Shuttle also launched a new line of slimline, fan-less XPC Mini PC barebones driven by the latest Intel Atom D2700 processor. The XS35V3 and XS36V launched today, succeed the XS35/V2 launched last September, which were based on previous-generation Atom D525 chips. Measuring 252 x 162 x 38.5 mm (WxDxH), the XS35V3 features a slimline optical drive bay apart from a 2.5" SATA drive bay to hold an HDD or SSD. It has two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots, supporting up to 4 GB of single-channel DDR3-1066 MHz memory. Front-panel includes a card-reader (supports SDHC/SD/MS/MS Pro), and a USB 2.0 port. Its rear-panel includes stereo line-out and mic-in audio jacks, four USB 2.0 ports, an Ethernet port, and display outputs that include HDMI 1.3 and D-sub (VGA). It also features wireless b/g/n LAN.

The XS36V has a slightly smaller chassis, measuring 200 x 160 x 36 mm. It lacks a slimline optical drive bay, its only drive bay is a 2.5" SATA. Most of its logic board is identical to that of its sibling. Apart from the a card-reader (SDHC/SD/MS/MS Pro) and a USB 2.0 port, the front-panel features two RS232 serial (COM) ports. Its rear-panel is identical to that of the XS35V3. Both models include a 40W external power brick. The XS35V3 is priced around US $149, while the XS36V is priced slightly higher.

GIGABYTE also showed off its SkyVision WS100 WHDI kit, which lets you transmit a full-HD video/audio stream wirelessly, over short distances. Compliant with WHDI 1.0 specifications, the SkyVision WS100 consists of two components a transmitter, and a receiver. The transmitter is shaped like a dongle, it plugs into a standard-size HDMI connector of the source device (PC, notebook, disc/media player). It probably draws power from a USB connection, an AC adapter could also work. On the receiving end, there's a small box-shaped device that has the output HDMI port, it draws power from a small AC adapter. The kit allows wireless transmission of video with resolution up to 1920x1080 @ 60 Hz, with 7.1 channel lossless HD audio over small distances, such as across the board room.

PNY worldwide leader in USB flash drives, PNY technologies, the leading manufacturer in memory products, To commemorate the auspicious lunar dragon year, PNY technologies, world renowned brand in USB devices has debuted its specially designed HP v218g / HP v228g USB flash drive. The limited edition flash drive is the first ever USB drive enveloped in 24 karat gold coating highlighting the taste and identity of the drive as a festive gift ceremony while offering the ultimate in storage of digital files and more.

Gold has always been denoted as a symbol of wealth and majestic royalty. The HP v218g and HP v228g embraces the regal and luxurious appeal of Chinese culture and fabricates it into the drive. The reflective mirror like smooth and lustrous surface encased in 24 karat gold coating ensures protection from any external collisions and has dustproof and waterproof characteristics. The back of the drive includes a clip on feature that allows it to be clipped on to your ties, pockets or any accessory of choice lending an elegant and professional look. The engraved black dragon art demands power and respect, as the mythological creature is famously known for. The streamlined appearance and slim design makes it a compact and fashionable device that offers you unrestricted performance.

Power Quotient International (PQI) has just announced the launch of its all-new U280L USB Traveling Disk today. The device's small and compact design was inspired by computer keyboards and, at a mere 0.68 cm thick, is roughly the same size as a single key. When plugged into an Ultrabook, Notebook, or Tablet PC, it remains firmly attached and takes up almost no extra space. This streamlined design eliminates cluttering issues common among other bulky flash drives. In addition, its compact low-profile makes it a durable and resilient partner, ensuring that data remains safe and secure wherever the user takes it.

The PQI U280L features a special sandblasted plastic exterior that is both sturdy and attractive. The casing is reminiscent of morning mist, and comes in two colors: aurora white and storm black. In addition, a glowing red LED indicator at the end of the drive flashes during data transfers to clearly signal the device's operation status. The U280L also comes with a free multipurpose chain which enables the device to be conveniently carried around as a stylish charm by attaching it to other personal items such as mobile phones, cameras, backpacks, and more.

Genius, a leading maker of computer peripherals, today announces the Maurus professional gaming mouse to the North American market. This new programmable five-button mouse designed for FPS/RTS gamers adds even more variety to the ever growing GX Gaming Series.

Featuring numerous customizable features, the Genius Maurus gives gamers a personalized experience in gaming. The Scorpion UI lets you set up to 21 macros, giving you a competitive edge in the heat of battle. These macros and other settings are always in the on-board memory, so even when switching computers at LAN parties or competitions no time is lost tweaking exactly how you like to play. Additionally, the Maurus' buttons, with default settings of left, right, middle with scroll, next page, and last page, are programmable giving gamers even more customizable control.

