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Wednesday, November 30th 2016
ASUS PRIME Z270-A Motherboard Also Detailed
Finally putting the lid on all of ASUS' leaked and detailed motherboards, comes, the PRIME Z270-A, which doesn't belong to a special, bang-and-whistle-filled product line, and is just concerned with getting the job done. It clads itself in a simple and appealing white and gray color-scheme, and is expected to keep most of the important features in ASUS' more expensive product lines.
The PRIME Z270-A comes with ASUS' 8+2+2 Phase Digital power design, fed by an 8-pin connector, that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustment, courtesy of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking. It features four DDR4 DIMM slots that can support up to 64 GB of memory with speeds of up to 3866 MHZ (O.C+), and expansion slots on the motherboard include three PCIe 3.0 x16 (x16/x8/x4 electrical), four PCIe 3.0 x1 and dual M.2 slots that deliver up to 32 GB/s transfer speeds, with the PCIe slots being armored for higher resistance.
The PRIME Z270-A comes with ASUS' 8+2+2 Phase Digital power design, fed by an 8-pin connector, that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustment, courtesy of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking. It features four DDR4 DIMM slots that can support up to 64 GB of memory with speeds of up to 3866 MHZ (O.C+), and expansion slots on the motherboard include three PCIe 3.0 x16 (x16/x8/x4 electrical), four PCIe 3.0 x1 and dual M.2 slots that deliver up to 32 GB/s transfer speeds, with the PCIe slots being armored for higher resistance.
ASUS TUF Z270 MARK 1 Motherboard Detailed - Armored and Tough
Moving on from the Strix series, ASUS' TUF Z270 Mark 1 has also been detailed. Designed around so-called military standards purported to ensure longer stability and extreme durability, the new TUF Z270 motherboards incorporates features such as Tough Inside, Thermal Armor, TUF Networking, TUF Audio, Ultimate Cooling, 24/7 Durability and high speed transfer. This motherboard is one of ASUS' most premium and feature-packed products, so you should expect to pay a pretty, pretty penny for it, if history - and pricing history in particular - is anything to go by (and it usually is).
The LGA 1151 socket supports the latest 6th and 7th generation Intel Core processors, with the MARK 1 sporting an aggressive heatsink design that features ASUS' AURA RGB technology and a full cover TUF Thermal Armor and Fortifier shield. The chassis of the board houses a 40mm fan that offers significant cooling performance to the VRMs.
The LGA 1151 socket supports the latest 6th and 7th generation Intel Core processors, with the MARK 1 sporting an aggressive heatsink design that features ASUS' AURA RGB technology and a full cover TUF Thermal Armor and Fortifier shield. The chassis of the board houses a 40mm fan that offers significant cooling performance to the VRMs.
ASUS ROG STRIX Z270F Gaming Motherboard Details Surface
Continuing the trend of revealing ASUS' ROG lineup of motherboards based on the Z270 chipset, and zipping down the product line, comes the ROG STRIX Z270F Gaming, which also sports the standard ATX form factor. The motherboard features an all around solid design with an impressive metallic black / silver color scheme. The LGA 1151 socket supports the latest 6th and 7th generation Intel Core processors. ASUS went with an aggressive heatsink design that features their AURA RGB technology for a full LED illuminated color showcase. In terms of features, the ROG STRIX Z270F Gaming continues the trend of intelligent cost-cutting so as to achieve a product with an (expectedly) lower price-point. Compared to the ROG STRIX Z270E, this mobo cuts on the 2×2 MU-MIMO 802.11ac WI-FI on the back I/O, and the USB front header is downgraded to a 2.0 solution.
The ASUS ROG Strix Z270F comes with a 8+2+1 Phase Digital power design that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustment. All of these components are part of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking. Power is fed through a single 8-Pin connector.
The ASUS ROG Strix Z270F comes with a 8+2+1 Phase Digital power design that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustment. All of these components are part of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking. Power is fed through a single 8-Pin connector.
ASUS ROG STRIX Z270E Gaming Motherboard Detailed
With the ever-closer release of Intel's Kaby Lake family of CPUs, details and leaks are becoming more and more difficult to stem. Continuing the trend, we are now detailing the ROG STRIX Z270E Gaming is yet another ATX form factor motherboard by Asus, featuring an impressive metallic black / silver color scheme on the LGA 1151 socket. ASUS went with an aggressive heatsink design that features their AURA RGB technology for a full LED illuminated color showcase. The STRIX line inherits much of the other features of the Maximus line of motherboards, though they universally do away with the black and red color scheme.
GIGABYTE Announces the Xtreme Gaming XC700W Chassis
GIGABYTE today announced the Xtreme Gaming XC700W chassis. This ATX full-tower case measures 593.5 mm x 240.5 mm x 546.6 mm (DxWxH), and is made of SECC steel, aluminium, and tempered glass. Its design consists of a steel framework that holds on to a tempered glass panel on the left side, and an aluminium panel that covers the front and right side panels of the case. It features RGB multi-color LED lighting forming accents along the edges of the aluminium panel, the front case badge, and a prominent "Xtreme Gaming" logo along the side panel.
Inside, the case isn't compartmentalized, although the drive cages are detachable to free up more room. The motherboard tray can hold ATX and EATX motherboards, with up to 8 expansion slots. You get room for add-on cards as long as 430 mm, and CPU coolers as tall as 170 mm. There are no 5.25-inch bays, but you get a drive cage with three 3.5-inch bays (convertible to 2.5-inch), and three 2.5-inch mounts behind the motherboard tray. Ventilation includes a 140 mm rear exhaust, and 3x 120 mm top exhausts (convertible to 2x 140 mm). Front panel connectivity includes two each of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports; and HDA audio jacks. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Inside, the case isn't compartmentalized, although the drive cages are detachable to free up more room. The motherboard tray can hold ATX and EATX motherboards, with up to 8 expansion slots. You get room for add-on cards as long as 430 mm, and CPU coolers as tall as 170 mm. There are no 5.25-inch bays, but you get a drive cage with three 3.5-inch bays (convertible to 2.5-inch), and three 2.5-inch mounts behind the motherboard tray. Ventilation includes a 140 mm rear exhaust, and 3x 120 mm top exhausts (convertible to 2x 140 mm). Front panel connectivity includes two each of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports; and HDA audio jacks. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Corsair Celebrates 10 Million PSUs Sold with RM1000i Special Edition
CORSAIR, a world leader in enthusiast memory, high-performance gaming hardware and PC components, today reached two new milestones, celebrating ten years since first entering the PSU market and the sale of the ten millionth CORSAIR PSU. Over the past decade, CORSAIR has revolutionized the enthusiast PSU industry with an unrelenting commitment to product quality and innovation that has seen the PSU evolve from an after-thought into the high-quality heart of a modern PC. CORSAIR has championed a range of key features to push PC power supplies to new levels of performance, functionality and customization. Modular PSUs have made building PCs easier, Zero RPM fan mode allows the PSU's fan to switch off entirely under low loads and with digitally controlled power and CORSAIR LINK PSU monitoring, users can find out exactly how their PSU is performing in an instant.
To commemorate this achievement, CORSAIR is proud to announce the extremely limited CORSAIR RM1000i Special Edition. Individually numbered, finished in striking arctic white and equipped with both a white LED-lit cooling fan and new individually sleeved white cables, only 100 of these PSUs will be built, giving enthusiasts a chance to own a unique piece of CORSAIR history.
To commemorate this achievement, CORSAIR is proud to announce the extremely limited CORSAIR RM1000i Special Edition. Individually numbered, finished in striking arctic white and equipped with both a white LED-lit cooling fan and new individually sleeved white cables, only 100 of these PSUs will be built, giving enthusiasts a chance to own a unique piece of CORSAIR history.
MSI Unveils the M.2 Shield, SSD Cooling Feature on Upcoming Motherboards
MSI unveiled a unique new feature it is introducing with its next-generation socket LGA1151 motherboards, called the M.2 Shield. This is an aluminium heatspreader that acts as a full-length cover over the motherboard's M.2-2280 slots, hinged near the M.2 interface. The heatspreader has non-conductive thermal padding on the inside, letting it make contact with the drive's hot components (controller, NAND-flash chips, etc), and pushing heat over to the heatspreader. MSI claims that this lowers temperatures, and reduces throttling on some of the high-performance M.2 PCIe SSDs. Some of the faster M.2 SSDs such as the Samsung 950 Pro have indeed earned the notoriety of heating up to levels that reduce performance. It remains to be seen how much a thin sheet of aluminium changes that.
BenQ Intros the EW3270ZL Eye-Care Monitor
BenQ introduced the EW3270ZL Eye-Care monitor. This 32-inch monitor features a native resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, with a design focus on being easy on the eyes. This include dynamic brightness adjustment that senses the ambient lighting; and a non-PWM method of adjusting brightness of the LED back-lighting (prevents micro-flickering). Under the hood is an AMVA+ panel with 10 bpc (1.07 billion colors) support.
Other key display features include 4 ms response time (GTG), 178°/178° viewing-angles, 300 cd/m² maximum brightness, native contrast ratio of 3,000:1 (static), and dynamic mega-contrast. The display takes input from HDMI 1.4 (native resolution at 30 Hz), DisplayPort 1.2 (native resolution at 60 Hz), and mini-DisplayPort (native resolution at 60 Hz). Other features include 2W stereo speakers. The stand allows basic tilt adjustments. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Other key display features include 4 ms response time (GTG), 178°/178° viewing-angles, 300 cd/m² maximum brightness, native contrast ratio of 3,000:1 (static), and dynamic mega-contrast. The display takes input from HDMI 1.4 (native resolution at 30 Hz), DisplayPort 1.2 (native resolution at 60 Hz), and mini-DisplayPort (native resolution at 60 Hz). Other features include 2W stereo speakers. The stand allows basic tilt adjustments. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Enermax Unveils the Revolution SFX Power Supply Series
Enermax unveiled the Revolution SFX line of power supplies (PSUs) for the SFX form-factor. Available in variants of 550W and 650W, these PSUs feature full modular cabling. The units measure 125 mm x 100 mm x 63.5 mm (LxDxH), and feature a single 80 mm fan for ventilation, with fanless operation under 30% load. Under the hood, these units feature a single +12V rail design, with 80 Plus Gold efficiency, and most common electrical protection mechanisms.
Both variants of the Enermax Revolution SFX ship with flat modular cables, including two 6+2 pin PCIe, one 4+4 pin EPS, one 24-pin ATX, six SATA power, and four 4-pin Molex, with one Molex to Berg adapter. An included SFX to ATX adapter lets you install this PSU in conventional ATX/MATX cases. The company didn't reveal pricing, although the units are expected to go on sale, on the 9th of December, 2016.
Both variants of the Enermax Revolution SFX ship with flat modular cables, including two 6+2 pin PCIe, one 4+4 pin EPS, one 24-pin ATX, six SATA power, and four 4-pin Molex, with one Molex to Berg adapter. An included SFX to ATX adapter lets you install this PSU in conventional ATX/MATX cases. The company didn't reveal pricing, although the units are expected to go on sale, on the 9th of December, 2016.
Tuesday, November 29th 2016
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Watch Dogs 2: Performance Analysis
Watch_Dogs 2 is Ubisoft's latest open-world game, featuring a new and improved game engine with tons of options to adjust graphics settings. We took a closer look at the game's performance using a wide spectrum of graphics cards and also tested its video memory usage, with and without the high-res texture pack.
Leaked Intel Core i7-7700K Sample Tested
The team over at Tom's Hardware have gotten their hands on Intel's new 'Kaby Lake' CPU - The Core i7-7700K. While the chip is not marked as an engineering sample, they cannot confirm with confidence that it is a retail part. They then did what we all hoped and expected, they put the new i7 through a series of benchmarks both at its stock speeds and overclocked. Without a retail Z270 series motherboard to test with, Kaby Lake compatible firmware was loaded onto their Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Ultra Gaming board.
In line with what has been reported so far, the stock clock speeds of their sample was 4.20GHz base and 4.50GHz max turbo boost with a TDP of 95W, up marginally from the i7-6700K's 91W. As tested the 7700K drew slightly more power under load than the 6700K whilst achieving benchmark results that are more-or-less in line with the percentage clock speed increase. Using the same core voltage for overclocking, the 7700K was able to manage a 4.8GHz overclock at 1.3v where the 6700K achieved 4.6GHz. As Intel did not change the core micro architecture between Skylake and Kaby Lake, it appears that save for HEVC and VP9 8/10-bit encode/decode and other possible features we may not yet know of, slightly faster clock speeds is the principal improvement. Given this is a pre-release test conducted on a motherboard that may not be able to unleash the full potential of the i7-7700K, the results should be taken with their appropriate pinch of salt. For the article and detailed findings, please follow the source link.
In line with what has been reported so far, the stock clock speeds of their sample was 4.20GHz base and 4.50GHz max turbo boost with a TDP of 95W, up marginally from the i7-6700K's 91W. As tested the 7700K drew slightly more power under load than the 6700K whilst achieving benchmark results that are more-or-less in line with the percentage clock speed increase. Using the same core voltage for overclocking, the 7700K was able to manage a 4.8GHz overclock at 1.3v where the 6700K achieved 4.6GHz. As Intel did not change the core micro architecture between Skylake and Kaby Lake, it appears that save for HEVC and VP9 8/10-bit encode/decode and other possible features we may not yet know of, slightly faster clock speeds is the principal improvement. Given this is a pre-release test conducted on a motherboard that may not be able to unleash the full potential of the i7-7700K, the results should be taken with their appropriate pinch of salt. For the article and detailed findings, please follow the source link.
AMD "New Horizon" Event to Preview ZEN Processor Mid-December
AMD's next-generation ZEN processor family is bound for a grand entrance this December, with the company planning a special media event that will be live-streamed to the public. Called "New Horizon," AMD is designing the event to be an "exclusive advanced preview" of the processor ahead of its Q1-2017 scheduled launch. The preview will see eSports and Evil Geniuses legend PPD put "Zen" through its paces, according to its announcement. With this AMD appears to be showing off the chip's advanced gaming capabilities. " If you're serious about gaming, this is an event you do not want to miss," AMD's announcement signs off. The event stream goes live on the 13th of December, at 15:00 CST (21:00 hrs UTC).
ASUS ROG Strix Z270G Motherboard Leaked
The ROG STRIX Z270G Gaming is the first leaked motherboard that fills customers' needs in the microATX form factor (making it one of the more interesting ones), featuring an impressive metallic black / silver color scheme on the LGA 1151 socket, which I personally find beautiful. ASUS went with an aggressive heatsink design that features their AURA RGB technology for a full LED illuminated color showcase. The STRIX line inherits much of the other features of the Maximus line of motherboards, though they universally do away with the black and red color scheme.
ASUS ROG Maximus IX Hero Z270 Motherboard Also Detailed
ASUS' ROG Maximus IX Code, the company's step-down product from the already detailed Maximus IX Formula, has also been leaked. Like the Formula, it's in the ATX form factor with the red and black colors of the ROG line; the difference between thie Maximus IX Hero and the Code stands in that the Hero is absent from the Code's PCB front shielding, the 2×2 MU-MIMO 802.11 AC WI-FI capabilities, as well as the and USB 2.0 (2+4) front panel connectors, putting it in an even lower tier in product placement, and, we expect, pricing (though, being part of the ROG line, that doesn't mean it will be cheap).
ASUS ROG Maximus IX Code Z270 Motherboard Leaked
ASUS' ROG Maximus IX Code, the company's step-down product from the already detailed Maximus IX Formula, has also been leaked. Like the Formula, it's in the ATX form factor with the red and black colors of the ROG line; the difference between the ROG Maximus IX Code and the IX Formula stands in that the Code is absent from the Formula's integrated water-cooling solution, which puts it in a somewhat lower tier in product placement, and, we expect, pricing.
ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula Z270 Motherboard Leaked
With the ever-closer release of Intel's Kaby Lake family of CPUs, details and leaks are becoming more and more difficult to stem. As such, the ASUS ROG Maximus IX Formula, ASUS's high-end offering for the Z270 chipset and LGA 1151 socket, has been detailed.
The board features the ATX form factor, with the solid red and black colors that are ROG's identity, with red LEDs spread throughout the board - part of the new Aura RGB lightning which offers 3+2 independent on-board LED areas that can be customized by users. The board comes with a 8+2+2 Phase Digital power design that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustments. All of these components are part of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking, with power being fed through a single 8-Pin connector.
The board features the ATX form factor, with the solid red and black colors that are ROG's identity, with red LEDs spread throughout the board - part of the new Aura RGB lightning which offers 3+2 independent on-board LED areas that can be customized by users. The board comes with a 8+2+2 Phase Digital power design that features 10K black metallic capacitors, MicroFine Alloy Chokes, NexFET PW (Power) block MOSFET and DIGI+ Power Control Utility for real-time adjustments. All of these components are part of the new ASUS Extreme Engine Digi+ technology that improves CPU stability and overclocking, with power being fed through a single 8-Pin connector.
Watch Dogs 2 Uses EasyAntiCheat - Monitors Systems, Potentially Prevents Modding
Watch Dogs 2 has recently made its debut, encountering both critical acclaim and inversely proportional sales - at least for now. The game features a living open world, achieving what the original promised but never delivered, with both single-player and multi-player modes being praised by their quality.
And when there is a semblance of multiplayer, there must also be an anti-cheating mechanism. Watch Dogs 2 makes use of EasyAntiCheat, which has, embedded in its TOS - and even on its features page - a field that claims "Client data analysis to identify anomalies in the game process runtime" is used to enforce it anti-cheat detection mechanisms. What it basically means is that EasyAntiCheat installs a driver in kernel mode and a service that monitors your systems' operating files (when Watch Dogs 2 is running). This mechanism is also running even when you're in single-player-only - and even offline - modes, meaning that you're not getting out of its crosshairs no matter how you are playing the game. The addition of file-integrity checks at the start of the game, so as to detect any changes to the games' files also precludes modding, with some injection-type modding also finding troubles in being able to access the game, due to it checking game memory and system memory as well. Popular applications such as Afterburner and OBS have their overlay and recording capabilities disabled, and Cheat Engine is also not working - though that just means EasyAntiCheat is doing its job.
And when there is a semblance of multiplayer, there must also be an anti-cheating mechanism. Watch Dogs 2 makes use of EasyAntiCheat, which has, embedded in its TOS - and even on its features page - a field that claims "Client data analysis to identify anomalies in the game process runtime" is used to enforce it anti-cheat detection mechanisms. What it basically means is that EasyAntiCheat installs a driver in kernel mode and a service that monitors your systems' operating files (when Watch Dogs 2 is running). This mechanism is also running even when you're in single-player-only - and even offline - modes, meaning that you're not getting out of its crosshairs no matter how you are playing the game. The addition of file-integrity checks at the start of the game, so as to detect any changes to the games' files also precludes modding, with some injection-type modding also finding troubles in being able to access the game, due to it checking game memory and system memory as well. Popular applications such as Afterburner and OBS have their overlay and recording capabilities disabled, and Cheat Engine is also not working - though that just means EasyAntiCheat is doing its job.
AMD Socket AM4 "Bristol Ridge" APU De-lidded
Here are some of the first pictures of an AMD socket AM4 APU being de-lidded. De-lidding is the process of removing the IHS (integrated heatspreader), the metal plate covering the CPU die. Some PC enthusiasts remove the IHS to improve heat-transfer between the CPU and extreme cooling solutions, such as LN2/dry-ice evaporators. Overclocker Nam Dae Won, with access to a couple of socket AM4 chips (most likely 7th generation A-series "Bristol Ridge" APUs), de-lidded the chips, revealing a large rectangular die. AMD is using high-quality TIM between the die and the IHS, which could either be solder or liquid metal. There's also a clear picture of the underside pin-grid of the AM4 chip, which has a central cutout that lacks any SMT components. Socket AM4 has 1,331 pins.
Mionix Intros the Propus 380 Gaming Mousepad
Mionix today introduced the Propus 380 gaming mousepad. With a surface area of 380 mm x 260 mm, and a thickness 4 mm; the Propus 380 is almost a desk-mat, due to its large size. Its surface, the company claims, is designed for precision, without compromising too much speed. The surface also features a "silver glitter" material, which is more decorative than serving any technical purpose. The top is finished with an water-repellent coating. The bottom has a rubberized PVC base, the mat is flexible, and can be rolled. Available now, the Mionix Propus 380 is priced at 24.99€.
Swiftech Intros Komodo Luxury Edition Water Block for TITAN X Pascal
Swiftech today introduced the Komodo Luxury Edition (NV-LE) full-coverage water block for the NVIDIA TITAN X Pascal graphics card. This block is a premium variant of the Komodo Eco block recently announced for the TITAN X Pascal. What sets the two apart is the opaque metal element that covers the acrylic top over all parts except the coolant channel; and an included green LED lighting kit (which has to be purchased separately for the NV-ECO). The underlying block is still nickel-plated copper; with the same exact coolant channel and heat-dissipation micro-fin lattice over the GPU; as the NV-ECO. The Komodo Luxury Edition (NV-LE) block for the TITAN X Pascal is priced at US $169.95.
Inno3D Announces the First Liquid-Cooled GeForce GTX 1060 Graphics Card
Inno3D announced the first GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card to ship with a factory-fitted liquid cooling solution, the iChill GTX 1060 Black. The card features the 6 GB variant of the GTX 1060, with 1,280 CUDA cores, 80 TMUs, 48 ROPs, and a 192-bit GDDR5 memory interface. The card combines a custom-design PCB that's identical to the one on the GTX 1060 iChill X3 card the company launched its GTX 1060 6 GB lineup with; with a factory-fitted Arctic Accelero Hybrid S AIO liquid cooling solution.
The Accelero Hybrid S features a pump-block making contact with the GPU, and a secondary-heatsink conveying heat from the memory chips and VRM; ventilated by a 70 mm fan. The block is plumbed to a 120 mm x 120 mm radiator, with an included 120 mm fan. This cooler supports factory-overclocked speeds of 1569 MHz core, 1784 MHz GPU Boost, and 8.20 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory, which are identical to those of the iChill X3. The card draws power from a single 8-pin PCIe power connector. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b, and three DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. The company didn't reveal pricing.
The Accelero Hybrid S features a pump-block making contact with the GPU, and a secondary-heatsink conveying heat from the memory chips and VRM; ventilated by a 70 mm fan. The block is plumbed to a 120 mm x 120 mm radiator, with an included 120 mm fan. This cooler supports factory-overclocked speeds of 1569 MHz core, 1784 MHz GPU Boost, and 8.20 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory, which are identical to those of the iChill X3. The card draws power from a single 8-pin PCIe power connector. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b, and three DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Monday, November 28th 2016
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Crucial Ballistix Tactical 3000 MHz DDR4 (4x 8 GB) Review
Crucial released a speed bump to their DDR4 products! Today, we get get to look at their update to the Ballistix Tracer line-up with a maximum speed of 3000 MHz and amazingly decent timings of 15-16-16-35 operating at a voltage of 1.35 V. You may have thought of Crucial as a company that only offers entry-level to mid-grade DDR4 products, but cannot do so any longer!
AMD Releases Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.5 Hotfix
AMD today released the Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.5 Hotfix, highlighting improved support for Watch Dogs 2, as well as the addition of a new AMD CrossFire profile for Dishonored 2 under DirectX 11.
As for other important tidbits, this release fixes instances of flickering on The Division and Battlefield 1, both occurring when using AMD Crossfire technology. As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp - just follow the links below.
Download: AMD Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.5 Hotfix for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8.1 64-bit | Windows 8.1 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit | Windows 7 32-bit
As for other important tidbits, this release fixes instances of flickering on The Division and Battlefield 1, both occurring when using AMD Crossfire technology. As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp - just follow the links below.
X2 Introduces the Magic Lantern RGB-PYT Fans
The all new X2 MAGIC LANTERN 12cm LED cooling fan is just magic. Always wanted to control your fans by the touch of a button? Now you can do so with these remote controlled high quality, LED colored cooling fans. The MAGIC LATERN comes in a 3 pack; you can set, change and run different color patterns from your fingertips. No need to get down turning a clumsy speed controller, also this can be done by the included remote control unit. These fans are equipped with pre-installed silicon rubber anti-vibration pads on each corner to make the fan even quieter!
Build with superior parts and components such as our proprietary Nano Tech Bearing. Nano bearing is made of the hardest material and does not need lubrication or sealing and is guaranteed for long lasting and ultra-silent performance. Equipped with 22 LEDs installed in a black and white transparent frame allowing for the RGBPYT (red, green, blue, purple, yellow, turquoise) colored lights to spread providing maximum illumination.
Build with superior parts and components such as our proprietary Nano Tech Bearing. Nano bearing is made of the hardest material and does not need lubrication or sealing and is guaranteed for long lasting and ultra-silent performance. Equipped with 22 LEDs installed in a black and white transparent frame allowing for the RGBPYT (red, green, blue, purple, yellow, turquoise) colored lights to spread providing maximum illumination.
XFX Unveils Single-slot Radeon RX 460 Core Edition Graphics Cards
XFX today unveiled single-slot Radeon RX 460 Core Edition graphics cards. Available in 2 GB and 4 GB variants, the cards feature a single-slot cooling solution that uses a dense aluminum channel heatsink that's ventilated by a single 70 mm fan. A high-quality aluminum cooler-shroud runs the entire length of the PCB. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b, and DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. The cards stick to AMD reference clock speeds of 1090 MHz core, 1220 MHz Boost, and 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. The pricing is not known at the moment.
Colorful Unveils the iGame GTX 1080 KUDAN
In what is surely the biggest GTX 1080 announcement this year (pun intended), Colorful, at their Colorful CGU (Colorful Games Union) event, has taken the lids of their KUDAN version of the GTX 1080 - a monstrous, 4-slot graphics card sure to vie for most of your rig's interior space. A hybrid design is used to keep the Pascal graphics processor cooled - it actually features a triple-slot, triple-fan over an aluminum heatsink array on top of the GPU and circuitry, as well as a water cooling-powered backplate, that can be used in conjunction with the card's own air cooling or your custom water-loop.
The rest is business as usual: 2560 CUDA cores and 8 GB GDDR5X VRAM, with the core being clocked at 1936 MHz. The memory is clocked at reference speeds of 10 GHz but the addition of an overclocking BIOS should help alleviate that fact. Power to the card is fed through dual 8-Pin connectors which should be enough to power the electrical circuitry on the PCB, which Colorful touts as having been fully re-engineered so as to deliver the KUDAN's required power characteristics. Display outputs on the card include 1x DVI, 1x HDMI and 3x DisplayPort.
No details on pricing, but expect this one to come in near the top of overall GTX 1080 offerings. The GTX 1080 KUDAN is expected to launch somewhere along December or January.
The rest is business as usual: 2560 CUDA cores and 8 GB GDDR5X VRAM, with the core being clocked at 1936 MHz. The memory is clocked at reference speeds of 10 GHz but the addition of an overclocking BIOS should help alleviate that fact. Power to the card is fed through dual 8-Pin connectors which should be enough to power the electrical circuitry on the PCB, which Colorful touts as having been fully re-engineered so as to deliver the KUDAN's required power characteristics. Display outputs on the card include 1x DVI, 1x HDMI and 3x DisplayPort.
No details on pricing, but expect this one to come in near the top of overall GTX 1080 offerings. The GTX 1080 KUDAN is expected to launch somewhere along December or January.
NVIDIA Releases the GeForce 376.09 WHQL Drivers
NVIDIA today released its latest GeForce "Game Ready" drivers. Version 376.09 WHQL comes game-ready for "Watch_Dogs 2," the week's big AAA open-world third-person RPG by Ubisoft. This includes game-optimization, GeForce Experience optimal settings, and SLI support (if the game supports it). The company is also running a promotion, in which it's giving away UPlay keys to the game with purchases of new GeForce GTX 1070 and GeForce GTX 1080 graphics cards, and notebooks with factory-fitted GeForce GTX 1080 Mobile and GTX 1070 Mobile graphics. Grab the drivers from the links below.
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce 376.09 WHQL for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 64-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 32-bit
Intel Core i3-7350K "Kaby Lake" Benchmarks Surface
Intel's third overclocker-friendly SKU from its 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processor family, the Core i3-7350K, is shaping up to be an interesting option for gaming PC builds. It may be a dual-core chip, which at $177 is within striking-range of the current $189 Core i5-6400 quad-core chip, but the lack of two cores appears to be more than made up for by its significantly higher clock speeds, even in multi-threaded benchmarks. The i3-7350K is clocked at 4.00 GHz, out of the box. It's also the only Core i3 desktop SKU to feature Turbo Boost, with a frequency of 4.20 GHz. It chip comes with an unlocked base-clock multiplier, letting you overclock it with ease.
A PC enthusiast with access to a Core i3-7350K sample put it through Geekbench, where it scored 5,137 points in the single-threaded tests, and 10,048 in multi-threaded tests. Here's where it gets interesting - the Core i5-6400 quad-core chip scores 3,686 points (single-threaded), and 9,982 points (multi-threaded. The i5-6400 is clocked at a mere 2.70 GHz, with 3.30 GHz Turbo Boost. Even the higher clocked i5-4670K "Haswell" quad-core chip (3.40 GHz core, 3.80 GHz Turbo Boost) doesn't manage to beat the i3-7350K, with 4,361 points (single-threaded), and 10,036 points (multi-threaded).
A PC enthusiast with access to a Core i3-7350K sample put it through Geekbench, where it scored 5,137 points in the single-threaded tests, and 10,048 in multi-threaded tests. Here's where it gets interesting - the Core i5-6400 quad-core chip scores 3,686 points (single-threaded), and 9,982 points (multi-threaded. The i5-6400 is clocked at a mere 2.70 GHz, with 3.30 GHz Turbo Boost. Even the higher clocked i5-4670K "Haswell" quad-core chip (3.40 GHz core, 3.80 GHz Turbo Boost) doesn't manage to beat the i3-7350K, with 4,361 points (single-threaded), and 10,036 points (multi-threaded).
ASUSTOR Announces Support for ElephantDrive Cloud Backup
ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, has announced the addition of the new ElephantDrive cloud backup App for all ASUSTOR NAS devices. ASUSTOR NAS users will be able to download and install this new App via App Central. ElephantDrive provides an online cloud backup service that allows data from ASUSTOR NAS devices to be backed up in real time or via scheduling to ElephantDrive's encrypted cloud storage space. Data can also be conveniently restored in the event of an accident, significantly enhancing data availability.
