Category: Computers

January 24, 2025
Corsair EX400U External SSD: MagSafe, USB 4, 4000 MB/s Speed
The recently launched Corsair EX400U is designed to impress with its exceptional speed. When linked to a computer through USB 4 or Thunderbolt 4, this SSD achieves sequential read speeds reaching up to 4,000 MB/s, along with write speeds of as much as 3,600 MB/s.
Performance Comparison
Although the new Corsair SSD may not completely reach the heights of M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSDs like the Samsung 990 Evo Plus, it still offers a significant advantage over many other external USB-C storage options. For instance, the Samsung T9 (starting at $128 on Amazon) caps out at 2,000 MB/s. If necessary, the Corsair EX400U can also connect to older, slower USB-C ports, which leads to a drop in performance.
Design and Features
The enclosure of the SSD is compact, measuring just 2.5 x 2.5 inches and weighing a lightweight 3.2 ounces. It features a stylish gray design with a single USB-C port, the Corsair logo, and a small white LED indicator for status. An interesting aspect of the Corsair EX400U is its ability to magnetically attach to the back of an Apple iPhone using MagSafe, making it handy for capturing ProRes videos and storing large video files directly on the SSD.
Pricing and Availability
The Corsair EX400U USB 4 SSD is offered in storage capacities of 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, priced at $139, $199, and $359 respectively. The external drive is already available on Corsair’s official website, Amazon, and other major retailers. Additionally, the SSD comes with a three-year warranty from the manufacturer.
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Tags: Corsair EX400U, external storage, USB 4 SSD
January 23, 2025
ASUS Chromebook CR Series: WiFi 6, 4G, USI Stylus, Durable Design
ASUS has launched its Chromebook CR series, specifically crafted to meet the everyday needs of K-12 learners, whether they are in classrooms or learning from home. These laptops are designed to be durable, featuring replaceable components and robust characteristics that ensure they can withstand years of student use.
Tough Design for Student Life
The Chromebook CR series is constructed to endure the inevitable bumps, drops, and spills that come with student life. Each device includes a rubber bumper, a keyboard that resists spills, and touchscreens made of Corning Gorilla Glass to guard against scratches and minor accidents. They comply with or surpass MIL-STD-810H military-grade standards, which means they can handle tough conditions. Additionally, a fingerprint-resistant coating helps keep them looking clean over time.
Versatile Models with Solid Performance
These laptops are available in 11.6-inch and 12.2-inch sizes, featuring options for 180° lay-flat or 360°-flippable hinges. The convertible models (CR1104F, CR1204F) can easily switch between laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes, making them ideal for both group projects or individual study times. Equipped with Intel N150 and N250 processors, they’re designed to meet the requirements of students.
The touchscreens, crafted from Corning Gorilla Glass, provide up to WUXGA (1920 x 1200) resolution and support optional USI 2.0 styluses. TÜV Rheinland-certified displays minimize blue light exposure, aiding in protecting students’ eyes during extended study periods. Connectivity features include WiFi 6, WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and optional 4G LTE for dependable internet access. With a maximum of 16 GB of memory and 128 GB of storage, students can manage their coursework seamlessly.
Enhanced Communication and Connectivity
The laptops come with front-facing cameras in either 720p HD or 1080p FHD, and some models also have a 13MP world-facing camera for taking photos or videos when in tablet mode. Built-in speakers and microphones facilitate clear communication during online classes and group discussions.
The Chromebook CR series is equipped with two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports for data transfer, video output, and charging, in addition to two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, HDMI 1.4b, an audio jack, and a Kensington Lock slot. An optional stylus is available, perfect for note-taking or sketching.
Health and Maintenance Features
Certain models include the ASUS Antimicrobial Guard, which applies a silver-ion layer to the keyboard and other frequently touched surfaces to reduce microbial growth. The TÜV Rheinland-certified displays also lessen eye strain by lowering blue light emissions.
With a modular design, repairs and part replacements can be done easily, minimizing downtime. Captive screws help ensure that small components are not misplaced during servicing. Chrome Education Upgrade provides automatic updates, secure operation, and straightforward setup for school IT teams.