Hauppauge Digital, Inc. has announced 'StreamEez', a high definition video streamer designed for organisations who want a simple to use, high quality video streamer to broadcast live events on the Internet.

The StreamEez 'box' connects to an HD video camera using either HDMI or Component Video, compresses the camera's video using a built-in high quality H.264 encoder into a form which is compatible with many common streaming video sites such as Ustream and Justin.TV. StreamEez then connects to a laptop computer over USB. The computer has the Hauppauge StreamEez control application installed, which makes a connection to the streaming Internet web site.

I-O Data of Japan introduced a new line of hard drives for DVRs and smart TVs, the AVHD-PxU. Available in two variants based on capacity, 500 GB and 1 TB, the AVHD-PU is capable of functioning as a storage medium for DVRs and smart TVs such as Toshiba Regza, Sharp Aquos, Sony Bravia, etc. Measuring 79 x 23 x 134 mm (WxDxH), and weighing around 200 g, the drives connect to host machines over USB 2.0 interface (standard and mini type-A connectors). It includes mounting holes to make it discrete (behind the TV). The 500 GB and 1 TB variants are priced at 13,125 JPY (US $161) and 17,640 JPY (US $216), respectively.

MemoTrek Technologies, the leading wholesale supplier of branded USB flash drives and promotional USB memory has recently announced the launch of the MemoTrek MetalKey USB flash drive, a classical key shaped metal USB flash drive containing a high quality NAND flash memory solid state chip with a storage capacity of up to 32 GB.

The MemoTrek MetalKey 32 GB USB key of solid metal can be branded with a custom company logo to create sustainable marketing value and boost marketing ROI by giving an attractive and truly practical promotional gift to the two important segments of potential new customers or loyal VIPs.

With the 14 nm "Broadwell" architecture, Intel will take a new step towards integration of the platform-controller hub (PCH) with the CPU, by designing it to be a multi-chip module (with the CPU+northbridge in one die, and PCH on the other). This would make "Broadwell" a true System-on-chip (SoC), which allows over 90 percent of the system's I/O to be routed to the processor socket, including memory, PCI-Express, SATA, USB, etc. Although not the first to the industry with single-chip chipsets and integrated memory controllers, Intel rapidly reshaped the arrangement between CPU and core-logic, over the past four years.

It began with transfer of memory controller from northbridge to CPU die (45 nm "Bloomfield"), and transfer of the entire northbridge to the CPU die (45 nm "Lynnfield"). The graphics northbridge transferred a little more gradually, first as multi-chip module with a separate CPU die (32 nm "Clarkdale"), then complete integration with the CPU die (32 nm "Sandy Bridge"). All through, the southbridge, or I/O controller hub (ICH) remained outside the CPU package, with the addition of a display output logic, it transformed into a "platform controller hub" (PCH), which is still just a glorified southbridge. Naturally then, such a drastic relocation of system components will warrant a socket change.

Here's a unique USB flash drive, which has both standard and micro USB type-A connectors, that allow you to plug it to both PCs with standard USB ports, and portable devices such as smartphones and tablets, which have micro-USB ports. The JF-UFDP4S from Force Media, is what its makers are referring to as the "Perfect Media". It provides 4 GB of storage, over both interfaces, and talks to hosts over USB 2.0 (480 Mb/s).

It is a conventional-looking capped bar design, only that both its ends are capped, with a connector on each end. To prevent misplacing caps, each cap can be attached to the top of the other cap, on the other end of the drive. When plugged in via its standard connector, it works as a normal USB Mass Storage device, while with its micro-USB interface, it works plug-and-play with Android driven smartphones, tablets, and smart portable media players that have USB OTG support. Measuring 18.0 x 73.1 x 9.2 mm (WxDxH), it weighs about 39 g. Its main body is covered with a sheet of aluminum. Slated for mid-April, the JF-UFDP4S from Force Media is priced at 1,980 JPY (US $24).

GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, today announced the launch of its GIGABYTE B75 series motherboards, designed to offer small business users a simple, easy to manage office IT infrastructure using the new and exclusive Intel Small Business Advantage software suite.

"The GIGABYTE B75 series represents an exciting step up in GIGABYTE's commitment to Intel's business platforms, and we are investing significant company resources to promote broad adoption amongst our global customer base," commented Henry Kao, Vice President of GIGABYTE Motherboard Business Unit. "We plan to go to market on launch day with no less than 4 models that will be an integral part of our product portfolio as we believe the features offer an opportunity for our system integrator and retailer partners to differentiate their products and services with the elegant and easy-to-use Intel Small Business Advantage IT management system."