"We are delighted to begin our collaboration with ASUSTOR. Our goal has been to provide seamlessly integrated cloud backup solutions for NAS devices, so it was only a matter of time before we offered support for ASUSTOR's powerful and user-friendly devices," said Michael Fisher, CEO at ElephantDrive. "We are convinced that the combination of ASUSTOR's hardware and ElephantDrive's cloud services will satisfy the most demanding users."
"We are delighted to begin our collaboration with ASUSTOR. Our goal has been to provide seamlessly integrated cloud backup solutions for NAS devices, so it was only a matter of time before we offered support for ASUSTOR's powerful and user-friendly devices," said Michael Fisher, CEO at ElephantDrive. "We are convinced that the combination of ASUSTOR's hardware and ElephantDrive's cloud services will satisfy the most demanding users."
Monitors with 1000 ppi: Scientists researching Graphene to develop 'Mechanical Pixels'
At the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, scientists were hard at work researching how to produce mechanical Graphene sensors. Working with membranes measuring only two atoms thick, there are 13 micrometer-sized round air filled cavities in a silicon surface (silicon oxide) that are covered by double-layered Graphene. Upon observing these samples, the scientists noticed that the colors of the membranes differed. When the pressure within the cavities varied, the air 'bubbles' became concave or convex, changing how light refracted through them and created different colors.
At first this disappointed the scientists, as it became apparent that the small bubbles were not homogeneous enough to build a sensor. However they quickly noticed that the effect showed promise for an entirely different path of research - the Mechanical Pixel. The scientists speculate that screens built using this technology could eventually lead to much more flexible, durable and energy efficient panels than current LED technology allows. They do however caution that this research is very much in stages of infancy, it remains to be seen whether this mechanization of Graphene could conclude in screens of comparable quality or be scaled up to mass production. Bear in mind the samples that are currently being worked with would produce a panel with a pixel density north of 1,000 DPI. An explanation for mechanical color pixels can be found in this Vimeo video.
At first this disappointed the scientists, as it became apparent that the small bubbles were not homogeneous enough to build a sensor. However they quickly noticed that the effect showed promise for an entirely different path of research - the Mechanical Pixel. The scientists speculate that screens built using this technology could eventually lead to much more flexible, durable and energy efficient panels than current LED technology allows. They do however caution that this research is very much in stages of infancy, it remains to be seen whether this mechanization of Graphene could conclude in screens of comparable quality or be scaled up to mass production. Bear in mind the samples that are currently being worked with would produce a panel with a pixel density north of 1,000 DPI. An explanation for mechanical color pixels can be found in this Vimeo video.
Zotac Announces its the VR GO Backpack PC
ZOTAC International, a global manufacturer of innovation, is pleased to introduce an entirely new way to experience immersive VR with the ZOTAC VR GO backpack. Since making the impact at Computex 2016 with the first ever mobile VR experience, ZOTAC has improved the design, performance, and endurance of the original backpack.
"The VR GO is an exciting innovation for everyone to finally enjoy VR the way it is meant to be experienced," says Tony Wong, CEO, ZOTAC International. "We want to provide the best of both worlds to our users: Powerful VR in high resolution and fast framerates while enjoying true mobility in a compact, wearable form. The VR GO is the best way to VR."
"The VR GO is an exciting innovation for everyone to finally enjoy VR the way it is meant to be experienced," says Tony Wong, CEO, ZOTAC International. "We want to provide the best of both worlds to our users: Powerful VR in high resolution and fast framerates while enjoying true mobility in a compact, wearable form. The VR GO is the best way to VR."
Sunday, November 27th 2016
MSI Gives the GTX 1050 Low-profile Treatment
MSI announced a low-profile GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card (model: MSI GTX 1050 2GT-LP). Based on an identical board design to the company's low-profile GTX 1050 Ti graphics card, this card features a GeForce GTX 1050 chip running at NVIDIA-reference clock speeds of 1354 MHz core, 1455 MHz GPU Boost, and 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. The card features 2 GB of GDDR5 memory across the GPU's 128-bit wide memory interface.
The MSI GTX 1050 Low Profile, as its name suggests, features a half-height PCB, and a 2-slot thick cooling solution, with both standard and low-profile I/O shields being included. The cooler consists of a dense copper core aluminium heatsink that's ventilated by a pair of 50 mm fans. The card draws all is power from the PCI-Express slot. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b, and DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. The company didn't reveal pricing.
The MSI GTX 1050 Low Profile, as its name suggests, features a half-height PCB, and a 2-slot thick cooling solution, with both standard and low-profile I/O shields being included. The cooler consists of a dense copper core aluminium heatsink that's ventilated by a pair of 50 mm fans. The card draws all is power from the PCI-Express slot. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b, and DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Resident Evil 7 for PC will support HDR and 4K, No Cross Saves for Steam
Japanese developer and publisher Capcom has publicized that the PC version of their anticipated Resident Evil 7 game will support up to 4K resolutions and HDR. Naturally HDR will remain dependent on being connected to a compatible TV or panel, whereas high resolution support could provide additional levels of image quality through the use of super sampling on screens that do not support such resolutions natively. It is said that HDR will complement the immersive experience, better enabling the game to deliver overwhelming fear and ultimate horror.
As previously revealed by Capcom, Resident Evil 7 will also support cross saves between the PC and Xbox One versions of the game, however this will only be possible if you purchase it for PC on the Windows Store. Resident Evil 7 is also available on Steam and this version will not support cross saving. Resident Evil 7 will be available for PC on the 25 January, 2017.
As previously revealed by Capcom, Resident Evil 7 will also support cross saves between the PC and Xbox One versions of the game, however this will only be possible if you purchase it for PC on the Windows Store. Resident Evil 7 is also available on Steam and this version will not support cross saving. Resident Evil 7 will be available for PC on the 25 January, 2017.
Saturday, November 26th 2016
"Zoom and Enhance" to Become a Reality Thanks to Machine Learning
The one phrase from television that makes IT people and creative professionals cringe the most is "zoom and enhance" - the notion that you zoom into a digital image and, at the push of a button, it converts a pixellated image into something with details - which lets CSI catch the bad guys. Up until now, this has been laughably impossible. Images are made up of dots called pixels, and the more pixels you have, the more details you can have in your image (resolution). Zooming into images eventually shows you a colorful checkerboard that's proud of its identity.
Google is tapping into machine-learning, in an attempt to change this. The company has reportedly come up with a machine-learning technique that attempts to reconstruct details in low-resolution images. Google is calling this RAISR (rapid and accurate image super-resolution). The technology works with the software learning "edges" of a picture (portions of the image with drastic changes in color and brightness gradients), and attempts to reconstruct them. What makes this different from conventional super-sampling methods is its machine-learning component. A low-resolution image is studied by the machine to invent an upscaling method most effective for the image, in-situ. While its application in law-enforcement is tricky, and will only become a reality when a reasonably high court of law sets a spectacular precedent; this technology could have commercial applications in up-scaling low-resolution movies to new formats such as 4K Ultra HD, and perhaps even 8K.
Google is tapping into machine-learning, in an attempt to change this. The company has reportedly come up with a machine-learning technique that attempts to reconstruct details in low-resolution images. Google is calling this RAISR (rapid and accurate image super-resolution). The technology works with the software learning "edges" of a picture (portions of the image with drastic changes in color and brightness gradients), and attempts to reconstruct them. What makes this different from conventional super-sampling methods is its machine-learning component. A low-resolution image is studied by the machine to invent an upscaling method most effective for the image, in-situ. While its application in law-enforcement is tricky, and will only become a reality when a reasonably high court of law sets a spectacular precedent; this technology could have commercial applications in up-scaling low-resolution movies to new formats such as 4K Ultra HD, and perhaps even 8K.
Friday, November 25th 2016
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Monitors
Motherboards
Notebooks
MSI GeForce GTX 1070 Quick Silver OC 8 GB Review
MSI's GTX 1070 Quick Silver does away with the red-and-black color theme and uses stylish silver instead. Thanks to the powerful cooler from the GTX 1070 Gaming Z, the card is the coolest and quietest GTX 1070 we ever tested. It also comes at a rather affordable $425.
Tesoro Introduces New Product Line: Releases its Zone Balance Gaming Chair
Tesoro, a leading designer and manufacturer of high-tech gaming hardware, introduced a new product line to the Tesoro brand with its Zone Balance professional gaming chairs. Combining unique design with versatility and extreme comfort, the new Zone Balance is available in black/red, black/white, and black/black color options.
The dimensionally stable Zone Balance also sports an adjustable back up to 180 degrees and features a class-4 gas piston that offers users the freedom of easy height adjustment. Bringing together all the essentials in an affordable yet luxurious package, the Zone Balance allows you to get in the zone, and stay there.
The dimensionally stable Zone Balance also sports an adjustable back up to 180 degrees and features a class-4 gas piston that offers users the freedom of easy height adjustment. Bringing together all the essentials in an affordable yet luxurious package, the Zone Balance allows you to get in the zone, and stay there.
Thermaltake Releases the Tower 900 E-ATX PC Chassis
Thermaltake has added a new, highly-premium, highly-desirable, and ultra-high expensive E-ATX PC Chassis. Named Tower 900, it is a harbinger of Thermaltake's TT Premium line, which, according to the company's own words, "(...) follows its core values of Excellent Quality, Unique Design, Diverse Combinations and Boundless Creativity to provide a high performance PC product for every enthusiast."
Designed in collaboration with Watermod France, The Tower 900 by Thermaltake represents Thermaltake's passion for innovation, the spirit of Watermod France, and its vision to expand chassis design for enthusiasts to build into a new era of ESPORTS modding culture. The Tower 900 is the premium choice from TT Thermaltake, supporting a vertical mounting design, high quality 5mm thick tempered glass panels, and unrivaled expansion capabilities for massive custom liquid cooling systems.
Designed in collaboration with Watermod France, The Tower 900 by Thermaltake represents Thermaltake's passion for innovation, the spirit of Watermod France, and its vision to expand chassis design for enthusiasts to build into a new era of ESPORTS modding culture. The Tower 900 is the premium choice from TT Thermaltake, supporting a vertical mounting design, high quality 5mm thick tempered glass panels, and unrivaled expansion capabilities for massive custom liquid cooling systems.
AOC Announces the AGON AG251FZ 25-inch 240Hz FreeSync Monitor
AOC's AGON line of PC monitors has been increasingly added to by the company - which usually signifies strong sales and brand recognition. In trying to cater to an even more diverse consumer base, AOC has now added a new offer to their AGON line of gaming monitors: the AG251FZ.
The AG251FZ 25" is a 16:9 ratio monitor, which comes in at the still-dominating 1920*1080 resolution, sporting a TN-type panel with a 1ms Grey-to-grey response time which allows it achieve a 240Hz refresh rate. The panel offers 16.7 million colors, brightness of 400cd/m2, contrast ratio of 1000:1, and pretty decent viewing angles of 170/160. On top of that, the monitor also includes AMD's royalty-free FreeSync (active from 48Hz towards the 240Hz maximum refresh rate), with 1x HDMI 2.0 and 1x DisplayPort 1.2a adaptive sync compatible inputs, as well as more legacy 1x DVI and 1x VGA inputs. The monitor also features a connectivity hub, sporting 4 x USB 3.0, Audio out/in, and Microphone in/out ports.
The AG251FZ 25" is a 16:9 ratio monitor, which comes in at the still-dominating 1920*1080 resolution, sporting a TN-type panel with a 1ms Grey-to-grey response time which allows it achieve a 240Hz refresh rate. The panel offers 16.7 million colors, brightness of 400cd/m2, contrast ratio of 1000:1, and pretty decent viewing angles of 170/160. On top of that, the monitor also includes AMD's royalty-free FreeSync (active from 48Hz towards the 240Hz maximum refresh rate), with 1x HDMI 2.0 and 1x DisplayPort 1.2a adaptive sync compatible inputs, as well as more legacy 1x DVI and 1x VGA inputs. The monitor also features a connectivity hub, sporting 4 x USB 3.0, Audio out/in, and Microphone in/out ports.
AMD Readies Radeon RX 490 for December?
A spectacular rumor doing rounds has AMD sign 2016 off with a new high-end graphics card launch. The company could launch the Radeon RX 490 by the end of the year, according to an Guru3D report. This SKU could either be based on the larger Vega 10 silicon, or be a dual-GPU on a stick graphics card based on a pair of Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" chips. The former seems more likely as multi-GPU support among recent AAA game launches is dwindling. Earlier this year, AMD inadvertently leaked the SKU name Radeon RX 490 on its website.
If the Radeon RX 490 is based on the Vega 10, then it could feature 4,096 stream processors based on the "Vega" architecture, 256 TMUs, 64 ROPs, and a 4096-bit HBM2 memory interface, holding 8 GB or 16 GB of memory, with a memory bandwidth of 512 GB/s. If instead it is a dual-GPU card based on Polaris 10, then you could be looking at 2x 2,304 stream processors, and 16 GB of GDDR5 memory across two 256-bit wide memory interfaces.
If the Radeon RX 490 is based on the Vega 10, then it could feature 4,096 stream processors based on the "Vega" architecture, 256 TMUs, 64 ROPs, and a 4096-bit HBM2 memory interface, holding 8 GB or 16 GB of memory, with a memory bandwidth of 512 GB/s. If instead it is a dual-GPU card based on Polaris 10, then you could be looking at 2x 2,304 stream processors, and 16 GB of GDDR5 memory across two 256-bit wide memory interfaces.
Thursday, November 24th 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
Notebooks
Dream Machines DM 1 PRO S Review
A few months ago, we reviewed the Dream Machines DM1 PRO, and Dream Machines is now back with the DM1 PRO S. This version has an updated sensor, has been slimmed down to be even lighter, and has a rather nice glossy finish. Improvements, which could be a game changer.
BitFenix Intros the Whisper M Series Modular PSUs
BitFenix today introduced the Whisper M line of premium modular power supplies (PSUs). Available in capacities of 850W, 750W, 650W, 550W, and 450W, these PSUs feature a design focus on low fan noise, with the 135 mm fan spinning at less than 500 rpm at loads of up to 70%. The units feature fully modular cabling; with the 850W and 750W models featuring six PCIe power connectors, 650W model featuring four, and 550W and 450W featuring two. The 850W and 750W further feature two 4+4 pin EPS connectors, making them ideal for dual-socket workstations.
Under the hood, the Whisper M features a multi +12V rail design with 80 Plus Gold switching efficiency, DC-to-DC switching, active PFC, ripple and noise reduction circuits, most common electrical protections (over/under voltage, overload, overcurrent, AC input surge, thermal-trip, and short-circuit protection), and ATX 12V v2.4 compliance for the latest generation processors. The Whisper M Series come with 7-year warranties. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Under the hood, the Whisper M features a multi +12V rail design with 80 Plus Gold switching efficiency, DC-to-DC switching, active PFC, ripple and noise reduction circuits, most common electrical protections (over/under voltage, overload, overcurrent, AC input surge, thermal-trip, and short-circuit protection), and ATX 12V v2.4 compliance for the latest generation processors. The Whisper M Series come with 7-year warranties. The company didn't reveal pricing.
ASUS Intros GeForce GTX 1080 STRIX A8G Graphics Card
ASUS quietly slipped in the GeForce GTX 1080 STRIX A8G graphics card (model: ROG STRIX-GTX1080-A8G-GAMING). This card is a variant of the original GTX 1080 STRIX O8G graphics card the company launched its GTX 1080 lineup with, and features a slightly lower factory-overclock. The card ships with clock speeds of 1670 MHz core and 1809 MHz GPU Boost out of the box, compared to the 1759 MHz core and 1898 MHz GPU Boost, which the original STRIX O8G ships with; and NVIDIA reference clocks of 1607 MHz core and 1733 MHz GPU Boost. The included GPUTweak II utility unlocks slightly higher clocks, of 1695 MHz core and 1835 MHz GPU Boost in OC mode, which are still lower than those of the O8G STRIX OC.
Clock-speeds aside, the ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 STRIX A8G is identical to the original STRIX OC. You get a strong 10-phase VRM which draws power from a combination of 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe power connectors; two 4-pin PWM fan headers that sync your case-fans to GPU temperatures; and the company's signature DirectCU III cooling solution that features a massive aluminium fin-stack heatsink, with five copper heat pipes that make direct contact with the GPU; and ASUS Aura RGB LED lighting on the cooler shroud, which holds the three 100 mm fans. The ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 A8G is expected to be priced about 5-10% less than the original STRIX OC (O8G).
Clock-speeds aside, the ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 STRIX A8G is identical to the original STRIX OC. You get a strong 10-phase VRM which draws power from a combination of 8-pin and 6-pin PCIe power connectors; two 4-pin PWM fan headers that sync your case-fans to GPU temperatures; and the company's signature DirectCU III cooling solution that features a massive aluminium fin-stack heatsink, with five copper heat pipes that make direct contact with the GPU; and ASUS Aura RGB LED lighting on the cooler shroud, which holds the three 100 mm fans. The ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 A8G is expected to be priced about 5-10% less than the original STRIX OC (O8G).
Single Slot HIS RX 460 Slim-iCooler OC 4GB Surfaces
HIS, a leading manufacturer of AMD graphics cards, is set to offer a slim solution to the RX 460 series: the HIS RX 460 Slim-iCooler OC 4GB. HIS will be the first board partner to offer a single slot RX 460 which carries a condensed version of their in-house 'iCooler'. The RX 460 Slim-iCooler OC can maximize your rig's performance by providing the possibility for gamers to upgrade their rig without compromising space.
Carrying the product code HS-460R4TCNR, the card features a metallic fan shroud, a strong lion image and does not require the use of a 6-pin PCI-E power connector. The Slim-iCooler utilizes 0dB technology, where the 50mm fan will only start to spin up when the GPU temperature reaches 60 Degrees C. The GPU boasts a modest factory overclock and runs at 1220 MHz while the memory speed is unchanged at 7 Gbps.
As it stands there is no word on pricing or availability, and the product page is currently inaccessible. A cached version can be found here.
Carrying the product code HS-460R4TCNR, the card features a metallic fan shroud, a strong lion image and does not require the use of a 6-pin PCI-E power connector. The Slim-iCooler utilizes 0dB technology, where the 50mm fan will only start to spin up when the GPU temperature reaches 60 Degrees C. The GPU boasts a modest factory overclock and runs at 1220 MHz while the memory speed is unchanged at 7 Gbps.
As it stands there is no word on pricing or availability, and the product page is currently inaccessible. A cached version can be found here.
Sharkoon Announces the Shark Zone K15 Gaming Keyboard
Sharkoon expands their lineup within the popular SHARK ZONE gaming series and introduces a new keyboard that focuses solely on the essentials. The entire housing is completely made of metal and ensures maximum stability on the table, even during heavy use, thanks to its solid design. The Sharkoon SHARK ZONE K15 Keyboard impresses not just through its massive appearance, which is on full display with its frameless design and freestanding keys. Additionally, the K15 has an integrated, massive palm rest, which provides fatigue free gaming and supports overall ergonomics.
For convenient use, the keyboard provides seven total function keys with preset multimedia actions. A simply keystroke, for example, will comfortably launch the media player, web browser and E-mail provider. Adjust the volume to your desired level also effortlessly. In addition, the desired gaming mode, with disabled Windows key, launches easily via a simple shortcut. On request, all keys on the keyboard can be locked. The arrow keys functions are virtually interchangeable with the WASD keys.
For convenient use, the keyboard provides seven total function keys with preset multimedia actions. A simply keystroke, for example, will comfortably launch the media player, web browser and E-mail provider. Adjust the volume to your desired level also effortlessly. In addition, the desired gaming mode, with disabled Windows key, launches easily via a simple shortcut. On request, all keys on the keyboard can be locked. The arrow keys functions are virtually interchangeable with the WASD keys.
Club 3D Intros USB 3.0 Type-C to DP Dual Monitor MST Hub
Already more than 3 years ago, back in summer 2013, Club 3D did open up a new era by introducing the first Multi Stream Transport Hubs (MST-Hubs) to the worldwide IT market. With the introduction of the DisplayPort 1.2 standard in the beginning of this decade, the Multi Stream Transport Technology was established. The concept of MST was already available before Club 3D developed the solution and was first to bring a MST Hub into the mainstream market. In 2014 we could already introduce the second generation MST-Hubs and create a line of products for Dual-, Triple- and Quad-Monitor usage and even one version with HDMI outputs. The full line up you can find here.
In IT the development never stands still and therefore Club 3D is proud to be ahead in the market again by introducing the first product of the next generation of MST-Hubs today. MST Hub goes Type C it can be called. The Club 3D SenseVision MST Hub USB 3.1 Gen1 Type C to DisplayPort 1.2 Dual Monitor is named CSV-1545. It takes advantage of the very new Type C plug but offers the technology that users are used to from our existing line up of MST Hubs.
In IT the development never stands still and therefore Club 3D is proud to be ahead in the market again by introducing the first product of the next generation of MST-Hubs today. MST Hub goes Type C it can be called. The Club 3D SenseVision MST Hub USB 3.1 Gen1 Type C to DisplayPort 1.2 Dual Monitor is named CSV-1545. It takes advantage of the very new Type C plug but offers the technology that users are used to from our existing line up of MST Hubs.
Point of View, Historic AIB Partner, Declared Bankrupt by Court
Point of View, the Netherlands-based technology company established in 2000, has officially been declared bankrupt by the court in Oost-Brabant. The company's majority of sales were in Europe, where it served more than 30 European countries. The company also included Point of View Taiwan, Point of View China, Point of View Hong Kong, Point of View France and Point of View United States as additional branches.
The first NVIDIA graphics cards from the company harken back to the FX 5000 series days, with the company being particularly prolific on the 8000 series, with no less than 19 graphics cards ranging from the 8400GS through the legendary 8800GT. The company's products have definitely been on the downside, however, having been relatively popular in the GTX 500 and 600 series' days. Historically an NVIDIA-exclusive AIB partner, the company branched out into other consumer products, such as tablets, laptops and computer accessories. If you need a nostalgia-inducing shot, or simply want to see what kind of products Point of View delivered, feel free to read TPU's review on the Point of View TGT GTX 680 Ultra Charged LLS 4 GB, coined by our very own W1zzard.
The first NVIDIA graphics cards from the company harken back to the FX 5000 series days, with the company being particularly prolific on the 8000 series, with no less than 19 graphics cards ranging from the 8400GS through the legendary 8800GT. The company's products have definitely been on the downside, however, having been relatively popular in the GTX 500 and 600 series' days. Historically an NVIDIA-exclusive AIB partner, the company branched out into other consumer products, such as tablets, laptops and computer accessories. If you need a nostalgia-inducing shot, or simply want to see what kind of products Point of View delivered, feel free to read TPU's review on the Point of View TGT GTX 680 Ultra Charged LLS 4 GB, coined by our very own W1zzard.
Spire Announces the Tricer 1411 Chassis
The Tricer 1411 is the latest addition to the Spire Tricer series of micro ATX pc cases. This modern pc enclosure fits today's specification and system integration standards. The Tricer 1411 is prepared with all the features you are looking for in a Micro ATX tower chassis including 4*120mm fan mount locations and with pre-installed 120mm black fan on the rear of the structure.
The front panel design displays style and simplicity, without sacrificing functionality. This Micro ATX form factor chassis structure is build out of 0.45mm SPCC steel and touches every detail and ease of assembly. Top and front re-enforced drive bay rack for secure mounting of Optical and HDD or SSD Drives. The front panel features USB 2.0 and USB3.0 as well as AC97/HD audio ports. The Tricer 1411 pc case is a, decadent quality selection for professional integrators and users alike.
The front panel design displays style and simplicity, without sacrificing functionality. This Micro ATX form factor chassis structure is build out of 0.45mm SPCC steel and touches every detail and ease of assembly. Top and front re-enforced drive bay rack for secure mounting of Optical and HDD or SSD Drives. The front panel features USB 2.0 and USB3.0 as well as AC97/HD audio ports. The Tricer 1411 pc case is a, decadent quality selection for professional integrators and users alike.
Antec Announces Four New CPU Air Coolers
In the year of their 30th anniversary, Antec Inc., a leading provider of high-performance computer components and accessories for the gaming, PC upgrade and Do-It-Yourself market, is presenting four new models of CPU Air coolers. The new air coolers are designed for compatibility with leading desktop processor sockets and supports Intel Core i7 Extreme, and AMD Sempron. Straight Touch copper coated heatpipes provide full contact to the CPU and allow for more efficient heat transference.
The A30, A40 Pro, C40 and C400 are now commercially available at a price between 15 Euros and 40 Euros. The budget-friendly Antec A30 features a 92 mm blue LED fan for ultra-quiet operation. The aluminium fins with a size of 43 x 86 mm offer a larger surface area for efficient heat transference. The push-pin mounting system and included thermal paste allow for a fast, simple installation. The A30 offers and retails at a MSRP of 14 Euros.
The A30, A40 Pro, C40 and C400 are now commercially available at a price between 15 Euros and 40 Euros. The budget-friendly Antec A30 features a 92 mm blue LED fan for ultra-quiet operation. The aluminium fins with a size of 43 x 86 mm offer a larger surface area for efficient heat transference. The push-pin mounting system and included thermal paste allow for a fast, simple installation. The A30 offers and retails at a MSRP of 14 Euros.
Wednesday, November 23rd 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Headphones
Keyboards
Mouse
PSUs
MSI Aegis Ti GAMING PC (Dual-GPU) Review
MSI sent us their latest fully featured PC, the Aegis Ti, to take a look at. This PC departs from the "traditional box" design in a big way and is ready to support not just one but two GTX 1080s! It's VR ready, including an HDMI port in front and dual M.2 drives, which can be configured in RAID, making it ready for whatever you want to throw at it.
AMD and NVIDIA Add-in-Board GPU Market Share from 2002 to Q3/2016
The folks over at 3dcenter.org have compiled comprehensive historical GPU AIB market share data for our digestion. While we recently reported on Q3'16 and its comparison to the quarter before and the same period last year, this information spans a near 14 year quarter-on-quarter time frame. The compilers have quite helpfully included points of reference along the timeline which highlight the two major GPU manufacturers milestone desktop product line debuts.
It is worth noting that their exact numbers differ slightly to the ones Jon Peddie Research provided as 3dcenter have also cited the work of Mercury Research, which appears more conservative. The figures provided in their own graph split the difference between the two sources to give us a more impartial look at the market.
It is worth noting that their exact numbers differ slightly to the ones Jon Peddie Research provided as 3dcenter have also cited the work of Mercury Research, which appears more conservative. The figures provided in their own graph split the difference between the two sources to give us a more impartial look at the market.
Netflix has Some Pretty Steep System Requirements for 4K on PC
So everyone wants to crash at your place to watch the latest shows on your 4K Ultra HD TV, you can even "chill" with that special someone, if you can take your eyes off 4K content; and it turns out you even spent $500 on buying a new 4K monitor for your PC, because you demand no less than 3840 x 2160 pixels in front of your face; and among the first things you do (besides heading over to Interfacelift for some great wallpapers), is Netflix. Only Netflix has other ideas.
Apparently, you need a 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processor (or possibly AMD's upcoming "ZEN" processor), Windows 10 operating system, and Microsoft Edge web-browser to get 4K to work right on your PC, according to a Tom's Hardware report. Two factors could be pushing these steep-requirements - HEVC CODEC hardware acceleration, and hardware-level DRM features being introduced with "Kaby Lake." HEVC could prove crucial for Netflix as streaming 4K in existing H.264 format could quadruple bandwidth consumption over Full HD. HEVC encoding lets Netflix minimize the bitrate greatly. For Netflix's DRM component to access the CPU's hardware DRM features, it needs Windows 10, older versions of Windows won't work. If these requirements aren't met, Netflix will simply play your content in Full HD. No soup for you.
Apparently, you need a 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processor (or possibly AMD's upcoming "ZEN" processor), Windows 10 operating system, and Microsoft Edge web-browser to get 4K to work right on your PC, according to a Tom's Hardware report. Two factors could be pushing these steep-requirements - HEVC CODEC hardware acceleration, and hardware-level DRM features being introduced with "Kaby Lake." HEVC could prove crucial for Netflix as streaming 4K in existing H.264 format could quadruple bandwidth consumption over Full HD. HEVC encoding lets Netflix minimize the bitrate greatly. For Netflix's DRM component to access the CPU's hardware DRM features, it needs Windows 10, older versions of Windows won't work. If these requirements aren't met, Netflix will simply play your content in Full HD. No soup for you.
Synology Announces the FlashStation FS3017 All-Flash NAS
Synology today launched FlashStation FS3017, the company's pioneer product within an entirely new all-flash series. Capable of handling over 200,000 IOPS in 4k random writing with RDMA technology enabled, the FS3017 is perfect for big data analysis, video post-production, virtualization, and handling any demanding database application that requires high IOPS and low latency at the same time.
FS3017 features dual Intel Xeon 6-core processors, 64GB DDR4 ECC RDIMM (expandable up to 512GB), dual built-in 10GBase-T ports, and supports optional 10GbE / 25GbE / 40GbE NICs, guaranteeing stable performance in multitasking and data throughput. FS3017 is also compatible with various SATA/SAS SSD brands, offering users more flexibility with their budgets.
FS3017 features dual Intel Xeon 6-core processors, 64GB DDR4 ECC RDIMM (expandable up to 512GB), dual built-in 10GBase-T ports, and supports optional 10GbE / 25GbE / 40GbE NICs, guaranteeing stable performance in multitasking and data throughput. FS3017 is also compatible with various SATA/SAS SSD brands, offering users more flexibility with their budgets.
Aqua Computer Announces the VISION Lineup of Watercooling Add-ons
What will water blocks look like in the future? This was the question that Aqua Computer has asked itself before they started developing VISION.
From this question emerged the idea for an OLED display integrated to water coolers.
During the development of the display integration, Aqua Computer realized that there are many other stand-alone use cases for this product - and as such, the VISION product line was born. In addition to the pure display functionality, VISION has been extended in variants with touch control, infrared receiver and RGB-LED. A menu-driven setup has been integrated and VISION also has a whole range of inputs and outputs: both a temperature sensor and a flow sensor can be directly connected to VISION. The solution can display various system information like temperatures, fan speed, CPU load or memory usage and also values from other Aqua Computer devices. The aquasuite 2017 software allows to choose from customizable layout templates.
From this question emerged the idea for an OLED display integrated to water coolers.
