Category: Computers

  • GPD Win: First AMD Strix Halo Handheld Leaked Details Revealed

    GPD Win: First AMD Strix Halo Handheld Leaked Details Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new GPD device with the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU, model number G1618-05, has surfaced on Geekbench.
    2. The G1618-05 is likely related to the upcoming Win 5, rather than being an upgrade of the Win 4.
    3. The device has been tested with 24 GB of RAM, with indications of potential 32 GB configurations including 8 GB reserved for VRAM.
    4. Performance expectations for the G1618-05 are not fully met, given the capabilities of the Ryzen AI Max+ 395.
    5. There is currently no information on whether GPD will officially launch the G1618-05 or the timeline for such a release.


    A few weeks ago, a mysterious GPD device featuring an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU was spotted online. At that time, we noted that the sole image revealed a gadget resembling the GPD Win 4, which is currently priced at $1,039 on Amazon.

    New Discovery on Geekbench

    Now, it seems that the same prototype has appeared on Geekbench with the model number ‘G1618-05’. To give some background, earlier G1618 versions have been part of GPD’s Win series. For instance, G1618-03 corresponds to the Win 3, while G1618-04 is assigned to the various Win 4 models.

    Potential Model Insights

    This leads us to believe that G1618-05 is probably not an upgraded Win 4. Instead, it might be the identifier for the upcoming Win 5. Regardless, with 24 GB of RAM noted, it appears that GPD has been testing the G1618-05 with 32 GB of RAM, reserving 8 GB for VRAM. As we’ve mentioned before, devices powered by Strix Halo perform best with 64 GB of RAM or more.

    Expectations and Uncertainties

    Nonetheless, the G1618-05 falls just a bit short of the expectations we have for a device driven by the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, even at this preliminary stage. Unfortunately, it’s still not clear if GPD plans to launch the G1618-05 or when that might take place.

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  • GMKtec Launches EVO-T1 Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

    GMKtec Launches EVO-T1 Mini-PC with Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec has launched the EVO-T1, its second mini-PC release in under a month following the NucBox G10.
    2. The EVO-T1 features the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor with 16 cores and a peak clock speed of 5.4 GHz, along with an integrated Arc Graphics 140T GPU.
    3. The mini-PC supports 1080p gaming and includes an OCuLink option for connecting external GPUs.
    4. The starting price for the EVO-T1 is CNY 5,699 (approximately $795), including 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.
    5. Lower memory configuration options may be available at a reduced price when the EVO-T1 launches globally, but no specific date has been provided.


    GMKtec has just announced the launch of the EVO-T1, marking its first release in under a month after the global introduction of the NucBox G10. While the NucBox G10 aims at the budget mini-PC segment, featuring an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U APU, the EVO-T1 comes with performance levels closer to the EVO-X1, which is currently priced at $889.99 on Amazon.

    Performance and Specs

    For its new mini-PC, GMKtec has chosen the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H from the Arrow Lake-H series. This processor is built on a 5 nm process and boasts 16 cores, reaching a peak clock speed of 5.4 GHz on its Lion Cove P-cores, along with an Arc Graphics 140T integrated GPU. The iGPU is capable of supporting 1080p gaming, but GMKtec has also provided an OCuLink option for users who wish to attach a more powerful external GPU. Additionally, the EVO-T1 comes equipped with a variety of ports.

    Pricing Details

    The starting price for the EVO-T1 is CNY 5,699 on JD.com, which is approximately $795 based on current exchange rates. This price includes a generous 64 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage. It is likely that the EVO-T1 will also have options with lower memory configurations available when it launches globally, which could lower the entry price. Unfortunately, GMKtec hasn’t specified when this will occur.