Japanese company Princeton took the concepts of Bluetooth input devices for tablets and smartphones, and turned it around. Its newest creation, the PSC Bluetooth KVM, is a combination of a USB Bluetooth 3.0 dongle, Bluetooth input device driver model, and its own software, that lets you use the input devices that are connected to your PC/laptop (your wired keyboard and mouse), with your Android, iOS, or Windows Mobile smartphone or tablet. This could come particularly handy to those who have their iPads on a stand, next to their PCs on their desks, as you could instantly give input to the iPad, and get things done faster. The PSC Bluetooth virtual KVM, from Princeton, is priced at 4,980 JPY (US $61).

Chinese company ORICO unveiled the KM6116 value wireless keyboard mouse combo, that includes a 1600 DPI 3+scroll button mouse, and a narrow QWERTY keyboard with the EN-US keyset. The mouse uses an optical sensor with resolution switchable between 1600, 1200, 800, and 400 DPI, on the fly. Lower resolutions could help conserve battery. In its belly, the mouse hides the battery compartment (two AAA-size), and a space where the 2.4 GHz band wireless USB micro-receiver can be stored for transportation. The same receiver handles both the mouse and the keyboard. The keyboard is of a common membrane type, with 12 multimedia other shortcut keys. The keyboard takes in two AAA-sized batteries, too. Both devices have several power saving features that work to increase battery draw. The ORICO KM6116 goes for 89 RMB (US $14).

NEXUS announced the NXTEK SM-5000 series silent wireless mice. The SM-5000 is an advanced 2.4G wireless silent optical mouse which connects to your PC or laptop with it's super small nano receiver, double scroll wheel, DPI switch and superb comfortable design it's a must have mouse.

The Nexus Silent Mouse has a comfortable size and is an excellent mouse for desktop use. But also for laptop users it is very suitable. Especially because of the small nano receive which you plug in a USB port and leave it there. It is so small that you do not need to take it out...you just forget its there. Furthermore the mouse is made from quality surface treatments so it feels good in your hand.

Genius, a leading manufacturer of computer peripherals, is pleased to announce the SP-i250G Portable Speakers for the GX Gaming Series. Able to play rich and vivid audio from virtually any device, these dual compact speakers are ideal for the modern on-the-go users.

Listening to high-quality on these 40mm omni-directional neodymium speakers is easy. Users simply plug in the gold-plated 3.5mm jack into their preferred electronic device, be it an iPod, iPad, or notebook, and they can experience the full spectrum of sound including deep low tones.

NEC and Access Technica launched a trio of 802.11n 450 Mbps-capable wireless networking products, including the Aterm WL450NU-AG, the Aterm WR9500N, and Aterm WR9300N. The star product here is the Aterm WL450NU-AG, an 802.11n USB network adapter that's capable of 450 Mbps over the 5 GHz band, and other speeds over 2.4 GHz band. Measuring 28 x 85 x 15 mm, this adapter includes an easy network configuration utility called "Easy Start". It is priced at 6,000 JPY (US $73).

Moving on, the Aterm WR9500N is a bundle of an 802.11n/a/b/g-compliant wireless router that's capable of 5/2.4 GHz dual-band operation, and the Aterm WL450NU-AG. It is priced at 10,000 JPY (US $121). The Aterm WR9300N, on the other hand, is a bundle of an 802.11n/a/b/g-compliant router that's only capable of the 2.4 GHz band, and includes the Aterm WL450NU-AG. This one goes for a little lesser. All three products reach stores this week.

Sanwa Supply introduced the MA-NANOIR13 series wireless optical mice, which feature infrared optical sensors. The infrared sensors draw lesser power than visible light sensors, and hence conserve battery. The sensors offer tracking resolution as high as 3000 DPI, this resolution can be switched on-the-fly between 3000, 1500, and 1000 DPI. Oriented for the right-hand, the MA-NANOIR13 has two side buttons apart from its three main buttons and a 2-way scroll-wheel.

Measuring 55 x 107 x 36 mm (WxDxH), these mice weigh 70 g without batteries, they take in two AA-size ones. With a pair of mainstream alkaline batteries, up to 15 months' battery-life can be expected. The mouse talks to the host machine over 2.4 GHz radio band, a USB micro-receiver is included. The MA-NANOIR13 comes in three color options, black, silver, and red. They are priced at 3,675 JPY (US $44.6).

Option, a global leader in wireless connectivity, security and experience, establishes its credentials as an LTE provider with the launch of Beemo, its new, ultrafast, quad-band 4G LTE USB modem.

Beemo brings best-in-class 4G. It sets itself apart through its stylish design, high quality and great performance. It has proven superior heat dissipation and delivers exceptionally fast quad-band (800/900/1800/2600 MHz) connectivity. Beemo comes with an external antenna connector that enables users to improve the signal in areas with low signal strength.

Cooler Master, an industry leading chassis, thermal solution, peripheral, and accessory manufacturer, today announces the next incarnation of the extremely popular QuickFire Rapid Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, the QuickFire Pro.

