can use it against Advanced Micro Deviced and make AMD drop the long-standing anti-trust suits against the company. Continue reading the full story here.
A-DATA and ASUS Demonstrate Intel Nehalem's DDR3 Performance
Remember the A-DATA DDR3 triple channel memory and the ASUS P6T Deluxe motherboard? They are both detailed on our page, but this story aims to show how both parts perform when working coupled with a quad-core Core i7 engineering sample CPU. The results you're about to see below are achieved by three 1600MHz A-DATAs overclocked to over 2000MHz. The result is system memory read/write speeds of up to the incredible 20515/16946 MB/s. The latency time is also worth mentioning - 22.9ns.
Peter Cleveland Joins Intel
Intel Corporation today announced that Peter Cleveland, chief of staff to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) since 2006, will join the company as its new vice president for global public policy and head of the chipmaker's Washington, D.C., office. Cleveland will join Intel immediately after the Nov. 4 presidential election.
MSI Wind U120 Spotted
Fudzilla have managed to get hands on some pictures of MSI's upcoming Wind U120 netbook, the succesor of today's Wind U100. If the supplied information is right the new Wind, also named Wind 2, will be supplied with either a 120GB hard drive or 20/40GB SSD which will come at a later date. Other specs suggest a 802.11n Wi-Fi, built-in webcam and a 3.5G modem that will accept a SIM card, the same Intel platform and Intel Atom CPU. In other words, the U120 will still be similar to the U100, both in specs and design. See for yourself below. The MSI Wind U120 should be available in December for less than $600.
Halo 3 Recon Expansion Announced for Fall 2009
Follwing the teaser trailer "Prepare to drop", which left many gamers guessing as to what this rumoured campaign expansion was about, Microsoft officially announced in its keynote at the Tokyo Game Show today, that it will be called Halo 3 Recon. With only a year to wait, this has been scheduled for release in Fall 2009. The official website featuring a new trailer is now up and can be found here
The prologue, Halo 3 Recon, will cast new recruits in the steel-tipped boots of an ODST recon marine...
New Xbox Experience Confirmed for November 19th
Alot of us Xbox 360 owners have been eagerly awaiting what has been dubbed "The New Xbox Experience" (also known as NXE). It is not just an update, but a complete overhaul of the existing dashboard. Today in his keynote at the Tokyo Game Show, John Schappert, Corporate Vice President of Xbox LIVE, Services and Software, announced that:
...the New Xbox Experience will ship to Xbox 360's around the world (in 26 countries, localized in 11 languages) on November 19th 2008.
GELID Solutions launch “Silent Spirit” CPU Cooler
GELID Solutions, a new cooling company which has been formed by the co-founder of Arctic cooling and his associate, have today released their new "Silent Spirit" CPU cooler. This new cooler features four high performance copper heatpipes connected from a copper base to a nickel plated aliminium block of fins. It boasts high performance at low noise levels.
Some nice features about the cooler is that it weighs a mere 370 grams, has a compatibility list covering all Intel Socket 775 & AMD Socket 754/ 939/ 940/ AM2/ AM2+ CPU's and has small dimensions of 108mm (l) x 100.5mm (w) x 125mm (h). The MSRP of the Silent Spirit has been set at USD 35 / Euro 23.
Some nice features about the cooler is that it weighs a mere 370 grams, has a compatibility list covering all Intel Socket 775 & AMD Socket 754/ 939/ 940/ AM2/ AM2+ CPU's and has small dimensions of 108mm (l) x 100.5mm (w) x 125mm (h). The MSRP of the Silent Spirit has been set at USD 35 / Euro 23.
Intel Will Defend Patent Rights Against AMD
Here's an interesting story I found today. It's short, but I'm sure it won't end just like that and there'll be a lot more to discuss later.
Intel Corp. said on Tuesday it has "serious questions" about a deal announced by Advanced Micro Devices to spin off its manufacturing business and focus on chip design, and is ready to defend its patents. Intel spokesman Chuck Mulloy said that AMD and Intel have a patent cross-licensing agreement under which AMD pays royalties to Intel. "Intel has serious questions about this transaction as it relates to the license and will vigorously protect Intel's intellectual property rights," Mulloy said of AMD's announcement. Mulloy said Intel has asked AMD to make the agreement public but he said it would not, so he was not at liberty to discuss the matter in detail.
Acer Launches Two Wireless 4G WiMAX Enabled Aspire Notebooks
Acer America, part of the world's third largest PC company, today unveiled its first WiMAX-enabled notebooks - Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 - in support of the nation's first U.S. WiMAX wireless broadband network launched by XOHM in Baltimore. Demonstrating the company's focus on delivering innovative technology solutions, the Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 are WiMAX-enabled Intel Centrino 2-based notebooks with the first-ever combined WiMAX/Wi-Fi module, previously codenamed "Echo Peak," part of the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5050 Series.
Wednesday, October 8th 2008
New 9600GSO Revision Out This Month Features G94 Core
Shortly after hearing of the Ati 4600 series launch, Nvidia decided to rush out a direct competitor for the new HD4650 cards. A new revision of the popular 9600GSO will now be based on the G94 core with a reduced shader count of 48, thus it will lower performance than the current G92 based 9600GSO cards. The new revision will now use a 256bit memory interface which will mean the card will now have 256/512mb of memory. Upon its release later this month, Nvidia plans on keeping the price of the new revision competitive with the Ati HD4650 which is in the $70USD range.
Choose speed, productivity and innovation with Opera 9.6
Opera Software today launched Opera 9.6, the newest version of Opera's award-winning Web browser. Opera 9.6 enhances the performance and flexibility of Opera's built-in e-mail client, while adding new features to Opera's free browser-synchronization service, Opera Link. Opera 9.6 is available as a free download from Opera.com
Power Personified - Introducing the World's First Quad Core Gaming Notebook
Consistent with the tradition of breaking new grounds, ASUS is proud to present the world's first Intel Quad Core Gaming notebook-the G71. Specifically designed with gamers in mind, the G71 is the first in ASUS' planned series of Quad Core gaming notebooks and an addition to its expanding G Series. The G71 delivers a total gaming experience in a highly portable package, with an emphasis on audio clarity and stunning graphics performance.
