Category: Computers

  • Dynabook Launches Portégé and Tecra Laptops with Intel AI CPUs

    Dynabook Launches Portégé and Tecra Laptops with Intel AI CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dynabook has launched the Portégé X40-M, Tecra A40-M, and Tecra A60-M laptops featuring Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and AI NPUs for Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11 Pro.
    2. Users can customize the laptops with up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and 2 TB of PCIe NVMe storage, ensuring powerful performance and ample storage.
    3. The laptops include advanced security features like an optional fingerprint scanner, a 5 MP webcam with IR for facial recognition, and a smart-card reader.
    4. Connectivity options consist of various ports including Ethernet, HDMI, USB-C/Thunderbolt 4, and support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
    5. Each device features a 60 Wh battery, a 65-watt USB-C charger, and is designed for video conferencing with stereo speakers, a dual-microphone array, and hotkeys for MS Teams and Zoom.

    Dynabook has introduced the Portégé X40-M (Series 2), Tecra A40-M (Series 2), and Tecra A60-M (Series 2) robust business laptops. These devices are equipped with the newest Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and feature advanced AI NPUs that enable local operation of Microsoft Copilot in Windows 11 Pro.

    Specifications and Security Features

    Users can customize these laptops with up to 64 GB of DDR5 RAM and 2 TB of PCIe NVMe storage. They boast enterprise-level security measures to protect sensitive business information. This includes an optional fingerprint scanner, a 5 MP webcam equipped with an IR camera for facial recognition, and a smart-card reader.

    Connectivity Options

    The Dynabook models offer a range of standard and additional ports. These include one Ethernet port, one HDMI port, two USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, a headphone jack, and a microSD slot. They also support wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

    Battery and Additional Features

    Each device is furnished with a 60 Wh battery and comes with a 65-watt USB-C charger. Additional features include stereo speakers with DTS, a dual-microphone array, and dedicated hotkeys for MS Teams and Zoom, making them ideal for all-day video conferencing.

    The Dynabooks are now available for purchase in EZ Buy configurations, which include 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD, and a 3-year warranty.

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  • Choosing the Right Intel CPU for 2025 Laptops: A Guide

    Choosing the Right Intel CPU for 2025 Laptops: A Guide

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fierce Competition: The Windows laptop market in 2025 sees intense competition among Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm, offering consumers a variety of options but creating confusion.

    2. Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2: Intel’s product lineup for high-end laptop processors, the Core Ultra Series 2, is complicated and not as cohesive as it appears, making it difficult for buyers to navigate.

    3. Product Distinction Issues: Not all Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs are equal, with specific models like Arrow Lake HX being limited to larger laptops, while Arrow Lake U may not offer significant improvements over older models.

    4. Confusing Naming Conventions: Intel’s naming scheme for its 2025 CPUs, such as Arrow Lake U, can mislead consumers, as it suggests minimal differences from previous generations like Meteor Lake.

    5. Real-World Example: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition illustrates the confusion, as newer models with different Intel CPUs (Arrow Lake U and H) can leave buyers uncertain about which processor to choose.

    2025 is shaping up to be an interesting year for laptops. There are a variety of strong options available, and the competition among the three major CPU makers in the Windows laptop market—Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm—is fierce. While this is beneficial for consumers, it can also lead to some confusion due to the sheer number of choices.

    The Intel Dilemma

    Even after picking a CPU brand, the confusion doesn’t always go away. This year, Intel is particularly challenging to navigate. The once-dominant chipmaker has a single product line for high-end laptop processors, known as the Core Ultra Series 2, at least on paper. However, what seems like a cohesive product lineup is actually quite scattered, which can be very perplexing for buyers. The complete Core Ultra range that Intel offers in 2025 includes:

    What complicates matters for shoppers is that these product lines aren’t as distinct as they might appear. Arrow Lake HX stands out as it is only available in larger, heavier laptops, while the other three can all power similar laptops. And they do just that.

    Real-World Example

    Take the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition, which you can find on Amazon. We took this laptop for a spin in December 2024 using Intel’s Lunar Lake, and for quite some time, that was the only option available. However, starting from late April, Lenovo began offering the pricier ThinkPad thin and light models equipped with Intel Arrow Lake U and Intel Arrow Lake H, causing many buyers to wonder: Which CPU should I choose?

    While this situation isn’t ideal, it really becomes a concern when you realize that not all Intel Core Ultra Series 2 CPUs are created equal. The biggest problem lies with the Intel Arrow Lake U, also known as Core Ultra 200U.