During the development of the display integration, Aqua Computer realized that there are many other stand-alone use cases for this product - and as such, the VISION product line was born. In addition to the pure display functionality, VISION has been extended in variants with touch control, infrared receiver and RGB-LED. A menu-driven setup has been integrated and VISION also has a whole range of inputs and outputs: both a temperature sensor and a flow sensor can be directly connected to VISION. The solution can display various system information like temperatures, fan speed, CPU load or memory usage and also values from other Aqua Computer devices. The aquasuite 2017 software allows to choose from customizable layout templates.
AMD "Llano" Securities Fraud Lawsuit Ongoing; Class Action Status Granted
As you may remember, "Llano" was somewhat of a disappointment for AMD, to put it mildly. Production issues with partner Global Foundries meant that Llano's roll-out was affected and extended beyond its predicted time-frame. This, in conjunction with other various factors, such as lack of product appeal over disappointing performance and the usual competition from Intel, forced AMD to pull in its second-generation "Trinity" APU too soon. By the time production finally caught up, it ended up overproducing relative to diminishing demand, which resulted in unsold inventory, thus forcing an inventory write-down of "Llano" chips valued at around $100 million. This reduced the company's worth by nearly that much overnight, and tanked the value of the AMD stock. This, of course, didn't sit well with investors.
The as-of-yet ongoing securities fraud lawsuit over AMD's "Llano" APUs has just achieved a milestone, in having been authorized by the Court to proceed as a class action. The Court's decision doesn't imply that the defendants (Rory P. Read, Thomas J. Seifert, Richard A. Bergman, and Dr. Lisa T. Su) did anything wrong. The defendants have not been ordered to pay any money, no settlement has been reached, no money is available as of now and there is no guarantee that there will be in the future.
The as-of-yet ongoing securities fraud lawsuit over AMD's "Llano" APUs has just achieved a milestone, in having been authorized by the Court to proceed as a class action. The Court's decision doesn't imply that the defendants (Rory P. Read, Thomas J. Seifert, Richard A. Bergman, and Dr. Lisa T. Su) did anything wrong. The defendants have not been ordered to pay any money, no settlement has been reached, no money is available as of now and there is no guarantee that there will be in the future.
FSP Announces 700W Twins Series Redundant PSU for Consumers
FSP, the performance power specialist, is pleased to announce a new 500W addition to its Twins series redundant Power Supplies, with a 700W version coming soon. Fitting most ATX tower chassis, these PSUs offer consumers a reliable solution for home mail, web, or email servers without needing to jump up to more costly form factors.
The Twins series houses two independent power modules, each with its own power adapter. Under normal conditions, the two modules share the energy load to maximize efficiency and stability. If one module fails, however, the other automatically takes over as a clean fail safe. Being hot-swappable, a failed module can be replaced while the system is running without any downtime.
The Twins series houses two independent power modules, each with its own power adapter. Under normal conditions, the two modules share the energy load to maximize efficiency and stability. If one module fails, however, the other automatically takes over as a clean fail safe. Being hot-swappable, a failed module can be replaced while the system is running without any downtime.
Tuesday, November 22nd 2016
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Comptoir du Hardware (fr)
- Corsair Crystal 460X RGB ComputerBase (de)
- Corsair Carbide 270R Conseil Config (fr)
- Corsair Crystal 460X RGB Cowcotland (fr)
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Guru3D
- Corsair Carbide 270R Guru3D
- Corsair Carbide 270R HardwareInside.de (de)
- Corsair Crystal 460X RGB Hexus.net
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Hexus.net
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB i2Hard (ru)
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB KitGuru
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Legit Reviews
- Corsair Crystal 460X RGB Technic3D (de)
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Tom's Hardware
- Corsair Carbide 270R Tweaktown
- Corsair Crystal 460X RGB Tweaktown
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB Tweaktown
- Corsair Crystal Series 570X RGB XtremeHardware (it)
Desktop PC
Notebooks
SSD
Asustor AS6208T 8-bay NAS Review
The AS6208T is a multi-bay NAS with an Intel quad-core CPU that offers good performance while consuming very little energy. An 8-bay NAS is mostly for business environments where increased storage capacity is a necessary feature.
AMD to Give Away Civilization VI with Radeon RX 480
AMD is readying a new graphics card promotion for Holiday 2016. The company is planning to give away game keys to "Sid Meier's Civilization VI" with both the 4 GB and 8 GB variants of its Radeon RX 480 graphics cards. Available through participating retailers, and in select markets, the promotion will be applicable to both the reference and custom-design graphics cards. Sapphire, for example, is giving away keys to the game with both its NITRO+ and reference-design RX 480 cards. Purchase receipts for the cards will come with special promotion codes that can be redeemed on the AMD Rewards website to enable the game directly to your Steam account. The 6th edition of the smash-hit turn-based strategy game, "Civilization VI" takes advantage of DirectX 12 through its latest patch, the Radeon RX 480 meets or exceeds its recommended system requirements.
Q3-2016 VGA Market - NVIDIA Gained Market Share While AMD's Declined: JPR
Jon Peddie Research (JPR), the graphics and multimedia industry's research and consulting firm, announced estimated PC graphics add-in-board (AIB) shipments and suppliers' market share for Q3'16. The last two quarters have seen both NVIDIA and AMD release and expand a new AIB line-up, the former launching the GeForce 10 series, powered by "Pascal" GPU's and the latter releasing the Radeon 400 series, powered by "Polaris" GPU's.
JPR's AIB Report tracks PC add-in graphics boards (AIBs), which carry discrete graphics chips. AIBs are used in desktop PCs, workstations, servers, and other devices such as scientific instruments. They can be factory installed or sold directly to customers as aftermarket products. In all cases, AIBs represent the higher end of the graphics industry using discrete chips and private high-speed memory, compared to the integrated GPUs in CPUs or SOCs that share slower system memory.
JPR's AIB Report tracks PC add-in graphics boards (AIBs), which carry discrete graphics chips. AIBs are used in desktop PCs, workstations, servers, and other devices such as scientific instruments. They can be factory installed or sold directly to customers as aftermarket products. In all cases, AIBs represent the higher end of the graphics industry using discrete chips and private high-speed memory, compared to the integrated GPUs in CPUs or SOCs that share slower system memory.
BIOSTAR Announces the GK3 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
BIOSTAR is pleased to announce its latest addition to its gaming peripheral line-up with its first keyboard for gamers: the BIOSTAR GK3 mechanical gaming keyboard. BIOSTAR combines all the key elements that gamers need and designs their first mechanical keyboard dedicated for gamers and what they really need: a durable and responsive keyboard aimed at the masses.
Today's gamers are becoming more competitive and response times are a gamer's number 1 tool in victory. If your gear can't keep up then your gear is keeping you down. Keyboards are the primary input for PC games and when a single keypress counts, a mere milisecond of input is the difference in winning and losing. The BIOSTAR GK3 mechanical keyboard will have an MSRP of $44.99.
Today's gamers are becoming more competitive and response times are a gamer's number 1 tool in victory. If your gear can't keep up then your gear is keeping you down. Keyboards are the primary input for PC games and when a single keypress counts, a mere milisecond of input is the difference in winning and losing. The BIOSTAR GK3 mechanical keyboard will have an MSRP of $44.99.
Plextor Extends EX1 Portable SSD Warranty
Plextor today announced that it revised the warranty policy of its recently announced EX1 portable solid-state drive to be effective for 5 years, from its existing 3 years. This change is applicable to all products already sold and with retailers as unsold inventory. The EX1 is a series of portable SSDs with 10 Gb/s USB 3.1 host interface, with a single cable handling both power and host connectivity. The drives combine Silicon Motion-made controllers with SK Hynix 16 nm TLC NAND flash memory, and come in capacities of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, priced at 79€, 119€, and 213€, respectively.
Team Group Announces the M161 and T162 Flash Drives with Latest Type-C OTG
Team Group is continuously dedicated in satisfying our customers' needs in every respect. Today we announce the release of two USB drives with latest USB 3.1 Gen1 (USB 3.0) transfer interface. One of them is the ring shaped T162, the winner of Golden Pin Design Award, and another one is the eye-catching M161 with latest Type-C OTG(On-The-Go).
T162 made its first appearance at the Computex exhibition in June this year. The entire exhibition was stunned by its unique design, which combined the concepts of "convenience" and "ergonomics". T162 is the first USB drive designed with an ergonomic grip ring. Its 360 degrees, rotating, and four-way positioning structural design allows users to rotate the ring according to their actual usage space, so other devices won't be interfered and very flexible to use. T162 is designed with a little bit of artistic twist and practical functions, not only it is convenient to use with single hand, but its design also allows users to have all the important information at the tips of their fingers. There are two colors to choose from: "Stylish Blue" and "Sweetheart Pink". The glossy pearl color enhances the overall texture and the energetic and creative grip ring design will make this USB drive a trendy accessory. T162 is designed with a strap hole which is easy for users to carry around their precious memories.
T162 made its first appearance at the Computex exhibition in June this year. The entire exhibition was stunned by its unique design, which combined the concepts of "convenience" and "ergonomics". T162 is the first USB drive designed with an ergonomic grip ring. Its 360 degrees, rotating, and four-way positioning structural design allows users to rotate the ring according to their actual usage space, so other devices won't be interfered and very flexible to use. T162 is designed with a little bit of artistic twist and practical functions, not only it is convenient to use with single hand, but its design also allows users to have all the important information at the tips of their fingers. There are two colors to choose from: "Stylish Blue" and "Sweetheart Pink". The glossy pearl color enhances the overall texture and the energetic and creative grip ring design will make this USB drive a trendy accessory. T162 is designed with a strap hole which is easy for users to carry around their precious memories.
Monday, November 21st 2016
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Monitors
Motherboards
Notebooks
Speakers
Storage
Corsair Crystal Series 460X RGB Review
After the huge success of their other cases, Corsair has now released the Crystal series concentrating on a clean, modern design while still being functional to both air- and liquid-cooling enthusiasts.The first of the Crystal Series is the 460X which comes with RGB fans and tempered glass.
Intel's Skylake-EP Flagship Xeon E5-2699 V5 CPU to Harness 32 Cores, 64 Threads
Intel is preparing their Skylake-EP Xeon E5 processor lineup for launch in mid-2017. And judging by the leaks regarding their next top-of-the-line processors in the server market, the Xeon E5-2699 V5 looks like Intel's response to AMD's expected Naples server platform. The leak should, naturally, be taken with a grain of salt, since the leaked chip appears to not yet be a finalized version of Intel's silicon. If you trust the source, you can secure one of these engineering samples for the tidy sum of ¥ 26500 (around $3845).
Thermalright AXP-100H Muscle and the Narrow ILM Mounting Kit Now Available
Introducing the AXP-100H Muscle and the Narrow ILM Mounting Kit. With the AXP-100H Muscle, Thermalright offers a slightly modified version of the HTPC "Value" cooler, which is aimed primarily at price-sensitive fans of compact coolers. The AXP-100H Muscle has been heightened a little bit in order to ensure, that it fits for example on the Asus "Republic of Gamers" Maximus VIII Impact motherboard, with its higher VRM-coolers.
Due to the higher distance between base and heat sink, the cooler is only 7 mm higher than its predecessor. Still, the AXP-100H "Muscle" is just 51 mm high (or 65 mm with the fan included). The most striking feature of this powerful cooler thus remains the particularly low profile. As such- due to the higher distance between base and heat sink. The compact cooler is predestined for HTPC systems or minimalistic work computers.
Due to the higher distance between base and heat sink, the cooler is only 7 mm higher than its predecessor. Still, the AXP-100H "Muscle" is just 51 mm high (or 65 mm with the fan included). The most striking feature of this powerful cooler thus remains the particularly low profile. As such- due to the higher distance between base and heat sink. The compact cooler is predestined for HTPC systems or minimalistic work computers.
AMD Announces the Radeon Pro Software Enterprise Driver
AMD FirePro and Radeon Pro graphics empower content creators and designers at many levels, from casual makers and students all the way up to seasoned professionals and enterprise workstation users. It's not just hardware, though, that lets professionals unleash their creativity; powerful software is critical too, and today we are introducing the first of many Radeon Pro Software releases.
The Radeon Pro Software Enterprise Driver 16.Q4 is designed to address the specific needs of enterprise users and also will support the upcoming release of AMD's next-generation of professional graphics, the Radeon Pro WX series.
The Radeon Pro Software Enterprise Driver 16.Q4 is designed to address the specific needs of enterprise users and also will support the upcoming release of AMD's next-generation of professional graphics, the Radeon Pro WX series.
Corsair Launches Three New Crystal and Carbide Series Cases
CORSAIR, a world leader in enthusiast memory, high-performance gaming hardware and PC components today announced the release of three new high-performance ATX PC cases. The new Crystal Series 570X RGB and 460X RGB pair renowned CORSAIR build quality and ease of use with beautiful tempered glass and vivid RGB lighting, allowing PC builders to admire and illuminate their system like never before.
The Carbide 270R combines sleek minimalist design with an exceptional internal layout designed to make systems easy to install and look their best. Whether you're building your dream PC or your first PC the new CORSAIR Crystal and Carbide series cases offer the features, looks and quality to help you Build It Better.
The Carbide 270R combines sleek minimalist design with an exceptional internal layout designed to make systems easy to install and look their best. Whether you're building your dream PC or your first PC the new CORSAIR Crystal and Carbide series cases offer the features, looks and quality to help you Build It Better.
MSI Unveils GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Low-profile Graphics Card
MSI unveiled the first half-height (low-profile) graphics card based on NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti. The MSI GTX 1050 Ti 4GT LP graphics card features a half height PCB, and a dual-slot cooling solution that uses a pair of 50 mm fans ventilating a dense aluminium heatsink. The card is 18.2 cm in length, and includes both standard- and low-profile I/O shields.
The MSI GTX 1050 Ti 4GT LP relies on the PCI-Express slot for all its power. It ticks at NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 1290 MHz core, 1392 MHz GPU Boost, and 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. It features 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across the GPU's 128-bit wide memory interface. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. MSI didn't reveal pricing.
The MSI GTX 1050 Ti 4GT LP relies on the PCI-Express slot for all its power. It ticks at NVIDIA reference clock speeds of 1290 MHz core, 1392 MHz GPU Boost, and 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory. It features 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across the GPU's 128-bit wide memory interface. Display outputs include one each of dual-link DVI, HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4 connectors. MSI didn't reveal pricing.
ASUS Announces the ROG GX800 Gaming Notebook with Liquid Cooling
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced GX800, a gaming laptop with the latest NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 SLI graphics and an advanced version of the Hydro Overclocking System liquid-cooling module. The 18-inch GX800 is the first gaming laptop designed to deliver real 4K UHD gameplay. It features NVIDIA G-SYNC technology and supports leading virtual-reality (VR) headsets for super-smooth and stutter-free VR gaming. In addition, GX800 features the Mechanical Tactile Advanced Gaming (MechTAG) keyboard with programmable ROG Aura RGB LED effects for individual keys.
ROG GX800's NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 SLI graphics provides super-fast, silky-smooth gameplay and detailed gaming environments. GX800 is paired with an advanced version of its predecessor's Hydro Overclocking System to give it the cooling performance required for extreme overclocking of the processor and graphics cards. The Hydro Overclocking System helps boost GX800 clock frequencies from 3.2GHz to 4.2GHz. When overclocked, GX800 achieves a 3DMark Fire Strike Ultra score of 10395.
ROG GX800's NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 SLI graphics provides super-fast, silky-smooth gameplay and detailed gaming environments. GX800 is paired with an advanced version of its predecessor's Hydro Overclocking System to give it the cooling performance required for extreme overclocking of the processor and graphics cards. The Hydro Overclocking System helps boost GX800 clock frequencies from 3.2GHz to 4.2GHz. When overclocked, GX800 achieves a 3DMark Fire Strike Ultra score of 10395.
Intel Z270 and H270 Chipsets Detailed: More PCIe Lanes
Early 2017, a new wave of socket LGA1151 motherboards based on Intel 200-series chipset will launch, alongside the company's 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors. The lineup will be led by the Z270 Express, targeting performance desktops, and H270 Express, targeting premium commercial desktops. The question on your mind probably is what sets these chipsets apart from the current 100-series Z170 and H170 chipsets. Here are some pointers.
To begin with, motherboards based on Z270 and H270 chipsets are assured to support Core "Kaby Lake" processors, out of the box. The 100-series chipset motherboards inventory with retailers may require BIOS updates, although some of the newer production batches could ship with the latest BIOS that support "Kaby Lake." Secondly, the Z270 and H270 support Intel Optane technology, a new breed of bleeding-edge performance SSDs based on the company's 3D X-point non-volatile memory, which is the very latest in sold-state storage, and purported to be the fastest. The chipets also support Rapid Storage Technology v15.
To begin with, motherboards based on Z270 and H270 chipsets are assured to support Core "Kaby Lake" processors, out of the box. The 100-series chipset motherboards inventory with retailers may require BIOS updates, although some of the newer production batches could ship with the latest BIOS that support "Kaby Lake." Secondly, the Z270 and H270 support Intel Optane technology, a new breed of bleeding-edge performance SSDs based on the company's 3D X-point non-volatile memory, which is the very latest in sold-state storage, and purported to be the fastest. The chipets also support Rapid Storage Technology v15.
Colorful Intros GeForce GTX 1070 iGame Snake X-Top Graphics Card
Colorful introduced the iGame GeForce GTX 1070 Snake X-Top graphics card, a custom-design, special-edition graphics card bearing the insignia of the Snake e-Sports clan. The company is doing a limited production run of 200 pieces for the retail segment. The card is based on the iGame GTX 1070 X-Top by Colorful, with a unique anodized aluminium ornament around the middle fan, and a special back-plate with Snake clan insignia.
The iGame GeForce GTX 1070 Snake X-Top comes with factory-overclocked speeds of 1657 MHz core, 1860 MHz GPU Boost, and 8.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory, which are higher than the 1607/1797 MHz clocks the original GTX 1070 X-Top ships with. Other features include dual-BIOS, with the backup BIOS falling back to NVIDIA reference clocks, and a 10-phase VRM which draws power from two 8-pin PCIe power connectors. The card is sold only in China, priced at RMB ¥3,999.
The iGame GeForce GTX 1070 Snake X-Top comes with factory-overclocked speeds of 1657 MHz core, 1860 MHz GPU Boost, and 8.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory, which are higher than the 1607/1797 MHz clocks the original GTX 1070 X-Top ships with. Other features include dual-BIOS, with the backup BIOS falling back to NVIDIA reference clocks, and a 10-phase VRM which draws power from two 8-pin PCIe power connectors. The card is sold only in China, priced at RMB ¥3,999.
Sunday, November 20th 2016
ASRock Updates Beebox-S Mini-PCs with Core "Kaby Lake" Processors
ASRock updated its Beebox-S line of mini-PC desktops with 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors. These 110 mm x 46 mm x 118.5 mm (WxHxL) desktops come with two new processor options, Core i5-7200U, and Core i3-7100U. Both are dual-core chips, with the i5-7200U offering 2.50-3.10 GHz clock speeds (core/Turbo Boost), 3 MB L3 cache, and Intel HD 620 graphics; while the i3-7100U offers 2.40 GHz clocks (no Turbo Boost), 3 MB L3 cache, and HD 620 graphics.
Other internal features of the Beebox-S include two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, supporting up to 32 GB of dual-channel DDR4-2133 memory; one 32 Gb/s M.2-2280 slot with NVMe boot support, and one 9 mm-thick 2.5-inch drive bay with SATA 6 Gb/s interface. Network connectivity includes 802.11ac WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0, Infrared, and gigabit Ethernet. Display outputs include one each of HDMI 2.0 (supports 4K @ 60 Hz), HDMI 1.4, and DisplayPort 1.2a. Other features include two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 3.1 ports (of which one is type-C), and an infrared media remote. ASRock didn't reveal pricing.
Other internal features of the Beebox-S include two DDR4 SO-DIMM slots, supporting up to 32 GB of dual-channel DDR4-2133 memory; one 32 Gb/s M.2-2280 slot with NVMe boot support, and one 9 mm-thick 2.5-inch drive bay with SATA 6 Gb/s interface. Network connectivity includes 802.11ac WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0, Infrared, and gigabit Ethernet. Display outputs include one each of HDMI 2.0 (supports 4K @ 60 Hz), HDMI 1.4, and DisplayPort 1.2a. Other features include two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 3.1 ports (of which one is type-C), and an infrared media remote. ASRock didn't reveal pricing.
LC Power Unveils the Gaming 986 Series Cases
LC Power is proud to present two brand new mid-sized ATX tower cases aimed at gaming enthusiasts: Gaming 986S White Shadow and Gaming 986B Dark Shadow. Both products are built with high quality materials, including aluminum and tempered glass. They are both compatible with ATX, Micro-ATX as well as Mini-ITX motherboards. The cases sport the following dimensions (Width, Height, Depth): 223 x 482 x 467 mm and weigh approx. 19.84 lbs. In addition to their aluminum bodies, the side panels are made of tempered glass, which allows taking a glance at the computer's components without disassembling the tower.
Included are two 120 mm case fans that are softly lit by red (White Shadow) or blue (Dark Shadow) LED lights. The cases allow a high degree of customization, providing five additional slots for mountable fans, up to seven in total: 3 x 120 mm in the front, 1 x 120 mm inside the case, 2 x 120 mm at the top and 1 x 120 mm in the rear panel. This should meet the expectations and needs of even most demanding gamers. It is common knowledge that with greater processing power, comes greater cooling responsibility after all.
Included are two 120 mm case fans that are softly lit by red (White Shadow) or blue (Dark Shadow) LED lights. The cases allow a high degree of customization, providing five additional slots for mountable fans, up to seven in total: 3 x 120 mm in the front, 1 x 120 mm inside the case, 2 x 120 mm at the top and 1 x 120 mm in the rear panel. This should meet the expectations and needs of even most demanding gamers. It is common knowledge that with greater processing power, comes greater cooling responsibility after all.
Saturday, November 19th 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
PSUs
AlphaCool Announces the Eisblock XPX CPU Block
The Alphacool Eisblock XPX cooler is the newest innovation in the CPU cooler field, developed by Alphacool. The XPX cooler's performance has gotten a major upgrade compared to its predecessor, the NexXxoS XP3. This was only possible because Alphacool completely re-developed the Eisblock XPX cooler from the ground up. For one, the fin structure was refined to 0.2 mm and the fin count raised to 81 fins.
This makes for a much larger cooling surface through which water can flow. In order to ensure the water is evenly distributed over the cooling fins, Alphacool developed and patented the "Ramp". It ensures there is no turbulence in the water flow over cooling fins, which would lead to uneven water distribution over the cooling fins. Alphacool also used a double distributor to ensure less resistance. Paired with the ramp, this means the pump pressure plays little to no role in the performance of the cooler. You can turn the pump power down and run your system even more quietly without losing any cooling power.
This makes for a much larger cooling surface through which water can flow. In order to ensure the water is evenly distributed over the cooling fins, Alphacool developed and patented the "Ramp". It ensures there is no turbulence in the water flow over cooling fins, which would lead to uneven water distribution over the cooling fins. Alphacool also used a double distributor to ensure less resistance. Paired with the ramp, this means the pump pressure plays little to no role in the performance of the cooler. You can turn the pump power down and run your system even more quietly without losing any cooling power.
Intel "Coffee Lake" Company's First 6-core Mainstream SKU
Intel's upcoming "Coffee Lake" micro-architecture, or the 9th generation Core processor family by Intel, is scheduled for launch in the second half of 2018. It succeeds the 8th generation "Cannon Lake" family of notebook processors (which likely doesn't see a desktop launch), and the 7th Gen Core "Kaby Lake" socket LGA1151 processors slated for January 2017. While it's not known if mainstream desktop "Coffee Lake" chips will continue to be based on the LGA1151 socket, the possibility is diminishing, looking at a platform layout diagram leaked to the web by Benchlife.info, supported by new connectivity interfaces coming out of the CPU package. The biggest selling-point of "Coffee Lake," is its core-count.
The 9th generation Core "Coffee Lake" family could introduce Intel's first 6-core processor to the mainstream desktop platform. The company's first 6-core client part was launched in its LGA1366 HEDT (high-end desktop) platform with the Core i7 "Gulftown" processor, way back in 2010. An increase in core-count from 4 has eluded the mainstream-desktop lineup. The 6-core "Coffee Lake" silicon will be built on a highly-refined 14 nm node by Intel, with a die-size of 149 mm². Quad-core parts won't be carved out of this silicon by disabling two cores, but rather be built on a smaller 126 mm² die. For reference, the quad-core "Kaby Lake" die is expected to be 123 mm², and the current quad-core "Skylake-D" die measures 122.6 mm².
The 9th generation Core "Coffee Lake" family could introduce Intel's first 6-core processor to the mainstream desktop platform. The company's first 6-core client part was launched in its LGA1366 HEDT (high-end desktop) platform with the Core i7 "Gulftown" processor, way back in 2010. An increase in core-count from 4 has eluded the mainstream-desktop lineup. The 6-core "Coffee Lake" silicon will be built on a highly-refined 14 nm node by Intel, with a die-size of 149 mm². Quad-core parts won't be carved out of this silicon by disabling two cores, but rather be built on a smaller 126 mm² die. For reference, the quad-core "Kaby Lake" die is expected to be 123 mm², and the current quad-core "Skylake-D" die measures 122.6 mm².
AMD's Internal ZEN SR7, SR5, SR3 Priced Above A12-9800
AMD's first desktop processors based on the "ZEN" micro-architecture will be priced above the fastest socket AM4 part currently in production, the A12-9800 APU. While AMD hasn't started selling the A-series socket AM4 APUs in the retail channel, the top-end A12-9800, which is faster than the A10-7870K from its previous-generation, is expected to be priced at least the same ($160) or higher. This would mean that even the cheapest ZEN part, under the ZEN SR3 series, likely quad-core; could be priced above $160.
Two key slides from a presentation AMD intended for Chinese distribution channels, was leaked to the web by ChipHell tech forum members, revealing that ZEN parts will be priced in a segment "above" RMB ¥1,500 (USD $218), assuming that that's a price inclusive of all taxes. The company also put out some performance numbers for the A8-9600 "Bristol Ridge" socket AM4 APU, keeping the "Godavari" A8-7650K as baseline, compared to the Intel Core i3-6100 "Skylake" processor. The A8-9600 was shown to be faster in most tests.
Two key slides from a presentation AMD intended for Chinese distribution channels, was leaked to the web by ChipHell tech forum members, revealing that ZEN parts will be priced in a segment "above" RMB ¥1,500 (USD $218), assuming that that's a price inclusive of all taxes. The company also put out some performance numbers for the A8-9600 "Bristol Ridge" socket AM4 APU, keeping the "Godavari" A8-7650K as baseline, compared to the Intel Core i3-6100 "Skylake" processor. The A8-9600 was shown to be faster in most tests.
Friday, November 18th 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
CPU Coolers
Desktop PC
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
Mouse
Networking
ASRock Fatal1ty X99 Professional Gaming i7 Review
ASRock's updated X99 board for gamers, the ASRock Fatal1ty X99 Professional Gaming i7, is fitted with all the latest goodies, including a bundled NVIDIA HB Bridge so you can get the most out of your pair of GTX 1070s or GTX 1080s. Dual M.2, dual Intel LAN, this board is all about gaming pairs!
AMD's Zen Rumored for January 17th Launch; 8 Cores With 16 Threads for $300
As we inch ever closer to AMD's Zen launch, more and more information seems to be slipping through the cracks. This time, MAXSUN, an AMD China partner (poised to provide customers with AM4 platform motherboards) is the source of the proverbial leak, with information that, if true, is sure to stir the pot of bubbling Zen excitement even more.
According to MAXSUN, Zen's initial release date is pegged for January 17th, which, if true, would probably mean a product announcement around CES 2017 (scheduled from the 5th of January through the 8th) - at the same time as Intel is expected to fully unveil their Kaby Lake parts. The company also reports a second release window at March 2017, which lends further credence to AMD's expected staggered launch of Zen-based processors, first for the High-Performance-Desktop (HEDT) market, and trickling down from there. MAXSUN also confirms the pricing scheme we reported yesterday, with regards to the companies' SR7 processors (the top-of-the-line parts in the Zen line-up, and whose naming scheme I think isn't the final one) - the company states these are expected to be priced at around 1500-2000 Yuan SKU ($250-$300).
According to MAXSUN, Zen's initial release date is pegged for January 17th, which, if true, would probably mean a product announcement around CES 2017 (scheduled from the 5th of January through the 8th) - at the same time as Intel is expected to fully unveil their Kaby Lake parts. The company also reports a second release window at March 2017, which lends further credence to AMD's expected staggered launch of Zen-based processors, first for the High-Performance-Desktop (HEDT) market, and trickling down from there. MAXSUN also confirms the pricing scheme we reported yesterday, with regards to the companies' SR7 processors (the top-of-the-line parts in the Zen line-up, and whose naming scheme I think isn't the final one) - the company states these are expected to be priced at around 1500-2000 Yuan SKU ($250-$300).
Sid Meier's Civilization VI Gets a DirectX 12 Renderer in Latest Update
Firaxis Games released the biggest update to Sid Meier's "Civilization VI." The update is particularly big for the PC version, as it adds a DirectX 12 renderer, letting the game take advantage of performance-enhancing features introduced with the API, such as multi-threaded rendering, which could improve frame-rates in CPU-limited low-resolution setups. The in-game benchmark tool is also updated. The update also adds new content, user-interface updates, and gameplay changes.
AMD Radeon GPUs Limit HDR Color Depth to 8bpc Over HDMI 2.0
High-dynamic range or HDR is all the rage these days as the next big thing in display output, now that hardware has time to catch up with ever-increasing display resolutions such as 4K ultra HD, 5K, and the various ultra-wide formats. Hardware-accelerated HDR is getting a push from both AMD and NVIDIA in this round of GPUs. While games with HDR date back to Half Life 2, hardware-accelerated formats that minimize work for game developers, in which the hardware makes sense of an image and adjusts its output range, is new and requires substantial compute power. It also requires additional interface bandwidth between the GPU and the display, since GPUs sometimes rely on wider color palettes such as 10 bpc (1.07 billion colors) to generate HDR images. AMD Radeon GPUs are facing difficulties in this area.
