Category: Computers

March 21, 2025
New AMD Threadripper CPUs: 24-Core 9965WX & 32-Core 9975WX
Key Takeaways
1. AMD’s new Threadripper CPUs, the 9975WX and 9965WX, are built on the Zen 5 architecture and use the SP6 socket.
2. The 9975WX features 32 cores, while the 9965WX has 24 cores, both with a thermal design power (TDP) of 350W.
3. A flagship model, the Threadripper 9980X, is expected to feature 96 cores and 192 threads, also with a TDP of 350W.
4. There may be 3D V-cache versions of the upcoming Threadripper CPUs, but details on clock speeds and cache amounts are currently unknown.
5. AMD has not yet confirmed the release date or the number of SKUs for the new Threadripper series, leaving many questions unanswered.
AMD has kept things pretty quiet regarding the new Threadripper CPUs, with little info coming out since November. Recently, some new details about two models have emerged, but they are quite basic, including just their names, core counts, and thermal design power (TDP). The same leaker who previously stated that the Threadripper series will offer CPUs ranging from 16 to 96 cores has now revealed two specific models: the 9975WX and 9965WX.
Details on the CPUs
Known as Shimada Peak, the Threadripper 9000 series CPUs are built on the Zen 5 architecture and use the same SP6 socket. According to a new shipping manifest leak, the two models, the 9975WX and 9965WX, are set to have 32 cores and 24 cores, respectively. Both will share a TDP of 350W, but that’s about all we know for now. There are no details about clock speeds or cache amounts, although earlier leaks hinted that there might be 3D V-cache versions of these upcoming Threadripper CPUs.
The Flagship Processor
The manifest leak from last November indicated a flagship processor with 96 cores and 192 threads, anticipated to be the Threadripper 9980X. This model also had a TDP of 350W, matching its predecessor, the Threadripper 7980X. It appears that the 96-core variant might represent the maximum core count, suggesting that the 9000 series could exclude processors based on Zen 5c.
AMD has yet to provide any specifics about the next Threadripper CPUs, leaving many questions unanswered, including how many SKUs will be released and when they might arrive.
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Tags: amd, Threadripper 9000, Zen 5
March 21, 2025
Sixunited AXB35-02: New Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Mini PC Launches
Key Takeaways
1. GMKtec’s EVO-X2 is now the world’s first mini PC featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, but Sixunited’s AXB35-02 is a new competitor claiming up to 120 W performance.
2. Testing shows that the Radeon 8060S iGPU in the AXB35-02 can deliver solid 1440p gaming performance when powered correctly.
3. The AXB35-02 supports up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM, targeting users who want to run Large Language Models locally, especially in China.
4. It features a dual-fan cooling system and efficient heat pipes to maintain stable performance under heavy loads, along with an integrated power supply.
5. The AXB35-02 has a chassis volume of 4 liters and is expected to launch in May 2025, but its price has not yet been announced.
GMKtec’s EVO-X2 has officially launched as the “world’s first” mini PC featuring the AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, and now a new contender from China has emerged. Introducing the Sixunited AXB35-02, which the company claims can deliver performance of up to 120 W.
Performance Insights
Recent tests by ETA Prime have indicated that the highest-performing APU in the Strix Halo series struggles when limited by power. Therefore, this 120 W TDP mode should enable the Radeon 8060S iGPU in this mini PC to achieve respectable 1440p gaming performance, provided it has the right type and amount of RAM.
Memory Specifications
In terms of memory, Sixunited states that the AXB35-02 can support up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-8000 RAM. This substantial memory capacity isn’t aimed at the typical mini PC user; instead, it appears designed for those looking to operate Large Language Models locally. The local DeepSeek-R1 models are becoming increasingly popular, particularly in China.
Cooling and Design Features
Sixunited has also shared that the AXB35-02 includes a dual-fan cooling system for the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. The heat pipes seem quite efficient, allowing the Zen 5 APU to maintain stable performance even under heavy usage conditions. Additionally, it features an integrated power supply.
The company further disclosed that the AXB35-02 mini PC has a chassis volume of 4 liters. Although this doesn’t make it the tiniest mini PC on the market, the inclusion of a built-in PSU is certainly a significant advantage. However, Sixunited has not yet announced the price; this Ryzen AI Max+ 395 system is anticipated to hit the market in May 2025.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395, GMKtec EVO-X2, Sixunited AXB35-02
March 21, 2025
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Adds Haptic Sensel Touchpad Option
Key Takeaways
1. The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition was initially limited to one CPU and one display option.
