Category: Computers

  • Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025

    Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3x is a Windows-on-Arm laptop powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors, likely the 8-core Snapdragon X Plus.

    2. It features a 15-inch WQXGA OLED display (2,560 x 1,600) at 60 Hz, with options for up to 24 GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD.

    3. The laptop includes a 60 Wh battery, a 720p webcam with a privacy shutter, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4 for connectivity.

    4. It has multiple ports: two USB 3.2 Type-A, one USB 3.2 Type-C, an SD card reader, one HDMI 1.4, and a 3.5mm audio jack, while weighing 1.6 kg.

    5. The IdeaPad Slim 3x will be available starting in March, with prices beginning at EUR 599.

    An earlier leak has basically spoiled Lenovo’s entire MWC 2025 lineup. Included in this is the IdeaPad Slim 3x, which will add to the company’s expanding collection of Windows-on-Arm laptops powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X processors. While Lenovo hasn’t clearly stated the specific model this one uses, it’s probably the newly introduced 8-core Snapdragon X Plus.

    Display and Performance Features

    The IdeaPad Slim 3x features a 15-inch WQXGA (2,560 x 1,600) OLED display that operates at 60 Hz. You have the option to configure it with up to 24 GB of DDR5-8488 RAM and a 1 TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD. If you need more storage, there’s a second PCIe Gen 4 slot available. Since this laptop uses a Snapdragon X series chip, there’s no chance to install a dedicated GPU, but it does include a 45 TOPS NPU to handle basic AI tasks.

    Battery and Connectivity Options

    Among other specs for the IdeaPad Slim 3x are a 60 Wh battery, a 720p webcam that has a privacy shutter, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4. In terms of ports, you will find two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one USB 3.2 Type-C port, an SD card reader, one HDMI 1.4 port, and a 3.5mm combo audio jack. Weighing in at 1.6 kg, this laptop is quite light. You can expect to purchase the IdeaPad Slim 3x starting in March, with prices beginning at EUR 599.

    Conclusion

    Lenovo’s lineup seems to be shaping up nicely, even though the leaks have taken some of the surprise away. The IdeaPad Slim 3x appears to be a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight and capable laptop with a focus on AI capabilities and modern connectivity options.

    Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025Lenovo Launches IdeaPad Slim 3x with Snapdragon X at MWC 2025
    Tags: , ,
  • Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Kit Debuts at MWC 2025 for Sustainable Charging

    Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Kit Debuts at MWC 2025 for Sustainable Charging

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo introduced the Yoga Solar PC Proof of Concept, capable of charging via sunlight and ambient light.
    2. Just 20 minutes of direct sunlight can power an hour of video playback.
    3. The solar panel boasts a thickness of 15 mm and the laptop weighs around 1.5 kg.
    4. The device achieves 24% solar efficiency using “Back Contact Cell” technology and a Dynamic Solar Tracking system.
    5. The Yoga Solar PC kit includes two solar panels and a USB-C power bank, compatible with any USB-C device.

    Lenovo has unveiled a rather unusual device at MWC 2025. The Yoga Solar PC Proof of Concept is said to be capable of charging your laptop using sunlight and even ambient light. Lenovo asserts that just 20 minutes of direct sunlight can provide enough energy for an hour of video playback. This innovative panel measures only 15 mm in thickness, and the total weight of the laptop is around 1.5 kg.

    Solar Efficiency Innovations

    Typically, the efficiency of commercially available solar cells tops out at around 19-20%. However, Lenovo claims that their Yoga Solar PC Proof of Concept can achieve an impressive 24% efficiency. This is made possible by their “Back Contact Cell” technology, which repositions the mounting brackets and grid lines to the rear of the solar cells, enhancing active absorption. Additionally, it features a Dynamic Solar Tracking system that continuously monitors the current and voltage of the solar panel, automatically adjusting the charger settings to prioritize sending the generated energy to the system.

    Versatile Charging Solution

    Also introduced is the Yoga Solar PC kit, which comprises two solar panels and a USB-C power bank. Unlike the aforementioned laptop that needs specific hardware, this kit is compatible with any device that supports power through USB-C. Regrettably, Lenovo has not provided any information regarding the pricing or availability of either product.

    Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Kit Debuts at MWC 2025 for Sustainable ChargingLenovo Yoga Solar PC Kit Debuts at MWC 2025 for Sustainable ChargingLenovo Yoga Solar PC Kit Debuts at MWC 2025 for Sustainable Charging
    Tags: , ,
  • Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7

    Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 is designed for professionals and creatives, featuring powerful Intel Core Ultra HX-series processors and Nvidia RTX GPUs for demanding tasks.

    2. It includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that enhances AI automation and improves multitasking with a TDP of 180W, peaking at 200W.

    3. The laptop has a 16-inch 3.2K display with X-Rite color accuracy and low blue light certification, along with upgraded connectivity options including Wi-Fi 7.

    4. It features an aluminum chassis with a full-size numpad, diverse port arrangement, and dual-fan cooling system for efficient heat management.

    5. Official pricing and availability for the ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 will be announced after MWC 2025.

    Lenovo has introduced the ThinkBook 16p Gen 6, a powerful laptop designed specifically for professionals and creatives. This new model replaces the ThinkBook 16p Gen 5, which was announced at the beginning of 2024. It comes equipped with Intel Core Ultra HX-series processors and Nvidia RTX GPUs, making it suitable for demanding tasks such as 3D rendering, video editing, and AI-driven projects.

    Advanced AI Features

    The ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 boasts a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) that enhances AI-based automation and streamlines workflows. With a TDP of 180W that can peak at 200W in boost mode, this laptop enables quicker multitasking and rendering capabilities.

    Stunning Display and Connectivity

    The laptop features a 16-inch 3.2K display that is factory-calibrated for X-Rite color accuracy and certified for low blue light emissions. It offers various connectivity options, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, and an SD card reader. The updated version now supports Wi-Fi 7, an upgrade from the Wi-Fi 6E found in last year’s iteration. Additionally, it is fitted with a dual-fan cooling system to efficiently manage heat.

    Design and Port Arrangement

    The ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 sports an aluminum chassis with a hinge-mounted module. Its keyboard features a full-size numpad, while the left side is equipped with an SD card reader, two USB-A ports, and a Kensington lock slot. On the right side, there is a USB-A port, two Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, a headphone jack, and an HDMI port. Large exhaust vents on the rear help with heat dissipation.

    We anticipate Lenovo will provide official pricing and availability details for the ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 in the near future, following MWC 2025.

    Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7Lenovo ThinkBook 16p Gen 6 Launches with Core Ultra HX and Wi-Fi 7
    Tags: , ,
  • AMD Ryzen AI 400 Medusa Point Laptop Chips to Feature RDNA 3 GPU

    AMD Ryzen AI 400 Medusa Point Laptop Chips to Feature RDNA 3 GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD’s Zen 6 series will be branded as Medusa, with Medusa Ridge for desktops and Medusa Point/Halo for portable devices.
    2. Medusa Point laptops will feature an unknown version of RDNA 3 iGPUs, likely RDNA 3.5, but will not upgrade to RDNA 4.
    3. The Video Core Next (VCN) for Medusa Point may also be limited, affecting performance compared to Nvidia and Intel GPUs.
    4. AMD has confirmed that RDNA 4 will be exclusive to desktop discrete GPUs, explaining the choice of RDNA 3.5 for Medusa Point.
    5. Medusa Halo might benefit from newer GPU technology, but there are concerns about reusing the RDNA 3.5 GPU from the previous Strix Halo generation.

    A recent leak suggests that AMD’s Zen 6 series will operate under the Medusa name, featuring Medusa Ridge for desktop processors and Medusa Point/Medusa Halo for portable devices. It would be logical to think that the new Zen 6 CPU cores would come with an updated RDNA integrated GPU (iGPU). However, according to a new leak from Weibo, this may not be true for laptops.

    Medusa Point’s iGPU Limitations

    Laptops under the Medusa Point label will apparently be using an unknown version of the RDNA 3 iGPUs, likely falling into the RDNA 3.5 category. Unfortunately, these devices won’t receive the highly sought-after RDNA 4 upgrade, which introduces hardware-based FSR 4.0 and other features that come with the new architecture. As a result, the Video Core Next (VCN) may also be limited to the older version, which could create issues as it lacks many of the advanced capabilities of its Nvidia and Intel counterparts.