German tech publication Heise.de discovered that AMD Radeon GPUs render HDR games (games that take advantage of new-generation hardware HDR, such as "Shadow Warrior 2") at a reduced color depth of 8 bits per cell (16.7 million colors), or 32-bit; if your display (eg: 4K HDR-ready TV) is connected over HDMI 2.0 and not DisplayPort 1.2 (and above). The desired 10 bits per cell (1.07 billion colors) palette is available only when your HDR display runs over DisplayPort. This could be a problem, since most HDR-ready displays these days are TVs. Heise.de observes that AMD GPUs reduce output sampling from the desired Full YCrBr 4: 4: 4 color scanning to 4: 2: 2 or 4: 2: 0 (color-sub-sampling / chroma sub-sampling), when the display is connected over HDMI 2.0. The publication also suspects that the limitation is prevalent on all AMD "Polaris" GPUs, including the ones that drive game consoles such as the PS4 Pro.
German tech publication Heise.de discovered that AMD Radeon GPUs render HDR games (games that take advantage of new-generation hardware HDR, such as "Shadow Warrior 2") at a reduced color depth of 8 bits per cell (16.7 million colors), or 32-bit; if your display (eg: 4K HDR-ready TV) is connected over HDMI 2.0 and not DisplayPort 1.2 (and above). The desired 10 bits per cell (1.07 billion colors) palette is available only when your HDR display runs over DisplayPort. This could be a problem, since most HDR-ready displays these days are TVs. Heise.de observes that AMD GPUs reduce output sampling from the desired Full YCrBr 4: 4: 4 color scanning to 4: 2: 2 or 4: 2: 0 (color-sub-sampling / chroma sub-sampling), when the display is connected over HDMI 2.0. The publication also suspects that the limitation is prevalent on all AMD "Polaris" GPUs, including the ones that drive game consoles such as the PS4 Pro.
PowerColor Intros the Radeon RX 470 Red Dragon V2 Graphics Card
PowerColor unveiled the Radeon RX 470 Red Dragon V2 4 GB graphics card (model: AXRX470 4GBD5-3DHDV2/OC). A cost-effective variant of the original RX 470 Red Dragon, this card features a simpler single-fan cooling solution. The cooler features an aluminium fin-heatsink milled from a single chunk of metal; with a copper core, and two copper heat pipes that make direct contact with the GPU, quickly pushing heat to the edges of the heatsink. This heatsink also makes contact with the VRM MOSFETs. A single 100 mm fan ventilates the heatsink.
The PowerColor Radeon RX 470 Red Dragon V2 is factory-overclocked, with engine clocks up to 1206 MHz, and 6.60 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory; which are the same as the original (dual-fan) RX 470 Red Dragon. The card features 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across the chip's 256-bit wide memory interface. Based on the Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" silicon, the Radeon RX 470 features 2,048 stream processors, 128 TMUs, and 32 ROPs. The card draws power from a single 6-pin PCIe power connector. PowerColor could price this card around the $170 mark.
The PowerColor Radeon RX 470 Red Dragon V2 is factory-overclocked, with engine clocks up to 1206 MHz, and 6.60 GHz (GDDR5-effective) memory; which are the same as the original (dual-fan) RX 470 Red Dragon. The card features 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across the chip's 256-bit wide memory interface. Based on the Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" silicon, the Radeon RX 470 features 2,048 stream processors, 128 TMUs, and 32 ROPs. The card draws power from a single 6-pin PCIe power connector. PowerColor could price this card around the $170 mark.
Thursday, November 17th 2016
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cooling
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Memory
Motherboards
Zalman ZM-K900M Keyboard Review
Zalman released their first high-end mechanical keyboard earlier this year with the ZM-K700M, and it was a good first attempt, but now, the brand-new ZM-K900M is here to try and impress us. It promises to be feature-packed, with multiple RGB lighting options and no software, which is a brave move!
ASRock Z270 Fatal1ty Motherboard Teased
Here are some of the first pictures of a production version of an ASRock Z270 Fatal1ty-branded motherboard. While there's no picture of the board in full, Expreview scored pictures of its key sections, including its CPU VRM area, showing us prominent "Z270" badging on a VRM heatsink, a Fatal1ty logo on the PCH heatsink and its print on the PCB; and an Intel Gigabit Ethernet on the rear I/O hood, and Creative Sound Blaster Cinema 3 logo on the audio area hood; all pointing to this being a production version.
The rear I/O picture reveals two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, provision for a WLAN card, four USB 3.1 ports (of which one is type-C), two USB 3.0 ports, 8-channel HD audio with a TOSLINK connector; and display outputs including DVI, D-Sub, and HDMI. Storage appears to include eight SATA 6 Gb/s ports, and at least one M.2 slot (with Intel Optane support out of the box). Not much else is revealed by these pictures. Intel 200-series chipset motherboards are expected to launch alongside 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors, in January 2017.
The rear I/O picture reveals two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, provision for a WLAN card, four USB 3.1 ports (of which one is type-C), two USB 3.0 ports, 8-channel HD audio with a TOSLINK connector; and display outputs including DVI, D-Sub, and HDMI. Storage appears to include eight SATA 6 Gb/s ports, and at least one M.2 slot (with Intel Optane support out of the box). Not much else is revealed by these pictures. Intel 200-series chipset motherboards are expected to launch alongside 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors, in January 2017.
Raijintek Intros the Paean Tempered Glass Dual-Compartment Chassis
Raijintek announced availability of the Paean tempered-glass dual-compartment chassis. This vertically-partitioned case features 5 mm-thick tempered glass panels on its sides, with metal (aluminium and steel) making up only the motherboard tray with PSU and drive mounts on its reverse side; and the beams holding the panels in place. The glass panels feature a dark tint, while the aluminium motherboard tray has a black, brushed-metal finish.
The Raijintek Paean can hold standard ATX, micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards. The tray has room for graphics cards as long as 31 cm with a front reservoir in place, or up to 40 cm, with a vertically placed reservoir and no additional drive caddies in place; and CPU coolers as tall as 14 cm. It can hold standard ATX power supplies as long as 20 cm. Storage areas include three each of 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drive bays.
The Raijintek Paean can hold standard ATX, micro-ATX, and mini-ITX motherboards. The tray has room for graphics cards as long as 31 cm with a front reservoir in place, or up to 40 cm, with a vertically placed reservoir and no additional drive caddies in place; and CPU coolers as tall as 14 cm. It can hold standard ATX power supplies as long as 20 cm. Storage areas include three each of 3.5-inch and 2.5-inch drive bays.
Colorful Announces the CGU eSports Event
Colorful Technology Company Limited, professional manufacturer of graphics cards and motherboards, proudly announces its Colorful Games Union (CGU) event to be held this 26th-27th November. Happening in Wuhan, China, it is an annual grand ceremony and Colorful's most prestigious official event of 2016. The Title sponsor is JD Game+ and strategic partner is NVIDA. CGU is a game brand competition which will also create opportunities for players who have eSports dreams and want to be scouted by professional teams.
There will be iGame products and character launching event as well as CGU APAC 2017's announcement ceremony. The event proper will also host a League of Legends & Overwatch exhibition match and of course, the CGU Finals. New iGame series graphics cards, motherboard, and new arrival SSDs will be released at the same time, the new iGame character will also debut on stage.
There will be iGame products and character launching event as well as CGU APAC 2017's announcement ceremony. The event proper will also host a League of Legends & Overwatch exhibition match and of course, the CGU Finals. New iGame series graphics cards, motherboard, and new arrival SSDs will be released at the same time, the new iGame character will also debut on stage.
Intel Unveils Strategy for State-of-the-Art Artificial Intelligence
Intel Corporation today announced a range of new products, technologies and investments from the edge to the data center to help expand and accelerate the growth of artificial intelligence (AI). Intel sees AI transforming the way businesses operate and how people engage with the world. Intel is assembling the broadest set of technology options to drive AI capabilities in everything from smart factories and drones to sports, fraud detection and autonomous cars.
At an industry gathering led by Intel CEO Brian Krzanich, Intel shared how both the promise and complexities of AI require an extensive set of leading technologies to choose from and an ecosystem that can scale beyond early adopters. As algorithms become complex and required data sets grow, Krzanich said Intel has the assets and know-how required to drive this computing transformation. In a blog Krzanich said: "Intel is uniquely capable of enabling and accelerating the promise of AI. Intel is committed to AI and is making major investments in technology and developer resources to advance AI for business and society."
At an industry gathering led by Intel CEO Brian Krzanich, Intel shared how both the promise and complexities of AI require an extensive set of leading technologies to choose from and an ecosystem that can scale beyond early adopters. As algorithms become complex and required data sets grow, Krzanich said Intel has the assets and know-how required to drive this computing transformation. In a blog Krzanich said: "Intel is uniquely capable of enabling and accelerating the promise of AI. Intel is committed to AI and is making major investments in technology and developer resources to advance AI for business and society."
NVIDIA Releases GeForce 375.95 Hotfix Drivers
NVIDIA has today released the latest Hotfix GeForce drivers that address the low memory clocks on certain factory-overclocked "Pascal" cards. The driver includes all of the previous updates from the 375.86 WHQL driver with the "Pascal" memory clock fix listed as the only difference. You can Grab the drivers from the links below.
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce 375.95 Beta for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 64-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 32-bit
AMD Releases Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.4
AMD today released Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.4, the latest version of its comprehensive Radeon GPU software suite. Version 16.11.4 comes with optimization for "Sid Meier's Civilization VI," the season's smash-hit turn-based strategy title. The drivers also address a minor visual corruption noticed on "Titanfall 2" rendered by Radeon R9 Fury series GPUs, when inside a titan. The drivers fix a bug with playback issues noticed on H.264 video-playback in web-browsers, when the GPU is also rendering games or other content in the background. Grab the drivers from the links below.
DOWNLOAD: AMD Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.4 for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8.1 64-bit | Windows 8.1 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit | Windows 7 32-bit
Nanoxia Announces the CoolForce 1 Chassis
Introducing the CoolForce 1. Next week, in addition to the recently introduced CoolForce 2 Rev. B, the second model of our CoolForce case series, the new CoolForce 1, will become available in Europe. The CoolForce 1 features a spacious interior that offers unexpectedly much space for high-end hardware and water cooling systems, despite relatively compact dimensions.
Many of the improvements we implemented due to customer feedback have been included in the new CoolForce 1 as well. For example, the case also features a split front design with a separate I/O panel to ensure that the dust filter and the front fan can be accessed without much effort. The I/O-panel is the same as that of the CoolForce 2 Rev. B, featuring a True USB 3.1 Type C, two USB 3.0, as well as HD audio connectors and a 3-step fan control. The LED On/Off button for the two pre-installed Rigid LED bars in the front is located in the I/O-panel, as well as the Power- and Reset-Button.
Many of the improvements we implemented due to customer feedback have been included in the new CoolForce 1 as well. For example, the case also features a split front design with a separate I/O panel to ensure that the dust filter and the front fan can be accessed without much effort. The I/O-panel is the same as that of the CoolForce 2 Rev. B, featuring a True USB 3.1 Type C, two USB 3.0, as well as HD audio connectors and a 3-step fan control. The LED On/Off button for the two pre-installed Rigid LED bars in the front is located in the I/O-panel, as well as the Power- and Reset-Button.
Sharkoon Announces the M25-W ATX Midi Tower with Virtual 7.1 Sound
Sharkoon is expanding their lineup of ATX cases through the introduction of the Sharkoon M25-W. Available in both black and white, the M25-W pack an interesting feature: thanks to its integrated sound card, virtual 7.1 surround sound is conveniently provided through the audio front port on the case. As a result, it is ideal as a second sound source when operating speakers and headsets on a Windows PC. The M25-W dimensions are 45.0 x 21.0 x 46.5 cm (L x W x H) and weighs 6.5 kg.
The extra-large acrylic side panel offers an inside view of the case, which is illuminated by the pre-installed 120 mm LED fan on the rear panel. For internal arrangement there is a special tunnel on the case bottom, in which a power supply as well as up to three 3.5" hard drives can be inconspicuously installed while also ensuring optimized airflow.
The extra-large acrylic side panel offers an inside view of the case, which is illuminated by the pre-installed 120 mm LED fan on the rear panel. For internal arrangement there is a special tunnel on the case bottom, in which a power supply as well as up to three 3.5" hard drives can be inconspicuously installed while also ensuring optimized airflow.
NVIDIA Announces DGX SaturnV: The World's Most Efficient Supercomputer
This week NVIDIA announced their latest innovation to the HPC landscape, the DGX SaturnV. Destined for the likes of universities and companies with a need for deep learning capabilities, the DGX SaturnV sets a new benchmark for energy efficiency in High Performance Computing. While not managing the title of the fastest supercomputer this year, the SaturnV takes a respectable placing of 28th in the top 500 list, while promising much lower running costs for performance on tap.
Capable of delivering 9.46 GFLOPS of computational speed per Watt of energy consumed, it bests last years best effort of 6.67 GFLOPS/W by 42%. The SaturnV is comprised of 125 DGX-1 deep learning systems, and each DGX-1 contains no less than eight Tesla P100 cards. Where a single GTX1080 can churn out 138 GFLOPS of FP16 calculations, a single Telsa P100 can deliver a massive 21.2 TFLOPS. The singular DGX-1 units are already in the field, including being used by NVIDIA themselves.
Capable of delivering 9.46 GFLOPS of computational speed per Watt of energy consumed, it bests last years best effort of 6.67 GFLOPS/W by 42%. The SaturnV is comprised of 125 DGX-1 deep learning systems, and each DGX-1 contains no less than eight Tesla P100 cards. Where a single GTX1080 can churn out 138 GFLOPS of FP16 calculations, a single Telsa P100 can deliver a massive 21.2 TFLOPS. The singular DGX-1 units are already in the field, including being used by NVIDIA themselves.
AMD ZEN Processors to Supposedly Carry SR3, SR5 and SR7 Branding
Recent reports peg AMD's upcoming line of microprocessors based on Zen micro-architecture as being labelled SR3, SR5 and SR7 for different hardware tiers (with the SR3 being the lowest-performing, and SR7 being, naturally, the highest-performing). A recent post on Chip Hell claims that a leaked slide from an AMD presentation give us these insights, with further information on pricing: it's shown in the roadmap that all Zen SR (Summit Ridge) processors will sell for higher than RMB 1500 ($220).
AMD is expected to offer either four-core or eight-core designs on their lineup (with eventual Simultaneous Multi Threading differentiation, like Intel does between their i5 and i7 lines) still being up in the air. And in what would mark a divergence from their recent movement in the GPU space, where AMD introduced their latest Polaris architecture at the highest-volume market of about $200, AMD's Zen efforts are expected to begin from the top, with the dubbed "SR7" enthusiast-grade products first, and trickling down the market scale eventually.
AMD is expected to offer either four-core or eight-core designs on their lineup (with eventual Simultaneous Multi Threading differentiation, like Intel does between their i5 and i7 lines) still being up in the air. And in what would mark a divergence from their recent movement in the GPU space, where AMD introduced their latest Polaris architecture at the highest-volume market of about $200, AMD's Zen efforts are expected to begin from the top, with the dubbed "SR7" enthusiast-grade products first, and trickling down the market scale eventually.
Intel Announces the Xeon E5-2699A at SC 2016
At the SC16 (Super Computing 2016) conference, Intel introduced its new Intel Xeon E5-2699A v4, which is a newer, faster version of the existing Broadwell E5-2699 v4. The "newer, faster" bit basically amounts to an increased base (from 2.2GHz to 2.4GHz) and boost clock (from 3.4GHz to 3.6GHz). Like its predecessor, the Xeon E5-2699A features 22 cores and 55MB of L3 cache, and the company cited vague improvements to the now-mature 14nm process that which amount to a 4.8% gain in LINPACK performance - which can surely be attributed almost exclusively to its clockspeed increase (not unlike the expected performance differential between Intel's current Skylake and upcoming Kaby Lake architectures). The E5-2699A v4 carries an MSRP of $4,938, which marks an eye-watering 20% increase over the $4,115 of its 200-MHz slower predecessor.
NVIDIA Tesla P100 Available on Google Cloud Platform
NVIDIA announced that its flagship GPGPU accelerator, the Tesla P100, will be available through Google Cloud Platform. The company's Tesla K80 accelerator will also be offered. The Google Cloud Platform allows customers to perform specific computing tasks at an infinitesimally lower cost than having to rent hardware in-situ or having to buy it; by offloading your computing tasks to offsite data-centers. IT professionals can build and deploy servers, HPC farms, or even supercomputers, of all shapes and sizes within hours of placing an order online with Google.
The Tesla P100 is a GPGPU with the most powerful GPU in existence - the NVIDIA GP100 "Pascal," featuring 3,584 CUDA cores, up to 16 GB of HBM2 memory, and NVLink high-bandwidth interconnect support. The other high-end GPU accelerators on offer by Google are the Tesla K80, based on a pair of GK210 "Kepler" GPUs, and the AMD FirePro S9300 X2, based on a pair of "Fiji" GPUs.
The Tesla P100 is a GPGPU with the most powerful GPU in existence - the NVIDIA GP100 "Pascal," featuring 3,584 CUDA cores, up to 16 GB of HBM2 memory, and NVLink high-bandwidth interconnect support. The other high-end GPU accelerators on offer by Google are the Tesla K80, based on a pair of GK210 "Kepler" GPUs, and the AMD FirePro S9300 X2, based on a pair of "Fiji" GPUs.
GPU Q3'16 Shipments Increase 20.4% Over Q2'2016; NVIDIA Up, AMD and Intel Down
The latest data from Jon Peddie Research regarding the PC market are just in, and while the PC market has been in a slow, yet steady decline over the past few years, two sections of it that are seemingly swimming against the current are the gaming and data center businesses. The PC market rose by 8.09% quarter-to-quarter, but decreased 5.37% year-to-year, with the quarter-to-quarter gain being largely due to gaming as well as data center sales. Of these, the gaming market is the most consumer-driven, and if anyone doubted that the PC was the platform of choice for gaming, this quarter's results will correct that misconception.
The gaming market is uplifting the entire PC market (even if not enough to staunch the bleeding), and has overwhelmed the console market, being over twice its market value. PC suppliers are seeing growth in gaming desktops and notebooks, with overall GPU shipments increasing 20.4% from last quarter. Discrete GPUs were in 34.84% of PCs, which is up 7.06%, desktop graphics add-in boards (AIBs) that use discrete GPUs increased 38.16% quarter-to-quarter, and more notebooks than tablets were sold for the first time in three years.
The gaming market is uplifting the entire PC market (even if not enough to staunch the bleeding), and has overwhelmed the console market, being over twice its market value. PC suppliers are seeing growth in gaming desktops and notebooks, with overall GPU shipments increasing 20.4% from last quarter. Discrete GPUs were in 34.84% of PCs, which is up 7.06%, desktop graphics add-in boards (AIBs) that use discrete GPUs increased 38.16% quarter-to-quarter, and more notebooks than tablets were sold for the first time in three years.
G.Skill Adds Cherry MX Speed Silver Switches to its KM570 Keyboard Lineup
Ever-increasing its offerings within the KM570 and KM870 lineup of mechanical keyboards, G.Skill has recently put up a product page for yet another iteration of their KM570 keyboard: the Cherry MX Speed Silver equipped KM570, which joins the companies' offerings of Blue, Red and Brown Cherry MX switches.
The Cherry MX Speed Silver switches feature a shorter - and therefore faster - 1.2mm (as opposed to the more common 2mm) actuation distance with a light 45G switch weight. Constructed with a 50 million keystroke durability and a smooth linear key response as well as contoured keypads for greater comfort, the KM570's other features include macro support with on-the-fly macro recording, per-key lighting customization with seven lighting patterns, full n-Key rollover and 100% anti-ghosting technologies, as well as shortcuts for Windows functions, keyboard functions, media playback and volume control.
The RIPJAWS KM570 MX with Speed Silver switches comes in at $109.99, $10 more than the companies' Red, Blue and Brown offerings, and $10 less than the equivalent offerings with RGB lighting capabilities.
The Cherry MX Speed Silver switches feature a shorter - and therefore faster - 1.2mm (as opposed to the more common 2mm) actuation distance with a light 45G switch weight. Constructed with a 50 million keystroke durability and a smooth linear key response as well as contoured keypads for greater comfort, the KM570's other features include macro support with on-the-fly macro recording, per-key lighting customization with seven lighting patterns, full n-Key rollover and 100% anti-ghosting technologies, as well as shortcuts for Windows functions, keyboard functions, media playback and volume control.
The RIPJAWS KM570 MX with Speed Silver switches comes in at $109.99, $10 more than the companies' Red, Blue and Brown offerings, and $10 less than the equivalent offerings with RGB lighting capabilities.
LEPA Announces the NEOIllusion CPU Cooler
LEPA presented the working prototype of NEOllusion at Computex 2016; this unique RGB cooler instantly became a fascinating eye-catcher for its vivid luminance and impeccable RGB lighting effects. After 6 months of product improvement, LEPA now announces the launch of NEOllusion, the world's 1st remote controlled RGB air cooler.
Unlike most of the peers using LED fans to light up coolers, NEOllusion is designed with LED lighting strips on both sides of the heatsink to create one-of-a-kind illumination effects. On top of that, NEOllusion features a remote control, which allows users to control and adjust the color, brightness and lighting modes. The remote control (effective range up to 3 meters) is included and the operation is very simple and intuitive. No app or software is required; therefore no need to bother with complicated documentation and cumbersome installation any more.
Unlike most of the peers using LED fans to light up coolers, NEOllusion is designed with LED lighting strips on both sides of the heatsink to create one-of-a-kind illumination effects. On top of that, NEOllusion features a remote control, which allows users to control and adjust the color, brightness and lighting modes. The remote control (effective range up to 3 meters) is included and the operation is very simple and intuitive. No app or software is required; therefore no need to bother with complicated documentation and cumbersome installation any more.
ADATA Launches the SD700 Durable External 3D NAND SSD
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of highperformance DRAM modules, NAND Flash products, and mobile accessories today unveiled the SD700 durable external hard drive. The SD700 represents the first time 3D NAND SSD has achieved IP68 dust and water proof specifications in addition to military-grade shock proofing, all thanks to a tough protective enclosure and meticulous testing. The SD700 uses USB 3.1 Gen 1 to connect with Windows, Mac OS, and Android devices at up to 440MB/s read/write. In addition to being widely compatible, the SD700 is also very light, weighing just 100g for easy mobility.
The SD700 has been designed and tested to IEC IP68 standards. That means it is completely dust-tight to prevent particulate ingress and can operate normally even after submersion in 1.5m of water for 60 minutes. ADATA has also tested the SD700 to the popular US Army MIL-STD-810G516.6 shock and drop resistance standard, ensuring a high degree of shock proofing. With its multi-layered protective enclosure and obvious lack of moving parts as an SSD, the SD700 offers extremely survivable storage for extreme activities.
The SD700 has been designed and tested to IEC IP68 standards. That means it is completely dust-tight to prevent particulate ingress and can operate normally even after submersion in 1.5m of water for 60 minutes. ADATA has also tested the SD700 to the popular US Army MIL-STD-810G516.6 shock and drop resistance standard, ensuring a high degree of shock proofing. With its multi-layered protective enclosure and obvious lack of moving parts as an SSD, the SD700 offers extremely survivable storage for extreme activities.
NVIDIA to Bundle "Watch_Dogs 2" with GeForce GTX 1070 and GTX 1080
NVIDIA is readying the "Hackers Wanted" promotion, the latest of many AAA game bundles with its GeForce GTX 10-series graphics cards in recent times. The company will give away game keys to "Watch_Dogs 2" with purchases of GeForce GTX 1070 and GeForce GTX 1080 graphics cards; and notebooks with GTX 1070 Mobile and GTX 1080 Mobile graphics. The promotion is expected to start later this month. It will be applicable in only select markets, and to applicable products bought from select retailers.
Wednesday, November 16th 2016
Today's Reviews
CPU Coolers
Gaming PC
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Mouse
SSD
- Apacer Z280 240GB M.2 NVMe eTeknix
- Samsung 960 EVO 500GB ComputerBase (de)
- Samsung 960 EVO 1TB Guru3D
- Samsung 960 EVO 500GB HotHardware
- Samsung 960 EVO 1TB KitGuru
- Samsung 960 EVO 250GB and 1TB Legit Reviews
- Samsung 960 EVO 250GB and 1TB SSDReview
- Samsung 960 EVO 1TB Tom's Hardware
- Samsung 960 EVO 250GB and 1TB Tweaktown
- Samsung 960 EVO 500GB Vortez
- WD Green 240GB Cowcotland (fr)
ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1060 Mini 3 GB Review
With only $195, the Zotac GTX 1060 Mini 3 GB is one of the cheapest GTX 1060s around. Yet it still packs enough performance for 1080p gaming, even though it lacks the bells and whistles we've seen on other more expensive products. Only the cooler could be a bit better for lower temperatures and less fan-noise.
Thermalright Unveils the AXP-100H Muscle CPU Cooler
Thermalright today unveiled the AXP-100H Muscle, a top-flow air CPU cooler. Featuring a "C-type" aluminium fin-stack design, this cooler uses a nickel-plated copper base with mirror finish; from which fix 6 mm-thick nickel-plated copper heat pipes project outward, conveying heat to a dense aluminium fin-stack arranged along the plane of the motherboard. This fin-stack is ventilated by a 100 mm fan. The included fan spins at speeds between 900-2,500 RPM, with an air-flow of 16-44.5 m³/h, and a noise output of 22-30 dBA. The fan takes input from 4-pin (PWM) fan headers. The cooler is rated for thermal loads of up to 180W. The cooler supports Intel LGA115x and AMD AM3+ (up to 140W TDP only), and FM2+.
Microsoft Joins the Linux Foundation
On Wednesday, during its annual Connect(); developer event, Microsoft Corp. unveiled a series of products and partnerships that strengthen the company's Azure cloud platform for building intelligent, cross-platform apps and services. Microsoft Cloud and Enterprise Executive Vice President Scott Guthrie detailed significant steps Microsoft is taking to empower the ecosystem by giving developers greater choice in the tools they use - including joining the Linux Foundation as a Platinum Member to better collaborate with the open source community, welcoming Google to the independent .NET Foundation, and working with Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. to enable .NET developers to build apps for more than 50 million Samsung devices worldwide.
Guthrie also demonstrated a preview of Visual Studio for Mac, which enables developers to write cloud, mobile and macOS apps on Apple's Mac operating system using the popular development environment; a preview of the next version of the company's flagship SQL Server database with support for Linux, Linux-based Docker containers and Windows-based environments; and a preview of Azure App Service on Linux with support for containers.
Guthrie also demonstrated a preview of Visual Studio for Mac, which enables developers to write cloud, mobile and macOS apps on Apple's Mac operating system using the popular development environment; a preview of the next version of the company's flagship SQL Server database with support for Linux, Linux-based Docker containers and Windows-based environments; and a preview of Azure App Service on Linux with support for containers.
Club3D Announces its DisplayPort 1.2 to HDMI 2.0 Active Adapter
In January 2016 Club 3D brought a solution to the market as an upgrade since GPU solutions were not bundled with HDMI 2.0 connectors. Users needed to spend a lot of money for the latest graphics card, Notebook, Ultrabook or MiniPC, that were equipped with up to date technology HDMI 2.0 output for 4K@ 60Hz.
With the introduction of the CAC-1070 (DP 1.2 to HDMI 2.0 Adapter) and CAC-1170 (MiniDP to HDMI 2.0 Adapter) Club 3D has been the first company in the market to fulfil this demand. These 2 products have become our star products for 2016. Now it is time to develop things further and introduce the next products for this demand.
With the introduction of the CAC-1070 (DP 1.2 to HDMI 2.0 Adapter) and CAC-1170 (MiniDP to HDMI 2.0 Adapter) Club 3D has been the first company in the market to fulfil this demand. These 2 products have become our star products for 2016. Now it is time to develop things further and introduce the next products for this demand.
Samsung, TSMC, AMD and Intel at ISSCC: 7nm SRAM, ZEN and Altera FPGAs detailed
The International Solid State Circuits Conference (ISSCC) is around the corner, and that means that some of the biggest players (and greatest minds) behind these particular pieces of technology will be in attendance. The annual event will gather about 3,000 engineers in February to share state-of-the-art work across a wide range of logic and memory chips.
At a time when progress in traditional chip scaling is slowing down (with continued reports regarding the death of Moore's law, at least in regard to currently-used manufacturing techniques and materials), Samsung and TSMC will describe 7nm SRAMs. In general-purpose processors, AMD will give an in-depth look at its upcoming Zen x86 core, and Intel will detail its Altera Stratix 10 FPGA. In memories, Samsung and a team of Western Digital and Toshiba will show competing 512 Gbit 3-D NAND flash chips.
At a time when progress in traditional chip scaling is slowing down (with continued reports regarding the death of Moore's law, at least in regard to currently-used manufacturing techniques and materials), Samsung and TSMC will describe 7nm SRAMs. In general-purpose processors, AMD will give an in-depth look at its upcoming Zen x86 core, and Intel will detail its Altera Stratix 10 FPGA. In memories, Samsung and a team of Western Digital and Toshiba will show competing 512 Gbit 3-D NAND flash chips.
Users report multiple issues with GeForce 375.86 WHQL Drivers
If you have installed the GeForce 375.86 WHQL drivers you may experience a variety of issues. According to users on Guru3D forums, and indeed users here on our very own forums, the drivers released just yesterday have had reports where certain games frame rates are cut in half, however more alarmingly many users also report memory clock speed drops resulting in on-screen flickering and instability.
The memory speed and flickering issues appear to be limited to cards using the "Pascal" architecture, NVIDIA have acknowledged that the issues are widespread and work is already underway to remedy them. We expect either that a hotfix or new WHQL driver set will follow shortly, depending on their release cycle.
The memory speed and flickering issues appear to be limited to cards using the "Pascal" architecture, NVIDIA have acknowledged that the issues are widespread and work is already underway to remedy them. We expect either that a hotfix or new WHQL driver set will follow shortly, depending on their release cycle.
Plextor Announces the EX 1 External SSD Drive
The specialist for high-performance digital memory technology and Solid State Drive products (SSD), Plextor, presents its new generation of ultra-light, small form factor, high-speed external SSD with OTG support and only 30g in weight: the Plextor EX1. The Plextor EX1 specifications are designed for high speeds, with the USB Type-C interface supporting USB 3.1 Gen2 standard, and delivering a 10x higher speed compared to the USB 2.0 interface, delivering continuous read/write speeds of 550 and 500 MB/s respectively.