2. Customization is now available for the X1 Carbon Gen 13, including an IPS display option for better battery life.
3. The starting price has been reduced from $2,500 to $2,100 with 16 GB of RAM and Ultra 5 CPUs.
4. The haptic Sensel touchpad feature is now included in the US model at no extra cost.
5. Some features, like 5G/LTE and a Low Power non-touch display option, are still not available for the X1 Carbon Gen 13.
The ThinkPad X1 series is highly regarded, with the X1 Carbon being its most recognized model. The X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition, the latest version, was introduced in November last year as part of Intel’s early enablement initiative for the Lunar Lake platform. Unfortunately, it was launched with limited options: just one CPU and one display choice. This is quite rare for ThinkPads, since these business laptops typically offer a wide range of configurations.
Customization Finally Available
Lenovo has now addressed this issue, as the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 (also listed on Amazon) can now be customized through Lenovo’s US website. This means that buyers can order the X1 Carbon with an IPS display option, which will significantly extend battery life compared to the OLED version we reviewed. Additionally, with 16 GB of RAM and Ultra 5 CPUs, the price has been reduced — originally around $2,500, it now starts at $2,100.
Haptic Touchpad Comes to the US
Moreover, this release finally introduces the haptic touchpad feature to the US market. We had previously tested the European model, which always included the impressive haptic Sensel touchpad, but the US variant had been limited to the standard mechanical touchpad until now. As of the writing of this article, the haptic Sensel touchpad is available at no extra cost.
Missing Features Still
However, there are still some options not yet available, such as 5G/LTE. Additionally, while the IPS screen is a touch display, Lenovo usually offers a Low Power non-touch version for the X1 Carbon, which is still not available. Therefore, it appears that some potential customers might have to keep waiting for their preferred configurations.
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Tags: customizable options, Lenovo, ThinkPad X1 Carbon
March 21, 2025
Huawei to Launch High-End Custom PC to Compete with Mac in 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Huawei’s new PC may use its own Kirin processor instead of Intel Core i9-12900H chips.
2. The “X90” chipset could be an ARM-based processor aimed at PCs, competing with Apple’s M3.
3. The device is expected to run on HarmonyOS, enhancing compatibility with Huawei’s other products.
4. The design is anticipated to be “ultra-high-end” and visually appealing.
5. The expected launch date is May 2025, alongside other products like the Pocket 3.
Huawei’s latest PC was equipped with up to Intel Core i9-12900H chips; however, the upcoming version might not follow suit. Reports suggest that the company has crafted its own processor from the Kirin series instead.
New ARM Chipset
The “X90” could be the ARM-based chipset that was previously hinted at, but its exact purpose remains unclear. It is believed to be designed for PCs rather than just smartphones, potentially putting it in competition with the Apple M3.
HarmonyOS Integration
The computer might run on HarmonyOS, the same software found in the company’s mobile devices and wearables. This could enhance compatibility across different devices.
The specific design of the new device is still uncertain, but it’s expected to be “ultra-high-end” and “a little fancy.”
Launch Timeline
It is rumored to launch in May 2025, likely alongside other gadgets like the Pocket 3 but ahead of the Pura 80 series, which includes the next generation of flagship smartphones.
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Tags: HarmonyOS, Huawei, Kirin X90
March 20, 2025
Real-Time Velocity Tracking for Autonomous Satellites
Key Takeaways
1. The “Spacecraft Speedometer” is a new device developed by researchers to measure the speed of satellites around Earth and other planets.
2. It aims to provide real-time velocity measurements to improve satellite position predictions and avoid collisions with other satellites and space debris.
3. Current tracking methods, like ground-based radar and GPS, have limitations, including tracking frequency and susceptibility to solar storms.
4. The Spacecraft Speedometer offers continuous velocity data, even when GPS is unavailable or ground stations cannot track satellites.
5. This innovation is crucial for managing space traffic as mega-constellations grow in low-Earth orbit, supporting the long-term viability of orbital activities.
Researchers at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the U.S. Air Force Academy have come up with a small device called the “Spacecraft Speedometer.” This gadget is meant to measure how quickly satellites move around Earth and possibly other planets too. Currently, it is waiting for a patent, and it employs twin laminated plasma spectrometers to provide important, real-time speed readings of spacecraft.
Importance of the Invention
Carlos Maldonado, who leads the project at the Space Science and Applications group in Los Alamos, mentioned, “The Spacecraft Speedometer has the potential to provide critical on-board and real-time spacecraft velocity measurements.” He added that these measurements are vital for better predicting satellite positions, which is essential for executing maneuvers to avoid collisions with other active satellites and space debris.