Lynnfield the Mainstream Nehalem CPU Pictures Emerge
Pictures of the mainstream Nehalem chips otherwise known as Lynnfield have emerged in the asian forum XFastest. Unlike the Bloomfield that has 1366 pins, Lynnfield has only 1160 pins and lacks the QPI link that the Bloomfield uses for triple channel DDR3. Instead Lynnfield uses DMI which only supports dual channel DDR3. Check out the link below for even more comparison images.
DFI LANPARTY UT X58 Motherboard Pictured
One of our readers sent us the link to a TweakTown story that gives an exclusive look at DFI's latest LANPARTY UT X58 motherboard. I won't bother you with the Intel X58 specs you probably already know by heart. Pictures speak enough for themselves:
This is a working sample. Although there's no adequate cooling on the northbridge and the southbridge there'll be one in the retail version and it'll probably be supplied by Thermalright. DFI plans to charge over $300 for this motherboard.
ASUS Prepares Dark Knight ATI Radeon HD 4870 512MB GDDR5 Video Card
French site Matbe, posted today photos of the first ATI video card produced by ASUS and branded as Dark Knight edition. This is the third card (correct me if I'm wrong) to go under this relatively new series of ASUS video cards. The EAH4870 DK/HTDI/512M is an ATI Radeon HD 4870 with 512MB GDDR5 memory, a PCI-Express 2.0 interface CrossFireX support and dual-DVI connectivity. Although the Dark Knight nickname suggests boosted clock speeds the card comes at the reference 750MHz GPU and 3600MHz memory speeds. It only features an improved cooling system, that consists of four heatpipes and bigger fan. Early European etailers already price the card at 263 Euro. A Dark Knight HD 4870 with 1GB onboard memory is also rumored to be in the works.
Super Talent to Produce 16GB, 32GB and 64GB SSDs for ASUS Eee PC
Super Talent posted a press release this morning, informing everyone that it is starting a new line of SSDs, available in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB capacities, that are designed specially for the ASUS Eee PC. Judjing from the three sizes, these will be intended for the latest Eee PC S101 netbooks, ASUS introduced last weekend. The new Eee PC SSDs are mini PCIe and offer reasonable read/write rates of 40/15 MB/sec respectively. The drives are sampling now, and will enter mass production in November. Super Talent lists the expected street price at $53, $79, and $149 for the 16GB, 32GB and 64GB models.
Razer Ups the Ante With Razer Lycosa Mirror Special Edition and Razer Arctosa
Razer, the world's leading manufacturer of high-end precision gaming peripherals, is proud to announce the launch of the Razer Lycosa Mirror Special Edition and the Razer Arctosa, inspired by fusing both form and function into an ultra-sleek gaming keyboard. Both gaming keyboards retain the stylistic appeal and main features of the Razer Lycosa, with subtle differences to appeal to different gamer segments.
Tuesday, October 7th 2008
Sanyo Electric Invents 12x High-Speed Blu-ray Laser
Sanyo Electric Co. said on Monday that it has created a new blue-violet semiconductor laser that might hold the key to the future of Blu-ray. According to the information given by the company, this laser can emit a beam of 450 milliwatts, which is about double the power of Sanyo's current highest-power laser for Blu-ray Disc systems. The higher power means it can write and read data on discs with up to four data layers and at speeds of up to 12X, Sanyo said. Each recording layer on a Blu-ray Disc can store 25GB of data, and the highest-capacity commercial discs currently have two recording layers. A four-layer disc would be able to hold 100GB of data, enough to store up to eight hours of 1080p video content. At 12x recording speed writing a four layer 100GB Blu-ray disc will take just around 10 minutes. That's the good part, unfortunately approving the 12x laser from the Blu-ray Disc Association and putting it into mass production can take two or even three years.
Lexar Media Unveils Crucial Ballistix Tracer DDR3 Memory for Enthusiasts and Gamers
Lexar Media announced today the immediate availability of Crucial Ballistix Tracer PC3-10600 (DDR3-1333MHz) high-performance, low-latency memory modules. These modules are the first Crucial DDR3 Tracers, and as such they incorporate the company's proprietary activity-indicating Light-Emitting Diodes (LED). These new modules feature a black printed circuit board (PCB) and black integrated heat spreaders, as well as an additional eight blue ground-effects LEDs that emit constantly, when the system is running. Crucial is shipping now the Ballistix Tracer DDR3 memory in single 1GB ($54.99) and 2GB ($99.99) modules, as well as in 2GB ($109.99) and 4GB ($199.99) kits. All Tracer DDR3 parts operate at 1333MHz with CL6-6-6-20 latencies and 1.8V.
AMD and ATIC of Abu Dhabi to Create New Semiconductor Manufacturing Company
AMD and the Advanced Technology Investment Company (ATIC) of Abu Dhabi today announced the creation of a U.S.-headquartered, leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing company to address growing demand for independent, leading-edge foundry production capabilities. The new global company, to be temporarily called "The Foundry Company", will serve this need by combining advanced process technology, industry-leading manufacturing facilities and aggressive plans to expand its global capacity footprint. At the same time, the Mubadala Development Company will increase its current investment in AMD to 19.3 percent on a fully diluted basis. AMD will contribute to The Foundry Company its manufacturing facilities, including two fabrication facilities in Dresden, Germany, as well as related assets and intellectual property rights.
Monday, October 6th 2008
Today's Reviews
Cooling
Graphics Cards
A-Data Vitesta Extreme Edition DDR2 4 GB 800+ MHz CL4 Review
A-DATA's 4 GB Vitesta Extreme Edition DDR2 memory kit offers great performance at a low price of only $75. The memory can even run CL3 at the specified 800 MHz, with a small voltage increase and scales up to DDR2-1066 at CL5.
