Asustor displayed its first consumer NAS devices implementing Intel's recently announced Atom CE5315 SoC. The new model fill into the company's 3-series. On display at CeBIT are the 2-bay AS-302T and 4-bay AS-304T. The two are positioned a notch below the 2 GHz Atom dual-core powered AS-602T and AS-604T. The two feature single gigabit Ethernet interfaces, a couple of USB 3.0 and USB 2.0/1.1 ports, and HDMI display outputs. The company's ADM 1.0 "Dolphin" interface is standard issue. The two are expected to launch some time in June.

With consumers increasingly sharing and viewing content among different devices, Intel Corporation today introduced storage solutions based on the Intel Atom media processor CE5300 series. The new low power system-on-chip (SoC) enables high definition (HD) video to be simultaneously watched on smartphones, tablets and other smart devices, in real time, while also shared with consumer devices such as a Smart TV. "Streaming content across numerous mobile devices, not just from the cloud but locally, has become a common practice for today's consumers," said Bev Crair, general manager, of Intel's Storage Division. "New storage solutions based on the Intel Atom CE5300 series elevate this to a whole new level by making it simple to 'browse, click, and play'. The new SoC provides an excellent foundation for creating compelling entertainment experiences."

The powerful, dual-core Intel Atom CE5300 series delivers simple application and I/O support, making it ideal for synchronizing and streaming video content without compromising power for the performance necessary to allow seamless I/O and media transcoding. Storage solutions based on the Intel Atom CE5300 series allow consumers to easily set up all of their media in one place and avoid capacity limitations of mobile devices. They can use their storage system either as an iTunes server or DLNA (Digital Network Living Alliance) media server, and access that content from their mobile device of choice. Users can also simultaneously transcode 1080p video content to a smartphone, tablet, TV, Ultrabook or other smart device. The media processor system intelligently adapts to the screen resolution for each of these devices.

Thecus releases an all new 2-bay N2520 and 4-bay N4520 NAS server to lead the competition. The latest 2 and 4 bay NAS are designed to offer a revolutionary experience to the NAS industry. It utilizes the latest Intel Atom processor with 1GB RAM (N2520) and 2GB RAM (N4520). In addition, superspeed USB 3.0 fosters quick transfers, HDMI output is convenient for multimedia playback and McAfee Antivirus protection is to keep your NAS operating smoothly. The past proves merit; innovative technologies have been utilized to develop the new N2520/N4520 NAS to serve one single purpose: improve user experience and satisfaction.

"The integration of the new Intel Atom processor CE5315 and Thecus award-winning NAS is truly a revolution. We are proud to be the initial storage manufacture to embed Intel's first SoC storage dedicated chip, said Florence Shih, General Manager of Thecus. This pairing is phenomenal because it offers a new energy efficient, multimedia powerhouse and performance driven NAS solution to the storage industry."

AMD hedged its low-power CPU bets on the "Bobcat" micro-architecture for the past two years now. Intel's Atom line of low-power chips caught up in power-efficiency, CPU performance, to an extant iGPU performance, and recent models even feature out-of-order execution. AMD unveiled its next-generation "Jaguar" low-power CPU micro-architecture for APUs in the 5W - 25W TDP range, targeting everything from tablets to entry-level notebooks, and nettops.

At its presentation at the 60th ISSC 2013 conference, AMD detailed "Jaguar," revealing a few killer features that could restore the company's competitiveness in the low-power CPU segment. To begin with, APUs with CPU cores based on this micro-architecture will be built on TSMC's 28-nanometer HKMG process. Jaguar allows for up to four x86-64 cores. The four cores, unlike Bulldozer modules, are completely independent, and only share a 2 MB L2 cache.

Gigabyte rolled out the GR-EZI14H 4-bay home/SMB NAS server. Almost identical to the GR-EZI04H, launched back in December, 2012; the GR-EZI14H ships with Microsoft Windows Home Server 2011, instead of the custom Linux-based NAS operating system of its older twin. Naturally then, it could come at a small premium.