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  • German Engineer Gets 3 Years for Leaking ASML, NXP Tech to Russia

    German Engineer Gets 3 Years for Leaking ASML, NXP Tech to Russia

    Key Takeaways

    1. A German engineer, Aksenov, received a three-year prison sentence for illegally transferring secret semiconductor technology to Russia.
    2. Aksenov copied sensitive design files and documents from ASML and NXP onto external drives, which were found in his home.
    3. The transferred information is believed to have potentially reached the Russian FSB intelligence agency.
    4. ASML and NXP are key targets for espionage due to their valuable intellectual property in electronics.
    5. Aksenov’s claim that he was not spying was rejected by the court, which noted violations of EU sanctions against providing technology to Russia.


    A Rotterdam court has given a three-year prison sentence to German Aksenov, a 43-year-old ex-process engineer who worked at ASML and NXP, for illegally transferring secret semiconductor technology to a contact in Russia.

    Details of the Case

    Investigators discovered that Aksenov had copied design files and production-line documents from his company’s servers onto USB drives and external hard drives, which were later found in his home. He also shared manufacturing information with a Russian associate, and prosecutors suspect that these materials eventually made their way to the FSB intelligence agency.

    Importance of the Companies

    ASML, the only provider of extreme-ultraviolet lithography equipment crucial for modern chip-making, along with NXP, known for co-developing near-field communication technology, are major targets for spying due to the significant value of their intellectual property in both civilian and military electronics. Even though prosecutors asked for a four-year sentence, the court decided on a shorter term after finding no proof that Aksenov received payment for the information.

    Court Proceedings

    During previous hearings, Aksenov acknowledged having company files but insisted he wasn’t spying, claiming they were meant to “keep up with professional knowledge.” The court dismissed this claim, emphasizing that the engineer intentionally took restricted materials without considering compliance with sanctions.

    The ruling points out breaches of European Union sanctions that were put in place in 2014, which forbid offering “technical assistance” or restricted technologies to Russian organizations.

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  • Intel to Cut 2,392 Jobs in Oregon by Mid-July for Cost Savings

    Intel to Cut 2,392 Jobs in Oregon by Mid-July for Cost Savings

    Key Takeaways

    – Intel plans to cut 2,392 jobs in Oregon, significantly higher than the previously announced 500 layoffs, as part of a cost-reduction strategy under CEO Lip-Bu Tan.
    – The job losses will negatively affect Oregon’s economy, where Intel is the largest employer, potentially impacting local businesses and income-tax revenue.
    – Intel is struggling to compete in the semiconductor market, trailing behind TSMC and missing opportunities in key areas like AI training chips.
    – The layoffs will impact all levels within the company, particularly in Intel Foundry, with significant cuts to technicians and process engineers, and the disbanding of the automotive division.
    – Laid-off employees will receive severance pay and healthcare benefits, but Intel’s future operations in Oregon remain uncertain despite ongoing tax incentives.


    Intel has informed Oregon officials that it plans to cut 2,392 jobs in the state by mid-July, a significant increase from the earlier figure of just over 500 layoffs. This decision is part of a larger effort to reduce costs under the new CEO, Lip-Bu Tan, who is reacting to decreased sales and ongoing manufacturing problems.

    Economic Impact on Oregon

    Oregon is home to Intel’s largest facility globally, employing around 20,000 people. The semiconductor industry in the state typically pays an average salary of nearly $180,000 per year. Consequently, such job losses are likely to have a negative effect on local businesses and decrease income-tax revenue. State economist Carl Riccadonna has already cautioned lawmakers about a weakening job market.

    Competitive Struggles

    Intel’s current difficulties can be traced back almost a decade, when delays in its technology allowed TSMC to take the lead. Competitors like AMD, Nvidia, and Apple now depend on TSMC’s advanced technology, while Intel fights to reclaim its position and is mostly missing out on thriving markets like AI training chips. “In terms of training, I fear it may be too late for us,” Tan mentioned to employees, noting that Nvidia’s hold is “too strong.”