Precision, Comfort, & Durability

Featuring a smooth and clean aesthetic, QuickFire Pro includes laser-marked keycaps and a non-glossy matte finish. This is complemented by a set of extra keycaps (includes a key puller) that give the keyboard an extra appeal that draws other gamers in. A response time of 1 ms, in USB mode, offers gamers a necessary consistency to navigate the ever changing landscapes of their video game libraries.

Western Digital today introduced the first 2 TB capacity portable drive dedicated for Mac customers, My Passport Studio. This new standard in high storage capacity, along with Apple Time Machine compatibility for quick and easy automatic backup of Mac hard drives, allows Mac users to use one drive for the protection and transport of virtually all their digital content, everywhere they go.

The new My Passport Studio portable drive maintains its elegant and protective all-metal casing to complement the MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, providing the beautiful aesthetic that Mac users expect while increasing storage capacity to 2 TB, enough space for approximately 400,000 photos, 240 hours of video or 500,000 songs.

Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. continues to offer better audio solutions for laptop computers with the release of the S-MM201 USB-powered computer speakers. The speakers deliver better performance and a much fuller sound experience than built-in laptop speakers, all from a compact package that is easily transportable and can be quickly connected via USB and without the need for AC power. The S-MM201 offers a built-in audio DAC and bass-reflex enclosure designed to enhance bass frequencies.

Japanese PC peripherals webstore Kuroutoshikou unveiled a new 2-bay HDD dock, the KURO-DACHI/CLONE/U3. Built in the top-loading "toaster-dock" form-factor, it measures 108 x 62 x 149 mm (LxHxW). The dock takes in two SATA hard drives and solid-state drives in the 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch form-factors. It can connect the two drives to a PC over fast USB 3.0 interface, as USB mass-storage volumes, and can also clone drives 1:1, without needing a PC. Windows 7, Vista, and XP; 32-bit and 64-bit, are supported. Slated for early-April, the dock is priced at 4,000 JPY (US $48.7).

ZOTAC is flexing its engineering muscle. First, it was talk of a 2 GHz GeForce GTX 680 by one of its senior executives, and now this, ZOTAC GeForce GTX 680 Extreme Edition. Pictured below, the card's design is reminiscent of the crazy engineering endeavors ZOTAC China undertakes, to come up with some extremely powerful designs, which seldom get out of the APAC region (to EMEAI and NA regions).

ZOTAC took a top-tier binned GK104 GPU, 2 GB of high-grade Hynix GDDR5 memory chips, and paired them with a 12-phase VRM power supply. Apart from bleeding-edge International Rectifier GaNpowIR driver-MOSFETs, the VRM uses server-grade tantalum capacitors, and FPCAP multi-phase capacitors. To drive it all, ZOTAC used CHiL CHL8318 VRM controller.

inXtron showed off its newest small-business NAS server at Intel Storage Forum, the Akitio MyCloud Pro. As the venue might suggest, this 2-bay desktop NAS is powered by Intel x86 architecture. inXtron even put is logic board for display, which revealed it to be driven by an Intel Atom D425 single-core (HTT-enabled) processor, with its usual NM10 chipset. The board also revealed several interesting components, such as two 2-port USB 3.0 controllers, giving out two ports on the rear panel and two for the front-panel, via a standard header.

The primary storage controller is the Intel NM10 chipset itself, the NAS uses a USB DOM (disk-on-module) it boots from, to hold its operating system. The primary network interface is a 1 GbE, driven by a Realtek-made PHY. Interestingly, the board has a vacant mini-PCIe slot, on which WLAN cards can be installed. The MyCloud Pro supports two SATA 3 Gb/s hard drives in the 3.5" form-factor. It supports all modern NAS features, such as UPnP-AV, NFS, FTP, Samba, but DLNA wasn't mentioned. The OS also includes a Bit-torrent client, and Apple iTunes-compatible music server. inXtron has apps for Android and iOS smartphones, with which you can use the phone to control the NAS. inXtron is targeting a sweet price-point under US $200, with the Akitio MyCloud Pro NAS.

Chinese company SAMA introduced Nighthawk 2, a value ATX mid-tower case, priced at just 299 RMB (US $47.4). Despite its low cost, it offers a host of new features, aesthetic touches, and a good load-out of fans. Measuring 450 x 200 x 420 mm (WxDxH), the case is made of ABS and SECC/steel. It features an all-black interior and exterior, with a red acrylic side panel window, which slightly protrudes. Most of its front-panel is perforated.

The case is spacious enough to hold 300 mm-long graphics cards. Drive bays include four 5.25" and six 3.5", all of which are tool-free. Its ventilation system includes one 120 mm red LED-lit front intake, one 120 mm exhaust between the 3.5" drive cage and the motherboard tray, one 120 mm rear exhaust, and two 120 mm top exhausts. The front utility panel includes four USB 2.0 ports, and audio.