Pricing & Availability Information
Although pricing and availability details are not yet released, further information is anticipated soon. Given the specifications, it’s likely that the Asus CR series Chromebooks will come at a reasonable price point.
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Tags: ASUS Chromebook CR Series, educational technology, Rugged Design
January 23, 2025
Google Introduces Face Control and New Tools for ChromeOS
Google’s ChromeOS is likely the most widely used operating system in classrooms, and it’s set to become even more advanced.
New Features at BETT Show
During the BETT Show (British Educational Training and Technology), Google introduced some exciting features that will be part of ChromeOS 132. One of the standout additions is Face Control, enabling users to navigate and interact with ChromeOS using just their facial movements. Originating from Project Gameface, which was launched last summer, this feature allows users to utilize a ChromeOS device’s front-facing camera to move the mouse cursor and click by tilting their heads or making facial expressions. This innovation could greatly assist students and ChromeOS users with motor disabilities, making it easier for them to engage with devices like the Asus Chromebook CX1, currently priced at $236.63 on Amazon.
Enhancements for Accessibility
Additionally, there will be enhancements to ChromeOS’s text-to-speech functionality, featuring more lifelike voices. The voice recognition capabilities are also set to improve, benefiting users who depend on speech-to-text services.
On the educational management front, Chromebooks will gain a new tool designed to help teachers keep their students focused. This tool, named Class Tools, simplifies monitoring and controlling connected Chromebooks for teachers or instructional aides. It also allows teachers to share their screens with student Chromebooks and even show live-translated captions.
NotebookLM and Chromebox OPS
A new language model, NotebookLM, is being introduced to collaborate with Google’s Gemini to create lesson plans and summarize class notes for students. Educators can utilize this tool to provide students access to a class-specific AI language model, aiding them in their studies.
Furthermore, Chromebox OPS will enable users to transform compatible smart boards into fully functional ChromeOS devices, significantly boosting the boards’ capabilities.
IT administrators will also receive new features to provide them “greater control over third-party applications, Google Forms, and digital signatures,” as stated by Google. Additionally, admins will be able to extend a student’s access to their classroom work even after graduation, allowing them to take their digital projects home.
Upcoming Products in 2025
Finally, Google announced that over 20 new Chromebooks will be released in 2025, catering to both the educational sector and the general consumer market.
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Tags: Asus Chromebook CX1, ChromeOS, Class Tools
January 23, 2025
New PCIe HAT for Raspberry Pi 5 with Dual M.2 Slots
Seeed Studio has recently launched an exciting new expansion board tailored for the Raspberry Pi. Specifically, this PCIe 3.0 switch to dual M.2 HAT is designed exclusively for the Raspberry Pi 5 because of its special PCIe connector, which is crucial for high-performance SSDs and other expansion cards.
Features and Compatibility
The board is aptly named, as it comes with two M.2 module slots and supports various sizes including 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280. While the primary purpose of these slots is to enhance SSD storage, they can also be utilized for AI accelerators like the Hailo-8 or Hailo-8L, boosting machine learning functions.
Performance Specs
Equipped with the ASM2806 chip, this Raspberry Pi 5 HAT is capable of supporting PCIe 3.0, achieving sequential read speeds of up to 822 MB/s, and writing speeds reaching 716 MB/s. Though these numbers are quite impressive, the PCIe interface of the single-board computer can become a limiting factor when paired with a modern high-performance SSD, like the Crucial P3. Nonetheless, the expansion board does enable users to boot smoothly from an SSD.
Design and Accessibility
In contrast to many Raspberry Pi accessories, Seeed Studio’s expansion board is not a standard HAT, as it connects to the underside of the Raspberry Pi 5. This unique setup allows the GPIO pins on the top of the SBC to remain accessible. This design also means that users can stack another expansion board on top, utilizing the flexible GPIO interface. However, this arrangement does not work with the official Raspberry Pi case due to the increased height. To remedy this, Seeed Studio has provided 3D printing plans for a custom enclosure.