    AMD’s Confirmation on RDNA Exclusivity

    In a prior statement, AMD made it clear that RDNA 4 would be reserved only for desktop discrete GPUs, so the choice to utilize RDNA 3.5 for Medusa Point isn’t particularly shocking. Meanwhile, RDNA 5 (or UDNA, depending on who you ask) is still planned for the desktop Ryzen 11,000 series components. This brings us to the eagerly anticipated Strix Halo successor—Medusa Halo. A newer generation GPU could significantly benefit from its additional memory bandwidth and the rumored 3D V-cache. It would be quite disappointing if AMD decides to reuse the Strix Halo’s RDNA 3.5 GPU for yet another generation.

    Source:
    Link

    AMD Ryzen AI 400 Medusa Point Laptop Chips to Feature RDNA 3 GPU
    Tags: , ,
  • GMKtec EVO-X2: First AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC with Radeon 8060S GPU

    GMKtec EVO-X2: First AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC with Radeon 8060S GPU

    Key Takeaways

    1. GMKtec has launched several mini-PC models, including the new EVO-X2, which is currently only available in China.
    2. The EVO-X2 is expected to outperform the EVO-X1, which features the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370.
    3. The new mini-PC will use the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 from AMD’s Strix Halo architecture, offering 16 CPU cores based on the Zen 5 architecture.
    4. The EVO-X2 will support up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM at 8,000 MT/s and include PCie 4.0 storage.
    5. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 features a Radeon 8060S iGPU with 40 Compute Units (RDNA 3.5), but no pricing or availability details have been provided yet.

    GMKtec has been quite active lately in the mini-PC market. Since December, they’ve launched several models, including the K10, K11, and EVO-X1. Now, they have introduced the EVO-X2, although it’s currently only available in China.

    Performance Insights

    While GMKtec hasn’t shown what the EVO-X2 looks like, they have hinted at its expected performance. It is set to surpass the capabilities of the EVO-X1, which is powered by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 (currently priced at $899 on Amazon).

    Technical Specifications

    The EVO-X2 utilizes the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 from AMD’s Strix Halo architecture, similar to the Asus ROG Flow Z13 (2025), HP ZBook Ultra 14 G1a, and Framework Desktop. This means that GMKtec’s newest mini-PC will feature 16 CPU cores built on AMD’s Zen 5 architecture. Additionally, GMKtec will offer a variant with the Ryzen AI Max+ Pro 395, which primarily enhances support for EEC RAM.

    Memory and Graphics Capabilities

    Both APU options will support up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X RAM operating at 8,000 MT/s and will include PCie 4.0 storage. Furthermore, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 comes with a Radeon 8060S iGPU and is equipped with 40 Compute Units (RDNA 3.5). Unfortunately, GMKtec has yet to disclose any information regarding pricing or when it will be available.

    Source:
    Link

    GMKtec EVO-X2: First AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC with Radeon 8060S GPU
    Tags: , ,
  • Aaeon UP Squared 7100 Edge Mini PC for Professionals

    Aaeon UP Squared 7100 Edge Mini PC for Professionals

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aaeon focuses on producing single-board computers and mini PCs for industrial and professional clients, not everyday users.
    2. The Up Squared 7100 Edge mini PC is available with Intel N100 or N97 processors and offers unique connectivity features for industrial applications.
    3. It includes two RS232/422/485 ports for connecting industrial devices and three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports for additional connectivity.
    4. Connectivity options also feature HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.2, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, and audio output through a 3.5mm jack.
    5. The mini PC comes with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, up to 128GB eMMC storage, and starts at a price of $352.

    Aaeon is a quite active company that produces single-board computers and mini PCs. This company mainly focuses on industrial and professional clients, not really on everyday users. The Up Squared 7100 Edge is a new mini PC that can come with either the Intel N100 or Intel N97 processor, providing unique connectivity features that are especially beneficial in industrial applications.

    Specifications and Features

    To get into details, the mini PC runs on either the Intel N100 or N97 processor. Typically, raw performance isn’t a big deal when these computers are used to manage external devices or machinery. They can connect through two RS232/422/485 ports, which are common interfaces in many industrial devices. For everyday users, it includes three USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and more USB ports can be added through a header.