Retail Version of ASUS Rampage II Extreme Pictured
It appears that the ASUS Rampage II Extreme motherboard we spotted last week has been an early sample that was designed for testing only. Today pictures of the retail version, the one that customers will see from now on appeared. The retail version of Rampage II Extreme will ship with a whole new cooling system, well known from various other Republic of Gamers mainboards, but different from the one we posted earlier. Aside from the cooling changes, the motherboard will have the same features as we reported here. I can only add the SupremeFX 7.1 sound blaster and the ASUS LED poster to our previous information of extraordinary features.
Biostar T-Power X58 Mainboard Spotted
During the final weeks before Intel's Nehalem release date, we have covered almost any motherboard that will be simultaneously available as the platform launches. Today we'll accentuate on Biostar's T-Power X58, yet another LGA1366 mainboard that will help Core i7 buyers. The board is pretty much standard, it has a 12-phase power design, 6x DDR3 1333/1600/2000 slots, 3x PCI-E 16x SLI and CrossFireX capable slots, and 6x SATA + 2x eSATA + 1 IDE ports. The T-Power X58 also features a heat-pipe cooling system, on-the-fly power/reset buttons, and a LED POST code display. There's also a 7.1 integrated audio, two 10/100/1000 LANs, and two FireWire ports.
Microsoft Windows XP Downgrade Program Extended by Another Six Months
Windows XP, the OS that is still widely available although its Vista successor is trying to get the upper hand for more than a year, has just received another six months before going down forever. Earlier this summer, Microsoft instructed retailers to stop selling copies of Windows XP to consumers. Regardless of that customers were still able to use their lovely XP OS through a loophole that allowed them to purchase a new computer running certain version of Windows Vista and still downgrade to Windows XP for free. Originally, that option was set to expire on January 31st, 2009. Now Microsoft has extended that date by another six months, through July 31st, 2009. Recent market research shows that one third of the customers that can take advantage of the downgrade program, return to Windows XP without thinking twice. Recently Microsoft also made Windows XP licenses and support available for netbooks until 2010. With little help Windows XP could be still alive when Vista's deputy Windows 7 becomes available.
Fusion-io Preps PCI-Express Based ioXtreme Solid State Drive
Fusion-io, a company that's famous for its server SSD solutions, unveiled today at the E for All conference and expo its first consumer product, the ioXtreme. ioXtreme represents a PCI-Express based solid state drive with a capacity of 80GB. Fusion-IO promises that the ioXtreme PCI-E SSD card will be 20x faster than traditional hard drives and about 5x times faster than mainstream SSDs. In terms of transfer speeds it will be able to hit a data throughput of 500MB/s to 700MB/s. When released ioXtreme will power the world's fastest supercomputers and workstations.
"Imagine working on complex 3-D graphics, unzipping and manipulating massive files even installing a new application-all at the same time," said David Flynn, CTO of Fusion-io. "Suddenly, with the ioXtreme, tasks that would have brought your system to its knees are no longer limited by the disks spinning loudly inside your box."
The ioXtreme will be priced at under $1000 and be available for home and consumer use in Q1, 2009.
"Imagine working on complex 3-D graphics, unzipping and manipulating massive files even installing a new application-all at the same time," said David Flynn, CTO of Fusion-io. "Suddenly, with the ioXtreme, tasks that would have brought your system to its knees are no longer limited by the disks spinning loudly inside your box."
The ioXtreme will be priced at under $1000 and be available for home and consumer use in Q1, 2009.
Elpida Completes Development of 65nm Chip Shrink
Elpida Memory, Japan's leading global supplier of Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), announced today that it has developed a shrunken version of its 1-gigabit DDR2 SDRAM that delivers 20% more chips from a single 300mm wafer. Volume production of the new shrunken chip is expected to begin before the end of 2008 and will be shared among Elpida's Hiroshima Plant, its Taiwan-based Rexchip joint venture and its manufacturing partner PSC.
Report: Kingston Technology to Resell Intel Solid State Drives
Recent reports indicate that memory manufacturer Kingston Technology has teamed up with chip maker Intel to market flash memory-based drives to top makers of laptops and servers. Under the partnership, Kingston will buy SSDs from Intel and then rebrand them and resell them to its partners. Kingston is also set to provide technical support, testing and sell the drives to big brands like Hewlett-Packard, Dell, IBM and others.
"We have had both an engineering and marketing relationship with Intel for more than a decade," spokesman David Leong said. "This is one market where we believe it will grow quite a bit. The opportunity was there to jump into it right now with Intel," he added.
At the moment Intel produces a few solid state drives, aimed at the notebook and desktop markets as well as models for the server market. It's unclear whether Kingston will take the consumer path, or the server SSD side. The story is yet to be confirmed by both companies.
"We have had both an engineering and marketing relationship with Intel for more than a decade," spokesman David Leong said. "This is one market where we believe it will grow quite a bit. The opportunity was there to jump into it right now with Intel," he added.
At the moment Intel produces a few solid state drives, aimed at the notebook and desktop markets as well as models for the server market. It's unclear whether Kingston will take the consumer path, or the server SSD side. The story is yet to be confirmed by both companies.
Saturday, October 4th 2008
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Nehalem Available for Pre-Order at Overclockers UK, ETA 31st October
In the last few days we have seen photos surface of several motherboards based on the upcoming Intel Architecture, code named Nehalem. These boards utilize the Intel X58 chipset along with the new socket, LGA-1366. Many people have been eagerly awaiting the imminent release of the new CPUs and motherboards, which was rumoured to be sometime in November. The online UK retailer Overclockers UK (OcUK), has today added new links in their motherboard and CPU sections for Intel 1366 (X58 Chipset) and Intel Core i7.