    Confusing Naming Conventions

    The name implies there’s little distinction between Arrow Lake U and the others, but in truth, Intel Arrow Lake U is merely an upgrade of last year’s Intel Meteor Lake / Core Ultra 100U, fabricated using the newer Intel 3 process. Consequently, customers who opt for laptops with these CPUs won’t benefit from the advancements Intel has made in efficiency, which are present in Lunar Lake and the more robust Intel Arrow Lake H, featuring the more advanced Lion Cove and Skymont CPU cores made on the modern TSMC 3 nm node.

    Honestly, Intel’s naming scheme for its 2025 CPUs is quite bewildering. It’s not clear why “Arrow Lake U” is even called that when it should actually be labeled as Intel Meteor Lake Refresh. Therefore, customers considering a laptop with Intel Arrow Lake U can also comfortably explore older models from 2024 with Meteor Lake, as the differences between the two CPU families appear to be quite small.

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  • Beelink GTR9 Pro: AMD Mini-PC Rivals Mac Studio and GMKtec EVO-X2

    Beelink GTR9 Pro: AMD Mini-PC Rivals Mac Studio and GMKtec EVO-X2

    Key Takeaways

    1. The number of devices powered by AMD Strix Halo is gradually increasing, moving beyond just major manufacturers like Asus and HP.

    2. Beelink has introduced the GTR9 Pro, a mini-PC that combines features of the Mac Studio and Mac mini.

    3. The GTR9 Pro includes four microphones, a 3.5 mm audio jack, an SD card slot, and a USB Type-C port.

    4. It is expected to outperform the Apple M4 Pro chipset with its Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and support up to 96 GB of VRAM.

    5. The GTR9 Pro is anticipated to be priced at $1,999 and is marked as ‘coming soon.’

    After a bit of a slow begin, the number of new devices powered by AMD Strix Halo is starting to increase gradually. At first, only major manufacturers such as Asus and HP were the ones to announce Strix Halo devices. However, this has recently shifted in the past weeks.

    Beelink Joins the Fray

    Now, Beelink has entered the scene with its GTR9 Pro, which will soon be available alongside the AI Mini. For more information about Beelink’s so-called ‘AI server cluster’, check out our separate article. Regarding the GTR9 Pro, it appears to be a blend between the Mac Studio and Mac mini in size.

    Specifications of the GTR9 Pro

    From the images that Beelink has shared so far, the mini-PC features four microphones on the front, a 3.5 mm audio jack, an SD card slot, and a USB Type-C port. Additionally, the power button for the GTR9 Pro seems to be placed more sensibly than that of the latest Mac mini.

    The GTR9 Pro is expected to be much more powerful than the Mac mini, even with the Apple M4 Pro chipset. In reality, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is the same APU utilized by GMKtec in the EVO-X2 (currently priced at $1,799 on Amazon). Beelink has stated that its mini-PC will support up to 96 GB of VRAM, suggesting that it will come with 128 GB of RAM soldered from the factory. The expected price for the GTR9 Pro is $1,999; however, Beelink has only indicated that the mini-PC is ‘coming soon’ at this time.

    Beelink’s new product shows their commitment to enhancing the mini-PC market.

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    Beelink GTR9 Pro: AMD Mini-PC Rivals Mac Studio and GMKtec EVO-X2

     

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  • Beelink AI Mini: Compact Server with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

    Beelink AI Mini: Compact Server with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Beelink AI Mini features a more powerful processor, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395, compared to Minisforum’s N5 and N5 Pro models with the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
    2. The AI Mini is expected to have impressive gaming capabilities, with its Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU competing with Nvidia’s GeForce RTX 4070.
    3. It includes two USB4 ports that support 40 Gbps transfer speeds and a front USB Type-C port, though it’s unclear if it meets USB4 specifications.
    4. The device has dual 10 Gbps Ethernet ports for connecting multiple units, though detailed functionality is not fully disclosed.
    5. The Beelink AI Mini is set to launch globally later this year, with a starting price of $1,999 and an option for up to 128 GB of RAM.

    The Beelink AI Mini is quite a distinct gadget in many respects. At first glance, it appears to compete with the N5 and N5 Pro models from Minisforum, which were introduced to the market just last month. Nevertheless, the AI Mini comes equipped with a significantly more robust processor than the recent offerings from Minisforum.

    Processor Power

    To summarize, Minisforum has recently announced that their N5 and N5 Pro will be available with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, which Beelink has already incorporated into their mini-PCs like the SER9 Pro (currently priced at $949 on Amazon). In contrast, Beelink has chosen the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 for the AI Mini, which will likely raise the price of the device compared to the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370. Nonetheless, the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 is set to deliver impressive gaming capabilities; in our experiments, its Radeon RX 8060S integrated GPU competes with Nvidia’s laptop GeForce RTX 4070.