Limitations of Current Methods
Currently, satellite speed and position are usually determined using ground-based radar or onboard GPS systems. But these methods have their drawbacks. Ground stations can only track satellites when they are overhead, which might happen every few hours or even days. Moreover, GPS can get disrupted by solar storms, which is precisely when accurate satellite positioning becomes crucial for managing space traffic.
Continuous Data Collection
The Spacecraft Speedometer overcomes these issues by supplying ongoing velocity information, even during periods when GPS is down or ground stations can’t be used. The device operates like a car driving through heavy rain, where the front windshield gets hit by more raindrops than the back. As the spacecraft travels through charged particles (like ions and electrons) in the upper atmosphere, more ions strike the front sensor than the rear sensor, allowing for accurate ram and wake measurements.
As mega-constellations become more popular in low-Earth orbit, this innovative tool represents a significant step towards autonomous management of space traffic, which is necessary for the long-term viability of activities in orbital space.
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Tags: autonomous space traffic management, satellite velocity measurement, Spacecraft Speedometer
March 20, 2025
Windows 11 May Introduce New FAQ Section for PC Hardware
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft is developing a new FAQ section for Windows 11 to address common PC hardware questions.
2. The FAQ will be part of the About page in the System settings menu, featuring questions about Windows version, GPUs, and RAM recommendations.
3. This FAQ section is not visible by default, indicating it is still in the testing phase.
4. Microsoft suggests using a GPU with over 4GB of VRAM for better performance in gaming and video editing.
5. The recommendation for RAM is to have more than 8GB for tasks beyond basic web browsing and emailing.
Microsoft seems to be working on a new FAQ area to address common questions about PC hardware in Windows 11. This information was found in the latest Dev build by user @phantomofearth on Blusky Social (as reported by The Verge). This user maintains a specialized account that focuses on dissecting the newest Windows Insider builds.
FAQ Section Details
The new section will be part of the About page located within the System settings menu. Right now, there are three questions included: one about the latest Windows version, another concerning GPUs, and a third that recommends the optimal amount of RAM for various tasks.
These inquiries are shown under your device’s specifications, which detail the hardware of your system. It is not clear if this list will vary based on hardware setups or if it will remain constant across all devices.
Visibility and Testing Stage
Interestingly, this list is not visible by default, even in the Dev build, indicating that it might still be in the early phases of testing.
In the responses, Microsoft advises using a GPU that has over 4GB of VRAM for enhanced performance in gaming and video editing applications. There is a possibility that this section could also feature notifications regarding upcoming system updates.
RAM Recommendations
Moreover, Microsoft recommends having more than 8GB of RAM for tasks beyond just web browsing, document reading, or emailing. @phantomofearth also pointed out that this feature is currently concealed in Dev builds with version numbers 26120.3576 and 22635.5090.
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Link
Tags: GPU, Microsoft, Windows 11
March 20, 2025
ASUS India Launches Three-Device Bluetooth Mouse with Adjustable DPI
Key Takeaways
1. Lightweight and Ambidextrous Design: The MW105 weighs only 48 grams and features a symmetrical design for comfort for both left and right-handed users.
2. Silent Operation: Designed for quiet environments, it uses low-noise switches to minimize clicking sounds, making it suitable for offices, libraries, and homes.
3. Adjustable DPI Settings: The mouse offers three DPI settings (800, 1200, 1600) that can be easily adjusted for smooth tracking across different activities.
4. Bluetooth Connectivity: It utilizes Bluetooth 5.0 technology, allowing connection to up to three devices simultaneously without the need for additional drivers.
5. Affordable Pricing: The ASUS MW105 is priced at ₹899 and is available for purchase on various platforms, including Amazon.in and ASUS e-shop.
ASUS India has broadened its range of accessories by introducing the MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse. This lightweight mouse weighs 48 grams and features a compact design that is ambidextrous, offering symmetrical contours for comfort whether you’re left or right-handed.
Designed for Quiet Environments
Created with silent operation in mind, the MW105 uses low-noise switches to reduce clicking sounds. ASUS highlights that this mouse is ideal for use in quiet spaces like offices, libraries, classrooms, and homes, where minimizing noise is a key consideration.