    Specific Job Reductions

    The workforce cuts affect every level within the company, but they are particularly severe in Intel Foundry, which focuses on manufacturing and research and development. About one in five positions in this area will be eliminated. Many of the layoffs will impact technicians and process engineers, though around eight percent of those let go hold management roles. In addition to manufacturing cuts, Intel has disbanded its automotive division and shifted most marketing responsibilities to Accenture.

    Laid-off employees will receive 13 weeks of their base salary plus an additional 1.5 weeks for each year they have worked, along with a year’s worth of healthcare benefits. Even though Intel still benefits from over $300 million in annual tax incentives from Oregon, its reduced revenues and changing priorities make the future scale of its operations in the Pacific Northwest uncertain.

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  • Baseus 12-in-1 Dock: Compact, Triple 4K Support, Fast Data Transfer

    Baseus 12-in-1 Dock: Compact, Triple 4K Support, Fast Data Transfer

    Key Takeaways

    1. Compact and Stylish Design: The Nomos NU1 Air has a sleek, upright design that saves desk space and provides easy access to ports, priced at $79.99.

    2. Extensive Connectivity Options: It features twelve ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet, allowing connection to various devices with high data transfer speeds.

    3. Enhanced Display Capabilities: The docking station supports dual 4K UHD displays, beneficial for multitasking, with limitations for macOS users who can only mirror screens.

    4. User-Friendly Features: It offers 100W USB-C power delivery for fast laptop charging and has a physical button for screen locking and power-saving mode activation.

    5. Safety and Reliability: The device includes six layers of protection against overheating, overcurrent, and unstable voltage to ensure reliable performance.


    Baseus has unveiled its latest product, the Nomos NU1 Air, a multifunctional 12-in-1 docking station crafted to enhance the organization of your workspace while providing extensive connectivity options.

    Compact and Stylish Design

    This docking station showcases a sleek and upright design, standing at 115.5mm high, which helps it to take up very little space on your desk while ensuring all ports are easy to access. It’s priced at $79.99 and can be found on the Baseus website.

    Extensive Connectivity Options

    The Nomos NU1 Air is equipped with a total of twelve ports, allowing connection to a diverse array of devices. On the front side, you will find an SD card slot, a TF card slot, one USB-A 3.0 port that can handle speeds of 5Gbps, and a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port that offers 10Gbps transfer rates.

    On the back, there’s an additional USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, two HDMI ports, a USB-C female port for power delivery, two USB-A 2.0 ports, and a gigabit RJ45 Ethernet port. The USB-C ports are capable of 10Gbps data transfer, which Baseus claims can transfer a 1GB file in mere seconds.

    Enhanced Display Capabilities

    One of the standout features of the Nomos NU1 Air is its ability to support dual 4K UHD displays, making use of the two HDMI ports and USB-C video passthrough. This setup is particularly beneficial for users engaged in multitasking-heavy activities, like content creation or trading, as it allows for multiple external screens.

    For Windows users, this enables a true extended desktop experience across two additional monitors. However, on macOS, the two external displays will only mirror each other due to limitations in the operating system.

    User-Friendly Features

    The dock also comes with useful power and control features. It supports a robust 100W USB-C power delivery for rapid laptop charging.

    A physical button located on the top of the device adds an extra layer of usability; a quick press locks the computer’s screen, while pressing it for two seconds activates a power-saving mode.

    This mode enhances security and energy efficiency, especially for users who often step away from their desks. To ensure reliable performance, the docking station is designed with six layers of protection against overheating, overcurrent, and unstable voltage.

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  • Der8auer Fixes Melted RTX 4090 Connector, Questions Nvidia Safety

    Der8auer Fixes Melted RTX 4090 Connector, Questions Nvidia Safety

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Asus RTX 4090 TUF faced shutdown issues and GPU detection problems after the installation of a WireView Pro power monitoring device, which partially melted into the power socket.