    Connectivity Options

    You can connect monitors using HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.2, plus there’s a 3.5mm jack for headphones or speakers. There are also two Gigabit Ethernet ports. The Up Squared 7100 Edge comes with 16GB LPDDR5 RAM and can have up to 128GB eMMC storage. For more storage, there are two M.2 slots in both 2230 and 2280 formats. The mini PC is powered through a 12V DC connector. Aaeon has started selling this new system, with prices beginning at $352.

    Conclusion

    In summary, Aaeon is concentrating on delivering solutions for industrial needs with the Up Squared 7100 Edge, which is designed for specialized usage rather than casual computing. The device offers a range of ports and options to meet the requirements of professional users, ensuring that it is equipped for complex tasks.

    Source:
    Aaeon UP Squared 7100 Edge Mini PC for Professionals

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Shuttle XPC Mini PC: Ryzen 7 8845H, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD Specs

    Shuttle XPC Mini PC: Ryzen 7 8845H, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD Specs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Powerful Processor: The XPC nano NA10H7 is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8845H processor with 8 cores and a neural processing unit (NPU) for enhanced AI performance of up to 16 TOPS.

    2. Customization Options: Users can fully customize memory, storage, wireless features, and the operating system, including the option to save over €100 by choosing not to include an OS.

    3. Memory and Storage: The mini PC supports two DDR5 slots with a minimum of 8GB RAM, upgradeable to 64GB, and can be configured with up to 4TB NVMe SSD.

    4. Compact Design: The dimensions of the XPC nano NA10H7 are approximately 5.2 x 5.1 x 2.2 inches, featuring a dual fan cooling system.

    5. Connectivity Features: It includes two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, HDMI 2.0, two USB Type-C ports, five USB 3.2 Gen A Type-A ports, and a headphone jack, with a starting price of around €500 in Europe.

    We’ve talked about Shuttle before, noting the company’s range of compact computers. Now, they’re adding to their mini PC family with the XPC nano NA10H7, which can be purchased directly from the manufacturer’s online store in Europe.

    Powerful Specifications

    Every version of this new device is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 8845H processor, featuring 8 cores and a neural processing unit (NPU) that enhances AI tasks. This particular chipset delivers an AI performance reaching up to 16 TOPS. The XPC nano NA10H7 offers full customization options for memory, storage, wireless features, and the operating system itself. For example, customers can save more than €100 by opting out of an OS.

    Memory and Storage Options

    The mini PC comes with two DDR5 slots that start with a minimum of 8GB RAM, and users can upgrade to 64GB for an extra price. It can also be configured with a generous 4TB NVMe SSD. If you want WiFi 6, it will add another €12 to your bill. Notably, Shuttle provides a barebone version of this computer that excludes both the SSD and WiFi module.

    Design and Connectivity

    The dimensions of this PC are roughly 5.2 x 5.1 x 2.2 inches, and it incorporates a cooling system featuring dual fans. Connectivity options include two 2.5 Gbps Ethernet ports, HDMI 2.0 for video output, and a pair of USB Type-C ports that can also support monitor connections. In total, the Shuttle XPC nano NA10H7 provides five USB 3.2 Gen A Type-A ports, plus a headphone jack is included as well. In Europe, the starting price for this mini PC is around €500.

    Source:
    Link

    Shuttle XPC Mini PC: Ryzen 7 8845H, 64GB RAM, 4TB SSD Specs

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Thunderbolt 5 4TB SSD: Limited Launch Discount Ending Soon

    Thunderbolt 5 4TB SSD: Limited Launch Discount Ending Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Comet SSD is currently available for crowdfunding on Kickstarter, with a funding goal of $3,086 already surpassed.
    2. A pledge of at least $130 secures the 1TB version, with shipping expected to start in May.
    3. The SSD features an aluminum casing for heat dissipation and is IP65 rated for dust and water resistance.
    4. It offers compatibility with Thunderbolt 5 and claims data transfer speeds up to 7,000 MB/s.
    5. The Comet SSD is available in three storage configurations: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, but backers should be aware of the risks associated with crowdfunding.

    The Comet is a brand new external storage option now part of a crowdfunding campaign. Specifically, this SSD is available on Kickstarter for just three more days, and the funding goal of $3,086 has been surpassed by a significant amount.