The GR-EZI14H features a common desktop form-factor measuring 220 x 183.5 x 146.5 mm, with four 3.5-inch SATA drive caddies covered by a common lockable door. Under its hood is an Intel Atom D2500 processor clocked at 1.80 GHz, wired to Intel ICH10R southbridge, which supports up to six SATA 3 Gb/s ports, with RAID 0/1/0+1, 2 GB of DDR3 RAM, and a USB DOM holding the operating system. Connectivity includes two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, two each of USB 3.0, USB 2.0/1.1; and a VGA display output.

QNAP, Inc. launches its latest mid level NAS Series, the TS-x69 Pro and TS-x69L Series with XBMC. The TS-x69 Pro and L series are powered by an Intel Atom 2.13 GHz Dual-Core processor with expandable memory up to 3GB. The XBMC Media Center feature allows users to directly connect the NAS through their TV's HDMI port for direct media playback.

Users can now watch their favorite movies, videos, listen to their favorite music, and view their photos directly on their TV. With XBMC, users can also manage their video library, create/manage their own personal music playlists and create their own photo slideshows. "We are very thrilled to bring the exciting, feature loaded XBMC Media Center to QNAP users," said Ivan Hsu, Marketing Sales Director for QNAP.

ASUSTOR Inc., a leading innovator and provider of network storage solutions, today announced the release of four new enterprise-level 1U and 2U rackmount NAS devices. These new devices consist of the four drive bay AS-604RS and AS-604RD models and the nine drive bay AS-609RS and AS-609RD models. All devices come equipped with the Intel Atom 2.13 GHz dual-core processor which combines supercharged performance with low power consumption. Furthermore, all devices are verified as VMware, Citrix and Hyper-V ready, providing businesses with a flexible and cost-efficient virtual storage solution.

"Our new rackmount NAS models include the type of hardware specifications required by the most demanding business environments such as dual gigabit Ethernet ports, eSATA and SuperSpeed USB 3.0 interfaces and support for hard drive hot swapping." said Johnny Chen, Product Manager at ASUSTOR. "The AS-604RD and AS-609RD models also feature redundant power supplies meaning that should the primary power supply fail, a second one will automatically start running to keep the NAS powered on. This undoubtedly gives businesses the type of 24/7, round-the-clock, uninterrupted access that they need."

Handheld Group, a fast-growing manufacturer of rugged mobile computers, PDAs and smartphones, today announced the launch of the new version of its highly popular Algiz XRW rugged notebook. The updated Algiz XRW is considerably faster than its predecessor, and has twice the amount of RAM.

The new Algiz XRW is a slim, lightweight, compact and fully rugged notebook that delivers unprecedented performance in the field. Its 10.1-inch touchscreen display features MaxView technology, providing spectacular screen clarity and brightness in any outdoor condition, even direct sunlight. The Algiz XRW is one of the lightest and most compact rugged notebooks on the market, weighing in at a mere 1.6 kilograms, or 3.5 pounds.

Intel's known lineup of low-power Atom processors based on the "Silvermont" micro-architecture spans across the "ValleyView" line of chips for tablets, nettops, and embedded systems, "Avoton" line for micro-servers, and a third line that completes the triad, "Rangeley." Designed for the networking and communications market, such as high-density switches, internet- and telephone-exchanges, etc., these chips are the first Atom-branded products to pack up to eight x86 CPU cores.

The eight-core chips are built into a single-chip SoC design. The cores feature out-of-order execution, much like "Avoton," CPU clock speeds of up to 2.40 GHz, and an instruction-set that's carefully measured for Rengeley's target application, which includes SSE4.1/SSE4.2, AES acceleration, VT-x, and x86-64. Rangeley is also among the first Atom chips to feature a dual-channel DDR3 integrated memory controller, supporting DDR3-1600 MHz, blurring the lines between it and other Intel processors. Thanks to out-of-order execution, the chip gains a 35 percent performance increment over previous-generation "Saltwell" architecture. Since it's an SoC, its core-logic is completely integrated into the CPU package. Connectivity includes PCI-Express 2.0 (a total of 16 lanes spread across 4 ports), two SATA 6 Gb/s ports, gigabit Ethernet MAC, and legacy I/O.

Intel Corporation announced a collaboration with Facebook to define the next generation of rack technologies used to power the world's largest data centers. As part of the collaboration, the companies also unveiled a mechanical prototype built by Quanta Computer* that includes Intel's new, innovative photonic rack architecture to show the total cost, design and reliability improvement potential of a disaggregated rack environment.