    Connectivity Features

    Furthermore, the AI Mini will come with two USB4 ports, each capable of 40 Gbps transfer speeds. A USB Type-C port can also be found on the front side of the device. Sadly, it’s not clear if this front USB port meets the USB4 specifications. The AI Mini also features dual 10 Gbps Ethernet ports, allowing for the connection of several units together. Again, Beelink has yet to provide comprehensive information about this functionality. The Beelink AI Mini is expected to launch globally later this year, starting at a price of $1,999, with an option for up to 128 GB of RAM.

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    Beelink AI Mini: Compact Server with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395

     

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  • OneChipBook-12: Unique Retro Laptop with Mechanical Keyboard

    OneChipBook-12: Unique Retro Laptop with Mechanical Keyboard

    Key Takeaways

    1. The OneChipBook-12 is a retro-styled laptop that uses an FPGA based on the Altera Cyclone EP1C12Q240, making it different from traditional laptops with older Intel processors.
    2. It does not come with a preinstalled operating system, targeting hobbyists and technology enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering.
    3. The laptop features dimensions of approximately 9.8 x 7.5 x 1.5 inches, a screen resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels, and various display output options, including VGA and S-Video.
    4. Specifications include 32MB SDRAM, support for full-size SD cards, USB Type-A ports, a 50-pin connector for cartridges, and built-in speakers without HDMI support.
    5. The OneChipBook-12 is available for $215 on Tindie, excluding shipping and import charges.

    Retro devices are increasingly popular, with a variety of options available, as shown by the many retro gaming consoles listed on Amazon. The OneChipBook-12 is another addition to this retro category, though it’s retro in appearance only. Unlike traditional laptops that may use older Intel processors or outdated Windows versions, this notebook employs an FPGA based on the Altera Cyclone EP1C12Q240.

    Emulation Capabilities

    FPGAs are versatile and can be utilized for emulation, making the OneChipBook-12 an interesting platform for experimental projects. Notably, this laptop does not come with a preinstalled operating system. This suggests that the maker, 8086YES!, is focusing on hobbyists and those who enjoy tinkering with technology.

    Specifications and Features

    The dimensions of the laptop are roughly 9.8 x 7.5 x 1.5 inches, featuring a screen resolution of 1024 x 768 pixels connected through VGA. For additional displays, users can connect via VGA, S-Video, and CVBS, but it does not include HDMI. The device is equipped with 32MB SDRAM and does not come with a hard drive, but it does support full-size SD cards.

    USB Type-A ports are provided, and there is a 50-pin connector for using cartridges. It also includes built-in speakers and audio output options. The keyboard consists of mechanical switches, but it does not have a numeric keypad or a standard touchpad. However, joysticks can be attached through DB9 ports. The laptop’s battery can be charged with a modern USB Type-C connector. This FPGA laptop with a retro design is now available on Tindie for $215, not including shipping and any potential import charges.

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    OneChipBook-12: Unique Retro Laptop with Mechanical KeyboardOneChipBook-12: Unique Retro Laptop with Mechanical Keyboard
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  • Interrupt: New Linux-Based Flipper Zero Rival Now Funded

    Interrupt: New Linux-Based Flipper Zero Rival Now Funded

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Interrupt is a “portable hacking computer” designed for makers and funded through Kickstarter by Interrupt Tech.
    2. It features an open-source system, giving developers full control over hardware and software.
    3. Unlike similar devices, it uses the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W instead of ESP32-based components.
    4. The device is expected to include a touchscreen, keyboard, and gamepad buttons for versatile usage.
    5. The Kickstarter price is $199, making it comparable in cost to the Flipper Zero.

    Sporting a classic handheld design, the Interrupt is a “portable hacking computer” that was recently introduced on Kickstarter. It marks the first product to be funded through crowdfunding by the new company, Interrupt Tech. The creators of Interrupt claim that they aimed it at makers, integrating an open-source system to give developers full control over both the hardware and software. Unlike many similar devices that rely on ESP32-based components, such as the Flipper Zero, the Interrupt opts for the Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W and allows users to choose from various operating systems to work with the built-in hardware.