The new HAT is currently up for grabs at a price of $45 USD. The add-on board is shipped directly from China, so those tinkering with SBCs may need to be a bit patient.
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Tags: PCIe M.2 HAT, Raspberry Pi 5, Seeed Studio
January 23, 2025
NuPhy Kick75 Mechanical Keyboard: $1 Pre-Order, Customization & More
When NuPhy’s Kick75 was introduced last week, details about this new mechanical keyboard were limited. It was known for its eye-catching retro style and the ability to use both low-profile and standard-height mechanical switches. Now, NuPhy has opened the pre-order page for the Kick75, providing us with further insights into what we can expect from this wireless mechanical keyboard.
Pre-Order Details
The pre-order page and the Kick75 microsite don’t provide a lot of specifics, but there’s still useful information available. Firstly, the pre-order cost is just $1, while the final price is still unknown and set to be announced on February 18, 2025.
Design Features
NuPhy appears to be applying lessons from their previous models, the NuPhy Air60 HE (currently priced at $139.99 on Amazon) and Air75 HE keyboards, to the new Kick75. According to the Kick75 microsite, the low-profile version will feature switches with a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is comparable to some full-height switches, along with a full-POM construction. In theory, this full-POM build should allow the switches to feel smoother over time, though POM isn’t universally praised as a switch material.
Community Involvement
NuPhy has also announced that 3D models for the Kick75 will be available, enabling users to 3D print their own accessories. While this isn’t entirely new in the realm of custom mechanical keyboards, it’s somewhat rare for larger manufacturers. This approach could lead to plenty of community-driven enhancements and additions.
In addition, the Kick75 seems to take inspiration from the Nos75. Rather than employing distinct switch sockets to support both low-profile and standard keycaps, the Kick75 switches will have a unified pin layout. This is beneficial for customization regarding full-height options, but it does limit the selection of low-profile switches that can be used with the Kick75.
Future Plans
For now, it remains uncertain how NuPhy intends to market the Kick75. They are asking customers to indicate their preferred variant in a survey after paying the $1 pre-order fee. This suggests that NuPhy is primarily aiming to sell the Kick75 as a pre-configured kit, with optional switches, top cases, and plates available for separate purchase.
NuPhy is on a mission to make keyboards accessible to everyone, similar to how Odyssey has made gaming more inclusive.
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Tags: Kick75, mechanical keyboard, NuPhy
January 23, 2025
Asus Launches 4G Chromebooks with 360-Degree Hinge and Durability
There is no doubt that a significant number of laptop users, particularly students, have very basic performance needs from their devices. For these individuals, Chromebooks, despite their limitations, can be a practical option. Asus seems to recognize this market and has introduced the CR series of budget-friendly Chromebooks, which emphasize strong build quality.
Display Options and Features
The laptops come in two sizes: 11.6 inches and 12.2 inches, both featuring a 16:10 aspect ratio and touch support. There will also be convertible variants, and others will include 180-degree hinges that enable lay-flat use. As expected from a Chromebook, high performance is not a key focus, and these models will be powered by a maximum of a 6-watt Intel N250 processor, which has a four-core, four-thread setup and can reach a boost frequency of 3.8 GHz.
Performance and Connectivity
That being said, for everyday light tasks, the Intel N250 should perform adequately. LTE connectivity is available, along with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth capabilities. Users can opt for up to 16 GB of RAM and 128 GB of eMMC storage. While the RAM is sufficient for most needs, the storage options leave much to be desired. The range of ports is fairly good, featuring dual USB-C, dual USB-A, HDMI 1.4b, an audio jack, and a Kensington lock. Asus also mentions that the keyboard is spill-resistant, which is a nice touch.
Pricing and Availability
As of now, there is no information regarding the pricing or release date, but further details should surface soon. Given the specifications, it is reasonable to anticipate that the Asus CR series of Chromebooks will be quite budget-friendly.