"Intel and Facebook are collaborating on a new disaggregated, rack-scale server architecture that enables independent upgrading of compute, network and storage subsystems that will define the future of mega-datacenter designs for the next decade," said Justin Rattner, Intel's chief technology officer during his keynote address at Open Computer Summit in Santa Clara, Calif. "The disaggregated rack architecture includes Intel's new photonic architecture, based on high-bandwidth, 100 Gbps Intel Silicon Photonics Technology, that enables fewer cables, increased bandwidth, farther reach and extreme power efficiency compared to today's copper based interconnects."

Expanding upon the success of the Latitude 10 standard configuration launched in October 2012, Dell today announced the Latitude 10 essentials configuration to offer a secure, manageable and durable enterprise-ready tablet option to budget-conscious customers. Ideal for organizations such as schools and small businesses, the new configuration offers outstanding value with essential productivity and collaboration features and a full-featured Windows 8 tablet experience. The new Latitude 10 offers consumer customers rich entertainment features for movies, books and games, as well as compatibility with familiar applications and accessories to transition seamlessly between work and play.

"Dell's heritage is rooted in meeting the needs of our customers with cost effective, tailored solutions that empower them to reach their potential, be it in the office, classroom or hospital," said Neil Hand, vice president, Dell end user computing products. "This legacy, combined with our portfolio of new enterprise services and product offerings, such as the Latitude 10, enables our customers to deploy the latest technology while balancing IT control and end-user productivity."

Intel Corporation executives held a press conference today to outline a plan to accelerate new mobile device experiences across the company's growing portfolio of smartphone, tablet and Ultrabook offerings.

The announcements included a new smartphone platform for emerging markets, details on a forthcoming 22 nm quad-core SoC for tablets, and more personal and intuitive Ultrabook devices in innovative convertible designs were outlined by Mike Bell, vice president and general manager of the Mobile and Communications Group, and Kirk Skaugen, vice president and general manager of the PC Client Group at Intel.

Today LaCie announced the 5big NAS Pro, its latest high-performance 5-bay network-attached storage solution powered by Intel. Thanks to hybrid cloud technology, the LaCie 5big NAS Pro lets employees collaborate easily using a single interface for both network/cloud storage and remote access. Plus, data stays secure thanks to novice-friendly SimplyRAID and client-side cloud encryption.

Fast Professional Collaboration
With transfer speeds up to 200 MB/s, the LaCie 5big NAS Pro boosts business productivity. Powered by a dual-core 2.13 GHz Intel 64-bit Atom processor and 4 GB RAM, it also features dual LAN and link aggregation for optimized network speeds. This performance-driven combination accelerates file sharing, remote access, and backups for small businesses.

Intel's next-generation Atom processor platform, codenamed "Bay Trail" doesn't arrive before 2014, but that's not enough to stop the company from talking at great lengths about it. A new presentation intended for Intel's pals in the PC industry was leaked on German tech-forum 3DCenter.org, and reveals quite a bit more about the platform than the Bay Trail-T we already know about.

The first two slides (below) detail key scoring points of the platform over its predecessor, the "Cedar Trail." These include a true single-chip SoC (with complete integration of the chipset into the processor die), being built on the 22 nm Tri-gate transistor fab process, up to four x86-64 cores with out-of-order execution capabilities, 7th generation Intel graphics that features DirectX 11 and supports resolutions as high as 2560 x 1600 pixels, a native USB 3.0 controller, and support for DDR3L memory, that allows device makers to do away with DIMM/SO-DIMM modules to conserve board foot-print, using smaller, space-optimized DRAM chips on the main PCB.

In an interview with DigiTimes, ASUS general manager of motherboard business Joe Hsieh commented on reports of Intel abandoning CPU sockets in favor of processors being hardwired to motherboards in BGA packages. Hsieh said that the issue will not be as bad as people think and Intel could find a strategy that allows both soldered and socketed processors to be sold, which is much like today, except that hardwired processors are limited to notebooks (Core i3 and i5 processors in the BGA1224 package) and low-end Atom-driven desktop motherboards.