    Features of the Interrupt

    Users of the Interrupt will find offerings akin to those of the Flipper Zero, but with a few key enhancements. Although the product is still in the last stages of prototyping, it is expected to come equipped with the following:

    The proposed touchscreen, keyboard, and gamepad buttons could allow for considerable versatility in how the device is used. Furthermore, even though it doesn’t yet have a dedicated user community, Interrupt aims to tap into the existing support for the Zero 2 W. However, with a price tag of $199 on Kickstarter, both Interrupt and Flipper Zero are somewhat comparable in their entry costs. For further details and updates regarding the campaign, please check out the official Kickstarter page linked below.

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    Interrupt: New Linux-Based Flipper Zero Rival Now Funded
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  • Microsoft Launches New 13-Inch Surface Laptop with Key Downgrades

    Microsoft Launches New 13-Inch Surface Laptop with Key Downgrades

    Key Takeaways

    1. Microsoft has launched a more affordable 13-inch Surface Laptop variant, but it features significant reductions in specifications.
    2. The laptop boasts a long battery life of 23 hours for video playback, but lacks advanced display features like HDR and has a lower refresh rate of 60 Hz.
    3. It is equipped with an 8-core Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, which is less powerful compared to other Surface Laptop models.
    4. The device has limited memory options, with only 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage, compared to higher specifications in other models.
    5. Priced at $899, the new model is only $100 cheaper than the more advanced 13.8-inch variant, raising questions about its value.

    Alongside the new 12-inch Surface Pro, Microsoft has introduced a more affordable variant of the Surface Laptop. This model has some significant reductions in features, and the price cut isn’t enough to make up for those losses. The only highlight is its impressive claim of 23 hours of video playback on battery, which is slightly better than what the other two Surface Laptop models offer.

    Display and Performance

    The latest Surface Laptop variant sports a 13-inch 16:10 FHD (1,920 x 1,080) display with a maximum brightness of 400 nits. In comparison to its 13.8 and 15-inch counterparts, it refreshes at 60 Hz instead of 120 Hz and completely misses out on HDR capabilities. This, paired with the underwhelming 8-core Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 processor, makes the laptop seem considerably less appealing than its more advanced models.

    Memory and Connectivity

    To add to the disappointment, the 13-inch Surface Laptop is restricted to a mere 16 GB of LPDDR5x RAM and 512 GB of UFS storage, which is a stark contrast to the 64 GB and 1 TB options available in other models. In terms of connections, the Surface Connect port has been removed, replaced by two USB 3.2 Type-C ports and one USB Type-A port. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 for additional connectivity.

    Weighing in at 2.7 lbs, the 13-inch Surface Laptop comes in three different colors: Ocean, Violet, and Platinum. The starting price is $899, which is just $100 less than the 13.8-inch model that offers significantly better specifications. You can pre-order the laptop through retailers like Best Buy, Amazon, and Microsoft’s own website. It will be generally available starting May 20.

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  • Intel Cuts Prices by $100 on Core Ultra 200S Desktop CPUs

    Intel Cuts Prices by $100 on Core Ultra 200S Desktop CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Intel introduced the Core Ultra 200S series of desktop processors, but gaming performance did not meet expectations.
    2. Price reductions were announced for two models: Core Ultra 7 265K now at $299 (down from $399) and Core Ultra 7 265KF at $284 (down from $384).
    3. The Core Ultra 7 265K features 20 cores, speeds up to 5.5 GHz, 36 MB L2 cache, and a maximum turbo power of 250W.
    4. The main difference between the Core Ultra 7 265K and 265KF is that the KF model lacks an integrated GPU, making it cheaper.
    5. The new pricing is part of the Spring Bundle sale, which includes games with eligible CPU purchases.

    Intel introduced the Core Ultra 200S series of desktop processors in October last year, but the response was somewhat underwhelming. The performance, particularly in gaming, did not meet expectations. However, Intel has been working to enhance the performance through BIOS updates and overclocking profiles that won’t void the warranty. Recently, the company has reduced prices on two models in the Core Ultra 200S lineup, making them a more appealing choice for customers.

    Price Reductions Announced

    Intel shared the news through its blog, revealing that the Core Ultra 7 265K, which was originally priced at $399, is now available for $299. In addition, the Core Ultra 7 265KF, previously priced at $384, will now be offered at $284. This marks a significant reduction for both models, although it’s unclear whether Intel plans to add more SKUs to the discounted list in the future.

    Specifications of Core Ultra 7 265K

    The Core Ultra 7 265K features a total of 20 cores, comprising eight Performance cores and 12 Efficient cores. It can reach speeds of up to 5.5 GHz right out of the box and has a base clock speed of 3.3 GHz. Additionally, it includes 36 MB of L2 cache and can handle a maximum turbo power of 250W. This CPU supports various advanced Intel technologies, such as Deep Learning Boost, Turbo Boost Max 3.0, Speed Shift, and more. It also has an integrated GPU with four Xe cores.