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Tags: ASUS, Chromebook, CR series
January 22, 2025
Nvidia Responds to RTX 5090 Power Connector Melting Issues
With the Nvidia RTX 5090 priced at $1999, there’s a growing concern about a potential melted power connector. This issue previously affected the RTX 4090, leading both Nvidia and third-party manufacturers to update their cabling solutions. The revamped 12V-2×6 16-pin cable has helped reduce incidents, but the new flagship GPU demands even more power. A Korean tech site, Quasar Zone, reported that Nvidia attempted to ease worries about this problem at a recent press event.
Initial Concerns and Blame
Soon after the RTX 4090 launched in October 2022, users began to voice complaints about overheating connectors. Nvidia initially pointed the finger at users, suggesting that improper seating of the connector could result in melting. However, this explanation didn’t sit well with many seasoned system builders. Ultimately, Nvidia encouraged the shift to the newer 12V-2×6 cables included with the more recent RTX 4090 cards. This change nearly eradicated instances of damaged GPUs, although older models with the previous connector were still available for sale.
Power Draw and System Stress
The earlier versions of the RTX 4090 came equipped with the 12VHPWR connector, capable of handling a 600-watt power draw. In contrast, the updated 12V-2×6 cables are designed to be more robust, featuring shorter and more efficient pins. The RTX 5090 requires 575 watts, an increase from the 450 watts of the previous generation Nvidia GPU, putting additional strain on power systems. Nevertheless, during the GeForce Update Editor’s Day in 2025, Nvidia expressed confidence that the 12V-2×6 connector would avert future issues.
Manufacturer Innovations
Not every manufacturer of the RTX 5090 is convinced that the standard 12V-2×6 design is sufficient. MSI has opted for yellow-tipped power adapters, which provide a clearer indication of a secure connection. With the new Nvidia GPU set to launch on January 30th, testers are currently pushing its performance limits. Should any issues arise due to the high power demands, it is hoped that potential buyers will be informed before making a purchase.
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Tags: NVIDIA, power connector issues, RTX 5090
January 22, 2025
China Plans Moon-Orbiting Lasers to Power Spacecraft
On January 23, 2004, China launched its program to explore the moon, which would later include orbiters, landers, and spacecraft that return samples, all utilizing the Long March rocket series. They plan to have human crews participating by 2030, as announced in July 2023. A major hurdle in moon exploration is ensuring all equipment can withstand temperature drops to -200 degrees Celsius (-328 degrees Fahrenheit) for 14-day durations, along with navigating deep craters that could hold water-ice and are always in shadow.
Exploring Power Solutions
NASA and the European Space Agency have looked into using lasers to supply energy to spacecraft on planetary surfaces since the 1990s, but they have not progressed beyond theoretical concepts. Now, China aims to thoroughly evaluate the practicality of laser wireless power transmission (LWPT). They plan to create the necessary technology if their research supports it and then begin practical tests.
Key Technologies in Focus
As reported by SpaceNews, “LWPT uses laser beams to transmit power wirelessly from orbiting satellites to surface receivers, converting light into electricity. The researchers recommend the development of key technologies, followed by on-orbit testing.” At this point, it remains uncertain which “key technologies” will be included in this initiative, aside from the evident high-power lasers for space and precision laser emission systems. Meanwhile, China is already working on transmitting power from space and testing a similar setup using the Tiangong space station.
Future Plans for Lunar Exploration
More information is available in a scientific paper authored by teams from various Chinese institutions, including the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and Shandong Aerospace Electronics Technology Research Institute. By the end of this decade, China plans to build a lunar base called the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS). However, before the ILRS is operational, one or both of the two upcoming missions to the lunar south pole may also conduct LWPT tests. These missions are slated for 2026 and 2028. The last mission in the series occurred last year and successfully returned with soil samples from the moon’s far side.