What lends Hsieh's statement weight, apart from the fact that he leads the biggest PC motherboard design team, is that Intel recently denied those reports, saying it would provide socketed CPUs for "the foreseeable future." Last month, Japanese publication PC Watch, credited for generally accurate tech predictions based on information at hand, reported that following its 22 nm Core "Haswell" CPU family, Intel could transform its entry-, mainstream-, and performance-segment client CPUs to hardwired BGA packages, probably leaving socketed CPUs only to HEDT (high-end desktop) and enterprise Xeon processor lines. Other PC motherboard vendors DigiTimes spoke with echoed ASUS' opinion, they don't believe Intel could "suddenly" completely change the way processors are sold to consumers.

Axiomtek introduced two new x86 motherboards in the nano-ITX form-factor (half the board area as mini-ITX), which include the NANO830 and NANO831. The NANO830 is driven by Intel Atom D2550 dual-core processors clocked at 1.86 GHz, with 1 MB L2 cache and 10W TDP, while the NANO831 runs Atom N2600 single-core chip clocked at 1.60 GHz, and 3.5W TDP. Both boards use Intel NM10 chipset, which gives out two SATA 3 Gb/s ports. Both boards feature DDR3 SO-DIMM and mPCIe slots on the reverse side of the PCB. An mSATA slot decks up its obverse side. Connectivity includes stereo audio, two gigabit Ethernet interfaces, D-Sub, and HDMI (NANO830 only).

Intel Corporation introduced the Intel Atom processor S1200 product family today, delivering the world's first low-power, 64-bit server-class system-on-chip (SoC) for high-density microservers, as well as a new class of energy-efficient storage and networking systems. The energy-sipping, industrial-strength microprocessor features essential capabilities to achieve server-class reliability, manageability and cost effectiveness.

"The data center continues to evolve into unique segments and Intel continues to be a leader in these transitions," said Diane Bryant, vice president and general manager of the Datacenter and Connected Systems Group at Intel. "We recognized several years ago the need for a new breed of high-density, energy-efficient servers and other datacenter equipment. Today, we are delivering the industry's only 6-watt SoC that has key datacenter features, continuing our commitment to help lead these segments."

Giada Technology is now preparing the introduction of a new barebone system, one named i35GB which measures 190 x 149 x 26 mm. Seen below, the barebone comes equipped with a 1.86 GHz Atom D2550 processor and an NVIDIA GT610 GPU, and has support for up to 4 GB of RAM (DDR3-1066), for a 2.5-inch SATA drive, plus Gigabit Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n WiFi, optional Bluetooth, a multi-in-one card reader, five USB 2.0 ports, and D-Sub and HDMI outputs.

The i35GB's price tag was not announced.

With the dawn of 2013, and no catastrophes in sight, Intel is going ahead with its usual business of phasing out old processor models, and making way for new ones. By the end of 2012, Intel will stop taking orders for several processor models mostly based on the older 32 nm "Sandy Bridge" silicon. These include chips such as the Core i7-2700K, Core i5-2310, Core i3-2105, Pentium G440, and surprisingly, an early demise of the 22 nm Core i5-3450, which is cannibalized by the Core i5-3470 at the same price point. Pentium G870, G645 and G645T as well as Celeron G555, G550 and G550T are the other chips on the chopping block.

Come 2013, Intel will release Pentium and Celeron series processors based on its 22 nm "Ivy Bridge" micro-architecture. These include the Pentium G2130, G2020 and G2020T and Celeron G1620, G1610 and G1610T. In the mobile (notebook) CPU sphere, Intel will launch dual-core "Ivy Bridge" chips to layer out its Ultrabook product segment. These include the Core i7-3687, Core i5-3437U, Celeron 1037U, 1007U, 1020M and 1000M. In March, the company is expected to launch its 4th generation Core "Haswell" line of processors.

As confirmed by some freshly-leaked slides, 2014 will see Intel bring some new guns to the fight with ARM, including Bay Trail-T, the successor of Clover Trail and the first Atom platform to take advantage of the 22 nm manufacturing process.

The star of Bay Trail-T is the Valleyview SoC which will feature four (out-of-order) Silvermont cores clocked at up to 2.1 GHz (delivering up to 60% higher performance than the Clover Trail chip), a two-channel LPDDR3 memory controller, an upgraded video decoder, support for resolutions up to 2560 x 1600 pixels, and a new GPU boasting DirectX 11 capabilities and offering up to a 3x performance boost over Clover Trail.