Within the CPU section, available for Pre-Order, are the three processors which were expected to be available at launch following what we covered here
The Core i7 920 is priced at £258.49, the Core i7 940 is priced at £469.99, and the Core i7 965 Extreme Edition, at £822.49 (all prices include VAT). In the motherboard section, also available for Pre-Order are three motherboards, two from Asus and one Intel:
ASUS P6T Deluxe OC Palm Edition, ASUS P6T Deluxe (base model), and Intel Smackover X58. The site states the ETA for all these products as 31st October 08.
Within the CPU section, available for Pre-Order, are the three processors which were expected to be available at launch following what we covered here
The Core i7 920 is priced at £258.49, the Core i7 940 is priced at £469.99, and the Core i7 965 Extreme Edition, at £822.49 (all prices include VAT). In the motherboard section, also available for Pre-Order are three motherboards, two from Asus and one Intel:
ASUS P6T Deluxe OC Palm Edition, ASUS P6T Deluxe (base model), and Intel Smackover X58. The site states the ETA for all these products as 31st October 08.
ASUS Debuts the Eee PC S101 Netbook
ASUSTeK Computer released today its newest and most expensive Eee PC netbook, the Eee PC S101. Designed to attract users with its style and premium finish (available in three colors - brown, champagne or graphite), the S class Eee PC also offer the latest hardware that a netbook can integrate. Measuring 264 (W) x 180.5 (D) x 18 ~ 25 (H) mm, the Eee PC S101 will be available in 3 different models. The first one has a 16GB SSD + 16GB SD card (32GB total storage space), Windows XP OS and a retail price of around $699. The second version comes with a 32GB SSD, Linux OS and will retail for around $699 as well. Finally, there's the 64GB SSD model with Linux which will have a price tag of around $799. Feature-wise all three Eee PC S101 models have a 10.2-inch wide active matrix LED backlit screen (1024x600 resolution), 1.6GHz Intel Atom CPU, 1GB RAM, 10/100/1000 Mbps ethernet controller, WLAN support, Bluetooth, 4-in-1 MMC reader and a 0.3MB integrated webcam. For more information, please visit the Eee PC - Blog.
Friday, October 3rd 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Processors
Xigmatek Readying Dark Knight HDT S1283 Cooler
The brand name "Dark Knight" seems to be quite a fashion these days. Xigmatek is preparing a new CPU cooler, the Dark Knight HDT for global launch. The cooler is compatible with Intel LGA-775 and AMD sockets 754, 939, 940, AM2(+). It measures 120x50x159 mm, and weighs 660 g.
The cooling mechanism consists of three copper heatpipes that come in direct contact with the CPU, which convery heat to to the array of aluminum fins. The fins are cooled by a 120 mm fan that rotates at speeds between 1000 and 2000 rpm. The fan has a maximum noise-level of 22 dBA. It features white LEDs for lighting.
The cooling mechanism consists of three copper heatpipes that come in direct contact with the CPU, which convery heat to to the array of aluminum fins. The fins are cooled by a 120 mm fan that rotates at speeds between 1000 and 2000 rpm. The fan has a maximum noise-level of 22 dBA. It features white LEDs for lighting.
Samsung Launches Eco-friendly Desktops, System Opertation at 60W
Samsung announced two new desktop PCs, that drive the company's eco-friendly initiative. Pictured below, are two models: the MV100 Mini-Tower, and the MZ100 Slim-Tower (look at those dark cuboid objects). Both feature identical system specifications, they feature Intel processors, an Intel G43 chipset based motherboard, and a GeForce 9600 GT 512 MB graphics card. Optionally, the GeForce 9500 GS is also available. What sets these desktops apart, is the fact that they consume as less as 60W when in power-saving mode, and 1W in stand-by.
Crysis Wars in for Free Weekend
Gamers will be able to play Crysis Wars for free between Friday, October 10 and Sunday, October 12, announced the publisher, EA Games. Registration begins Monday, October 6 at MyCrysis.com, where gamers will be provided with a unique registration key. Though online play will only be available from October 10-12, players will be able to experience Crysis Wars via LAN across the week of October 6. This move by EA can be seen as something along the lines of Valve, which has seen boosts in sales of their popular multi-player titles such as Team Fortress 2 and Day of Defeat: Source, following free weekend offers.
Crysis Wars is a multiplayer combat action game that is included in the Crysis Warhead package. It is based around the same island setting as the rest of the Crysis franchise, and offers gameplay modes such as InstantAction, TeamInstantAction and PowerStruggle. It includes 21 large thru small maps based on the gameplay mode. You get to use all the weapons and vehicles from the single-player Crysis titles.
Crysis Wars is a multiplayer combat action game that is included in the Crysis Warhead package. It is based around the same island setting as the rest of the Crysis franchise, and offers gameplay modes such as InstantAction, TeamInstantAction and PowerStruggle. It includes 21 large thru small maps based on the gameplay mode. You get to use all the weapons and vehicles from the single-player Crysis titles.
Theory of DDR3 Voltage Limitations for Bloomfield Gains Ground
Nehalem does promise to be a processor to look out for, it would be Intel's next installment, post the successful Core 2 series processors. This time however, Intel made a core modification with the way the system handles memory. The Bloomfield processors house a massive 192-bit wide memory controller for supporting tri-channel DDR3 memory. It however was found that the controller could bring in limitations to the DIMM voltages that the system could support.
The retail version of ASUS P6T Deluxe OC Palm Edition motherboard was unboxed by XFastest. Being the retail product, as usually, it comes with precautionary labels attached to parts of the motherboard. The one that covers the 6 DDR3 DIMM slots reads:
The retail version of ASUS P6T Deluxe OC Palm Edition motherboard was unboxed by XFastest. Being the retail product, as usually, it comes with precautionary labels attached to parts of the motherboard. The one that covers the 6 DDR3 DIMM slots reads:
According to Intel CPU SPEC, DIMMs with voltage setting over 1.65V may damage the CPU permanently. We recommend you to install DIMMs with voltage setting below 1.65V.