    2. Unusual resistance measurements across the 12VHPWR pins were found, indicating poor contact and potential current imbalance, raising doubts about Nvidia’s safety claims regarding their adapters.

    3. Der8auer successfully repaired the damaged graphics card by replacing the melted power socket and updating thermal pads, restoring its functionality without overheating.

    4. The incident highlights the unpredictability and fragility of Nvidia’s high-power 12VHPWR ecosystem, despite built-in design protections.

    5. Current connector standards remain unreliable, suggesting that future “next-gen” connectors may still be prone to failures in real-world usage.


    In a fresh teardown and repair video, hardware expert der8auer takes a look at a malfunctioning Asus RTX 4090 TUF. The owner, Aaron, faced unexpected shutdowns and issues with GPU detection. The graphics card had been working well for over a year, but problems arose a few weeks after installing a WireView Pro power monitoring device. When inspecting the system, it showed no power draw on boot, even though there was 12V voltage present. Attempts to remove the device showed that the WireView had partially melted into the power socket of the graphics card. A closer look revealed deformation, plastic cracks, and bent sense pins.

    Unusual Resistance Measurements

    Using a precise milliohm meter, der8auer checked the resistances across the 12VHPWR pins and found them to be unusually high—up to 177 milliohms—compared to just over 1 milliohm on a reference RTX 5090. Although these values might be skewed due to thermal damage, the difference suggests poor contact and potential current imbalance. This raises questions about Nvidia’s earlier statements claiming that their official adapters are safe due to built-in pin bridging. Der8auer emphasizes that bridging on the connector body does not prevent uneven current flow at individual pins, where thermal damage can still occur.

    Successful Repairs

    Even with the significant damage to the connector, the graphics card itself was still electrically operational. Der8auer removed the melted power socket, cleaned the PCB, and put in a new 12VHPWR connector. He also swapped out the thermal pads on the memory and VRMs with Minus Pad Advance and added a new thermal interface for the GPU core. After putting everything back together, the card powered on without any issues and ran an hour-long 3DMark Speedway loop at normal temperatures: 63°C for the core, 76°C for memory, and a stable power draw measured via WireView.

    In the end, while the card was back to working fully, der8auer wrapped up the video by emphasizing how problematic and unpredictable Nvidia’s high-power 12VHPWR ecosystem remains. Even with official adapters and designs that are supposed to be safe, incidents of melting still happen. A new WireView will be sent to Aaron, and der8auer hinted at more experiments to gain insight into the conditions that lead to such failures.

    Concerns About Connector Standards

    This recent situation underscores the fragility of the current high-power GPU connector standards and contradicts Nvidia’s earlier reassurances. Despite design protections like integrated pin bridging, real-world usage continues to result in failures. The absence of a completely reliable solution indicates that the “next-gen” connector may still not be safe in all circumstances.

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  • Radxa E24C and E54C: Compact Fanless SBCs with 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports

    Radxa E24C and E54C: Compact Fanless SBCs with 4 Gigabit Ethernet Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Radxa has launched two new single-board computers (SBCs): E24C and E54C, featuring ARM-based processors and four gigabit Ethernet ports.
    2. The E24C is priced at $35 and includes a Rockchip RK3528A 4-core ARM CPU, 4 GB of RAM, and an M.2 slot for SSDs up to 4 TB.
    3. The E54C, priced at $55, offers a Rockchip RK3582 6-core ARM CPU, supports up to 32 GB of RAM, and features faster USB 3.0 Type-C and Type-A ports.
    4. Both models cater to DIY enthusiasts looking for versatile uses like home routers, Plex servers, NAS boxes, or smart home hubs.
    5. The SBCs are currently available for purchase, making them accessible for hobbyists and tech fans.


    Radxa has introduced not one, but two new ultra-compact single-board computers (SBCs) featuring ARM-based processors and an impressive four gigabit Ethernet ports. The models, named E24C and E54C, come with solid hardware specifications that will surely appeal to hobbyists and DIY fans alike.