    Pricing and Availability

    For those interested, a pledge of at least $130 will secure the 1TB base version of this innovative solid-state drive, with shipping expected to begin in May. However, as this is a crowdfunding initiative from a company that is not well-known or established, potential backers should keep in mind the risk of possibly losing their money without receiving anything in return. For those who prefer more reliable options, there are plenty of portable SSDs from reputable brands on Amazon.

    Specifications and Design

    The Comet boasts dimensions of approximately 2.7 x 2 x 0.6 inches and weighs around 2.8oz. The SSD is enclosed in an aluminum casing, which can help with heat dissipation from the TLC NAND. Additionally, the enclosure is designed to be resistant to dust and water, adhering to the IP65 standard.

    This external SSD is compatible with Thunderbolt 5, a cutting-edge connectivity solution that utilizes the familiar USB Type-C port. The manufacturer claims extremely high data transfer speeds of up to 7,000 megabytes per second.

    Performance Considerations

    Interestingly, even some internal SSDs, like the Crucial T700, do not match this level of performance. As a result, it’s likely that the main storage of a PC or an older interface may become a limiting factor when using the Comet TB5 SSD. Nevertheless, this solid-state drive is available in three different configurations, offering storage capacities of 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Redmi Book Pro 16 & 14 2025: 165Hz, Intel CPUs, 30-Hour Battery

    Redmi Book Pro 16 & 14 2025: 165Hz, Intel CPUs, 30-Hour Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Xiaomi launched the REDMI Book Pro 14 and REDMI Book Pro 16 laptops featuring Intel’s second-generation Core Ultra processors and advanced displays.
    2. The REDMI Book Pro 16 offers a 3.1K LCD display with a 165Hz refresh rate, while the Pro 14 has a 2.8K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, both with high brightness and color accuracy.
    3. Performance improvements include a 21.6% increase in single-core and 29.5% boost in multi-core performance for the Pro 16, and 18.5% and 28.2% increases for the Pro 14, respectively.
    4. Both laptops feature AI capabilities with Xiaomi’s AIPC engine and connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, and HDMI 2.1.
    5. Pricing starts at 5699 yuan ($784) for the Pro 14 and 6499 yuan ($895) for the Pro 16, with no current plans for international release.

    Xiaomi has unveiled its 2025 REDMI Book Pro 14 and REDMI Book Pro 16 laptops in China, alongside the Xiaomi 15 Ultra smartphone. These latest laptops boast Intel’s second-generation Core Ultra processors, enhanced displays, and advanced AI features.

    REDMI Book Pro 16

    The REDMI Book Pro 16 comes in a stylish metal chassis, measuring 15.9mm thick and weighing 1.88kg. A notable highlight is its impressive 3.1K LCD display (3072×1920) with a high refresh rate of 165Hz, 500 nits of brightness, and complete DCI-P3 color coverage. This display is also VESA HDR 400 certified, achieving a Delta E value near 0.33 for precise color accuracy.

    In terms of performance, this laptop runs on either an Intel Ultra 5 225H processor (14 cores, 4.9GHz) or an Ultra 7 255H processor (16 cores, 5.1GHz). Compared to last year’s model, the new Pro 16 offers a 21.6% improvement in single-core performance and a 29.5% boost in multi-core performance. It is equipped with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, along with an extra M.2 slot for further storage expansion.

    REDMI Book Pro 14

    The REDMI Book Pro 14 shares the same 15.9mm thickness as the Pro 16 but is lighter at 1.45kg. Its 2.8K display (2880×1800) features 500 nits brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate, and 100% sRGB coverage, also holding the VESA HDR 400 certification and maintaining similar color precision.

    This model offers configurations similar to the Pro 16, with options for Intel Ultra 5 225H or Ultra 7 255H processors and either 16GB or 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM. The Pro 14 delivers an 18.5% increase in single-core performance and a 28.2% enhancement in multi-core performance compared to its predecessor. It likewise comes with a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD and an additional M.2 slot.

    Shared Features and AI Capabilities

    Both laptops operate on Windows 11 (Chinese version) and incorporate Xiaomi’s AIPC engine, achieving AI computing power of 96 TOPS on both devices. This significantly boosts large model performance by over 200% and enhances local image processing tasks by more than 120%.

    Connectivity options include Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI 2.1, two USB-A 3.2 Gen1 ports, and a 3.5mm audio jack. They also feature the Xiaoai voice assistant, HyperConnect for cross-device sharing, 1080P cameras, plus Dolby Vision and Atmos support.