Adjustable DPI Settings
The MW105 comes with three adjustable DPI settings—800, 1200, and 1600—that can be easily changed with a button located on the bottom of the device. ASUS claims this feature allows for smooth tracking and responsiveness across various activities, including web browsing, design work, and general multitasking.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, the MW105 offers low-latency performance and can connect to up to three devices at the same time. There’s no need for additional drivers or software, ensuring compatibility with laptops, tablets, and desktops without any complicated setup.
This mouse operates on a single AA battery and is ready to use right from the packaging. It incorporates an optical tracking system and includes three buttons along with a vertical scroll wheel. The device measures 105.9 mm in length, 60.7 mm in width, and 32.0 mm in height. It is available in black and supports Windows 10 or later versions. ASUS backs this product with a three-year warranty.
Pricing & Availability
The ASUS MW105 Bluetooth Silent Mouse is available for ₹899 and can be purchased starting today. Customers can find it on Amazon.in, through offline retailers, on quick commerce platforms, and at the ASUS e-shop.
Tags: ASUS, Bluetooth Mouse, MW105
March 20, 2025
ASUS Vivobook Pro 15: Intel Core Ultra 9, RTX 4050, OLED $1500
Key Takeaways
1. Powerful Hardware: Features Intel Core Ultra 9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU for high performance in gaming and creative tasks.
2. High-Quality Display: 15.6-inch OLED screen with 3K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% DCI-P3 color gamut for vibrant visuals.
3. Advanced Cooling System: IceCool Pro technology with dual fans and multiple heat pipes to manage performance during demanding tasks.
4. User-Friendly Features: Includes ASUS DialPad for easy app adjustments, a Copilot Key for AI tool access, and a high-quality 5MP IR camera for secure login and video calls.
5. Fast Charging and Audio: 75Wh battery charges to 50% in 30 minutes, with Harman Kardon speakers and Dolby Atmos for enhanced sound quality.
ASUS has introduced the Vivobook Pro 15 (N6506CU), a laptop designed for both creators and gamers, featuring a 15.6-inch display. It is currently up for sale with a price tag of $1500, showcasing an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, an NVIDIA RTX 4050 GPU, and a high-refresh OLED screen.
Hardware Specifications
The device is powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285H CPU with an NPU that has 13 TOPS, perfect for offline AI applications, and comes with NVIDIA’s RTX 4050 GPU that has 6GB of VRAM, enabling ray tracing and DLSS 3. Users can take advantage of the MUX switch, which allows them to either enhance GPU performance or extend battery life. The laptop can be equipped with up to 24GB of LPDDR5x RAM and a 2TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, along with Wi-Fi 6E support.
Cooling and Performance Features
ASUS employs IceCool Pro technology that includes dual fans, five heat pipes, and triple vents to manage a combined TDP of 125W. This setup ensures that the laptop can maintain high performance levels during demanding tasks like gaming or 3D rendering.
Display Details
The 15.6-inch OLED panel boasts a 3K resolution (2880 x 1620) with a refresh rate of 120Hz, a 0.2ms response time, and a peak brightness of 500 nits. It covers the full 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and is certified for Dolby Vision, Pantone Validation, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600. Additionally, TÜV Rheinland certification helps to minimize blue-light emissions.
User-Friendly Features
The laptop comes with an ASUS DialPad, a touchpad that incorporates a rotary control for easy adjustments in applications such as Photoshop. It also features a Copilot Key, providing direct access to AI tools in Windows 11. The 5MP IR camera allows for Windows Hello login, background blur, and noise cancellation during calls. Connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C, an SD card reader, and RJ-45 Ethernet.
Audio and Battery Life
The Vivobook Pro 15 is equipped with speakers tuned by Harman Kardon featuring Dolby Atmos, and it has a 75Wh battery that can charge to 50% in just 30 minutes. This laptop weighs 1.8kg and has a thickness of 19.95mm.
Pricing and Where to Buy
The Vivobook Pro 15 is available now at retailers such as B&H, with prices starting at $1,500
Tags: ASUS, gaming laptop, Vivobook Pro 15
March 19, 2025
Redditor’s 100-Hour BIOS Update Ends with Unresponsive System
Key Takeaways
1. A Reddit user experienced a 100-hour BIOS update on his BioStar motherboard, which ended with his computer becoming unresponsive.
2. The update process started slow, with notable progress at 4 hours, 16 hours, and 36 hours, leading to a livestream of the ordeal.
3. The user aimed to update the BIOS for stability fixes, as his current version was from 2018, but faced prolonged update time, possibly due to the new BIOS being stored on the boot SSD.