MSI Eclipse X58 Motherboard Pictured
The release version of the upcoming enthusiast-grade motherboard by MSI, based on the Intel X58 chipset for the upcoming Core i7 series processors, has been pictured at Coolaler. The close-up snaps show the motherboard to be packing quite some booty. It also shows that MSI hasn't used exorbitant cooling for the motherboard. There are two independent cooling units for the chipset and VRM areas. The board sports Dr-MOS component protection, and MSI seems to have spread the MOSFETs evenly, not to congest them at one place. The board provides a diagnostic display feature called D-LED 2, a small LED screen that shows diagnostic information, similar to the LCD poster that ASUS packs with some of its motherboards.
The board features an extensive set of expandability options. It features three PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slots that support both ATI CrossfireX and NVIDIA 3-way SLI for multi-GPU operations. It uses overclocker-friendly features on-board, including the peculiar turbo button. There are also 10 SATA ports, four of which, route to an external controller. All in all, the board looks promising. It isn't the highest MSI would be offering for the X58 plaform, with an even higher motherboard planned. For more pictures, browse through the thread.
The board features an extensive set of expandability options. It features three PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slots that support both ATI CrossfireX and NVIDIA 3-way SLI for multi-GPU operations. It uses overclocker-friendly features on-board, including the peculiar turbo button. There are also 10 SATA ports, four of which, route to an external controller. All in all, the board looks promising. It isn't the highest MSI would be offering for the X58 plaform, with an even higher motherboard planned. For more pictures, browse through the thread.
A-Data Releases Tri-Channel Memory Kits for Intel X58 Platform
A-DATA Technology Co., Ltd., a worldwide leader in high performance memory products, announced today that it is expanding its overclocking DRAM dual channel line with tri-channel kits at 1600 MHz and 1333 MHz.
Recent next generation Intel Core i7 platform using the latest DDR3 technologies has proven that i7's internal controller gives a notable performance increase while using DDR3 tri-channel modules. A-DATA is now ready for production of DDR3-1600+ and DDR-1333+ tri-channel kits. These new modules will be available in 3GB and 6GB configurations and are expected to be available this quarter.
Recent next generation Intel Core i7 platform using the latest DDR3 technologies has proven that i7's internal controller gives a notable performance increase while using DDR3 tri-channel modules. A-DATA is now ready for production of DDR3-1600+ and DDR-1333+ tri-channel kits. These new modules will be available in 3GB and 6GB configurations and are expected to be available this quarter.
Acer Introduces new Aspire Gemstone Notebooks
PC major Acer made additions to its notebook lineup, with the introduction of four new Aspire Gemstone series notebooks. It includes Aspire Gemstone 8930-6448, an 18.4" model, along with a 16" Aspire Gemstone 6930-6809, the 15.6" 5735-4624 and the 14.1" 4730-4374. The Aspire Gemstone 8930-6448 is the flagship model, it comes with a CrystalBrite TFT LCD display, with a native resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. At the heart of it, is a Core 2 Duo T9400 processor, clocked at 2.53 GHz. It includes 4 GB of memory, a 320 GB hard drive, and NVIDIA GeForce 9700M GT graphics with 512 MB of memory. The laptop also boasts a DVD writer, a 6-in-1 card reader, a webcam, is pre-loaded with Windows Vista Ultimate and costs about US $1700.
The rest are downscale models of essentially the same design, albeit come of them not featuring a full-sized keyboard and those special media control feather-touch buttons. The 16" Gemstone 6930-6809 comes with a native screen resolution of 1366x760 pixels. It is powered by a Core 2 Duo T5800 at 2.00 GHz, with 3GB of RAM, a 320GB 5400 RPM HDD, DVD writer and Intel GMA 4500HD integrated graphics. It is priced at $700, and comes with Vista Home Premium installed. The 5735-4624 offers the same screen resolution as the 6930-6809. It features the 2 GHz T3200 processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB 5400 RPM hard drive and integrated graphics. Windows Vista Home Premium is bundled. It sells for $550. At the very same price point, the 14.1" Gemstone 4730-4374 sports a native resolution of 1280x800 pixels, it is powered by a T3200 CPU, 2GB of RAM and a 120GB SATA hard drive.
The rest are downscale models of essentially the same design, albeit come of them not featuring a full-sized keyboard and those special media control feather-touch buttons. The 16" Gemstone 6930-6809 comes with a native screen resolution of 1366x760 pixels. It is powered by a Core 2 Duo T5800 at 2.00 GHz, with 3GB of RAM, a 320GB 5400 RPM HDD, DVD writer and Intel GMA 4500HD integrated graphics. It is priced at $700, and comes with Vista Home Premium installed. The 5735-4624 offers the same screen resolution as the 6930-6809. It features the 2 GHz T3200 processor, 2GB of RAM, 160GB 5400 RPM hard drive and integrated graphics. Windows Vista Home Premium is bundled. It sells for $550. At the very same price point, the 14.1" Gemstone 4730-4374 sports a native resolution of 1280x800 pixels, it is powered by a T3200 CPU, 2GB of RAM and a 120GB SATA hard drive.
Foxconn Renaissance X58 Pictured
The final version of the Foxconn Renaissance X58 motherboard has been pictured by an XtremeSystems forum member, complete with release-grade cooling. Foxconn gives Renaissance the "Digital Life" branding. Foxconn has diversified its premium motherboard lineup into Digital Life and Quantum Force, the former for premium motherboards with features that make them great all-rounder boards, while the latter for gamers and overclockers. It is a branding scheme similar to the Ai Lifestyle and Republic of Gamers schemes ASUS uses.
One glance at the Renaissance, and you would be drawn to its peculiar-looking northbridge cooler that looks like a speaker, but it is purely cosmetic, as with the southbridge cooler that looks like a rotary knob from a hi-fi system, from an angle. These are just to make the motherboard aesthetically blend with the Digital Life branding. The motherboard features four full-length PCI-Express slots. It will support the upcoming LGA-1366 socket Core i7 processors from Intel. Apart from the SATA II ports the southbridge provides, the board also includes two SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) ports using an external Marvell controller.