    Pricing and Availability

    The REDMI Book Pro 14 starts at 5699 yuan (approximately $784) for the Ultra 5 model with 16GB of memory, while the Ultra 7 version with 32GB memory is priced at 6999 yuan ($964). As for the REDMI Book Pro 16, it starts at 6499 yuan ($895) for the Ultra 5 model, going up to 7499 yuan ($1032) for the Ultra 7 configuration.

    At this moment, Xiaomi has not announced any plans to release these laptops internationally. Nonetheless, the company is preparing for the global launch of the Xiaomi 15 series smartphones, including the Xiaomi 15 Ultra, set for March 2.

    Redmi Book Pro 16 & 14 2025: 165Hz, Intel CPUs, 30-Hour BatteryRedmi Book Pro 16 & 14 2025: 165Hz, Intel CPUs, 30-Hour BatteryRedmi Book Pro 16 & 14 2025: 165Hz, Intel CPUs, 30-Hour Battery
    Tags: , ,
  • Micron DDR5 Modules Reach 9200MT/s with EUV Lithography

    Micron DDR5 Modules Reach 9200MT/s with EUV Lithography

    Key Takeaways

    1. Micron Technology is the first memory manufacturer to produce DDR5 modules using sixth-generation 10nm-class DRAM with EUV lithography, improving speed and efficiency.
    2. The new 16 GB DDR5 modules can reach speeds up to 9200MT/s, a 15% performance increase, along with over a 20% reduction in power consumption.
    3. Micron’s advancements will benefit various sectors, including data centers, mobile devices, and automotive systems, enhancing performance and energy efficiency.
    4. Major collaborations with AMD and Intel are underway, focusing on validating Micron’s new DDR5 products for improved server and AI performance.
    5. Micron’s 1γ DRAM chips are currently manufactured in Japan, with plans to expand EUV lithography production in Japan and Taiwan.

    Micron Technology has recently achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first memory manufacturer to send out sample versions of DDR5 modules created using its latest sixth-generation 10nm-class DRAM node, referred to as 1γ (1-gamma). This marks the first instance where Micron employs EUV (extreme ultraviolet) lithography in its production process. This advancement leads to notable improvements in speed, energy efficiency, and production yields.

    Enhanced Performance

    With this innovative technique, Micron’s 16 GB DDR5 integrated circuits can hit speeds of up to 9200MT/s. This represents a commendable 15 percent increase in performance compared to the earlier 1β (1-beta) generation, all the while achieving over a 20 percent reduction in power usage. Moreover, the new production method enhances bit density by more than 30 percent, which might help lower costs as the manufacturing process becomes more established.

    Advancing AI Technology

    Scott DeBoer, who serves as Micron’s executive vice president and chief technology & products officer, stated, “Micron’s know-how in creating unique DRAM technologies, together with our strategic application of EUV lithography, has led to a strong lineup of advanced 1γ-based memory products ready to advance the AI ecosystem.”

    Micron aims to utilize the 1γ node for a wide array of future memory solutions, such as:

    – Data center applications: This will provide up to a 15 percent boost in performance while enhancing energy efficiency to manage power use and heat.
    – Mobile devices: LPDDR5X versions will facilitate state-of-the-art AI features directly on smartphones or tablets.
    – Automotive systems: LPDDR5X running at speeds of up to 9600MT/s will enhance capacity, improve product longevity, and offer better performance.

    Collaborations with Major Players

    Both AMD and Intel have commenced validation of Micron’s new DDR5 offerings. Amit Goel, Corporate VP of Server Platform Solutions Engineering at AMD, emphasized how this partnership fits with the company’s initiatives to continuously refine its EPYC processors and consumer-focused hardware. On the other hand, Dr. Dimitrios Ziakas from Intel pointed out the benefits of improved energy efficiency and higher density, which will positively impact server settings and AI-focused PCs.

    Currently, Micron manufactures these 1γ DRAM chips at its plants in Japan, where the organization installed its first EUV lithography system in 2024. As production scales up, Micron intends to deploy more EUV machinery at its facilities in both Japan and Taiwan.

    Source:
    Link

    Micron DDR5 Modules Reach 9200MT/s with EUV Lithography

     

    Tags: , ,