The strength of the EX1 series is based on the core components used, including high-quality TLC NAND flash memory manufactured using Hynix's 16nm process, as well as the latest generation of controller ICs from SMI. Plextor has also developed an advanced firmware, and includes the PlexNitro application for increased user control. The Plextor EX1 will be available in stores from the end of November in three different storage capacities with 128GB, 256GB and 512GB. The EX1 complies with Plextor's stringent quality requirements, including a 3-year warrant. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
The strength of the EX1 series is based on the core components used, including high-quality TLC NAND flash memory manufactured using Hynix's 16nm process, as well as the latest generation of controller ICs from SMI. Plextor has also developed an advanced firmware, and includes the PlexNitro application for increased user control. The Plextor EX1 will be available in stores from the end of November in three different storage capacities with 128GB, 256GB and 512GB. The EX1 complies with Plextor's stringent quality requirements, including a 3-year warrant. Pricing will be announced at a later date.
Western Digital Offers Third Generation WD PiDrive Solution
WDLabs, a business growth incubator and accelerator of storage solutions leader Western Digital Corporation, today announced availability of the WD PiDrive Foundation Edition products, which combine microSD card and USB drive functionality with operating system installation software to provide the Raspberry Pi community an integrated and highly affordable storage system solution for fast project creation.
"It is similar to about 30 years ago when hard disk drives went mainstream in PCs - no more swapping floppy disks in and out to load the OS, applications and data," said Dave Chew, chief engineer, WDLabs. "This third generation WD PiDrive solution uses a USB HDD or USB Flash drive to run the OS and host multiple Raspberry Pi projects instead of having to do this on a collection of microSD cards. We have combined our technologies to work as a team."
"It is similar to about 30 years ago when hard disk drives went mainstream in PCs - no more swapping floppy disks in and out to load the OS, applications and data," said Dave Chew, chief engineer, WDLabs. "This third generation WD PiDrive solution uses a USB HDD or USB Flash drive to run the OS and host multiple Raspberry Pi projects instead of having to do this on a collection of microSD cards. We have combined our technologies to work as a team."
Crucial's Ballistix is Now its Own Brand of PC Gaming Hardware
The Ballistix sub-brand of Crucial, Micron Technology's consumer products subsidiary, is now its own brand, and no longer labeled next to Crucial. The Ballistix Gaming brand will now include PC gaming hardware, including memory (RAM), and perhaps even SSDs and gaming peripherals in the future. Ballistix products will be targeted at DIY gaming PC builders and enthusiasts.
Commenting on the story, Crucial stated: "Ballistix is now it's own defined brand, becoming a sibling to Crucial (previously a sub-brand). For more than a decade, Ballistix has injected speed and style into PC gaming in a way that can't be imitated. As the only major brand of gaming memory that builds and tests products from start to finish, Ballistix brings you the proven performance and reliability that pro gamers build with. Ballistix performance memory (RAM) is designed to give the upper hand to gamers, performance enthusiasts, and overclockers."
Commenting on the story, Crucial stated: "Ballistix is now it's own defined brand, becoming a sibling to Crucial (previously a sub-brand). For more than a decade, Ballistix has injected speed and style into PC gaming in a way that can't be imitated. As the only major brand of gaming memory that builds and tests products from start to finish, Ballistix brings you the proven performance and reliability that pro gamers build with. Ballistix performance memory (RAM) is designed to give the upper hand to gamers, performance enthusiasts, and overclockers."
Tuesday, November 15th 2016
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
Mouse
Networking
Notebooks
CRYORIG A40 Ultimate Review
CRYORIG seeks to impress with the A40 Ultimate. Utilizing a unique design and features such as its hybrid airflow fan, it not only cools the CPU but other components as well. At first glance it is indeed much the same yet different enough to stand out in an otherwise crowded market.
Intel Readies Overclockable Core i3 "Kaby Lake" Processor
With early tests showing minimal CPU core performance gains (IPC) over the current-gen Core "Skylake" processors, Intel is taking a different approach to selling its 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors to DIY PC enthusiasts. The lineup will have a third overclockable "K" processor SKU, besides the top-dog Core i7-7700K and the performance-segment Core i5-7600K. Intel is planning to spice things up for the sub-$200 market with an overclockable dual-core part, the Core i3-7350K.
The Core i3-7350K will be the company's first overclockable Core i3 part. The company had celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Pentium brand with an overclockable Pentium dual-core G3258 processor. The i3-7350K will feature an unlocked base-clock multiplier, letting you easily overclock it. The dual-core chip will feature HyperThreading, enabling 4 logical CPUs for the OS to address. Out of the box, it will come with clocks of 4.00 GHz, and 4.20 GHz Turbo Boost. It will also feature 4 MB of L3 cache. Interestingly, its TDP will be rated at 91W, the same as overclockable quad-core parts. The chip could likely come in a special PIB package that lacks a stock cooling solution. The chip is rumored to be priced at US $177.
The Core i3-7350K will be the company's first overclockable Core i3 part. The company had celebrated the 20th anniversary of the Pentium brand with an overclockable Pentium dual-core G3258 processor. The i3-7350K will feature an unlocked base-clock multiplier, letting you easily overclock it. The dual-core chip will feature HyperThreading, enabling 4 logical CPUs for the OS to address. Out of the box, it will come with clocks of 4.00 GHz, and 4.20 GHz Turbo Boost. It will also feature 4 MB of L3 cache. Interestingly, its TDP will be rated at 91W, the same as overclockable quad-core parts. The chip could likely come in a special PIB package that lacks a stock cooling solution. The chip is rumored to be priced at US $177.
Intel Announces $250 Million Investment for Autonomous Driving
Delivering his keynote address at the LA Auto Show's AutoMobility conference, Brian Krzanich, Intel Corporation chief executive officer, today announced that Intel Capital is targeting more than $250 million of additional new investments over the next two years to make fully autonomous driving a reality. This is the first time Intel is keynoting at an automotive conference, signifying how critical the automotive market has become for the company.
These investments will drive the development of technologies that push the boundaries on next-generation connectivity, communication, context awareness, deep learning, security, safety and more. Drilling down into the areas that will be fueled by the fresh investments, Krzanich highlighted technologies that will drive global Internet of Things (IoT) innovation in transportation; areas where technology can directly mitigate risks while improving safety, mobility, and efficiency at a reduced cost; and companies that harness the value of the data to improve reliability of automated driving systems.
These investments will drive the development of technologies that push the boundaries on next-generation connectivity, communication, context awareness, deep learning, security, safety and more. Drilling down into the areas that will be fueled by the fresh investments, Krzanich highlighted technologies that will drive global Internet of Things (IoT) innovation in transportation; areas where technology can directly mitigate risks while improving safety, mobility, and efficiency at a reduced cost; and companies that harness the value of the data to improve reliability of automated driving systems.
AMD Radeon Technology Will Be Available on Google Cloud Platform in 2017
At SC16, AMD announced that Radeon GPU technology will be available to Google Cloud Platform users worldwide. Starting in 2017, Google will use AMD's fastest available single-precision dual GPU compute accelerators, Radeon-based AMD FirePro S9300 x2 Server GPUs, to help accelerate Google Compute Engine and Google Cloud Machine Learning services. AMD FirePro S9300 x2 GPUs can handle highly parallel calculations, including complex medical and financial simulations, seismic and subsurface exploration, machine learning, video rendering and transcoding, and scientific analysis. Google Cloud Platform will make the AMD GPU resources available for all their users around the world.
"Graphics processors represent the best combination of performance and programmability for existing and emerging big data applications," said Raja Koduri, senior vice president and chief architect, Radeon Technologies Group, AMD. "The adoption of AMD GPU technology in Google Cloud Platform is a validation of the progress AMD has made in GPU hardware and our Radeon Open Compute Platform, which is the only fully open source hyperscale GPU compute platform in the world today. We expect that our momentum in GPU computing will continue to accelerate with future hardware and software releases and advances in the ecosystem of middleware and libraries."
"Graphics processors represent the best combination of performance and programmability for existing and emerging big data applications," said Raja Koduri, senior vice president and chief architect, Radeon Technologies Group, AMD. "The adoption of AMD GPU technology in Google Cloud Platform is a validation of the progress AMD has made in GPU hardware and our Radeon Open Compute Platform, which is the only fully open source hyperscale GPU compute platform in the world today. We expect that our momentum in GPU computing will continue to accelerate with future hardware and software releases and advances in the ecosystem of middleware and libraries."
NVIDIA Releases the GeForce 375.86 WHQL Game Ready Driver
NVIDIA has just released the latest version of their GeForce drivers. The 375.86 WHQL Game Ready Driver features Game Ready profiles for Tom Clancy's The Division Survival DLC, Battlefield 1, Steep: Open Beta, and Civilization VI; and updates the SLI profiles by adding a temporal SLI profile for Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare. The drivers also fix some know issues and leave some to fix at a later date - details which you can read right after the break.
As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp. Just follow the below links for your particular operating system.
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce 375.86 WHQL forWindows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 64-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 32-bit
As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp. Just follow the below links for your particular operating system.
Roccat Announces the Roccat Cross Headset
ROCCAT is proud to announce its newest multi-platform headset, the Cross. Equipped with large 50mm neodymium magnet drivers, the ROCCAT Cross packs studio-grade sound into an elegant lightweight package, coming in at just 200 g. The earcups are made of memory foam, which adapts uniquely to each wearer, and the drivers are perfectly aligned to the ear, providing maximum comfort and top notch immersive sound experiences everywhere you go. Cross delivers superior audio quality, not only in games, but also in music, film and voice communications.
The headset comes with two interchangeable cables that are optimized for PC gaming or mobile use, with an anti-tangle deployed in both. Designed with comfort in mind, it's truly a multi-platform headset that can be taken with you everywhere. The ROCCAT Cross hits stores on December 8th and will be available for €/$69.99.
The headset comes with two interchangeable cables that are optimized for PC gaming or mobile use, with an anti-tangle deployed in both. Designed with comfort in mind, it's truly a multi-platform headset that can be taken with you everywhere. The ROCCAT Cross hits stores on December 8th and will be available for €/$69.99.
EVGA Finishes Issuing BIOS Updates GTX 1080/70/60 FTW Line of Cards
Just a slight update on our reported stories of overheating issues with EVGA's FTW line of NVIDIA graphics cards, with the company having finished rolling out fan-curve adjusting BIOS updates for the affected cards.
The issue affects EVGA's line of FTW graphics cards ranging through the GTX 1060, GTX 1070, and GTX 1080, sporting the ACX 3.0 solution. As a casual reminder, you can view the list of affected cards below, for which BIOS updates have been issued in a blog post, along with a small FAQ and some instructions on how to perform the update.
The issue affects EVGA's line of FTW graphics cards ranging through the GTX 1060, GTX 1070, and GTX 1080, sporting the ACX 3.0 solution. As a casual reminder, you can view the list of affected cards below, for which BIOS updates have been issued in a blog post, along with a small FAQ and some instructions on how to perform the update.
MSI Announces the Trident, World's Smallest VR-Ready Gaming PC
MSI, world leader in true gaming hardware and expert in building compact and incredibly powerful gaming desktops, is taking it to the next level with the new MSI Trident. Introducing world's smallest VR gaming desktop, extremely compact and with desktop performance levels that fit any gamer's demands.
Trident uses a customized MSI GeForce GTX 1060 gaming graphics card and the latest Intel Core processors to ensure that gamers get a powerful machine. Coupled with MSI's exclusive thermal design, Silent Storm Cooling 2, not only its cooling efficiency is unmatched, it also stays as quiet as an assassin. Besides all power from its hardware goodness on the inside, Trident has a breathtaking case design and RGB Mystic Light to fit in any room at home. It also has more than enough connection ports on the front and backside to let you connect all your game devices. Plug in your portable storage device, gaming headset or keyboard and get into action in an instant! Moreover, two high speed USB ports on the front of Trident are ideal to connect your game controller to as well. Trident redefines the size needed for true PC Gaming and will let gamers bring true gaming desktop performance everywhere.
Trident uses a customized MSI GeForce GTX 1060 gaming graphics card and the latest Intel Core processors to ensure that gamers get a powerful machine. Coupled with MSI's exclusive thermal design, Silent Storm Cooling 2, not only its cooling efficiency is unmatched, it also stays as quiet as an assassin. Besides all power from its hardware goodness on the inside, Trident has a breathtaking case design and RGB Mystic Light to fit in any room at home. It also has more than enough connection ports on the front and backside to let you connect all your game devices. Plug in your portable storage device, gaming headset or keyboard and get into action in an instant! Moreover, two high speed USB ports on the front of Trident are ideal to connect your game controller to as well. Trident redefines the size needed for true PC Gaming and will let gamers bring true gaming desktop performance everywhere.
Lian-Li Releases the PC-O10 Dual-Compartment Mid Tower
Lian-Li Industrial Co. Ltd is eager to announce its next O-series case: the PC-O10 dual-compartment chassis. Like the PC-O9, this case is divided into two chambers for easy organization - users can create immaculate, picturesque builds without spending hours planning cable management. By adopting the SFX/SFX-L PSU form factor, the PC-O10 has a much slimmer profile compared to the PC-O9 and PC-O8. Lian Li cut the proportions to match that of a conventional tower, while maintaining the attractive and functional half glass, half aluminum design. With power efficiency ever on the rise, and an increasing number of high-wattage SFX-L PSUs available, enthusiasts no longer need to encumber their cases with bulky traditional ATX PSUs.
In spite of its leaner dimensions, the PC-O10 still fits E-ATX and Full ATX as well as microATX motherboards. With seven expansion slots, it supports multi-GPU setups with VGA cards as large as 340mm: plenty of room for even the best gaming builds. It accommodates CPU coolers as tall as 130mm. The PSU compartment can store up to four 3.5" and two 2.5" drives, with space in the main glass compartment for an additional 2.5" SSD. The dual-compartment layout puts attractive components in the limelight, while keeping cables, drives, and other less desirable parts out of sight.
In spite of its leaner dimensions, the PC-O10 still fits E-ATX and Full ATX as well as microATX motherboards. With seven expansion slots, it supports multi-GPU setups with VGA cards as large as 340mm: plenty of room for even the best gaming builds. It accommodates CPU coolers as tall as 130mm. The PSU compartment can store up to four 3.5" and two 2.5" drives, with space in the main glass compartment for an additional 2.5" SSD. The dual-compartment layout puts attractive components in the limelight, while keeping cables, drives, and other less desirable parts out of sight.
AMD's Zen Server Platform Naples' Results Appear on SiSoft Sandra Database
If AMD's plans come to fruition, the company's efforts with its Zen micro-architecture will bring it back towards competitiveness with Intel not only on consumer chips, but also on the enterprise segment. While the company's consumer efforts are, by and large, the most visible from a consumer standpoint, with great hopes being pinned on it as a means to inject some much-needed dynamism and innovation in the CPU landscape, the most important vector for AMD arguably stands with the enterprise segment - where margins are usually much greater than in the consumer market.
EIZO Announces the RadiForce RX660 30-inch Monitor
EIZO Corporation today announced the release of the RadiForce RX660, a 30-inch 6 megapixel monitor ideal for multi-modality applications. It is the successor model to the RadiForce RX650 and features new functionality for improving reading room efficiency. The RadiForce RX660 is equipped with EIZO's original space and time saving function called Work-and-Flow which is included with the bundled RadiCS LE software. Work-and-Flow allows radiologists to easily show or hide a PinP (Picture in Picture) window allowing them to view two separate video inputs within a single monitor.
This is perfect for eliminating a monitor that is viewed infrequently - such as examination lists - and is easily operated by moving the cursor to the corner of the monitor. Additionally with Work-and-Flow, USB switching is done within the monitor so users can work on multiple PCs using only one mouse and keyboard. Users simply move the cursor across the screens to quickly start working on another PC. With these two functions, Work-and-Flow provides quick and easy information referencing and a barrier-free workstyle.
This is perfect for eliminating a monitor that is viewed infrequently - such as examination lists - and is easily operated by moving the cursor to the corner of the monitor. Additionally with Work-and-Flow, USB switching is done within the monitor so users can work on multiple PCs using only one mouse and keyboard. Users simply move the cursor across the screens to quickly start working on another PC. With these two functions, Work-and-Flow provides quick and easy information referencing and a barrier-free workstyle.
Swiftech Announces the Komodo NV-ECO Full-coverage Block for TITAN X Pascal
Swiftech today announced the Komodo NV-ECO, a full-coverage water-block for NVIDIA TITAN X Pascal. The block features nickel-plated copper as its primary material, with a frosted acrylic top that clears up over the block's coolant channel. This channel features mounts for RGB multi-color LEDs, for the optional Swiftech LS80 light-strip (to be purchased separately for $11.95), driven by Swiftech Iris-Eco RGB LED controller (also to be purchased separately for $12.95).
The company is also offering a matching aluminium back-plate, which can be had for $29.95. The block is primed for G 1/4 fittings, and includes factory-fitted thermal-pads over the memory and VRM areas. A small tube of thermal interface material is included to be applied on the GPU. Available now, the Swiftech Komodo NV-ECO full-coverage water block is priced at US $124.95.
The company is also offering a matching aluminium back-plate, which can be had for $29.95. The block is primed for G 1/4 fittings, and includes factory-fitted thermal-pads over the memory and VRM areas. A small tube of thermal interface material is included to be applied on the GPU. Available now, the Swiftech Komodo NV-ECO full-coverage water block is priced at US $124.95.
Seagate Announces the Backup Plus 5TB Portable HDD
Consumers are creating more higher-resolution and higher volumes of content than ever before. From action cam enthusiasts to selfie lovers to doting parents who capture every milestone moment on their 4K smartphones, the need for even more space to store photos, movies, music and content-and take it on the go-is growing. While data storage demands are ever-increasing, so is the need to organize, centralize and back up that data.
With today's launch of the Backup Plus Portable 5TB drive-the largest capacity mobile drive on the market-Seagate is helping its customers better manage their massive deluge of data. This new storage solution is made possible thanks to Seagate's new BarraCuda internal drive, featuring its breakthrough 2.5-inch 1TB platter technology announced last month.
With today's launch of the Backup Plus Portable 5TB drive-the largest capacity mobile drive on the market-Seagate is helping its customers better manage their massive deluge of data. This new storage solution is made possible thanks to Seagate's new BarraCuda internal drive, featuring its breakthrough 2.5-inch 1TB platter technology announced last month.
Cougar Announces the Attack X3 RGB Gaming Keyboard
Cougar today announced the Attack X3 RGB gaming keyboard. A variant of the Attack X3 launched in December 2015, the Attack X3 was unveiled at the 2016 Computex expo. It features RGB LED-illuminated Cherry MX Black, MX Red, MX Blue, and MX Brown mechanical switches.
The brushed aluminium face-plate of the keyboard adds to the illumination of the keys. Its electronics offer N-key rollover, letting it register any number of simultaneous key-presses; and 1000 Hz USB polling-rate. The keyboard can store up to three sets of macros onto its onboard memory. The bundled Cougar UIX software lets you program these macros, and set RGB lighting profiles. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
The brushed aluminium face-plate of the keyboard adds to the illumination of the keys. Its electronics offer N-key rollover, letting it register any number of simultaneous key-presses; and 1000 Hz USB polling-rate. The keyboard can store up to three sets of macros onto its onboard memory. The bundled Cougar UIX software lets you program these macros, and set RGB lighting profiles. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
HP Announces the Z2 Mini Workstation
Today at Autodesk University, HP Inc. unveiled the world's first mini workstation designed for users in CAD and other compute-intensive industries. The stylish, new HP Z2 Mini Workstation delivers breakthrough power and versatility and at only 2.3" high is 90% smaller than a traditional business-class tower. With this new offering, HP is positioned to extend its workstation leadership by delivering a new category of workstation that offers superb performance, elegance and efficiency.
HP Z Workstation products have become the industry standard for customers demanding a full performance workstation. Building off the success of the HP Z240 SFF, the HP Z2 Mini Workstation is twice as powerful as any commercial mini PC on the market today and has the ability to support six displays right out of the box. The HP Z2 Mini was designed for the millions of CAD users demanding smaller hardware without compromising acoustics and performance and mission-critical reliability.
HP Z Workstation products have become the industry standard for customers demanding a full performance workstation. Building off the success of the HP Z240 SFF, the HP Z2 Mini Workstation is twice as powerful as any commercial mini PC on the market today and has the ability to support six displays right out of the box. The HP Z2 Mini was designed for the millions of CAD users demanding smaller hardware without compromising acoustics and performance and mission-critical reliability.
Monday, November 14th 2016
Today's Files
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Monitors
Motherboards
Mouse
- Corsair Harpoon RGB APH Networks
- Corsair Harpoon RGB Conseil Config (fr)
- Corsair Harpoon RGB eTeknix
- Corsair Harpoon RGB HardwareInside.de (de)
- Corsair Harpoon RGB Hardwareluxx (de)
- Corsair Harpoon RGB Hexus.net
- Corsair Harpoon RGB Madshrimps
- Fnatic Gear Clutch G1 APH Networks
- Steelseries Rival 700 eTeknix
Mousepads
Notebooks
noblechairs EPIC Series Real Leather Gaming Chair Review
We have the chance to evaluate a top-notch (and expensive) gaming chair from noblechairs. This real leather EPIC series chair has a terrific look and is comfortable enough to make you forget its high price tag.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti Features 10GB Memory?
Air-cargo shipping manifest descriptions point to the possibility that NVIDIA's upcoming high-end graphics card based on the GP102 silicon, the GeForce GTX 1080 Ti, could feature 10 GB of memory, and not the previously thought of 12 GB, which would be the same amount as the TITAN X Pascal. NVIDIA apparently is getting 10 GB to work over a 384-bit wide memory interface, likely using chips of different densities. The GTX 1080 Ti is also rumored to feature 3,328 CUDA cores, 208 TMUs, and 96 ROPs.
NVIDIA has, in the past, used memory chips of different densities to achieve its desired memory amount targets over limited memory bus widths. The company achieved 2 GB of memory across a 192-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface on the GeForce GTX 660, for example. The product number for the new SKU, as mentioned in the shipping manifest, is "699-1G611-0010-000," which is different from the "699-1G611-0000-000" of the TITAN X Pascal, indicating that this is the second product based on the PG611 platform (the PCB on which NVIDIA built the TITAN X Pascal). NVIDIA is expected to launch the GeForce GTX 1080 Ti in early-2017.
NVIDIA has, in the past, used memory chips of different densities to achieve its desired memory amount targets over limited memory bus widths. The company achieved 2 GB of memory across a 192-bit wide GDDR5 memory interface on the GeForce GTX 660, for example. The product number for the new SKU, as mentioned in the shipping manifest, is "699-1G611-0010-000," which is different from the "699-1G611-0000-000" of the TITAN X Pascal, indicating that this is the second product based on the PG611 platform (the PCB on which NVIDIA built the TITAN X Pascal). NVIDIA is expected to launch the GeForce GTX 1080 Ti in early-2017.
OWC Announces 40TB SSD Thunderbay 4 Mini RAID
OWC, a leading zero-emissions Mac and PC technology company, today introduced class-leading 10, 20, 30, and 40TB SSD models for ThunderBay 4 mini RAID. The new high-capacity SSD configurations are powered by the revolutionary SoftRAID engine, which delivers powerful disk-health monitoring, rapid RAID re-builds, and outstanding performance, with transfer speeds up to 1314 MB/s via Thunderbolt 2 connection -- all in a compact aluminum enclosure.
For creative professionals who need extreme performance, but are limited by existing 2TB and 4TB SSD offerings, ThunderBay 4 mini now offers the highest capacity and fastest SSD configurations in its class, with up to 40 TB of high-performance storage to support and accelerate cutting-edge video production workflows.
For creative professionals who need extreme performance, but are limited by existing 2TB and 4TB SSD offerings, ThunderBay 4 mini now offers the highest capacity and fastest SSD configurations in its class, with up to 40 TB of high-performance storage to support and accelerate cutting-edge video production workflows.
ECS Readies Liva Z Mini-PC with Intel "Apollo Lake" SoC
ECS is giving final touches to a the new Liva Z mini-PC featuring Intel "Apollo Lake" Pentium and Celeron SoCs. The desktop could come with Pentium J4205, Celeron J3455, and Celeron J3355 options. The J4205 and J3455 feature quad-core "Goldmont" CPUs running at 1.50 GHz, but differ with integrated GPUs and Turbo Boost frequencies. The J4205 features 18 execution units (EUs), maximum iGPU clocks of 800 MHz, and 2.60 GHz maximum CPU Turbo Boost; while the J3455 features 12 EUs, 750 MHz maximum iGPU clock, and 2.30 GHz maximum CPU Turbo Boost frequency. The J3355 features a dual-core "Goldmont" CPU running at 2.00 GHz with 2.50 GHz Turbo Boost, and an iGPU with 12 EUs, with 700 MHz maximum clocks.
The upcoming ECS Liva Z "Apollo Lake" also comes with two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots supporting up to 8 GB of memory, integrated eMMC storage options of 32 GB and 64 GB (for the OS), and an M.2-2280 slot for internal storage expansion. Display outputs include mini-DisplayPort and HDMI. Network connectivity includes two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, and a WLAN controller with 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0 support. The rest of its connectivity includes three USB 3.1 type-A ports, and one USB 3.1 type-C port. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
The upcoming ECS Liva Z "Apollo Lake" also comes with two DDR3 SO-DIMM slots supporting up to 8 GB of memory, integrated eMMC storage options of 32 GB and 64 GB (for the OS), and an M.2-2280 slot for internal storage expansion. Display outputs include mini-DisplayPort and HDMI. Network connectivity includes two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, and a WLAN controller with 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.0 support. The rest of its connectivity includes three USB 3.1 type-A ports, and one USB 3.1 type-C port. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
Introducing the Node: AKiTiO's Thunderbolt 3 eGFX Box
AKiTiO has introduced its new, Thunderbolt 3-powered external graphics box. Akin to Powercolor's Devil Box ($379), Razer's Core ($499) or ASUS' XG2, the AKiTiO Node is meant to house an external graphics card, delivering true discrete-graphics-class performance to your laptop, AIO or SFF PC. One thing the Node has going for it, though, is pricing: this eGFX Box comes in at only $299. At this price-point, the Node makes away with extra connectors found in some of its competitors, like Ethernet or USB 3.0, keeping it as simple and to-the-point as possible: the only port is for its Thunderbolt 3 connection.
The AKiTiO Node is 428mm long, 145 mm wide and 227 mm high, making it compatible with a variety of dual-slot, full-length AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards (up to 312 mm long, 170 mm high [with power cables] and 44 mm wide), and sports an upgradeable, integrated 400 W SFX PSU, as well as one 120 mm fan for extra cooling capability.
The AKiTiO Node is 428mm long, 145 mm wide and 227 mm high, making it compatible with a variety of dual-slot, full-length AMD and NVIDIA graphics cards (up to 312 mm long, 170 mm high [with power cables] and 44 mm wide), and sports an upgradeable, integrated 400 W SFX PSU, as well as one 120 mm fan for extra cooling capability.
TYAN Displays HPC Platforms for Enterprises and Data Centers
TYAN, an industry-leading server platform design manufacturer and subsidiary of MiTAC Computing Technology Corporation, is showcasing a wide range of HPC server platforms optimized for enterprise, storage and data center applications at SC16 this week in Salt Lake City's Salt Palace Convention Center.
TYAN's comprehensive HPC platforms span a wide range of hardware specifications. The Intel Xeon E7-based, 4U quad-socket FT76-B7922 offers a memory capacity of 6TB and supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for the most demanding HPC users; the Intel Xeon E5-based, 4U dual-socket FT77C-B7079 supports up to 8x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for highly parallelized application deployment, the 2U dual-socket TA80-B7071 supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for large-scale production deployment in various high performance computing segments; and the 1U dual-socket GA80-B7081 supports up to 3x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for ISVs, universities, and small businesses looking for parallelized application development or proof of concept solution deployment.
TYAN's comprehensive HPC platforms span a wide range of hardware specifications. The Intel Xeon E7-based, 4U quad-socket FT76-B7922 offers a memory capacity of 6TB and supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for the most demanding HPC users; the Intel Xeon E5-based, 4U dual-socket FT77C-B7079 supports up to 8x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for highly parallelized application deployment, the 2U dual-socket TA80-B7071 supports up to 4x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for large-scale production deployment in various high performance computing segments; and the 1U dual-socket GA80-B7081 supports up to 3x Intel Xeon Phi coprocessors for ISVs, universities, and small businesses looking for parallelized application development or proof of concept solution deployment.
AMD Announces ROCm Initiative - High-Performance Computing & Open-Standards
AMD on Monday announced their ROCm initiative. Introduced by AMD's Gregory Stoner, Senior Director for the Radeon Open Compute Initiative, ROCm stands for Radeon Open Compute platforM. This open-standard, high-performance, Hyper Scale computing platform stands on the shoulders of AMD's technological expertise and accomplishments, with cards like the Radeon R9 Nano achieving as much as 46 GFLOPS of peak single-precision performance per Watt.
The natural evolution of AMD's Boltzmann Initiative, ROCm grants developers and coders a platform which allows the leveraging of AMD's GPU solutions through a variety of popular programming languages, such as OpenCL, CUDA, ISO C++ and Python. AMD knows that the hardware is but a single piece in an ecosystem, and that having it without any supporting software is a recipe for failure. As such, AMD's ROCm stands as AMD's push towards HPC by leveraging both its hardware, as well as the support for open-standards and the conversion of otherwise proprietary code.
The natural evolution of AMD's Boltzmann Initiative, ROCm grants developers and coders a platform which allows the leveraging of AMD's GPU solutions through a variety of popular programming languages, such as OpenCL, CUDA, ISO C++ and Python. AMD knows that the hardware is but a single piece in an ecosystem, and that having it without any supporting software is a recipe for failure. As such, AMD's ROCm stands as AMD's push towards HPC by leveraging both its hardware, as well as the support for open-standards and the conversion of otherwise proprietary code.
IBM and NVIDIA Team Up on World's Fastest Deep Learning Enterprise Solution
IBM and NVIDIA today announced collaboration on a new deep learning tool optimized for the latest IBM and NVIDIA technologies to help train computers to think and learn in more human-like ways at a faster pace. Deep learning is a fast growing machine learning method that extracts information by crunching through millions of pieces of data to detect and rank the most important aspects from the data. Publicly supported among leading consumer web and mobile application companies, deep learning is quickly being adopted by more traditional business enterprises.
Deep learning and other artificial intelligence capabilities are being used across a wide range of industry sectors; in banking to advance fraud detection through facial recognition; in automotive for self-driving automobiles and in retail for fully automated call centers with computers that can better understand speech and answer questions.
Deep learning and other artificial intelligence capabilities are being used across a wide range of industry sectors; in banking to advance fraud detection through facial recognition; in automotive for self-driving automobiles and in retail for fully automated call centers with computers that can better understand speech and answer questions.