    Pricing and Specifications of the E24C

    The Radxa E24C SBC is available for a mere $35. It is powered by a Rockchip RK3528A 4-core ARM CPU, which includes Cortex A53 cores and an integrated Mali G450 GPU. This system is equipped with 4 GB of RAM, onboard eMMC storage, and an M.2 2280 slot that can accommodate an SSD of up to 4 TB (WD SN7100 currently priced at $265.31 on Amazon) using a PCIe 2.1×1 interface. Additionally, it features a 14-pin GPIO header. The port selection is quite good, which includes the following:

    E54C Features and Connectivity

    On the other hand, the Radxa E54C SBC, priced at $55, offers nearly identical specifications to its less expensive counterpart. The main difference is that the E54C has a quicker USB 3.0 Type-C and a Type-A port instead of the USB 2.0 found in the E24C. Moreover, it provides the advantage of up to 32 GB of RAM and is powered by a more advanced 6-core Rockchip RK3582 SoC, which has two Cortex A76 and four Cortex A55 cores. It also includes an NPU with a peak performance of 5 TOPS.

    Availability of the SBCs

    Both the Radxa E24C and E54C SBCs are currently available for purchase, according to Liliputing. With their attractive pricing, both of these systems seem like great choices for DIY enthusiasts searching for their next home router, Plex server, NAS box, or smart home hub.

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  • Ugreen Launches New NAS with 120TB Storage and Discount

    Ugreen Launches New NAS with 120TB Storage and Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Ugreen has launched the NASync DH4300 Plus model as part of its new network storage range, priced at $429 with a current discount of $86.
    2. The device features an RK3558C processor, 8GB of built-in memory, and runs UGOS Pro on 32GB of eMMC storage, supporting up to four hard drives.
    3. Hard drives are inserted from the top of the NAS, requiring users to remove the lid for installation.
    4. Connectivity includes a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port, HDMI support for 4K output, and USB Type C 3.2 Gen 1; it also supports Docker containers.
    5. The NASync DH4300 Plus dimensions are 6.1 x 6.1 x 8.5 inches, and it offers features for managing photos and videos, including semantic searching and quick NFC connections.


    The company Ugreen has recently made its entry into the network storage sector, having launched its products just last year. Now, it is broadening its range with the NASync DH4300 Plus model, which offers somewhat lesser performance when compared to the DXP6800 Pro model. This device can be found on the official Ugreen online store with a suggested retail price of $429, but currently, there is a discount of $86 available.

    Specifications of the NASync DH4300 Plus

    Ugreen’s newest network storage solution is driven by an RK3558C processor, which is based on ARM architecture. It comes with 8GB of built-in memory and runs the UGOS Pro operating system on 32GB of eMMC storage. Additionally, the NAS can accommodate up to four hard drives in standard 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch sizes. Notably, these drives are inserted from the top rather than the front, meaning users will need to take off the lid of the NASync DH4300 to put in new HDDs.

    Connectivity and Features

    The NASync DH4300 is equipped with a single Ethernet port that offers a bandwidth of 2.5 Gbps, making it suitable for certain high-performance RAID configurations. It also includes HDMI support for 4K output, and Ugreen highlights various features for managing photos and videos, such as text and video recognition, semantic searching, and quick connections via NFC. Furthermore, support for Docker containers is also emphasized, which can enhance the usability of this NAS device. Lastly, the dimensions of the DH4300 are measured at 6.1 x 6.1 x 8.5 inches, and it features USB Type C 3.2 Gen 1 connectivity.