One glance at the Renaissance, and you would be drawn to its peculiar-looking northbridge cooler that looks like a speaker, but it is purely cosmetic, as with the southbridge cooler that looks like a rotary knob from a hi-fi system, from an angle. These are just to make the motherboard aesthetically blend with the Digital Life branding. The motherboard features four full-length PCI-Express slots. It will support the upcoming LGA-1366 socket Core i7 processors from Intel. Apart from the SATA II ports the southbridge provides, the board also includes two SAS (Serial Attached SCSI) ports using an external Marvell controller.
Thursday, October 2nd 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Memory
Monitors
Motherboards
Processors
PSUs
NVIDIA New Naming Scheme Revealed
After releasing yet another unofficial driver today, NVIDIA kind of revealed the new naming scheme for its video cards. Three lines from the latest NVIDIA driver release 178.15 suggest the new naming scheme:
NVIDIA_G92.DEV_0615.1 = "NVIDIA GeForce GTS 150"All GeForce 9800 series powered by the G92 GPU will be renamed to GeForce GTS 15x, while the GeForce 9600 and 9500 (G94 and G96) cards will be known as GeForce GT 130 and GT 120. The new naming system is expected to become formal in two weeks time.
NVIDIA_G94.DEV_0626.1 = "NVIDIA GeForce GT 130"
NVIDIA_G96.DEV_0646.1 = "NVIDIA GeForce GT 120"
AMD Expects DirectX 11 and Windows 7 in 2009, More in Store
AMD conducted a presentation at CEATEC Japan, where the company took a sneak-peak at how the role of GPUs would become critical to the PC of tomorrow. This of course revolved around the company's newly adopted "The Future is Fusion" slogan, integrating all of AMD's technological expertise into object and function oriented solutions for the PC industry.
Among the numerous slides that formed part of the presentation, one such slide, shows some very interesting points on what the year 2009 looks like, from AMD's perspective. It shows a lot of things slated for much later to make it to the industry. To begin with, the DirectX 11 API and Windows 7 (Vienna) operating system could make it to the industry in 2009. However, there's no mention of them being "released" as such, or if they could just be working prototypes, such as alpha releases for use by select parts of the industry for mutual technology development.
Among the numerous slides that formed part of the presentation, one such slide, shows some very interesting points on what the year 2009 looks like, from AMD's perspective. It shows a lot of things slated for much later to make it to the industry. To begin with, the DirectX 11 API and Windows 7 (Vienna) operating system could make it to the industry in 2009. However, there's no mention of them being "released" as such, or if they could just be working prototypes, such as alpha releases for use by select parts of the industry for mutual technology development.
Albatron Readying its AMD 780G Mini-ITX Motherboard
To combat Intel's Atom-embedded ITX motherboard linueup, and the platform itself, there has been an influx of mini-ITX motherboards based on the AMD 780G chipset lately. Perhaps the thermal design of the 780G allows implementation in form-factors this small. To combat the dual-core Atom, AMD had built up plans to release low-power processors based on the AM2 socket. Notably, the Athlon X2 22W and Athlon single core 15W chips. Perhaps it is these processors that are inviting companies to plan Mini-ITX motherboards based on the AM2+ socket with the 780G chipset.
Albatron is about to release the KI780G motherboard, and they seem to have packed quite a lot to it. To begin with, the board features an AM2+ socket (that supports processors only upto 65W TDP), two DDR2 SO-DIMM slots for using the more compact memory sticks notebooks use, four SATA II ports, an IDE connector, Gigabit LAN, 7.1 channel audio with SPDIF optical and co-axial pass, display connectors that include D-Sub, DVI and HDMI (HDCP capable), and finally a PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot. The motherboard goes head-on against the feature-set that the MINIX comes with. This is meant to be a full-featured HTPC board. Its pricing is not known at the moment.
Albatron is about to release the KI780G motherboard, and they seem to have packed quite a lot to it. To begin with, the board features an AM2+ socket (that supports processors only upto 65W TDP), two DDR2 SO-DIMM slots for using the more compact memory sticks notebooks use, four SATA II ports, an IDE connector, Gigabit LAN, 7.1 channel audio with SPDIF optical and co-axial pass, display connectors that include D-Sub, DVI and HDMI (HDCP capable), and finally a PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slot. The motherboard goes head-on against the feature-set that the MINIX comes with. This is meant to be a full-featured HTPC board. Its pricing is not known at the moment.
Gigabyte EX58-Extreme Pictured in all its Might
Members of the XtremeSystems forums put up pictures of Gigabyte's flagship X58 motherboard for the upcoming Core i7 processors, the EX58-Extreme with all its bells and whistles in place. Pictures of the board have surfaced several times now, older pictures were those of the EX58-DQ6 and DS4 models. What can be seen from the pictures, is a humongous chipset cooler that attaches itself to the main northbridge heatsink. The cooling continues over the board's VRM area and a large block covers the ICH10R southbridge. As the label screams, the motherboard is based on the Ultra Durable 3 PCB construction for best stability, heat dissipation and EMI control. Clearly, if you're going to be in the market for an enthusiast-grade motherboard, you're going to have a tough time...choosing. I'll leave you with the pictures.
Kingston HyperX DDR3 Modules Now Available in up to 2GHz PC3-16000 Speed
Kingston raised the barrier today, with the release of its 2GHz HyperX DDR3 memory modules, the fastest-performing DDR3 available to date. Shipping immediately in 2GB memory kits, the new HyperX PC3-16000 memory offers gaming enthusiasts top-of-the-line Enhanced Performance Profile (EPP) ready memory with CL9-9-9-27 @ 1.9v timings. "Two Gigahertz is now the sweet spot for many benchmarking enthusiasts and Kingston's new 2GHz HyperX DDR3 memory is fully tested at specified frequency and timing values so it's ideal for anyone seeking to boost performance," said Mark Tekunoff, senior technology manager, Kingston. With the addition of the 2GHz kit, Kingston now offers a full slate of DDR3 memory products available in a variety of speeds and capacities. The New Kingston PC3-16000 kit (KHX16000D3K2/2GN) is available now for US $227.00. All HyperX modules are backed by a lifetime warranty and free 24/7 tech support. For more detailed information please visit Kingston.