G.SKILL Releases New RIPJAWS KM570 RGB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world's leading manufacturer of extreme performance memory and gaming peripherals, expands their mechanical keyboard lineup with the addition of the RIPJAWS KM570 RGB mechanical gaming keyboard. Perfectly tailored to gamers' needs with a simplistic and fully performance-focused keyboard, the keyboard features genuine Cherry MX RGB keyswitches, which are rated for up to 50 million keystrokes with the same keystroke feel and an even longer durability.
The KM570 RGB series keyboard will be available in the classic choices of Cherry MX switches in linear Red, clicky Blue, and tactile Brown! Each Cherry MX keyswitch is tuned to a precise 2 mm actuation point - feel the difference that Cherry MX switches bring to your typing and gaming experience. Through the G.SKILL driver system, immediately gain the ability to customize the keyboard to your liking. Choose from the various lighting effects or create your own elaborate lighting zones in full 16.8 m colors! With an included on-the-fly macro recording system, tunable through the software, arm yourself with the tool needed to excel in your game or your daily work.
The KM570 RGB series keyboard will be available in the classic choices of Cherry MX switches in linear Red, clicky Blue, and tactile Brown! Each Cherry MX keyswitch is tuned to a precise 2 mm actuation point - feel the difference that Cherry MX switches bring to your typing and gaming experience. Through the G.SKILL driver system, immediately gain the ability to customize the keyboard to your liking. Choose from the various lighting effects or create your own elaborate lighting zones in full 16.8 m colors! With an included on-the-fly macro recording system, tunable through the software, arm yourself with the tool needed to excel in your game or your daily work.
PNY Launches Metallic Body HP v232w USB Flash Drive
PNY Technologies Inc., leading manufacturer of memory modules, flash memory cards, USB drives, solid state drives, graphics cards and mobile accessories has released the perfect storage device for users who are looking for flash drive with an elegant and long lasting design, the HP v232w USB 2.0 flash drive. With high-quality metal outer casing and a slim, streamlined outline, this pocket-sized pen drive can store massive amount of personal data, movies, images, music in its 64GB memory space, while comfortably fitting inside your back pocket or wallet. The HP v232w connects easily with your laptop or PC thanks to its simple plug-and-play operation making it the ideal portable flash drive for transferring and sharing all your files during business meetings or while working on school assignments.
Despite its small size, the HP v232w has a robust body with metal finish that protects it against scratches to ensure the drive retain its shiny and sleek appearance. PNY utilizes anti-fake electronic plating after printing technic to all its flash drives to prevent counterfeiting, so users can easily distinguish between genuine PNY products against fake counterparts. The HP v232w features this advanced technology with original HP logo imprint in its body. To enhance its portability, the drive features a lidless design with an integrated wide strap hole that can be attached to keyrings, mobile straps or handbags.
Despite its small size, the HP v232w has a robust body with metal finish that protects it against scratches to ensure the drive retain its shiny and sleek appearance. PNY utilizes anti-fake electronic plating after printing technic to all its flash drives to prevent counterfeiting, so users can easily distinguish between genuine PNY products against fake counterparts. The HP v232w features this advanced technology with original HP logo imprint in its body. To enhance its portability, the drive features a lidless design with an integrated wide strap hole that can be attached to keyrings, mobile straps or handbags.
InnoDisk Intros DDR4-2666 Memory for Server on Upcoming Purley Platform
Innodisk, the service driven flash and DRAM provider, introduces the new DDR4 2666 memory modules designed for server applications on the upcoming Purley platform that Intel intends to release in 2017. The DDR4 2666 RDIMM is equipped with a Samsung chip which is designed with a new system circuit architecture to deliver even higher performance with lower power consumption.
"For years, Innodisk has been dedicated to developing and manufacturing industrial grade memory modules, and we have never stopped introducing industry leading products," said Samson Chang, Vice President of Embedded DRAM Business Unit of Innodisk. "We are proud to introduce the industry's first DDR4 RDIMM with an initial speed 2666 MT/s. It will optimize the Purley platform and maximize its performance. Innodisk will continue to develop more advanced product specifications in the future, allowing us to have the most complete product line amongst our competitors. Our goal is to support our customers various needs and lead the industrial systems upgrade."
"For years, Innodisk has been dedicated to developing and manufacturing industrial grade memory modules, and we have never stopped introducing industry leading products," said Samson Chang, Vice President of Embedded DRAM Business Unit of Innodisk. "We are proud to introduce the industry's first DDR4 RDIMM with an initial speed 2666 MT/s. It will optimize the Purley platform and maximize its performance. Innodisk will continue to develop more advanced product specifications in the future, allowing us to have the most complete product line amongst our competitors. Our goal is to support our customers various needs and lead the industrial systems upgrade."
Friday, November 11th 2016
Today's Reviews
CPU Coolers
Desktop PC
Game Controllers
Gaming PC
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Motherboards
NAS
- Drobo 5N Cowcotland (fr)
SSD
Corsair Harpoon RGB Mouse Review
Corsair has been doing very well recently within the peripheral market, but offers very few options in the budget category. This changes now with the $29 Harpoon RGB gaming mouse, which still manages to include a decent sensor and RGB support at its low price.
ASUS Begins Selling the ROG GT51 Desktop
ASUS has now begun selling their high-end ROG GT51 desktop. The system comes equipped with a factory-overclocked Intel Core i7 -6700K (@ 4.6 GHz) processor, The system comes equipped with two ASUS GeForce GTX 1080 graphics cards running in SLI mode, 64 GB of DDR4-2800 memory (4×16 GB), two Samsung SM951 512 GB M.2 SSDs operating in RAID 0 mode and with a 1 TB HDD (7200 RPM). The system is configurable, with the end user being able to opt for faster memory, up to five 3.5"/2.5" HDDs or SSDs, different M.2 drives and so on. The fully configured ROG GT51 system costs $4999 and marks ASUS' entry on the market of high-performance desktop PCs.
CORSAIR Launches New HARPOON RGB Gaming Mouse and K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard
CORSAIR, a world leader in enthusiast memory, PC components and high-performance gaming hardware today announced the new CORSAIR HARPOON RGB gaming mouse and CORSAIR K55 RGB gaming keyboard, bringing a wealth of high-end features within the reach of every gamer. Equipped with a 6,000dpi optical sensor, the HARPOON RGB combines a contoured design that fits naturally in the hand with deadly precision, while the K55 RGB combines quiet, responsive keys, six programmable macro keys and dedicated volume and media controls. Both HARPOON RGB and K55 RGB also feature signature customizable CORSAIR RGB lighting, allowing for a wealth of color and customization.
Combined, HARPOON RGB and K55 RGB allow gamers to get the most out of their mouse, their keyboard and their games.
Combined, HARPOON RGB and K55 RGB allow gamers to get the most out of their mouse, their keyboard and their games.
Thursday, November 10th 2016
Today's Reviews
Gaming PC
Graphics Cards
Mouse
Crucial MX300 750 GB Review
Crucial's MX300 introduces TLC flash to the MX Series. We tested the 750 GB version, which delivers decent performance at incredible pricing of only 23 cents per gigabyte. Performance per dollar is also fantastic, claiming a top spot in our charts.
NVIDIA Announces Financial Results for Third Quarter Fiscal 2017
NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) today reported revenue for the third quarter ended October 30, 2016, of $2.00 billion, up 54 percent from $1.30 billion a year earlier, and up 40 percent from $1.43 billion in the previous quarter. GAAP earnings per diluted share for the quarter were $0.83, up 89 percent from $0.44 a year ago and up 102 percent from $0.41 in the previous quarter. Non-GAAP earnings per diluted share were $0.94, up 104 percent from $0.46 a year earlier and up 77 percent from $0.53 in the previous quarter.
"We had a breakout quarter - record revenue, record margins and record earnings were driven by strength across all product lines," said Jen-Hsun Huang, founder and chief executive officer, NVIDIA. "Our new Pascal GPUs are fully ramped and enjoying great success in gaming, VR, self-driving cars and datacenter AI computing. "We have invested years of work and billions of dollars to advance deep learning. Our GPU deep learning platform runs every AI framework, and is available in cloud services from Amazon, IBM, Microsoft and Alibaba, and in servers from every OEM. GPU deep learning has sparked a wave of innovations that will usher in the next era of computing," he said.
"We had a breakout quarter - record revenue, record margins and record earnings were driven by strength across all product lines," said Jen-Hsun Huang, founder and chief executive officer, NVIDIA. "Our new Pascal GPUs are fully ramped and enjoying great success in gaming, VR, self-driving cars and datacenter AI computing. "We have invested years of work and billions of dollars to advance deep learning. Our GPU deep learning platform runs every AI framework, and is available in cloud services from Amazon, IBM, Microsoft and Alibaba, and in servers from every OEM. GPU deep learning has sparked a wave of innovations that will usher in the next era of computing," he said.
Intel Readies Skylake-X As its Next High-end Desktop Platform
Intel's next high-end desktop (HEDT) platform to succeed the current "Broadwell-E" LGA2011v3 will be the X-series "Basin Falls" platform. This consists of the "Skylake-X" and "Kaby Lake-X" processors, and a chipset derived from Intel's upcoming 200-series. Just as Intel changed sockets for its previous three HEDT platforms (LGA1366 for "Nehalem" and "Westmere/Gulftown," LGA2011 for "Sandy Bridge-E" and "Ivy Bridge-E," and LGA2011v3 for "Haswell-E" and "Broadwell-E,") the company will launch a new socket, the LGA2066.
As with its HEDT predecessors, "Skylake-X" and "Kaby Lake-X" will be multi-core processors devoid of integrated graphics, with double the memory bus width and up to triple the PCIe lane budgets as the desktop ("Skylake-D," eg: Core i7-6700) processors. In an interesting move, Intel will launch both "Skylake-X" and "Kaby Lake-X" in quick succession, with a catch - "Skylake-X" will come in 6-core, 8-core, and 10-core variants; while the "Kaby Lake-X" will initially only be offered in quad-core. The "Kaby Lake-X" chip will further only feature a dual-channel memory bus, and the LGA2066 motherboard will have half its DDR4 DIMM slots disabled, besides a few PCIe lanes.
As with its HEDT predecessors, "Skylake-X" and "Kaby Lake-X" will be multi-core processors devoid of integrated graphics, with double the memory bus width and up to triple the PCIe lane budgets as the desktop ("Skylake-D," eg: Core i7-6700) processors. In an interesting move, Intel will launch both "Skylake-X" and "Kaby Lake-X" in quick succession, with a catch - "Skylake-X" will come in 6-core, 8-core, and 10-core variants; while the "Kaby Lake-X" will initially only be offered in quad-core. The "Kaby Lake-X" chip will further only feature a dual-channel memory bus, and the LGA2066 motherboard will have half its DDR4 DIMM slots disabled, besides a few PCIe lanes.
Nanoxia Announces the CoolForce 2 Rev. B Chassis
Nanoxia introduces the CoolForce 2 Rev. B chassis. Shortly a lightly revised edition of the first model of our new CoolForce series will become available: The CoolForce 2 Rev. B. In the course of our continuing product development, our design team was able to implement optimizations, which are partly based on suggestions from customers and fans. Thus we were able to improve the user-friendliness of the case and integrate the latest technologies.
The main critique from reviewers and customers focused on the dust filter, which was hard to clean, and the complicated way to access the two front fans. Here we use a two-parted front-design in the new revision, separating the I/O-panel from the rest of the case front. This allows users to simply remove the main part of the front. The dust filter is not connected to the fans, making it far easier to remove and clean it, even when the system is running. The access to the front fans and the installation of a radiator was also facilitated.
The main critique from reviewers and customers focused on the dust filter, which was hard to clean, and the complicated way to access the two front fans. Here we use a two-parted front-design in the new revision, separating the I/O-panel from the rest of the case front. This allows users to simply remove the main part of the front. The dust filter is not connected to the fans, making it far easier to remove and clean it, even when the system is running. The access to the front fans and the installation of a radiator was also facilitated.
QNAP Partners with AMD On TVS-x73 NAS
QNAP Systems, Inc. have partnered with AMD, announcing the release and immediate availability (with pricing details yet to come) of the high-performance TVS-x73 NAS series. Packing an AMD Embedded RX-421BD quad-core APU (2.1 GHz base, 3.4 GHz boost), up to 64GB DDR4 RAM, AES-NI hardware encryption engine, two M.2 SATA 6Gb/s SSD slots capable of delivering up to 1,172 MB/s throughput (which can benefit from Qtier Technology to optimize storage efficiency across M.2 SSDs, SATA SSDs and HDDs), SSD cache, USB 3.1 (10Gbps), 10GbE expandability, dual HDMI output, and hardware-assisted 4K video decoding and encoding acceleration.
Built with a state-of-the-art metal design and topped off with a stylish gold finish, the business-class TVS-x73 series is available in 4 (TVS-473), 6 (TVS-673), and 8-bay (TVS-873) models, all of which support four Gigabit LAN. Two PCIe slots are available for greater system flexibility. One is pre-installed with a dual-port USB 3.1 Type-A card and the other allows for an optional QNAP dual-port 10GbE (10GBASE-T or SFP+) network card. The 10GbE-enabled TVS-x73 fully satisfies businesses that demand higher bandwidth for virtualization and fast backup and restoration for an ever-growing amount of data.
Built with a state-of-the-art metal design and topped off with a stylish gold finish, the business-class TVS-x73 series is available in 4 (TVS-473), 6 (TVS-673), and 8-bay (TVS-873) models, all of which support four Gigabit LAN. Two PCIe slots are available for greater system flexibility. One is pre-installed with a dual-port USB 3.1 Type-A card and the other allows for an optional QNAP dual-port 10GbE (10GBASE-T or SFP+) network card. The 10GbE-enabled TVS-x73 fully satisfies businesses that demand higher bandwidth for virtualization and fast backup and restoration for an ever-growing amount of data.
ENERMAX Launches the OSTROG LITE ATX Chassis With PSU Shroud
ENERMAX, the Taiwan-based power supply and chassis company, today launched their newest addition to their PC chassis lineup. Dubbed the OSTROG LITE, it stands as a compact mid-tower chassis for entry-level gaming rigs, featuring a low-profile hairline surface front panel. As the name implies, the new product features a separate enclosure for your PSU, making sure to keep all those unsightly cables hidden and, as a bonus, improving the airflow.
Future Intel Chipset to Feature WLAN Controllers and USB 3.1
The 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processor, and its companion 200-series chipset are almost upon us, with the company planning to launch them this 2017 International CES (early January). It looks like the 200-series chipset is turning out to be what the 9-series chipset was to the 8-series; with a handful new features, but nothing extraordinary. Current 100-series chipset motherboards are already receiving BIOS updates from manufacturers to make them support the new processors. It looks like the succeeding 300-series chipset, which Intel plans towards the end of 2017, could stand out.
Intel is reportedly equipping the 300-series chipset with wireless networking becoming part of the feature-set. This means at least some variants of the chipset could feature native WLAN controllers (likely with external PHY for signal clarity). The company is also planning to implement native 10 Gb/s USB 3.1 (gen 2.0) controllers into the chipset. This decision could impact third-party WLAN and USB 3.1 controller manufacturers, observes DigiTimes.
Intel is reportedly equipping the 300-series chipset with wireless networking becoming part of the feature-set. This means at least some variants of the chipset could feature native WLAN controllers (likely with external PHY for signal clarity). The company is also planning to implement native 10 Gb/s USB 3.1 (gen 2.0) controllers into the chipset. This decision could impact third-party WLAN and USB 3.1 controller manufacturers, observes DigiTimes.
ASRock Announces Next-Gen CPU Support for DeskMini 110
The globally-praised ASRock DeskMini 110 barebone series and the most compact mainboard H110M-STX are the world's first H110 chipset based products that support Intel next generation processors. Simply update BIOS after P1.40 version, users are able to enjoy the exciting performance of new CPUs.
The highly-recognized DeskMini 110 barebone series and H110M-STX motherboard are the very first models based on the Mini Socket Technology Extended (Mini-STX) form factor that add the flexibility to support Intel LGA 1151 socket-based Intel processors. Besides the comprehensive and valuable configurability options, ASRock Mini-STX series is also well focused on improving every possible computing features. Both two products are the pioneer that are compatible with the popular Samsung 950 Pro NVMe M.2 SSDs and Intel's latest 600p series SSDs with the fastest PCIe Gen3 x4 speed.
The highly-recognized DeskMini 110 barebone series and H110M-STX motherboard are the very first models based on the Mini Socket Technology Extended (Mini-STX) form factor that add the flexibility to support Intel LGA 1151 socket-based Intel processors. Besides the comprehensive and valuable configurability options, ASRock Mini-STX series is also well focused on improving every possible computing features. Both two products are the pioneer that are compatible with the popular Samsung 950 Pro NVMe M.2 SSDs and Intel's latest 600p series SSDs with the fastest PCIe Gen3 x4 speed.
XIGMATEK Announces the Tyr SD1264B CPU Cooler
XIGMATEK today unveiled the revised Tyr (SD1264B) tower-type CPU cooler. The Tyr is features a common aluminium fin tower-type design, with narrower fins towards the bottom of the stack for better clearance around the CPU socket. The cooler features four 6 mm-thick copper heat pipes that make direct contact with the CPU, conveying heat through the fin-stack.
Ventilating the XIGMATEK Tyr is its included 120 mm fan which takes 4-pin PWM power input, spins between 600-2,000 RPM, and pushes up to 59 CFM of air, with a noise output ranging between 28-38 dBA. The included "speed adapter" (a shunt with the resistor) reduces fan speed by half. The fan's frame is fitted with red LEDs. The cooler supports sockets LGA115x, AM3(+), and FM2(+). The company didn't announce pricing.
Ventilating the XIGMATEK Tyr is its included 120 mm fan which takes 4-pin PWM power input, spins between 600-2,000 RPM, and pushes up to 59 CFM of air, with a noise output ranging between 28-38 dBA. The included "speed adapter" (a shunt with the resistor) reduces fan speed by half. The fan's frame is fitted with red LEDs. The cooler supports sockets LGA115x, AM3(+), and FM2(+). The company didn't announce pricing.
ASUS Intros GeForce GTX 1060 STRIX with Classic DirectCU II Cooler
ASUS introduced a new GeForce GTX 1060 6 GB ROG STRIX series graphics card featuring the company's classic STRIX DirectCU II cooling solution (model: STRIX-GTX1060-DC2O6G). The card features a shorter custom-design PCB than the one found on the STRIX DirectCU III graphics card ASUS debuted the GTX 1060 6 GB with, although the cooler is longer than the PCB. Overall, the card is about 21 cm long. The card draws power from a single 6-pin PCIe power connector.
The ASUS GTX 1060 6 GB STRIX DirectCU II comes with factory-overclocked speeds of 1569 MHz core and 1785 MHz GPU Boost, out of the box. The included GPUTweak software unlocks OC Mode clock speeds of 1595/1811 MHz. In both modes, the memory clock is left untouched at 8.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective). Display outputs include three DisplayPort 1.4, one HDMI 2.0b, and one dual-link DVI. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
The ASUS GTX 1060 6 GB STRIX DirectCU II comes with factory-overclocked speeds of 1569 MHz core and 1785 MHz GPU Boost, out of the box. The included GPUTweak software unlocks OC Mode clock speeds of 1595/1811 MHz. In both modes, the memory clock is left untouched at 8.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective). Display outputs include three DisplayPort 1.4, one HDMI 2.0b, and one dual-link DVI. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
Wednesday, November 9th 2016
Today's Reviews
CPU Coolers
Desktop PC
Game Controllers
Headphones
Keyboards
Motherboards
Notebooks
Dishonored 2: Performance Analysis
Dishonored 2 gives you the choice to either be stealthy, fight or avoid conflict. The game is built using Void, a new DirectX 11 engine based on id Software's RAGE engine. We tested the game at up to 4K resolution on 10 different graphics cards and even looked into their VRAM usage.
AMD Releases Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.3 Beta
AMD today released yet another version of their Software Crimson driver. The version, now updated to 16.11.3, highlights support for the imminent and highly awaited Dishonored 2. The fixed issues list is a bit shorter than last time: according to AMD, with this version, "Steam and Origin will no longer terminate when using AMD X-Connect Technology on unplug.
Barring that, no more new highlights or new features. This release also packs all of the previous 16.11 driver branch fixes and game support. As always, you can download the drivers from the links below.
Download: AMD Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.3 Beta for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8.1 64-bit | Windows 8.1 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit | Windows 7 32-bit
Barring that, no more new highlights or new features. This release also packs all of the previous 16.11 driver branch fixes and game support. As always, you can download the drivers from the links below.
EK Announces the DuraClear Liquid Cooling Tubing
EK Water Blocks, Slovenia-based premium liquid cooling gear manufacturer, is releasing a new lineup of transparent tubing for PC liquid cooling systems, named EK-DuraClear. It comes in all four most popular sizes, with resistance to ultraviolet radiation (UVA, UVB and UVC)!
EK-DuraClear is the most advanced liquid cooling tubing, designed and manufactured for the most demanding customers, who want to use soft tubing in their builds. The EK-DuraClear structure is formulated to enable it to perform in a wide range of closed loop cooling systems, making it the top choice for every liquid cooling enthusiast. More than 2 years in development, the goal was to create the most durable, flexible and transparent tube on the market.
EK-DuraClear is the most advanced liquid cooling tubing, designed and manufactured for the most demanding customers, who want to use soft tubing in their builds. The EK-DuraClear structure is formulated to enable it to perform in a wide range of closed loop cooling systems, making it the top choice for every liquid cooling enthusiast. More than 2 years in development, the goal was to create the most durable, flexible and transparent tube on the market.
ASUS Announces Availability of the ROG Claymore Series Keyboards
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced the ROG Claymore and ROG Claymore Core mechanical gaming keyboards. Claymore is also the world's first RGB LED-backlit mechanical gaming keyboard with a detachable numpad design. Both keyboards feature Cherry MX RGB LED switches, ASUS Aura Sync RGB LED technology for synchronized light effects with various Aura-compatible products, and exclusive fan control hotkeys when paired with an ASUS motherboard for a superior gaming experience.
ROG Claymore is the world's first RGB mechanical keyboard to have a detachable numpad design that allows users to use it as a full-size keyboard at home, or as an 80% TKL (an abbreviation of 'tenkeyless', which refers to the lack of a numpad) mechanical gaming keyboard at LAN parties. The detachable keypad can be placed to the left or right of the keyboard to suit different scenarios - on the left side of the keyboard as macro keys for MMO gaming, or on the right for a more traditional keypad placement. ROG Claymore Core is a compact TKL mechanical gaming keyboard and does not have a detachable numpad.
ROG Claymore is the world's first RGB mechanical keyboard to have a detachable numpad design that allows users to use it as a full-size keyboard at home, or as an 80% TKL (an abbreviation of 'tenkeyless', which refers to the lack of a numpad) mechanical gaming keyboard at LAN parties. The detachable keypad can be placed to the left or right of the keyboard to suit different scenarios - on the left side of the keyboard as macro keys for MMO gaming, or on the right for a more traditional keypad placement. ROG Claymore Core is a compact TKL mechanical gaming keyboard and does not have a detachable numpad.
DeepCool Unveils an ASUS ROG Themed GamerStorm Genome Chassis
DeepCool today unveiled a special-edition GamerStorm Genome chassis with ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) branding. This launch follows the mid-October announcement of the Genome II. The ROG Genome features a matte black appearance with the shade of red found on ROG products. It also features a red+white ASUS ROG logo. These LEDs are backed by an ASUS Aura compatible LED controller, which interfaces with ASUS' motherboards Aura RGB LED headers. The rest of its features are consistent with the original GamerStorm Genome.
Tuesday, November 8th 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
Cooling
Graphics Cards
Keyboards
Monitors
Gigabyte GTX 1050 Ti G1 Gaming 4 GB Review
Gigabyte's GTX 1050 Ti G1 Gaming is a highly overclocked custom design variant by the company, featuring a dual-fan cooler that provides excellent temperatures and incredibly low noise levels at the same time. During desktop work and media playback, the fans even stop completely.
EVGA Announces the SuperNOVA G3 Power Supplies
EVGA has announced today the evolution of their highly-regarded SuperNOVA G2 - the aptly named SuperNOVA G3. EVGA SuperNOVA power supplies are well-known for their extreme efficiency, performance and reliability, with the companies' series of power supplies having won over 70 awards from leading review sites for the last 3 years. With these new power supplies, EVGA took the best features of the award-winning G2 lineup and made them even better. The SuperNOVA G3's smaller size, improved performance and a new Hydraulic Dynamic Bearing fan give you ultra-quiet performance with an increased lifespan.
The new SuperNOVA G3 feature fully modular design with a reduced size, at only 150mm long, which EVGA stresses comes accompanied with an improvement in performance, features, and efficiency, with the company announcing an over 91% efficiency rating. All of this with a new, Hydraulic Dynamic Bearing Fan, which EVGA claims has better performance, quieter operation and longer lifespan, with the companies' ECO Intelligent Thermal Control System eliminating fan noise at low to medium loads.
The new SuperNOVA G3 feature fully modular design with a reduced size, at only 150mm long, which EVGA stresses comes accompanied with an improvement in performance, features, and efficiency, with the company announcing an over 91% efficiency rating. All of this with a new, Hydraulic Dynamic Bearing Fan, which EVGA claims has better performance, quieter operation and longer lifespan, with the companies' ECO Intelligent Thermal Control System eliminating fan noise at low to medium loads.
Acer Releases the BE270U Monitor - 27" WQHD IPS Panel
Today, Acer released yet another entry into their monitor line - the BE270U. It packs a 27 inch, 2560x1440 IPS panel (which grants it the 178º viewing angles), boasting a 75 Hz refresh rate and 100% sRGB coverage. It also has a 100,000,000:1 contrast ratio over 350 cd/m2 of brightness, with a respectable 6ms response time. Additionally, the monitor also carries two 2 W speakers All of that is supported by what Acer calls an ErgoStand, which allows for 60º swivel, -5º and 35º tilt, and 90º pivot - though you can also wall-mount it if you so prefer. The BE27OU's connectivity options include DP, Mini-DP, MHLx2, and a USB 3.0 hub.
Acer is clearly positioning this monitor for professionals - from website designers to photographers - though it will certainly come in handy to any user who likes to dabble in such matters. The monitor also offers some multi-tasking capabilities, such as multi-streaming and PiP (Picture-in-picture). The BE270U is now available for an MSRP of $499, with a three-year limited (parts and labor) warranty.
Acer is clearly positioning this monitor for professionals - from website designers to photographers - though it will certainly come in handy to any user who likes to dabble in such matters. The monitor also offers some multi-tasking capabilities, such as multi-streaming and PiP (Picture-in-picture). The BE270U is now available for an MSRP of $499, with a three-year limited (parts and labor) warranty.
AOC Announces the AGON AG352QCX 35-inch Curved Gaming Monitor
AOC today announced availability of the AGON AG352QCX, its premium 35-inch curved gaming monitor. The monitor features a VA (vertical alignment) ultra-wide display panel with 2560 x 1080 pixels resolution, 4 ms response time, 2000:1 contrast-ratio, and a staggering 200 Hz refresh-rate. Its gaming credentials are further bolstered with support for AMD FreeSync technology. The monitor takes input from DisplayPort 1.2a (needed for FreeSync), HDMI 2.0, and D-Sub. Other features include a 4-port USB 3.0 hub, a headset stand, and 5W stereo speakers. Expect this monitor to be priced around the $600 mark.
SHARKOON Announces the X-Rest 7.1 Gaming Headset
Sharkoon introduces another model to its popular X-Rest headset stands, this one with an innovative function: The Sharkoon X-Rest 7.1 Surround Sound Headset Stand featuring an integrated, external USB sound card. This allows easy upgrading of virtual 7.1 sound to existing Windows systems. The X-Rest 7.1 is also suitable as a second sound source when using speakers and headsets.
Angular design, textile braided cable and blue LED illumination - the Sharkoon X-Rest 7.1 maintains order, not just on the desk of a gamer. Your headset will always stand readily nearby and safely secured after each use. Thanks to its heavy base and nonslip rubber feet, the X-Rest 7.1 remains stable and can withstand stressful loads. As an additional feature, the new X-Rest provides virtual 7.1 surround sound on any Windows PC or notebook. Easily accessible operating controls on the device offer quick access to the microphone mute, volume control and equalizer settings. An invaluable advantage, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Angular design, textile braided cable and blue LED illumination - the Sharkoon X-Rest 7.1 maintains order, not just on the desk of a gamer. Your headset will always stand readily nearby and safely secured after each use. Thanks to its heavy base and nonslip rubber feet, the X-Rest 7.1 remains stable and can withstand stressful loads. As an additional feature, the new X-Rest provides virtual 7.1 surround sound on any Windows PC or notebook. Easily accessible operating controls on the device offer quick access to the microphone mute, volume control and equalizer settings. An invaluable advantage, especially during intense gaming sessions.
Roccat Unveils the Suora FX Gaming Keyboard
ROCCAT studios proudly presents the Suora FX mechanical keyboard which is aimed at gaming purists. It boasts an ultra-compact frameless design with a highly durable yet stylish aluminum-alloy housing. The tactile mechanical switches offer maximum precision in every game and have an impressive lifespan of over 50 million keystrokes. The Suora FX offers a full-featured RGB illumination system with key backlighting in over 16.8 million colors.
The RGB illumination of ROCCAT's new mechanical gaming keyboard is totally customizable both in terms of colors and lighting effects. The powerful Swarm driver system allows the user to define a theme that's exclusive and unique to them. Over 16.8 million colors and a plethora of effects
allow for bespoke user settings and experiences. By using the F1-F4 keys, the user has access to exciting pre-defined effects like wave, breathing, ripple and fully lit.
The RGB illumination of ROCCAT's new mechanical gaming keyboard is totally customizable both in terms of colors and lighting effects. The powerful Swarm driver system allows the user to define a theme that's exclusive and unique to them. Over 16.8 million colors and a plethora of effects
allow for bespoke user settings and experiences. By using the F1-F4 keys, the user has access to exciting pre-defined effects like wave, breathing, ripple and fully lit.
Monday, November 7th 2016
Today's Reviews
Accessories
Cases
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Motherboards
Mouse
Notebooks
Processors
SSD
Seasonic PRIME Series 750 W Review
We evaluate Seasonic's Prime 750 unit, which boasts amazing performance, including 80 PLUS Titanium efficiency, a set of interesting features, and a unique look. Seasonic has an impressive Titanium entry on their hands that will make other OEMs feel uncomfortable because it raises the performance bar incredibly high.