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  • NovaCustom NUC Box: Mini PC with Open-Source BIOS & 96GB RAM

    NovaCustom NUC Box: Mini PC with Open-Source BIOS & 96GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    – NovaCustom’s NUC Box mini PC is designed for open-source tech enthusiasts, focusing on privacy.
    – The mini PC features Intel’s Meteor Lake technology and powerful processors, including the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H.
    – It has a compact design (117.5 x 110 x 49 mm) but lacks space for dedicated graphics cards, relying on integrated GPUs.
    – Users can easily upgrade memory and storage with multiple options, and it includes a coreboot-based Dasharo open-source BIOS.
    – The starting price is $970 (€830), with reasonable upgrade costs and support for advanced wireless connectivity options.


    Hardware buying has long been a challenging task for many who love open-source tech. NovaCustom seems to have recognized this struggle, providing a range of hardware focused on privacy. Their newest offering, the NUC Box mini PC, features Intel’s Meteor Lake technology along with open-source firmware.

    Compact Design with Powerful Performance

    The NovaCustom NUC Box is a remarkably small mini PC, measuring only 117.5 x 110 x 49 mm. It is powered by Intel’s Meteor Lake CPUs, including the impressive Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, a 16-core processor, and can be equipped with as much as 96 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM. However, this small form factor comes with a significant drawback—there’s no space for dedicated graphics cards, meaning users have to make do with the 7- or 8-core integrated Arc GPUs.

    Upgradeable Storage and Memory

    Both memory and storage can easily be upgraded, thanks to the inclusion of dual SODIMM slots and M.2 2280, M.2 2242, and 2.5-inch storage options. Notably, the mini PC’s standout feature is its coreboot-based Dasharo open-source BIOS, which emphasizes a privacy-centric approach. The selection of ports is also quite generous:

    For wireless connectivity, the device supports WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, with options for WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 as an additional paid upgrade. The pricing for this mini PC has been disclosed, starting at $970 (€830) for the model with the Core Ultra 5 125H CPU, along with 8 GB of single-channel memory and a 250 GB SSD. Fortunately, the upgrade prices are quite reasonable.

    Conclusion

    NovaCustom has made strides in addressing the hardware needs of open-source fans, and their latest mini PC reflects that effort. With its compact design, privacy-focused features, and upgradeable options, the NUC Box stands out as an appealing choice in the market.

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  • Huawei MateBook E 2025 Launch: Limitless 2-in-1 HarmonyOS PC

    Huawei MateBook E 2025 Launch: Limitless 2-in-1 HarmonyOS PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei is planning to launch a new MateBook E to compete with the Microsoft Surface Pro convertible PC in 2025.
    2. The MateBook E will feature HarmonyOS 5, allowing seamless connectivity with other Huawei devices and smooth app transitions.
    3. It may be the first 2-in-1 device to use the Kirin X70 or X90 processor, enhancing its performance.
    4. The MateBook E series has not been updated since 2023, as it has been overshadowed by the MatePad series.
    5. The Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) starts at $832.99, indicating a competitive pricing landscape for the upcoming MateBook E.


    Having launched a new competitor to the ThinkPad X1 Fold in 2025, Huawei is now said to be considering expanding its MateBook lineup with a contender for the latest Microsoft Surface Pro convertible PC.

    MateBook E Features

    The upcoming “MateBook E” could connect with a user’s new MateBook Pro or Pura 80 Ultra more seamlessly than ever by switching from Windows to HarmonyOS 5. This new operating system is said to allow mobile, smartphone, or PC applications to interchange easily, enabling a smooth transition between devices.

    Speculations on Design and Performance

    This prospective “2-in-1” device might be the first of its type to utilize either the Kirin X70 or possibly the X90 processor found in the MateBook Fold.

    However, it’s worth noting that Huawei has not refreshed its MateBook E series since 2023, as it appears to have been overshadowed by the keyboard-equipped MatePad series in recent years. The latest iteration of these tablets boasts a PaperMatte display for its 11.5-inch screen.

    Pricing of Competing Devices

    The Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) is currently available starting at $832.99 on Amazon, offering a direct comparison to the upcoming MateBook E, which could shake up the market once it releases.

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