Fujitsu to Sell its Unprofitable Hard Drive Business to Western Digital
A new rumour is spreading around the net, claiming that Fujitsu is in talks with WesternDigital to sell its hard disk drive business. Currently WD is the second-largest hard disk drive maker in the world behind Seagate Technology. Fujitsu's HDD business is ranked sixth. If there's a deal between WD and Fujitsu, it would raise WesternDigital's market share to almost the same level as the market leader Seagate Technology. A possible acquisition would include Fujitsu's plants in Japan, the Philippines and Thailand with a total of 15,000 workers.
It's necessary for Fujitsu to review its disk-drive operations because it's facing severe competition in an industry that requires large commitments to capital spending for companies to be competitive,said Yukihiko Shimada, an analyst at Mitsubishi UFJ Securities Co. The deal would be finalized by the end of the year, according to experts. WD and Fujitsu representatives declined to make any official statements and confirm the story.
NEC Display Solutions Introduces New 24- and 19-inch Premium MultiSync LCD Monitors
Graphics designers, professionals or users with deep pockets out there looking for a high-end LCD monitor are advised to read this post, as NEC Display Solutions of America is launching today its new 24-inch MultiSync EA241WM widescreen and 19-inch MultiSync EA191M standard-format LCD monitors. These are the third and fourth MultiSync EA Series products to be introduced, following the launch of the 26-inch EA261WM in June and the 22-inch EA221WM in September. The wide-format MultiSync EA241WM is a premium enterprise display that features 5ms response time, 1000:1 contrast ratio, 400 cd/m² brightness and full 1080p high-definition 1920x1200 native resolution. The screen offers DVI-D and VGA 15-pin D-Sub interface options. If offers a height, pivot, tilt & swivel adjustment, and also has integrated down-firing speakers with headphone jack. The MultiSync EA191M, a standard-format (5:4 aspect ratio) desktop display boasting a top-of-the-line PVA panel, is ideal for the financial and specialty markets with its 1500:1 contrast ratio, four-way ergonomic capabilities (height, swivel, tilt, pivot) and integrated speakers. The EA191M features a native resolution of 1280x1024, response time of 5ms and brightness of 250 cd/m². The MultiSync EA241WM and EA191M displays come with a three-year parts, labor and backlight warranty, and even an extended warranty if desired. The displays will be available for shipment this month at an estimated street price of $549 and $379, respectively.
Nine Models of 45nm Opteron Lined up for this Month
According to sources at server builders, AMD has notified that it would be releasing nine models of quad-core AMD Opteron 45nm processors this month. The processors would be based on the Shanghai core and mark the company's entry into the 45nm silicon fabrication for CPUs.
Out of the lineup of 20 processors that would come out, the ones slated for this month include CPUs of clock-speeds between 2.3 and 2.7 GHz, of which five of them are 2000 series (2-way) models and the rest, 8000 series (8-way) models. The processors are based on Socket F (s1207) design, and sport 6 MB level 3 caches. The sources also mentioned that in February 2009, AMD will launch five 55W energy-efficient enterprise CPUs, three 2-way and two 8-way; and two 105W high-performance models a 2-way and an 8-way each.
Out of the lineup of 20 processors that would come out, the ones slated for this month include CPUs of clock-speeds between 2.3 and 2.7 GHz, of which five of them are 2000 series (2-way) models and the rest, 8000 series (8-way) models. The processors are based on Socket F (s1207) design, and sport 6 MB level 3 caches. The sources also mentioned that in February 2009, AMD will launch five 55W energy-efficient enterprise CPUs, three 2-way and two 8-way; and two 105W high-performance models a 2-way and an 8-way each.
WesternDigital Launches New Eco-friendly WD Caviar Green Hard Drives
WD today announced the second-generation of its highly popular and environmentally friendly WD Caviar Green desktop hard drives, which feature the company's GreenPower technology to significantly reduce power consumption, compared with standard hard drives. The new platform is based on WD's 333 GB/platter technology with 32 MB cache, producing capacities ranging from 500 GB to 1 TB. As an innovative leader in green storage technology, WD has ramped up its successful GreenPower technology-based hard drives to greater than 10 percent of its 3.5-inch hard drive shipments in the initial twelve months of production, making low-power technologies one of WD's fastest growing segments and WD Caviar Green one of the most successful new products in the company's recent history.
Microsoft to Release Windows Cloud OS Soon
Microsoft would be taking up its largest cloud-computing initiative, in the form of an operating system that is tailored to serve the purpose of a lean operating system that drives PCs meant for cloud computing. For those new to the term, cloud computing is the method of computer usage, where information is stored on internet servers, while cached locally onto the machine (client) the user is working on. Think of it as thin-client usage on a macro-scale.
Later this month, at the company's annual developer conference, Microsoft would unveil this new OS, which is to be named "Windows Cloud". "We need a new operating system designed for the cloud and we will introduce one in about four weeks, we'll even have a name to give you by then. But let's just call it for the purposes of today 'Windows Cloud'," said Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer. This would open up opportunities for a whole new breed of applications that are suited to the platform, which is in its infancy. The move by Microsoft could be seen as the company's effort to stay ahead of internet-Mogul Google, which seems to have some very concrete plans on cloud computing. "The last thing we want is for somebody else to obsolete us, if we're gonna get obseleted [sic] we better do it to ourselves" Ballmer added.