REEVEN Announces the Koios MATX Chassis
REEVEN announced the Koios, a cube-type micro-ATX case, which collapses along a hinge for easy access to the hardware under its hood. The case features a horizontally dual-compartment design, with the motherboard tray being along the plane of the base. The tray can hold micro-ATX and mini-ITX motherboards; graphics cards up to 340 mm in length, and CPU coolers up to 180 mm in height.
The bottom compartment of the REEVEN Koios houses the PSU bay, and two drive-cages - one with a pair of 3.5-inch bays, and another with a pair of 2.5-inch bays. A separate drive cage mounted along the front panel provides an exposed 5.25-inch bay, an exposed 3.5-inch bay, and a concealed 2.5-inch bay. This case hence holds up to 7 drives. Ventilation includes a 140 mm front intake, and a 120 mm rear exhaust. The top and side panels have acrylic windows. Front-panel connectivity includes USB 3.0 ports and HDA jacks. A convenient handle lets you carry the case around. REEVEN didn't reveal pricing.
The bottom compartment of the REEVEN Koios houses the PSU bay, and two drive-cages - one with a pair of 3.5-inch bays, and another with a pair of 2.5-inch bays. A separate drive cage mounted along the front panel provides an exposed 5.25-inch bay, an exposed 3.5-inch bay, and a concealed 2.5-inch bay. This case hence holds up to 7 drives. Ventilation includes a 140 mm front intake, and a 120 mm rear exhaust. The top and side panels have acrylic windows. Front-panel connectivity includes USB 3.0 ports and HDA jacks. A convenient handle lets you carry the case around. REEVEN didn't reveal pricing.
GIGABYTE to Sell AORUS Branded Motherboards and Graphics Cards from 2017
GIGABYTE is planning to expand its subsidiary AORUS into motherboards and graphics cards. The company currently sells gaming notebooks and gaming peripherals, including keyboards and mice, under the AORUS brand. This could be GIGABYTE's third attempt at establishing a premium motherboard/VGA brand that rivals ASUS Republic of Gamers and MSI Gaming Series; besides its G1.Gaming and Xtreme Gaming extensions under its main brand. AORUS is a brand unto itself, with products lacking any prominent GIGABYTE markings.
The first AORUS branded motherboards will be socket LGA1151, based on Intel's upcoming 200-series chipset, with out of the box support for 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors. The motherboards will hit the shelves in January 2017. The first AORUS-branded graphics cards will launch when AMD and NVIDIA launch their next high-end GPUs (think NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti and AMD "Vega"). Last we heard, the GTX 1080 Ti is headed for a January 2017 launch.
The first AORUS branded motherboards will be socket LGA1151, based on Intel's upcoming 200-series chipset, with out of the box support for 7th generation Core "Kaby Lake" processors. The motherboards will hit the shelves in January 2017. The first AORUS-branded graphics cards will launch when AMD and NVIDIA launch their next high-end GPUs (think NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti and AMD "Vega"). Last we heard, the GTX 1080 Ti is headed for a January 2017 launch.
AMD Also Announces Radeon PRO Software Initiative
Alongside the new WX hardware products, the WX4100, 5100 and 7100, AMD also revealed a new software initiative aimed at enterprises. The most important part is continued, issue-free usage of hardware solutions, but AMD stands to take a two-pronged attack: through performance-enabling hardware, as well as stable, predictable, and robust software solutions.
AMD Reveals Three Entries on the WX Series Lineup: WX4100, WX5100 and WX7100
At its WX call, AMD focused on shifts in creativity from traditional design flows such as Solidworks, Adobe and Autodesk towards game engines as solutions for design visualization (Unreal Engine, Unity, CryEngine, or Autodesk's own Stingray platform), which signal changes in the creator ecosystem. Thanks to globalization, the Internet, and the available wealth of knowledge one can access through it, the line between amateurs and professionals is becoming more and more blurred. Now, those who would once be called amateurs are also using professional tools, and AMD plans to be at the forefront of technologies empowering creators to deliver their vision.
Radeon PRO serves to give creators more flexible and powerful solutions, leveraging open-source resources and centering the ecosystem back on creators and the tools they choose to use, with focused support on VR. As such, AMD is giving them the tools they need, by introducing three new products featuring the Polaris architecture, including 3 year standard + 7 year free extended warranty (including components such as the PCB itself, the PCI-Express slot, and the heatsinks), with AMD taking that extra 7 years as company commitment towards the quality of their products. Those three products are the WX4100, the WX5100, and the WX7100, and have planned, staggered availability throughout November.
Radeon PRO serves to give creators more flexible and powerful solutions, leveraging open-source resources and centering the ecosystem back on creators and the tools they choose to use, with focused support on VR. As such, AMD is giving them the tools they need, by introducing three new products featuring the Polaris architecture, including 3 year standard + 7 year free extended warranty (including components such as the PCB itself, the PCI-Express slot, and the heatsinks), with AMD taking that extra 7 years as company commitment towards the quality of their products. Those three products are the WX4100, the WX5100, and the WX7100, and have planned, staggered availability throughout November.
Intel Readies TLC 3D NAND Flash Based 610P Series PCIe SSD for 2017
Intel is readying a follow-on to its 600P series performance-segment PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) series, with the 610P series. Built in the M.2-2280 form-factor, with PCIe gen 3.0 x4 bus interface, and support for the NVMe protocol, the SSD 610P will be based on TLC 3D NAND flash by IMFlash Technology, the company's joint-venture with Micron Technology. The SSD 610P series will come in capacities of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB.
The company is also working on a smaller M.2-1620 variant for notebooks and SFF desktops, which will feature a BGA version of the SSD. These are multi-chip modules of NAND flash stacks and SSD controllers bundled into single packages. The BGA variants will come in sizes of 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB. Not much else (performance figures) are known about these drives, except that Intel plans to release these towards Q4 2017 (after September).
The company is also working on a smaller M.2-1620 variant for notebooks and SFF desktops, which will feature a BGA version of the SSD. These are multi-chip modules of NAND flash stacks and SSD controllers bundled into single packages. The BGA variants will come in sizes of 128 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB. Not much else (performance figures) are known about these drives, except that Intel plans to release these towards Q4 2017 (after September).
BenQ Announces the ZOWIE XL2540 e-Sports Gaming Monitor
BenQ announces the new ZOWIE XL2540 monitor, providing additional options for the fulfillment of individual gaming experience. From its inception, ZOWIE has been dedicated to the development of e-Sports equipment to enable competitive gamers to play to the best of their abilities.
As the latest addition to the XL series for PC e-Sports, XL2540 introduces increased smoothness in-game and its native 240Hz refresh rate can be fully activated to deliver different levels of gameplay experience when the computer generates over 240 frames per second (fps). And as such, people looking for the monitor should make sure their PC performance is up to par.
As the latest addition to the XL series for PC e-Sports, XL2540 introduces increased smoothness in-game and its native 240Hz refresh rate can be fully activated to deliver different levels of gameplay experience when the computer generates over 240 frames per second (fps). And as such, people looking for the monitor should make sure their PC performance is up to par.
HBT+ Launches Gravity 6 Aluminum Made Hi-End Gaming PC Case
With the spirit of polishing a supercar, HBT+ designers and engineers took a year to finely craft the Gravity 6--- an environmental chassis system born for hardware enthusiasts and gamers. Aiming to meet the maximum need of hardcore gamers, current Gravity 6 emerged as the best from numerous candidate concepts and endless design discussions. From outer appearance to internal details, every inch of the chassis has been carried to extremes.
Simplicity represents a kind of taste. Inspired by aircraft aerodynamics and mechanics, Gravity 6 is consist of the most simple and powerful geometry elements which make it exquisite and elegant, low-key and steady. All aluminum alloy appearance together with the unconventional linearity design have created a new combination of geometry concept, leading users into a new era of PC case 4.0.
Simplicity represents a kind of taste. Inspired by aircraft aerodynamics and mechanics, Gravity 6 is consist of the most simple and powerful geometry elements which make it exquisite and elegant, low-key and steady. All aluminum alloy appearance together with the unconventional linearity design have created a new combination of geometry concept, leading users into a new era of PC case 4.0.
Two Interesting AMD Prototypes Logged at Hyderabad Air Cargo
The air cargo hub at Hyderabad International Airport in India, is where interesting hardware prototypes make a connection between long-haul cargo planes coming from the far-east, to Europe, and North America. Zauba sniffed out transit records of two AMD prototypes earlier this month; beginning with "Dracarys." You probably remember that as the fictional command given by "Game of Thrones" characters to make dragons breathe fire.
This is further described as having a "Fiji" ASIC and "SSD," indicating that this could be one of AMD's Radeon Pro SSG, graphics cards which use onboard SSDs as additional frame-buffer. Next up, is an "Ellesmere XT MXM." This is a mobile graphics MXM board with a full-fledged Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" ASIC. It could have all 2,304 stream processors enabled, even if not having the same clocks as the desktop Radeon RX 480.
This is further described as having a "Fiji" ASIC and "SSD," indicating that this could be one of AMD's Radeon Pro SSG, graphics cards which use onboard SSDs as additional frame-buffer. Next up, is an "Ellesmere XT MXM." This is a mobile graphics MXM board with a full-fledged Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" ASIC. It could have all 2,304 stream processors enabled, even if not having the same clocks as the desktop Radeon RX 480.
Sunday, November 6th 2016
XIGMATEK Announces the Talon-H Full-tower Chassis
XIGMATEK today announced the Talon-H full-tower chassis. Measuring 640 mm x 250 mm x 685 mm (LxWxH), the case is made mostly of SECC steel and ABS plastic. It features a single-compartment interior, with a vast motherboard tray that can house HPTX, E-ATX, XL-ATX motherboards, besides common ATX form-factors. It features 10 expansion slots. The tray CPU cooler easy-access holes in two locations, indicating that it is designed for dual-socket workstation builds. The tray has room for add-on cards as long as 400 mm, and CPU coolers as tall as 200 mm.
Drive storage areas in the XIGMATEK Talon-H include four exposed 5.25-inch drive bays, and thirteen 3.5-inch/2.5-inch drives across three detachable drive cages. Cooling features include room for either a 360 mm x 120 mm or a 280 mm x 140 mm radiator in the front; a 420 mm x 140 mm radiator on top; and a 140 mm exhaust fan on the rear. Front panel connectivity includes four USB 3.0 ports (standard header), two USB 2.0/1.1 ports (standard header), and HDA front-panel jacks. The company didn't reveal pricing.
Drive storage areas in the XIGMATEK Talon-H include four exposed 5.25-inch drive bays, and thirteen 3.5-inch/2.5-inch drives across three detachable drive cages. Cooling features include room for either a 360 mm x 120 mm or a 280 mm x 140 mm radiator in the front; a 420 mm x 140 mm radiator on top; and a 140 mm exhaust fan on the rear. Front panel connectivity includes four USB 3.0 ports (standard header), two USB 2.0/1.1 ports (standard header), and HDA front-panel jacks. The company didn't reveal pricing.
NVIDIA Telemetry Spooks Privacy-sensitive Users, How to Disable it
Over the past few versions of NVIDIA GeForce drivers, the company has been bundling a telemetry tool that is enabled by default, auto-runs on Windows startup by default, and doesn't appear in the list of things you can choose not to install, when doing a custom-installation with NVIDIA GeForce driver installers. Very little is known about this new Telemetry component. For all we know, it could be a means for NVIDIA to collect crash-reports that help it improve its drivers down the line. Not everyone is convinced with this explanation.
Spanning across three separate startup tasks (a bit much for a crash reporter?), Telemetry is allegedly a means for NVIDIA to send data "back and forth." Users that are the privacy equivalent of germ-freaks might see this as a means for NVIDIA to spy on its users, for a plethora of data, such as usage patterns, etc. MajorGeeks posted a brief tutorial on how to disable Telemetry (and other bloatware included in NVIDIA drivers), using Sysinternals, but you can use Task Manager, msconfig, or Registry Editor to disable these as well.
Spanning across three separate startup tasks (a bit much for a crash reporter?), Telemetry is allegedly a means for NVIDIA to send data "back and forth." Users that are the privacy equivalent of germ-freaks might see this as a means for NVIDIA to spy on its users, for a plethora of data, such as usage patterns, etc. MajorGeeks posted a brief tutorial on how to disable Telemetry (and other bloatware included in NVIDIA drivers), using Sysinternals, but you can use Task Manager, msconfig, or Registry Editor to disable these as well.
Friday, November 4th 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
Graphics Cards
Motherboards
Mouse
Networking
Notebooks
OWC Announces the 13-port Thunderbolt 3 Dock for New MacBook Pro
OWC, a leading zero emissions Mac and PC technology company, today introduced the all-new Thunderbolt 3 Dock - the latest in its award-winning lineup of connectivity expansion solutions. Now available for pre-order, the Thunderbolt 3 Dock offers exceptional flexibility and connectivity with 13 ports, up to 40Gb/s of bandwidth, and the capability to power the new 2016 MacBook Pro, all in an elegant, industrial design. For anyone concerned with the limited port options on new Thunderbolt 3-equipped Macs or PCs, the Thunderbolt 3 Dock is the ideal solution for connecting a wide variety of existing and future devices including external hard drives, webcams, audio interfaces, Ultra HD displays, wired networks, and more.
"With our critically-acclaimed Thunderbolt 2 Dock and USB-C Dock, OWC defined a new standard in providing more connectivity at a time when new computers were shipping with fewer ports," said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, OWC. "The all-new Thunderbolt 3 Dock is the best expansion solution we've ever made, offering the incredible speed of Thunderbolt 3 technology coupled with 13 ports of connectivity, perfect for getting the most out of the new 2016 MacBook Pro."
"With our critically-acclaimed Thunderbolt 2 Dock and USB-C Dock, OWC defined a new standard in providing more connectivity at a time when new computers were shipping with fewer ports," said Larry O'Connor, Founder and CEO, OWC. "The all-new Thunderbolt 3 Dock is the best expansion solution we've ever made, offering the incredible speed of Thunderbolt 3 technology coupled with 13 ports of connectivity, perfect for getting the most out of the new 2016 MacBook Pro."
Alphacool Announces the VPP755 Eispump
Alphacool is announcing today the next evolution in pump technology with the VPP755 Eispump. Built completely from the ground-up, this new pump design throws out all the old problems with the well-known D5 pumps and retains only the compatibility to all current D5 tops and brackets. The VPP755 Eispump dispenses with the spherical bearing, and opts instead for a ceramic shaft that allows for quieter operation. The motor's coils are now on the outside instead of inside. According to Alphacool, all of these innovations provide more stability, which results in less vibration. It also means the power consumption is cut nearly in half. Yet the VPP755 Eispump still boasts a 4m maximum head for higher performance. The VPP755 Eispump is also distinctly quieter than the classic, well-known D5 pump while providing the same performance.
AMD Releases Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.2 Hotfix
AMD today released the Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.2 hotfix, highlighting an improved Shader Cache storage limit, which will allow the Shader Cache feature to store more shaders for extremely demanding games that may have previously hit the old storage cap.
Apart from that, not much is new, since it includes all of the previous 16.11 branch driver fixes and optimizations. The software release also includes an updated "Known Issues" list, which you can read after the break. As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp - just follow the links bellow.
Download: AMD Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.2 Hotfix for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8.1 64-bit | Windows 8.1 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit | Windows 7 32-bit
Apart from that, not much is new, since it includes all of the previous 16.11 branch driver fixes and optimizations. The software release also includes an updated "Known Issues" list, which you can read after the break. As always, you can grab the drivers right here at TechPowerUp - just follow the links bellow.
ASUS Announces the ROG G701VI Gaming Notebook
ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) today announced G701VI, a slim and stylish gaming laptop with overclockable NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 graphics for incredible virtual-reality (VR) gaming performance. ROG G701VI has a wide-viewing-angle display that features NVIDIA G-SYNC technology and an ultra-fast 120 Hz refresh rate for smooth and fast gaming visuals. It also has an anti-ghosting keyboard with 30-key rollover technology for total gaming control.
The VR Ready NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 graphics card used in ROG G701VI provides exceptional graphics performance and energy efficiency to give gamers incredible VR gaming experiences. ROG G701VI is the world's first laptop with a super-fast 120Hz wide-viewing-angle panel with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology. NVIDIA G-SYNC reduces lag, minimizes frame-rate stutter and eliminates visual tearing. It gives gamers the smoothest and fastest gaming experience, all without affecting system performance.
The VR Ready NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 graphics card used in ROG G701VI provides exceptional graphics performance and energy efficiency to give gamers incredible VR gaming experiences. ROG G701VI is the world's first laptop with a super-fast 120Hz wide-viewing-angle panel with NVIDIA G-SYNC technology. NVIDIA G-SYNC reduces lag, minimizes frame-rate stutter and eliminates visual tearing. It gives gamers the smoothest and fastest gaming experience, all without affecting system performance.
BIOSTAR Announces the Racing P1 Mini PC
BIOSTAR is pleased to share the perfect life companion if you're looking for computing solution that goes with you wherever you go or you just need to maximize space. The BIOSTAR RACING P1 Mini-PC is unlike any laptop you've used before. Laptops tend to be heavy and have a consistent size and volume to them, offers no customization and most of all, are almost always expensive. Tablets on the other hand are just not useful for productivity and business tasks, have limited I/O ports, and aren't made for long-term usage not to mention that again, they're also expensive.
The BIOSTAR RACING P1 mini-PC beats both tablet and laptop by offering the complete PC experience in a small package. Students for example may need to share dorms with other students or may not be able to bring an entire desktop with them but they don't require a laptop in class, the BIOSTAR RACING P1 makes it easy to have a PC without taking up a lot of space.
The BIOSTAR RACING P1 mini-PC beats both tablet and laptop by offering the complete PC experience in a small package. Students for example may need to share dorms with other students or may not be able to bring an entire desktop with them but they don't require a laptop in class, the BIOSTAR RACING P1 makes it easy to have a PC without taking up a lot of space.
G.Skill Announces the Fastest Trident Z DDR4 64GB (4x16GB) Kit
G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world's leading manufacturer of extreme performance memory and gaming peripherals, is thrilled to announce DDR4 64 GB (4x 16 GB) memory kit at extreme speed of 3600 MHz CL17-19-19-39 1.35V. Featuring high performance Samsung 8 Gb ICs, this new memory kit is the fastest DDR4 64 GB(4x 16 GB) kit and will join G.SKILL's flagship Trident Z family.
With heavy content creation workloads and the complexity of modern PC games, the need for higher capacity memory kits is growing dramatically in the enthusiast PC community. The 3600 MHz 64 GB (4x 16 GB) kit provides an ultimate combination of capacity and speed, which makes it an ideal choice for building an extreme performance PC. The following screenshot shows rigorous test of the new memory kit, validated with the Intel Core i5-6600K processor and the ASUS Z170-DELUXE motherboard.
With heavy content creation workloads and the complexity of modern PC games, the need for higher capacity memory kits is growing dramatically in the enthusiast PC community. The 3600 MHz 64 GB (4x 16 GB) kit provides an ultimate combination of capacity and speed, which makes it an ideal choice for building an extreme performance PC. The following screenshot shows rigorous test of the new memory kit, validated with the Intel Core i5-6600K processor and the ASUS Z170-DELUXE motherboard.
Intel Core i5-7600K Tested, Negligible IPC Gains
Ahead of its launch, a Core i5-7600K processor (not ES) made its way to Chinese tech publication PCOnline, who wasted no time in putting it through their test-bench, taking advantage of the next-gen CPU support BIOS updates put out by several socket LGA1151 motherboard manufacturers. Based on the 14 nm "Kaby Lake" silicon, the i5-7600K succeeds the current i5-6600K, and could be positioned around the $250 price-point in Intel's product-stack. The quad-core chip features clock speeds of 3.80 GHz, with 4.20 GHz max Turbo Boost frequency, and 6 MB of L3 cache. Like all its predecessors, it lacks HyperThreading.
In its review of the Core i5-7600K, PCOnline found that the chip is about 9-10% faster than the i5-6600K, but that's mostly only due to its higher clock speeds out of the box (3.80/4.20 GHz vs. 3.50/3.90 GHz of the i5-6600K). Clock-for-clock, the i5-7600K is just about 1% faster, indicating that the "Kaby Lake" architecture offers only negligible IPC (instructions per clock) performance gains over the "Skylake" architecture. The power-draw of the CPU appears to be about the same as the i5-6600K, so there appear to be certain fab process-level improvements, given the higher clock speeds the chip is having to sustain, without a proportionate increase in power-draw. Most of the innovation appears to be centered on the integrated graphics, which is slightly faster, and has certain new features. Find more performance figures in the review link to PCOnline below.
In its review of the Core i5-7600K, PCOnline found that the chip is about 9-10% faster than the i5-6600K, but that's mostly only due to its higher clock speeds out of the box (3.80/4.20 GHz vs. 3.50/3.90 GHz of the i5-6600K). Clock-for-clock, the i5-7600K is just about 1% faster, indicating that the "Kaby Lake" architecture offers only negligible IPC (instructions per clock) performance gains over the "Skylake" architecture. The power-draw of the CPU appears to be about the same as the i5-6600K, so there appear to be certain fab process-level improvements, given the higher clock speeds the chip is having to sustain, without a proportionate increase in power-draw. Most of the innovation appears to be centered on the integrated graphics, which is slightly faster, and has certain new features. Find more performance figures in the review link to PCOnline below.
Sapphire Radeon RX 470D NITRO Pictured, Beats GTX 1050 Ti
It turns out that the new SKU based on the Polaris 10 "Ellesmere" silicon AMD is working on, to fill the gap between the Radeon RX 460 and RX 470, could be named the "Radeon RX 470D," after all. It is also being reported that AMD is planning to launch this SKU only in China, for now. It is further cut down from the RX 470, in featuring 1,792 stream processors, by enabling just 28 out of 36 GCN compute units physically present on the chip. The SKU further features 112 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across a 256-bit wide memory interface.
AMD is clocking the RX 470D slightly higher than the conventional RX 470. Its core ticks at speeds of up to 1266 MHz (Boost clock), and its memory at 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective), compared to the 1206 MHz (Boost clock) and 6.60 GHz (GDDR5-effective) speeds of the RX 470. The RX 470D will be built to a cost, and it shows, on the Sapphire RX 470D NITRO. The PCB is shorter, and the cooler leaner. Chinese tech publication PCOnline got its hands on a sample, and tested it to be faster than the GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, yet slower than the RX 470. The card is expected to be priced about 14 percent less than the RX 470. Find more benchmark figures in the PCOnline review linked below.
AMD is clocking the RX 470D slightly higher than the conventional RX 470. Its core ticks at speeds of up to 1266 MHz (Boost clock), and its memory at 7.00 GHz (GDDR5-effective), compared to the 1206 MHz (Boost clock) and 6.60 GHz (GDDR5-effective) speeds of the RX 470. The RX 470D will be built to a cost, and it shows, on the Sapphire RX 470D NITRO. The PCB is shorter, and the cooler leaner. Chinese tech publication PCOnline got its hands on a sample, and tested it to be faster than the GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, yet slower than the RX 470. The card is expected to be priced about 14 percent less than the RX 470. Find more benchmark figures in the PCOnline review linked below.
Thursday, November 3rd 2016
Today's Reviews
Cases
- Cooler Master MasterCase Maker HardwareInside.de (de)
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Comptoir du Hardware (fr)
- Fractal Design Define Mini C ComputerBase (de)
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Guru3D
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Hexus.net
- Fractal Design Define Mini C KitGuru
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Modders-Inc.
- Fractal Design Define Mini C OCaholic
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Tech Report
- Fractal Design Define Mini C Tom's Hardware
CPU Coolers
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Mouse
Call of Duty Infinite Warfare: Performance Analysis
Call of Duty Infinite Warfare is the latest installment in the record-breaking franchise. We took a closer look at the game's performance using a wide spectrum of graphics cards and also tested its video memory usage.
Thermaltake Refreshes Product Design of Several Toughpower PSU Models
Thermaltake, being an industry leader in power supply units is proud to release the brand new enclosure for its high performance power supply lines - Toughpower Gold Series (550W/650W/750W), Smart M Bronze Series (650W/750W/850W) and Smart Bronze Series (550W/650W/750W). The Toughpower Series is a premium 80 PLUS Gold certified power supply that incorporates the highest quality components for unbeatable efficiency and stable performance. Especially, the modular cable design provides the ease of removal as well as reduces cable clutter. The ultra-quiet fan delivers silent cooling.
With 80 PLUS Bronze certified, the Smart M Series and the Smart Series are the most valuable and economical choice line for users. The semi-modular Smart M Series comes with industrial grade protection, and is pre-installed with an intelligent RPM controlled fan that is optimized for silent operation. The Smart Series features flat and low-profile cables, and a 140 mm smart temperature controlled fan. The built-in fan can automatically detect the power load for fan speed adjustment and maintain optimal mute performance. Toughpower Gold Series, Smart M Bronze Series and Smart Bronze Series all are ideal for users to build a home or office system for 24/7 stable demands.
With 80 PLUS Bronze certified, the Smart M Series and the Smart Series are the most valuable and economical choice line for users. The semi-modular Smart M Series comes with industrial grade protection, and is pre-installed with an intelligent RPM controlled fan that is optimized for silent operation. The Smart Series features flat and low-profile cables, and a 140 mm smart temperature controlled fan. The built-in fan can automatically detect the power load for fan speed adjustment and maintain optimal mute performance. Toughpower Gold Series, Smart M Bronze Series and Smart Bronze Series all are ideal for users to build a home or office system for 24/7 stable demands.
Roccat Unveils the Kanga Series Gaming Mousepads
Roccat today unveiled the Kanga series entry-level gaming mousepads. Available in three variants based on size - Kanga Mini, Kanga (standard), and Kanga XXL, these mousepads are made of a fabric/cloth mousing surface, with an anti-skid rubberized bottom, and with 2 mm thickness. The surface offers a balanced glide for both speed and control. The Kanga Mini measures 265 mm x 210 mm, and the Kanga (standard) measures 320 mm x 270 mm. The Kanga XXL is an extra-wide format desk-pad, measuring 850 mm x 350 mm. Available now, the Kanga (standard) is priced at 9.99€, while the Kanga Mini goes for 6.99€, and the Kanga XXL for 19.99€.
AMD Releases Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.1 Beta
AMD today released the Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.1 Beta, which brings support for the impending Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare as well as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare Remastered. The software also includes a CrossFire profile for Titanfall 2 under DX11. The long list of fixes and known issues are best left after the break. As always, you can grab the new drivers right below.
DOWNLOAD: AMD Radeon Software Crimson Edition 16.11.1 Beta for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8.1 64-bit | Windows 8.1 32-bit | Windows 7 64-bit | Windows 7 32-bit
Samsung Details New Foundry Offerings at 14nm (LPU) and 10nm (LPU)
In an announcement that's sure to stir the foundry gods, Samsung Electronics, a world leader in advanced semiconductor technology, announced today that it is expanding its advanced foundry process technology offerings with the fourth-generation 14-nanometer (nm) process (14LPU) and the third-generation 10nm process (10LPU). The announcement comes as Samsung increases investment so as to meet the requirements of next generation products, ranging from mobile and consumer electronics (Snapdragon 830 and Samsung's own Exynos 8895 come to mind) to data centers and automotives.
Ben Suh, Senior Vice President of foundry marketing at Samsung Electronics, issued the following statement: "After we announced the industry's first 10nm mass production in mid-October, we have now also expanded our lineup with new foundry offerings, 14LPU and 10LPU. Samsung is very confident with our technology definitions that provide design advantages on an aggressive process with manufacturability considerations. We have received tremendous positive market feedback and are looking forward to expanding our leadership in the advanced process technology space."
Ben Suh, Senior Vice President of foundry marketing at Samsung Electronics, issued the following statement: "After we announced the industry's first 10nm mass production in mid-October, we have now also expanded our lineup with new foundry offerings, 14LPU and 10LPU. Samsung is very confident with our technology definitions that provide design advantages on an aggressive process with manufacturability considerations. We have received tremendous positive market feedback and are looking forward to expanding our leadership in the advanced process technology space."
AMD 8-core ZEN Packs a Whallop with Multithreaded Performance
AMD's upcoming 8-core "ZEN" processors pack serious multithreaded performance muscle. The company's design focus on empowering the cores, and getting rid of the shared-resource approach to multi-core chips; appears to have paid of big dividends in multithreaded performance, as tested on the Blender benchmark. An 8-core "ZEN" engineering sample was found to be belting out performance rivaling 10-core Intel Xeon E5-2600 V2 series chips, indicating that AMD appears to have made huge gains in per-core performance over its previous generation chips.
The Blender benchmark scores of an alleged AMD ZEN "Summit Ridge" engineering sample were posted by Blender benchmark scores aggregator Blenchmark; and unearthed by this redditor. According to these scores, the "ZEN" sample cruches the Blender benchmark render in 69 seconds, the same time it takes for a 10-core Xeon E5-2650 V2 processor. The ZEN chip is also closely trailing Xeon E5-2600 V4 series chips. AMD is expected to launch its first ZEN "Summit Ridge" 8-core processors in early 2017.
The Blender benchmark scores of an alleged AMD ZEN "Summit Ridge" engineering sample were posted by Blender benchmark scores aggregator Blenchmark; and unearthed by this redditor. According to these scores, the "ZEN" sample cruches the Blender benchmark render in 69 seconds, the same time it takes for a 10-core Xeon E5-2650 V2 processor. The ZEN chip is also closely trailing Xeon E5-2600 V4 series chips. AMD is expected to launch its first ZEN "Summit Ridge" 8-core processors in early 2017.
ADATA Launches the Ultimate SU800 M.2 2280 SATA 6Gb/s 3D NAND SSD
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of highperformance DRAM modules, NAND Flash products, and mobile accessories today launched the M.2 2280 version of the Ultimate SU800 3D NAND SSD. With higher density, faster performance, and longer lifespan than 2D NAND SSDs, the new SU800 fits on a compact card while still available in 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB and offered at very attractive price points. It supports a DRAM Buffer and SLC Caching mode to boost performance up to 560 MB/s read and 520 MB/s write, with LDPC error correction, Data Shaping, and a RAID Engine to bolster data integrity. For users that want a simple, cable-free, and low energy draw SSD upgrade, the SU800 M.2 2280 has much to offer.