Devices based on Bay Trail-T are expected to have a standby battery life of 20 days and would last for 11 hours of continuous video playback, before needing to be charged.

ASUS, a global leader in the new digital era, today announces VivoTab, a thin and light tablet featuring Windows 8. With an MSRP starting from US$799, VivoTab has an 11.6" multi-touch HD display, Wacom digitizer stylus and Intel Atom dual-core processor for an excellent combination of performance and energy efficiency. Its optional Mobile Dock offers increased productivity too, thanks to its full keyboard and a built-in battery that gives up to 19 hours' mobile use.

ASUS VivoTab has a 1.8GHz Intel Atom Z2760 dual-core processor with enhanced performance and incredible energy efficiency allowing Windows 8 to run both, the latest software and legacy applications, giving users a wide choice of software for every need. VivoTab's 11.6" multi-touch display has a pin-sharp 1366 x 768 HD resolution with vibrant colors, wide viewing angles and superior outdoor visibility, thanks to the amazing brightness of its Super IPS+ technology. ASUS TruVivid technology enhances image clarity still further by reducing the display thickness, while scratch-resistant Corning Fit glass with anti-fingerprint coating keeps the screen crystal-clear.

Intel has this week announced the discontinuance schedule for two more products, the 2.8 GHz Core i5-3450S desktop CPU and the 1.5 GHz Atom Z670 mobile chip. The i5-3450S will be available for orders until May 24th, 2013 and will ship until November 8th (for the tray version) or until supplies are depleted (boxed). As for the Z670, Intel will be taking orders for it up to May 31st, 2013 and will ship it while supplies last.

The Core i5-3450S was introduced in Q2 2012 while the Atom Z670 debuted last year (Q2).

Intel slipped in a new processor model to lead the Atom series of low-power processors, the D2560. Introduction of the new chip follows discontinuation of the D2700, it is positioned above the D2550. Based on the "Saltwell" micro-architecture and built on the 32 nm "Cedarview" silicon, the Atom D2560 is a dual-core x86 processor clocked at 2.00 GHz. It features HyperThreading, which enables four logical CPUs for the operating system to deal with. The dual-core x86 component is armed with 1 MB of L2 cache. Its instruction set includes SSE2/SSE3/SSSE3. Among its uncore components are a single-channel DDR3-1066 MHz IMC, which supports up to 4 GB of memory, and integrated HD graphics clocked at 640 MHz. Its TDP is rated at 10W. The new chip should cost OEMs $47 a piece in 1000-unit tray quantities.

American Industrial Systems Inc. (AIS) is an International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) accredited supplier and manufacturer of cost-effective Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) military grade rugged touch computers and displays for government, aerospace, and defense entities. Facing tight budgets, the Army, Navy, Air Force and Defense agencies are looking for solutions that withstand the test of time while meeting stringent performance, maintainability and reparability, Size, Weight and Power (SWaP), Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) requirements. AIS MIL-STD and MIL-SPEC compact ruggedized touch computers and displays are designed, manufactured and qualified to pass MIL-STD-810 and MIL-STD-461. All units are tested for drop-shock, moisture, dust and vibration resistance and temperature extremes for military, aerospace and government applications.

Fujitsu unveiled its FMV series Windows 8 PC family, which includes tablets, convertibles, notebooks, and all-in-one PCs, all of which are touch-enabled to take advantage of the new operating system. To begin with, Fujitsu unveiled the 10.1-inch QH55 tablet. Based on the x86 platform, the QH55 is driven by Intel Atom Z2760 (dual-core, 1.50 GHz) processor, 2 GB memory, 64 GB SSD, Windows 8 32-bit, with Office Home and Business 2010 pre-installed. Its 10.1-inch screen packs 1366 x 768 pixels resolution. Measuring 264.4 x 169.4 x 9.9 mm (width × depth × height), it weighs 574 g. Connectivity features include 8 MP back and 2 MP front-facing cameras, micro USB, micro SDXC, 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, accelerometer, gyrometer, and stereo audio. It is slated for October 26.