4. The situation highlighted the unpredictability of technology, as not all updates go smoothly.
5. Despite the failure, the supportive community helped the user acquire a new motherboard through donations.
BIOS updates can sometimes be a bit slow, but nothing compares to what a Reddit user went through when he tried to update the BIOS on his BioStar motherboard. In a series of posts on Reddit, this user detailed an update process that stretched an incredible 100 hours, only to end with his computer becoming unresponsive. Luckily, he managed to acquire a new motherboard thanks to the generosity of supportive viewers.
Update Progress
About a week ago, a Redditor known as GoatWithAGun posted a picture of his BioStar A320MH motherboard while it was updating the BIOS. At that moment, the update had already been going on for four hours. Later, he shared another update after 16 hours, showing the progress bar moving painfully slow. Roughly 24 hours later, there was some movement in the update, but it was clear that this would turn into a multi-day process. After receiving suggestions from curious commenters on Reddit, he decided to livestream the entire update on YouTube when he hit the 36-hour mark.
An Unexpected Outcome
The BIOS update dragged on, and so did the livestream, ultimately concluding around the 100-hour mark. Unfortunately, it did not go as many viewers had hoped, and just two days ago, GoatWithAGun reported on Reddit that his monitor lost connection to the PC, rendering it completely unresponsive.
The user aimed to update the BIOS to gain some stability fixes included in the new version, especially since his current BIOS was from 2018. The new BIOS was stored on the boot SSD, which the user suspects might have contributed to the prolonged update time, but the exact cause remains unclear. Thankfully, this wasn’t his main system; it was just a secondary machine for his dorm room. After livestreaming the entire ordeal, GoatWithAGun also received donations that helped him afford a new motherboard.
Conclusion
In the end, this BIOS update saga serves as a reminder of how unpredictable technology can be. While most updates can be completed within a reasonable time frame, there are instances where things can go terribly wrong. Nonetheless, the support from the community showcases the camaraderie among tech enthusiasts.
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Tags: BIOS update, BioStar, GoatWithAGun
March 19, 2025
Samsung 9100 Pro PCIe 5.0 SSDs Offer 14,800 MB/s Read Speeds
Key Takeaways
1. Samsung’s new PCIe 5.0 M.2 NVMe SSDs can achieve read speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s.
2. Available sizes include 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, with an 8TB version expected later this year.
3. The SSDs come in both heatsink and non-heatsink versions, maintaining the 2280 form factor.
4. All models are backed by a five-year limited warranty and adhere to advanced data encryption standards.
5. Pricing starts at $200 for the 1TB model and goes up to $570 for the 4TB heatsink version.
Samsung has just revealed its super speedy PCIe 5.0 M.2 NVMe SSDs, which can achieve read speeds of up to 14,800 MB/s. You can now order the 9100 Pro and the 9100 Pro with Heatsink directly from Samsung’s website or from a few chosen retailers. These SSDs come in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB sizes. Samsung also announced that they will release 8TB versions in the second half of this year. While these SSDs redefine the capabilities of PCIe 5.0, they do come at a higher price.
Product Specifications
Utilizing the PCIe 5.0 x4 interface, the 9100 Pro series maintains the 2280 form factor and offers both Heatsink and non-heatsink versions. Storage options include 1TB, 2TB, 4TB, and the upcoming 8TB (expected later this year), with comparable read and write speeds across the variants. The 4TB and 8TB options can achieve the maximum advertised sequential read speed of 14,800 MB/s and sequential write speeds of 13,400 MB/s. Meanwhile, the 1TB and 2TB models are slightly slower, reaching 14,700 MB/s for sequential reads, with the 1TB variant having the lowest sequential write speeds at 13,300 MB/s.
Durability and Warranty
All variants are equipped with Samsung’s V NAND TLC (V8) and come with a custom controller. Regarding durability, the 1TB model is rated for 600 TBW (Total Bytes Written), the 2TB version for 1,200, the 4TB for 2,400, and the 8TB for 4,800. Each model is backed by Samsung’s five-year limited warranty, which is typical for most Samsung SSDs. They also adhere to Class 0 (AES 256), TCG/Opal v2.0, and MS eDrive (IEEE1667) data encryption standards to keep your data secure.
Pricing Information
The pricing for the 1TB 9100 Pro SSD is set at $200, while the heatsink version costs $220. For the 2TB model, the price is $300 without the heatsink and $320 with it. The 4TB variant is priced at $550 for the non-heatsink version and $570 for the heatsink version. You can find all of these products available on Samsung’s online store, Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy.
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Tags: NVMe storage, PCIe 5.0 SSD, Samsung 9100 PRO