    Differences Between Models

    The primary distinction between the Core Ultra 7 265K and the Core Ultra 7 265KF is the integrated GPU; the KF model does not have one, which accounts for its lower price.

    The new pricing also coincides with the Spring Bundle sale, offering games like Dying Light: The Beast and Sid Meier’s Civilization VII included with the purchase of an eligible CPU.

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  • Linglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PC

    Linglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PC

    Key Takeaways

    1. Linglong has launched a new version of its foldable keyboard PC powered by AMD’s latest Strix Halo series.
    2. The new device, named ‘Star Core,’ features the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 16 CPU cores and boost clock speeds of 5.1 GHz.
    3. The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 supports LPDDR5x-8000 RAM and includes a powerful integrated GPU comparable to the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070.
    4. ‘Star Core’ is expected to come with 96 GB of RAM and may not be a foldable keyboard PC due to its size.
    5. The absence of an ATX power connector suggests that ‘Star Core’ could be a mini-PC or an all-in-one system.

    A few months have gone by since the launch of the first foldable keyboard PC, which hit the market last summer. Now, the company behind this Ryzen 7 8840U-powered gadget is back with what seems to be a stronger version. This time, it looks like Linglong is taking advantage of AMD’s latest Strix Halo series.

    New Developments in Technology

    The company has been working on a device named ‘Star Core’ which includes the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. This processor is also found in devices such as the recent Asus ROG Flow Z13 and the GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently priced at $1,799 on Amazon). The Ryzen AI Max+ 395 boasts 16 CPU cores built on AMD’s Zen 5 architecture, achieving boost clock speeds of 5.1 GHz and supporting LPDDR5x-8000 RAM. Additionally, this APU includes a powerful integrated GPU that can compete with dedicated laptop options like the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070.

    What’s Next for Linglong?

    It is still unclear what Linglong intends to release. From the details available, it appears that ‘Star Core’ is equipped with 96 GB of RAM and seems to be too large to qualify as another foldable keyboard PC. The absence of an ATX power connector hints that Star Core might be a mini-PC or perhaps an all-in-one (AIO) system of some kind.

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    Linglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PCLinglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PC
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  • MSI MS-C927 Mini PC: 96GB RAM & Intel Core Ultra CPUs

    MSI MS-C927 Mini PC: 96GB RAM & Intel Core Ultra CPUs

    Key Takeaways

    1. The MSI MS-C927 mini PC is designed for edge computing with a COM port for industrial equipment connectivity.
    2. It can be configured with Intel Core Ultra processors and supports up to 96GB of DDR5 RAM at 5,600MHz.
    3. The device can drive two 4K displays at 60Hz and includes two USB-A 3.2 ports and dual Ethernet ports (2.5G and 1G).
    4. It features multiple M.2 slots for expansion, passive cooling for silent operation, and can handle temperature ranges from 14 to 140 °F.
    5. The mini PC is built to withstand factory vibrations, but an official price and release date have not been announced.

    We have previously discussed mini PCs that are well-suited for edge computing. While most of these gadgets target industrial environments, they can also be appealing to everyday users with specific needs. Unlike many current consumer mini PCs, devices like the latest MS-C927 come equipped with a COM port, allowing connections to particular industrial equipment. This feature enables the MSI MS-C927 to oversee such machines via a network.

    Specifications and Performance

    According to information from the data sheet, this model can be configured with either an Intel Core Ultra 7 165U or an Intel Core Ultra 5 135U processor. It supports two DDR5 RAM slots that can accommodate up to 96GB of memory, operating at speeds reaching 5,600MHz. Additionally, the MSI mini PC is capable of driving two 4K displays at 60Hz through DisplayPort, though it doesn’t include HDMI or USB Type-C ports. On its rear side, you will find two USB-A 3.2 ports for connecting various accessories or peripherals. Network connectivity is offered through two Ethernet ports, with speeds of 2.5 and 1Gbit/s.

    Expansion and Cooling

    Moreover, the full-size M.2-2880 slot uses four PCIe 4.0 lanes, while the two shorter M.2 2242 and 2230 slots provide only a single lane each. These slots can be utilized for installing a WiFi module, and the required antennas are already preinstalled in the MS-C927 mini PC. The device can be powered using either 12 or 24 volts. Notably, it operates passively cooled, ensuring it runs silently, and can function in temperature ranges from 14 to 140 °F. Importantly, this new mini PC is designed to withstand vibrations often found in factory settings. However, MSI has not disclosed an official price or release date at this point.

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