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Tags: International Lunar Research Station, Long March, Lunar Exploration
January 22, 2025
AMD Surpasses Intel in Desktop CPU Market Share, Faces Laptop APU Challenges
The well-known PassMark CPU benchmark database has refreshed its market share charts for the first quarter of 2025. The initial graph on the site, which encompasses all CPUs, shows Intel holding a significant lead with 59.5%. In contrast, AMD is performing quite well with a market share of 38.8%. Apple and Qualcomm also appear, but their shares are quite small, at 1.2% and 0.2% respectively. Nonetheless, the upcoming Snapdragon X series chips may boost Qualcomm’s market presence soon.
Desktop CPU Insights
The second graph provides a more captivating insight into the desktop CPU market. One might expect Intel to be the clear leader, as AMD has only achieved greater market share a couple of times—once in 2021 and earlier in 2006 when the Athlon 64 and Athlon 64 X2 were popular. Surprisingly, AMD now holds 50.1% compared to Intel’s 48.5%. This shift began in the latter half of 2024, largely due to the positive reception of the Granite Ridge Zen 5-based Ryzen 9000 processors. An impressive 880 samples of the Ryzen 9 9950X, which is currently priced at $589.99 on Amazon, have been tested, while Intel’s Core Ultra 9 285K has only seen 319 samples benchmarked.
Laptop Market Trends
However, the laptop market share graph tells a different story for fans of AMD. Although this data is drawn from SKUs assessed on the site, PassMark asserts that over one million CPUs have been evaluated, providing a realistic view of the CPU landscape. Intel remains overwhelmingly dominant in the laptop segment, holding a substantial 73.6% market share, having peaked at 92.2% in Q2 2017. Although AMD made headway in gaining market share with its Zen microarchitecture iterations, its growth has stagnated since late 2020.
In 2020, Apple introduced its silicon with the M1 chip to disrupt the market, achieving an 8.5% share by the end of 2021, mostly at Intel’s expense. In Q1 2024, Apple struggled again, facing off against Intel while AMD remained steady at around 20-22%. Noteworthy Ryzen 4000 laptops with non-PRO Zen 2 Renoir APUs, like the Acer Swift 3 SF314-42 and the Schenker XMG Core 15, have encouraged consumers and OEMs to explore AMD’s mobile chips due to their exceptional performance and efficiency. However, factors such as supply shortages, heightened competition, OEM deals, and Intel’s long-held dominance have left AMD Ryzen laptops somewhat sidelined, despite the strong processors they contain.
PassMark’s updated graphs reveal the shifting landscape of the CPU market, with Intel still leading but AMD making notable inroads, especially in desktop CPUs. The laptop segment, however, still largely favors Intel, highlighting the challenges AMD faces in that arena.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen 9000, Apple M1, Intel
January 22, 2025
Lenovo Launches External SSD Not Suitable for Air Travel
Lenovo has introduced a new external SSD that is shaped like a hand grenade. This unique design is a nod to the recent Chinese military film, Operation Dragon, which is also known as Operation Leviathan or Operation Hadal. Although the SSD has a distinctive appearance, it may not be ideal for those who travel often, as it could attract unwanted attention during airport security screenings.
Product Features
The caption from the image below translates to: “Lenovo Crowdfunding — Lifesaver Tactical Mobile Solid State Drive. Official hardcore aluminum alloy grenade shape. USB 3.2 high-speed protocol. Works with many SSD specifications.” The logos of Lenovo Legion and Operation Hadal can also be seen in the design.
According to Lenovo’s official crowdfunding page, this grenade-shaped SSD has the potential to be a successful project. Currently, the campaign is 69% funded with over three weeks left, and there is much buzz in Chinese tech media about this eye-catching product.
Pricing and Expectations
While complete specifications for the crowdfunding product priced at 599 yuan (about $82) are not yet published, it is believed that the grenade-shaped SSD will have a 1TB capacity and data transfer speeds reaching up to 1,050 MB/s, along with a USB Type-C interface. These expectations are based on the specifications of Lenovo’s current Legion portable SSD lineup.
Lenovo has not provided any information about when the product will be available globally. If you’re seeking a product that’s already on the market, the Samsung T9 is a solid option (2TB currently priced at $169.99 on Amazon).
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Tags: external SSD, Lenovo, Operation Dragon