Later this month, at the company's annual developer conference, Microsoft would unveil this new OS, which is to be named "Windows Cloud". "We need a new operating system designed for the cloud and we will introduce one in about four weeks, we'll even have a name to give you by then. But let's just call it for the purposes of today 'Windows Cloud'," said Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer. This would open up opportunities for a whole new breed of applications that are suited to the platform, which is in its infancy. The move by Microsoft could be seen as the company's effort to stay ahead of internet-Mogul Google, which seems to have some very concrete plans on cloud computing. "The last thing we want is for somebody else to obsolete us, if we're gonna get obseleted [sic] we better do it to ourselves" Ballmer added.
Wednesday, October 1st 2008
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Monitors
Motherboards
Mouse
Mousepads
Multimedia
Processors
Ikonik Zaria A20 ATX Case with SIM Review
The Zaria A20 is a unique chassis. Having features like a kick-start power button, interchangable side window, out of the ordinary fan placement are just some of the highlights. The optional SIM module gives you total access to your fans, their lighting and several thermal sensors within the Zaria A20.
SpursEngine based Video Cards out Soon
The term "SpursEngine" might be a little new for some of us. It is the HD video processor Toshiba used in its Qosmio G55 and F40 high-end media notebooks, where the company chose to call it "Toshiba Quad-Core HD processor". The SpursEngine tag comes in, where the processor uses Toshiba's proprietary technology to accelerate graphics and HD video across multiple heads. The chip itself is derived from the CELL Broadband Engine (CBE), the central processor that drives the Sony Playstation 3 gaming console. Toshiba made modifications to the design, by reducing the number of synergistic processing elements (dubbed cores) to 4, with the common PowerPC thread arbiter remaining. It is specialized for video processing.
Toshiba has already formed collaborations with Leadtek and Thomson, the two companies would be the first to come out with cards based on this infant video processor. As such, these are not stand-alone video-cards as of now (they lack output logic), they stand to demonstrate the GPUs design methodology in a PC environment, so the companies could gain foothold. The cards could serve as HD video processing solutions, for industrial, office or home use. Toshiba could put in its proprietary video processing technologies into this product. The Leadtek Winfast PxVC 1100 is pictured below. It uses PCI-Express x1 interface, and comes with 128 MB of XDR memory. The cards could be out by the end of this month, and could carry a steep price-tag of US $286, at least going by the listings in Japan.
Toshiba has already formed collaborations with Leadtek and Thomson, the two companies would be the first to come out with cards based on this infant video processor. As such, these are not stand-alone video-cards as of now (they lack output logic), they stand to demonstrate the GPUs design methodology in a PC environment, so the companies could gain foothold. The cards could serve as HD video processing solutions, for industrial, office or home use. Toshiba could put in its proprietary video processing technologies into this product. The Leadtek Winfast PxVC 1100 is pictured below. It uses PCI-Express x1 interface, and comes with 128 MB of XDR memory. The cards could be out by the end of this month, and could carry a steep price-tag of US $286, at least going by the listings in Japan.
EVGA Upgrades 790i SLI FTW with Digital PWM
EVGA is one of the elite NVIDIA partners that sells NVIDIA-designed motherboards based on the nForce chipsets, apart from being a leading graphics card vendor. EVGA for one, added innovation to the NVIDIA designs with its own level of enhancements, such as improved capacitors, more number of CPU power phases than NVIDIA's own designs, among others. EVGA brands these higher-grade motherboards under the "FTW" series. If you've spent long enough time on an internet bulletin board, you would know that FTW means "for teh win".
EVGA decided to give its flagship motherboard, the nForce 790i SLI FTW an improvement with its power circuits. The new board, 790i SLI FTW PWM circuitry a digital upgrade. The board features an 8-phase circuit for the CPU. It also provides digital power management. This is said to push up its overclocking capabilities. The board provides vDroop control and onboard power, reset and clear CMOS buttons. The motherboard supports all LGA-775 socket processors including the ones with 1600 MHz FSB. It supports memory with speeds of up to DDR3 2000 MHz. The nForce 790i SLI FTW DIGITAL PWM is now on sale at $339.99, $40 higher than the older nForce 790i SLI FTW.
EVGA decided to give its flagship motherboard, the nForce 790i SLI FTW an improvement with its power circuits. The new board, 790i SLI FTW PWM circuitry a digital upgrade. The board features an 8-phase circuit for the CPU. It also provides digital power management. This is said to push up its overclocking capabilities. The board provides vDroop control and onboard power, reset and clear CMOS buttons. The motherboard supports all LGA-775 socket processors including the ones with 1600 MHz FSB. It supports memory with speeds of up to DDR3 2000 MHz. The nForce 790i SLI FTW DIGITAL PWM is now on sale at $339.99, $40 higher than the older nForce 790i SLI FTW.
HIS Readies Radeon HD 4850 Fan
HIS is counted amongst the leading ATI add in board partners. They already have a vast lineup of products based on the Radeon HD 4800. Like every other board partner, HIS sells reference design design cards, as well as, its own IceQ4 series Radeon HD 4850 cards. HIS decided to make a simplistic design, this time around, with the Radeon HD 4850 "Fan", that's what it's called.
The card uses a blue PCB which looks similar to the reference PCB. The card has a circular GPU cooler with aluminum fins projecting radially. The fan at its center lights up blue, during operation. Memory chips can be seen to be cooled passively. Memory amounts to 512 MB. The VRM area gets some cooling however. The card ships with reference ATI speeds of 625/1998 MHz (core/memory). The Radeon HD 4850 Fan should reach stores soon.
The card uses a blue PCB which looks similar to the reference PCB. The card has a circular GPU cooler with aluminum fins projecting radially. The fan at its center lights up blue, during operation. Memory chips can be seen to be cooled passively. Memory amounts to 512 MB. The VRM area gets some cooling however. The card ships with reference ATI speeds of 625/1998 MHz (core/memory). The Radeon HD 4850 Fan should reach stores soon.
Jan 16th, 2025 07:17 EST
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