The SU800 M.2 2280 fits on a compact PCB and slots directly into M.2 ports, which are increasingly common on desktop PCs and the standard on notebooks. It uses 3D NAND with an SMI controller and fits up to 1TB. Unlike 2.5" SSDs, it does not require cables and only needs very minimal power, supplied straight from the motherboard. The direct motherboard link also helps reduce latency and increase performance by roughly 10% compared to 2.5" SATA 6Gb/s drives. The SU800 M.2 2280 reaches 560 MB/s read and 520MB/s write. It also lasts longer than 2D NAND drives, with an MTBF (mean time between failures) of 2,000,000 hours versus 1,500,000.
The SU800 M.2 2280 fits on a compact PCB and slots directly into M.2 ports, which are increasingly common on desktop PCs and the standard on notebooks. It uses 3D NAND with an SMI controller and fits up to 1TB. Unlike 2.5" SSDs, it does not require cables and only needs very minimal power, supplied straight from the motherboard. The direct motherboard link also helps reduce latency and increase performance by roughly 10% compared to 2.5" SATA 6Gb/s drives. The SU800 M.2 2280 reaches 560 MB/s read and 520MB/s write. It also lasts longer than 2D NAND drives, with an MTBF (mean time between failures) of 2,000,000 hours versus 1,500,000.
Futuremark Announces VRMark, the Virtual Reality Benchmark
Futuremark, the Finnish software development company best known for its 3DMark benchmarking suite, has just announced the availability of another benchmark suite. Aptly named VRMark, this suite teste your system's ability to run VR games and experiences, since the performance required for VR is much higher than for typical PC games - just consider that the recommended frame-rate for an optimal VR experience stands at 90fps. Run VRMark to see if your PC has what it takes to deliver a great VR experience on the HTC Vive and Oculus Rift. VRMark benchmark tests run on your monitor, no headset required. If your PC passes, it's ready for the two most popular VR systems available today.
NVIDIA Issues the GeForce Hotfix Driver Version 375.76
NVIDIA has issued a Hotfix driver, version number 375.76, which deals with some issues identified in their previous WHQL driver version, 375.70. Namely, the hotfix drivers fix occasional flickers on high refresh-rate monitors, as well as GIF artifacting.
The hotfix also includes all of the previous updates from NVIDIA's WHQL driver release, such as driver optimization, SLI support (provided the game engine supports multi-GPU), and GeForce Experience optimal settings for Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, Dishonored 2, and Titanfall 2, and include optimization for "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition" and "Obduction VR." Grab the drivers from the links below.
DOWNLOAD: NVIDIA GeForce 375.76 Hotfix Driver for Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 10 32-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 64-bit | Windows 8/7/Vista 32-bit
The hotfix also includes all of the previous updates from NVIDIA's WHQL driver release, such as driver optimization, SLI support (provided the game engine supports multi-GPU), and GeForce Experience optimal settings for Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, Dishonored 2, and Titanfall 2, and include optimization for "The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition" and "Obduction VR." Grab the drivers from the links below.
Wednesday, November 2nd 2016
Today's Reviews
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Processors
Fractal Design Define C Review
The Fractal Design Define C is an optimized version of the open-air design we have seen in the Define S. Lacking the usual internal and external drive bays and with a more compact size and somewhat simplified but modernized interior, it will be interesting to see whether it can hold its own.
Fractal Design Announces the Define C Series
Fractal Design expand on their popular Define series, with the new Define C. So many cases on the market today are made to be all things to all people. However, for many this results in a chassis full of empty bays, unused mounts and excess bulk. Created for those who demand a flexible platform for a powerful ATX or Micro ATX build that wastes no space, the Define C Series is the perfect solution to satisfy this balance of capacity and efficiency.
Smaller than the usual ATX and Micro ATX case, the Define C and Define Mini C with its optimized interior provides the perfect base for users. The open air design offers unobstructed airflow across your core components with high performance and silent computing in mind at every step.
Smaller than the usual ATX and Micro ATX case, the Define C and Define Mini C with its optimized interior provides the perfect base for users. The open air design offers unobstructed airflow across your core components with high performance and silent computing in mind at every step.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile Detailed
Thanks to gains with performance/Watt, NVIDIA has been equipping the mobile variants of its GeForce GTX 10 Series SKUs with the same (or better) core-configurations as their desktop counterparts. The story continues with the upcoming GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile. This chip is equipped with 768 CUDA cores, 48 TMUs, 32 ROPs, and 4 GB of GDDR5 memory across its 128-bit wide memory interface. What's more, it even has significantly higher clock speeds than its desktop counterpart. The GTX 1050 Ti Mobile is clocked at 1490 MHz core, 1624 MHz GPU Boost; while the desktop variant is clocked at 1290 MHz core with 1392 MHz GPU Boost.
With its given clock speeds, the GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile is expected to be faster than the performance-segment GeForce GTX 970M from the previous generation. 3DMark performance numbers put out by LaptopMedia point to the GTX 1050 Ti Mobile being about 10% faster than the GTX 970M at 3DMark Cloudgate (DirectX 10), about 7% faster at 3DMark FireStrike (DirectX 11), and about 9% faster at Unigine Heaven 4 (DirectX 11).
With its given clock speeds, the GeForce GTX 1050 Ti Mobile is expected to be faster than the performance-segment GeForce GTX 970M from the previous generation. 3DMark performance numbers put out by LaptopMedia point to the GTX 1050 Ti Mobile being about 10% faster than the GTX 970M at 3DMark Cloudgate (DirectX 10), about 7% faster at 3DMark FireStrike (DirectX 11), and about 9% faster at Unigine Heaven 4 (DirectX 11).
Thermaltake Announces the Core P5 Tempered Glass Edition Chassis
Thermaltake has launched its latest Core P5 series, the Core P5 Tempered Glass Edition ATX Wall-Mount Chassis and the Core P5 Tempered Glass Snow Edition ATX Wall-Mount Chassis, which features three 5mm thick tempered glass windows, including a front panel and two side panels, plus stainless steel pillar secure mechanism to display and protect the glory of the build.
The newest series of Core P5 has remained the classic structure of Thermaltake open frame chassis family. It comes with fully modular design that allows flexibility for 3-way placement layouts (Wall mount, Horizontal and Vertical), dual GPU layout locations (Horizontal and Vertical), and placement locations for liquid cooling components. Indulge your system presentation with the brand new Thermaltake Core P5 Tempered Glass Edition open frame chassis.
The newest series of Core P5 has remained the classic structure of Thermaltake open frame chassis family. It comes with fully modular design that allows flexibility for 3-way placement layouts (Wall mount, Horizontal and Vertical), dual GPU layout locations (Horizontal and Vertical), and placement locations for liquid cooling components. Indulge your system presentation with the brand new Thermaltake Core P5 Tempered Glass Edition open frame chassis.
ASUS Announces the TUF Sabertooth 990FX R3.0 Motherboard
ASUS signs off the AMD socket AM3+ platform with a motherboard that's built to last, the TUF Sabertooth 990FX R3.0, its third TUF series motherboard based on the AMD 990FX chipset. The board could be the ideal upgrade for AMD FX processor users wanting to hold on to their builds a few years longer, as it features cutting-edge connectivity, such as four 10 Gb/s USB 3.1 ports (including a type-C port), eight additional 5 Gb/s USB 3.0 ports (of which four are via headers), a 20 Gb/s M.2 slot with NVMe support, and the very latest VRM innovations ASUS made for the TUF series.
The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS power connectors, and uses a 10-phase VRM to condition it for the CPU. The board supports 220W TDP AMD FX-9000 series CPUs. The CPU socket is wired to four DDR3 DIMM slots, and the AMD 990FX northbridge. Expansion slots include four PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slots, of which three are wired to the 990FX chip, and run at x16/NC/x16 or x16/x8/x8 depending on the way they're populated; while the fourth slot is wired to the SB950 southbridge, and runs at gen 2.0 x4. Storage connectivity includes five SATA 6 Gb/s ports besides the M.2 slot. 8-channel HD audio and gigabit Ethernet (Intel i211V controller) make for the rest of it. The board is driven by UEFI BIOS, and features Windows 10 certification. The company didn't reveal pricing.
The board draws power from a combination of 24-pin ATX and 8-pin EPS power connectors, and uses a 10-phase VRM to condition it for the CPU. The board supports 220W TDP AMD FX-9000 series CPUs. The CPU socket is wired to four DDR3 DIMM slots, and the AMD 990FX northbridge. Expansion slots include four PCI-Express 2.0 x16 slots, of which three are wired to the 990FX chip, and run at x16/NC/x16 or x16/x8/x8 depending on the way they're populated; while the fourth slot is wired to the SB950 southbridge, and runs at gen 2.0 x4. Storage connectivity includes five SATA 6 Gb/s ports besides the M.2 slot. 8-channel HD audio and gigabit Ethernet (Intel i211V controller) make for the rest of it. The board is driven by UEFI BIOS, and features Windows 10 certification. The company didn't reveal pricing.
ZOTAC Announces the ZBOX Magnus ERX480 Gaming Desktop
ZOTAC International, a global manufacturer of innovation, is pleased to introduce MAGNUS ERX480 as the world's first AMD powered Mini PC equipped with Polaris Architecture. The award-winning ZBOX MAGNUS Gaming Mini PC series, renowned for whisper quiet performance, brings a refreshing level of power and speed for every gamer. "We are always aiming to provide powerful solutions available to a wide audience and the MAGNUS ERX480 could be it" said Jacky Huang, Director of Mini PC.
MAGNUS is designed for gaming and entertainment. Hosting power that surpasses the requirements for experiencing virtual reality, MAGNUS is an ideal solution for both high-end gaming, premium entertainment, and much more. "The Radeon RX 480 with Polaris Architecture changes the gaming hardware dynamic with an effective cost-performance combination. We're excited to partner with ZOTAC, a well-established gaming mini PC manufacturer, to bring together the world first and most powerful AMD based gaming mini PC equipped with a Radeon RX 480" said Spencer Pan, AMD Corporate VP and President of Greater China.
MAGNUS is designed for gaming and entertainment. Hosting power that surpasses the requirements for experiencing virtual reality, MAGNUS is an ideal solution for both high-end gaming, premium entertainment, and much more. "The Radeon RX 480 with Polaris Architecture changes the gaming hardware dynamic with an effective cost-performance combination. We're excited to partner with ZOTAC, a well-established gaming mini PC manufacturer, to bring together the world first and most powerful AMD based gaming mini PC equipped with a Radeon RX 480" said Spencer Pan, AMD Corporate VP and President of Greater China.
Tuesday, November 1st 2016
Today's Reviews
Cooling
- Cooler Master MasterAir Pro 3 and Pro 4 CPU Coolers FunkyKit
- Cooler Master MasterAir Pro 3 and Pro 4 CPU Coolers Legit Reviews
- Cooler Master MasterAir Pro 3 and Pro 4 CPU Coolers Tech Report
- Cooler Master MasterAir Pro 4 and Pro 3 CPU Coolers Think Computers
- Cooler Master MasterAir Pro 3 and Pro 4 CPU Coolers Tom's Hardware
- AquaComputer Cuplex Kryos Next CPU Block HardwareOverclock
- Thermaltake Pacific RL480 Liquid Cooling Kit i2Hard (ru)
Desktop PC
Graphics Cards
Headphones
Keyboards
Memory
Motherboards
Notebooks
HiFiMAN HE-1000 V2 Planar Magnetic Headphones Review
The HiFiMAN HE-1000 V2 is the newest über-high-end offering from the company that spawned the newest generation of high-end planar magnetic headphones. The HE-1000 V2 shares most of its DNA with the V1, but there are several significant updates to pads, cable, and headband.
EVGA GTX 1070/1080 Overheating Issues Update - New BIOS Revision To Be Released
After reports of EVGA cards overheating and sometimes becoming non-operational, which we covered right here on TPU, the company has now issued a statement further clarifying the steps it's taking towards solving the issues. Though it was first reported that only the GTX 1070/1080 FTW series of cards were having issues, the company has also extended its efforts towards the GTX 1060 cards, in both 3 GB and 6 GB flavors, which may point to either underlying problems with those cards as well, or simply EVGA extending that bit of extra support to their customers.
While at first it seemed that the company-distributed, free-of-charge thermal pads (which EVGA stressed were optional in nature) would be enough to fix any and all issues, the company is also issuing a BIOS revision in a few days, which "adjusts the fan speed curve" to "ensure sufficient cooling of all components across all operating temperatures".
While at first it seemed that the company-distributed, free-of-charge thermal pads (which EVGA stressed were optional in nature) would be enough to fix any and all issues, the company is also issuing a BIOS revision in a few days, which "adjusts the fan speed curve" to "ensure sufficient cooling of all components across all operating temperatures".
NZXT Unleashes the H440 Hyper Beast Chassis
NZXT today announces the H440 Hyper Beast Limited Edition, a very exclusive version of its classic H440. Developed in collaboration with Brock Hofer, graphic artist behind Hyper Beast, this case is focused at CS:GO fans. It features the fierce creature found on the CS:GO M4A1-S Hyper Beast weapon skin. This rare H440 is produced in a one-time production of 1,337 units, each with a uniquely numbered limited edition metal badge.
"Being gamers at heart, we know how passionate gamers can be about their favorite titles. And even more so with the rise of in-game items customization featuring intensively sought-after rare skins. That's why we decided to work with Brock Hofer to help CS:GO fans turn their favorite virtual skin into their own very rare build. With H440 Hyper Beast one can say that the beast is truly unleashed" says Johnny Hou, NZXT's founder and CEO.
"Being gamers at heart, we know how passionate gamers can be about their favorite titles. And even more so with the rise of in-game items customization featuring intensively sought-after rare skins. That's why we decided to work with Brock Hofer to help CS:GO fans turn their favorite virtual skin into their own very rare build. With H440 Hyper Beast one can say that the beast is truly unleashed" says Johnny Hou, NZXT's founder and CEO.
SMART Announces the HRS-M1 Ruggedized MLC SSD
SMART High Reliability Solutions ("SMART HRS"), a provider of current and next-generation solid-state storage solutions specializing in ruggedized, high-performance and high-capacity solid-state drives ("SSDs") for defense, aerospace and industrial markets, today announced its HRS-M1 2.5" SATA 6Gb/s SSD. The M1 has been successfully sampled with key customers and is now available in volume quantities to qualified customers.
Emphasizing the company's exclusive focus on highly ruggedized, reliable and secure solid-state storage solutions, the HRS-M1 is packaged in a high strength, industrial designed enclosure to protect it from harsh elements. The M1 is designed and tested per MIL-STD-810 to operate in high shock and vibration applications at industrial operating temperatures of -40°C to +85°C. The HRS-M1 is also certified for operation at altitudes up to 80,000 ft.
"Our engineering teams have worked closely with our customers to identify their application requirements. We've then pushed the limits of design with solutions that exceed expectations. Whether it is performance, security or environmental based requirements, our products must always function at the highest level," said Michael Guzzo, General Manager of SMART HRS.
Emphasizing the company's exclusive focus on highly ruggedized, reliable and secure solid-state storage solutions, the HRS-M1 is packaged in a high strength, industrial designed enclosure to protect it from harsh elements. The M1 is designed and tested per MIL-STD-810 to operate in high shock and vibration applications at industrial operating temperatures of -40°C to +85°C. The HRS-M1 is also certified for operation at altitudes up to 80,000 ft.
"Our engineering teams have worked closely with our customers to identify their application requirements. We've then pushed the limits of design with solutions that exceed expectations. Whether it is performance, security or environmental based requirements, our products must always function at the highest level," said Michael Guzzo, General Manager of SMART HRS.
Samsung Bundles "Watch_Dogs 2" with Select SSDs and Curved Gaming Monitors
Samsung Electronics America, Inc. announced an exclusive collaboration with Ubisoft, offering a free PC download of Watch_Dogs 2 with the purchase of qualifying Samsung solid state drives (SSDs) and its newest Curved Gaming Monitors. The partnership delivers gamers an incredible package for high-level gameplay.
"Samsung is dedicated to providing best-in-class technology to gamers, so we're excited to offer Ubisoft's highly anticipated Watch_Dogs 2 as an added value with our industry-leading SSDs and monitors," said Andrew Sivori, Vice President of CE-IT Marketing at Samsung Electronics America. "Our high-performance SSDs and stunning new monitors deliver an enhanced gaming experience, providing exceptional visuals and lag-free gameplay."
"Samsung is dedicated to providing best-in-class technology to gamers, so we're excited to offer Ubisoft's highly anticipated Watch_Dogs 2 as an added value with our industry-leading SSDs and monitors," said Andrew Sivori, Vice President of CE-IT Marketing at Samsung Electronics America. "Our high-performance SSDs and stunning new monitors deliver an enhanced gaming experience, providing exceptional visuals and lag-free gameplay."
MSI Announces the GeForce GTX 1070 Quick Silver Graphics Card
MSI today unveiled the GeForce GTX 1070 Quick Silver Edition graphics card. Going purely by the factory-overclock on offer, the card appears to be positioned below the GTX 1070 Gaming X graphics card by the company, although one can expect the company to monetize its unique design. The company also has a slightly pricier OC Edition variant of this card, which is identical to the GTX 1070 Gaming X in terms of factory-overclock. The card is characterized by a metallic silver color-scheme that's consistent with the company's GTX 1080 30th Anniversary Edition graphics card, and Gaming Titanium series motherboards, such as the X99A XPower Gaming Titanium. Shimmery silver accents run through bits of the Twin Frozr VI cooler shroud where you'd normally expect fiery red from the Gaming X, while the back-plate is entirely silver, with an illuminated MSI Gaming logo ornament.
The card comes with a factory-overclock of 1518 MHz core and 1708 MHz GPU Boost in Gaming Mode, and 1531 MHz core with 1721 MHz GPU Boost in OC Mode; which is below the factory-overclock of the GTX 1070 Gaming X, which comes with 1582/1771 MHz in Gaming Mode and 1607/1797 MHz in OC Mode, and barely above NVIDIA reference clocks of 1506/1683 MHz. The OC Edition variant, on the other hand, ships with identical clock speeds to the GTX 1070 Gaming X. The card draws power from a combination of 6-pin and 8-pin PCIe power connectors. Based on the 16 nm "GP104" silicon, the GeForce GTX 1070 features 1,920 CUDA cores, 120 TMUs, 64 ROPs, and 8 GB of GDDR5 memory clocked at 8.00 GHz, across a 256-bit wide memory interface. MSI didn't reveal pricing.
The card comes with a factory-overclock of 1518 MHz core and 1708 MHz GPU Boost in Gaming Mode, and 1531 MHz core with 1721 MHz GPU Boost in OC Mode; which is below the factory-overclock of the GTX 1070 Gaming X, which comes with 1582/1771 MHz in Gaming Mode and 1607/1797 MHz in OC Mode, and barely above NVIDIA reference clocks of 1506/1683 MHz. The OC Edition variant, on the other hand, ships with identical clock speeds to the GTX 1070 Gaming X. The card draws power from a combination of 6-pin and 8-pin PCIe power connectors. Based on the 16 nm "GP104" silicon, the GeForce GTX 1070 features 1,920 CUDA cores, 120 TMUs, 64 ROPs, and 8 GB of GDDR5 memory clocked at 8.00 GHz, across a 256-bit wide memory interface. MSI didn't reveal pricing.
Two GIGABYTE Socket AM4 Motherboards Pictured
Ahead of their launch later this year, to cater to the 7th generation AMD A-series "Bristol Ridge" APUs, with support for next-generation "ZEN" processors due in 2017, two GIGABYTE socket AM4 motherboards smiled for the camera. The two appear to be based on either AMD's entry-level A320 or mid-range B350 chipsets. Since the AM4 chips are true-blue SoCs with complete integration of chipsets, including what you'd normally call a southbridge or FCH; the "chipsets" in the AM4 platform are merely chips that add to the PCIe lane budget of the platform, and provide additional SATA and USB connectivity.
The first of the two GIGABYTE AM4 boards is built in the narrow micro-ATX form-factor; featuring a single PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slot, two DDR4 DIMM slots, four SATA 6 Gb/s ports, and basic connectivity that includes 6-channel HD audio, one gigabit Ethernet connection, and 4-6 USB 3.0 ports. The second board is better endowed, and is likely a variation of the socket AM4 board that was earlier pictured this September. It features two PCI-Express 3.0 x16 ports (the second one could be electrical x4); and comes with two additional SATA 6 Gb/s and USB 3.0 ports compared to the other board.
The first of the two GIGABYTE AM4 boards is built in the narrow micro-ATX form-factor; featuring a single PCI-Express 3.0 x16 slot, two DDR4 DIMM slots, four SATA 6 Gb/s ports, and basic connectivity that includes 6-channel HD audio, one gigabit Ethernet connection, and 4-6 USB 3.0 ports. The second board is better endowed, and is likely a variation of the socket AM4 board that was earlier pictured this September. It features two PCI-Express 3.0 x16 ports (the second one could be electrical x4); and comes with two additional SATA 6 Gb/s and USB 3.0 ports compared to the other board.
LEPA Launches CHOPPER ADVANCE Fans with Kaleidoscopic Lighting Effects
CHOPPER ADVANCE, the successor of the original Chopper series, is now ready to show off the new quad-ring LED technology that delivers vivid illumination effects. The new outlook also comes with LEPA's halo ring modular frame for 30% more airflow, PWM for speed control ( 600 ~ 1500 RPM) as well as durable BOL (Barometric Oil-Less) bearing technology, which promises high endurance (160,000 hours [MTBF]) and low noise (dBa of 8~20), which the company touts as making the new CHOPPER ADVANCE a one-of-a-kind offering.
Lian-Li's PC-Q37 Brings Tempered Glass to Small Form Factor Builds
Lian-Li, the renowned Taiwanese computer case and accessories manufacturer, has announced immediate availability of their PC-Q37 computer case, a dual-chambered mini-ITX model with large tempered glass in the front and side panels. According to the company, this latest chassis fuses the best of the Q-series and O-series for a new standard in small form factor (SFF) PC cases.
The PC-Q37 is split into two compartments to make tidy builds a breeze. The main compartment mounts the motherboard, expansion cards and cooling equipment, while the back compartment hides the PSU and drive racks. This layout allows builders to highlight their best bits with oversized tempered glass, while effortlessly keeping wires and other unsightly components tucked away.
The PC-Q37 is split into two compartments to make tidy builds a breeze. The main compartment mounts the motherboard, expansion cards and cooling equipment, while the back compartment hides the PSU and drive racks. This layout allows builders to highlight their best bits with oversized tempered glass, while effortlessly keeping wires and other unsightly components tucked away.
Shuttle Unveils the XPC Nano NC02 NUC Desktop
Following the launch of the NC01 series in a typical NUC format, the Shuttle XPC nano product range is growing once again. The NC02 models are the immediate successors and put the sixth generation of Intel Core processors in a micro-format. The NC02 models are sold as barebones PC as standard which include the case, mainboard, heatpipe cooling system and power supply unit as key components. Four different models with soldered Celeron, Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 power-saving processors are available to cover as many application areas as possible.
The base model NC02U is driven by an Intel Celeron 3855U dual-core processor clocked at 2x 1.6 GHz. The 14 nm architecture as well as the power consumption of less than 10 Watt in operation promise low energy consumption and enhanced performance. With its ultra-slim dimensions of 141 x 141 x 42 mm, the housing is 13 mm taller compared to the NC01, enabling the units to support even 15 mm high 2.5" drives.
The base model NC02U is driven by an Intel Celeron 3855U dual-core processor clocked at 2x 1.6 GHz. The 14 nm architecture as well as the power consumption of less than 10 Watt in operation promise low energy consumption and enhanced performance. With its ultra-slim dimensions of 141 x 141 x 42 mm, the housing is 13 mm taller compared to the NC01, enabling the units to support even 15 mm high 2.5" drives.
ASUSTOR Announces the AS6212RD 12-bay NAS
ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, has announced the launch of the AS6212RD 12-bay rackmount NAS, the newest addition to their series of Intel Braswell based NAS devices. The AS6212RD is equipped with powerful core specifications that are ready to meet the requirements of demanding enterprise environments while providing excellent performance and smooth multitasking. The 4 built-in USB ports provide for agile applications, allowing businesses to maximize the use of existing equipment and resources.
Worth mentioning is that the AS6212RD features 12 disk bays and supports the highest capacity hard disks on the market (10 TB) allowing for the creation of truly large storage spaces. Businesses that require high capacity storage can maximize the use of disk bays by utilizing ASUSTOR's MyArchive cold backup technology to effectively achieve unlimited storage. MyArchive disks can be used to archive data, freeing up storage space on existing storage volumes. Users can plug in MyArchive disks back into the NAS any time that they need to access the archived data. Additionally, for users who want to add storage capacity without having to expand their RAID storage volumes, MyArchive technology can be used, providing a low cost option to meet increasing storage demands.
Worth mentioning is that the AS6212RD features 12 disk bays and supports the highest capacity hard disks on the market (10 TB) allowing for the creation of truly large storage spaces. Businesses that require high capacity storage can maximize the use of disk bays by utilizing ASUSTOR's MyArchive cold backup technology to effectively achieve unlimited storage. MyArchive disks can be used to archive data, freeing up storage space on existing storage volumes. Users can plug in MyArchive disks back into the NAS any time that they need to access the archived data. Additionally, for users who want to add storage capacity without having to expand their RAID storage volumes, MyArchive technology can be used, providing a low cost option to meet increasing storage demands.
ADATA Releases Full Range of USB Type-C Adapters and Hubs
ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of highperformance DRAM modules, NAND Flash products, and mobile accessories today announced the launch of several products designed to make USB-C adoption easier. They make the reversible USB standard compatible with connectors such as USB-A and HDMI, as well as legacy plugs like VGA (D-sub). ADATA believes USB-C represents a positive development that benefits customers. The reversible connector is more than easy to plug in - it also marks the arrival of faster data rates and higher quality signal transmission. With new adapters, cables, and hubs, users can connect devices with USB-C to various other devices so that functionality is retained. All cables and adapters use high quality materials to ensure optimized data carrying capabilities.
DeepCool Announces the D-Shield Mid-tower Chassis
DeepCool announced the D-Shield, a new mainstream ATX mid-tower chassis. Its design is characterized by a large faux-metal front panel with dark, brushed-aluminium appearance; a large, and clear-acrylic side-panel window over the top compartment. The case features a contemporary horizontally partitioned layout, with the top compartment housing the motherboard tray with room for ATX motherboards, add-on cards up to 350 mm in length, and CPU coolers up to 160 mm in height.
The bottom compartment of the D-Shield provides room for the PSU, and two 3.5-inch drives. Two additional 2.5-inch drive mounts are located behind the motherboard tray. The case provides two 5.25-inch exposed drive bays with short-left inner caging (to free up room). Ventilation features include two 120 mm front intakes, a 120 mm top exhaust, and a 120 mm rear exhaust (included). Front panel connectivity includes a USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0/1.1 ports, and HDA audio jacks. Measuring 425 mm x 188 mm x 463 mm (LxWxH), the case dry-weighs about 3.85 kg, and is made mostly of SECC steel. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
The bottom compartment of the D-Shield provides room for the PSU, and two 3.5-inch drives. Two additional 2.5-inch drive mounts are located behind the motherboard tray. The case provides two 5.25-inch exposed drive bays with short-left inner caging (to free up room). Ventilation features include two 120 mm front intakes, a 120 mm top exhaust, and a 120 mm rear exhaust (included). Front panel connectivity includes a USB 3.0 port, two USB 2.0/1.1 ports, and HDA audio jacks. Measuring 425 mm x 188 mm x 463 mm (LxWxH), the case dry-weighs about 3.85 kg, and is made mostly of SECC steel. The company didn't reveal pricing or availability.
Transcend Announces the SSD230 Series with 3D NAND Flash
Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend ), a leading manufacturer of storage and multimedia products, is proud to announce the launch of a brand new SSD with built-in 3D NAND flash. With the growing needs for high-capacity and high-performance storage, Transcend has adopted 3D NAND flash technology for its 2.5" SSD230 solid state drives, boosting storage capacity, transfer rates, and reliability all at once.
To achieve higher densities, 2D planar NAND flash technology shrinks each memory cell onto a single layer of cells. However, this technology increases cell-to-cell interference and hence reduces reliability as it approaches its physical scaling limit. 3D NAND flash was developed to resolve this bottleneck, as it features multiple layers of memory cells stacked vertically. 3D NAND flash not only resolves the density limitations of 2D horizontal NAND, but also boosts read and write performance, as it does not require the invocation of algorithms to prevent data corruption. Free from cell-to-cell interference, state-of-the art 3D NAND flash technology also features higher endurance and lower power consumption.
To achieve higher densities, 2D planar NAND flash technology shrinks each memory cell onto a single layer of cells. However, this technology increases cell-to-cell interference and hence reduces reliability as it approaches its physical scaling limit. 3D NAND flash was developed to resolve this bottleneck, as it features multiple layers of memory cells stacked vertically. 3D NAND flash not only resolves the density limitations of 2D horizontal NAND, but also boosts read and write performance, as it does not require the invocation of algorithms to prevent data corruption. Free from cell-to-cell interference, state-of-the art 3D NAND flash technology also features higher endurance and lower power consumption.
Kingston Digital Releases 256GB Capacity microSDXC Class 10 UHS-I Card
Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the addition of the 256 GB capacity to its line of Class 10 UHS-I microSDHC / microSDXC cards. The large capacity and Class 10 UHS-I speed allows users to capture more photos (up to 64,000 12MP images) and HD videos (up to 976 minutes at 1080p 30 frames per second) without interruption.
The microSDHC / microSDXC Class 10 UHS-I is the smallest form factor SD card available and is the standard expandable storage option for many tablets, smartphones and action cameras. It is ideal for cinema-quality HD (1080p) video and reduces buffer time between shots when compared to Class 4 cards. The versatile card can withstand harsh environments for adventurous travelers as it is waterproof, temperature proof, shock and vibration proof and X-ray proof. Capacities of 16 GB to 256 GB make it easy to find the right card for one's needs and provides space for thousands of hi-res photos and hours of video.
The microSDHC / microSDXC Class 10 UHS-I is the smallest form factor SD card available and is the standard expandable storage option for many tablets, smartphones and action cameras. It is ideal for cinema-quality HD (1080p) video and reduces buffer time between shots when compared to Class 4 cards. The versatile card can withstand harsh environments for adventurous travelers as it is waterproof, temperature proof, shock and vibration proof and X-ray proof. Capacities of 16 GB to 256 GB make it easy to find the right card for one's needs and provides space for thousands of hi-res photos and hours of video.
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