Category: Computers

May 15, 2025
Intel Foundry Targets Breakeven by 2027
Key Takeaways
1. Intel Foundry is losing billions each quarter while working to increase capacity and innovate technologies, aiming for breakeven by 2027.
2. The first product using the new 18A technology, the Panther Lake CPU, will be released in late 2025, with plans to transition other series to this technology.
3. Demand for chips from external clients is currently low, but Intel plans to utilize early 18A wafers for its own products to improve profitability.
4. To achieve breakeven, Intel needs to generate low- to mid-single-digit billions in annual revenue from external wafers, supplemented by advanced packaging and partnerships.
5. Intel plans to produce more premium client silicon internally, including the Nova Lake CPU, to enhance cost discipline and maximize capacity.
Intel Foundry is continuing to lose “billions each quarter” as it works on increasing its capacity and innovating new technologies. During a talk at J.P. Morgan’s Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference, CFO Zinsner mentioned that they aim to reach breakeven by “sometime in 2027,” which is a timeline the company hinted at earlier this year.
Upcoming Products and Technology
The first product based on the new 18A technology, a client CPU known as Panther Lake, is set to be released in late 2025. Additionally, Intel plans to transition the Clearwater Forest Xeon series and some third-party designs to this same technology node. Management sees the 18A as a way to convince clients to embrace its next versions, 18A-P and 14A.
Demand and Strategy
Currently, the demand from outside sources is limited. Many potential clients are still testing chips, and Zinsner admitted that the “committed volume is not significant.” To counterbalance this, Intel is counting on its own products to use up most of the early 18A wafers, thereby enhancing fab utilization and profitability.
To reach their breakeven goal, Intel needs to generate only “low- to mid-single-digit billions” in annual revenue from external wafers. This will be supplemented by advanced packaging, production of mature-node output like Intel 16, and collaborations with partners such as UMC and Tower. The use of High-NA EUV for 14A will increase costs at first, but Intel is confident that the improvements in density and performance will make the initial expenses worthwhile.
Internal Production Plans
Intel also intends to produce more of its premium client silicon internally. The new Nova Lake CPU, which is based on 18A-P, will be added to the internal production alongside Panther Lake. Zinsner believes that having Foundry “compete” for these wafers under the company’s smart-capital model will enhance cost discipline while maximizing capacity, which should improve margins even before large external orders come in.
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Tags: 18A, Intel Foundry, Panther Lake
May 15, 2025
OneXPlayer G1 with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 & 64GB RAM Now Available
Key Takeaways
1. One-Netbook launched the OneXPlayer F1 Pro with a 144 Hz OLED screen and AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, priced at $1,439.95.
2. The OneXPlayer G1 was introduced on crowdfunding in January, following supply chain issues, and is now available with a detachable keyboard.
3. The OneXPlayer G1 does not include the previously offered Intel Core Ultra 7 255H option, focusing instead on AMD processors.
4. Pricing for the OneXPlayer G1 starts at $959 for the Ryzen 7 8840U model, featuring 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage.
5. Higher configurations with Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and 64 GB of RAM are priced at a minimum of $1,319 and $1,519, respectively.
One-Netbook has been quite active in the past few months, launching the OneXPlayer F1 Pro featuring a 144 Hz OLED screen and an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU late last year (current price $1,439.95 on Amazon). After updating the OneXPlayer X1 with the same APU, the company shifted its focus to new designs with the introduction of the OneXPlayer G1 and the OneXSugar Sugar 1 in partnership with Sugar Cubes.
Launch and Supply Chain Challenges
Although the OneXSugar Sugar 1 has not yet debuted on Indiegogo, the OneXPlayer G1 made its way to One-Netbook’s chosen crowdfunding site in January. After facing some ‘unexpected supply chain issues,’ the company has now released the G1 detachable keyboard and is ready to offer the complete device through its OneXPlayer store.
Hardware Options and Pricing
Interestingly, One-Netbook has chosen not to provide the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H version that was previously available on Indiegogo. Instead, the OneXPlayer G1 can now be purchased directly, offering a selection between AMD’s Ryzen 7 8840U and the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APUs. No matter which APU you opt for, the OneXPlayer G1 comes with some impressive hardware details:
At present, the OneXPlayer G1 is priced starting at $959 for the Ryzen 7 8840U, featuring 32 GB of RAM and 1 TB of storage, down from a regular price of $1,099. On the other hand, the options including the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and 64 GB of RAM are listed at a minimum of $1,319 and $1,519 respectively. For further information, check the product details on the OneXPlayer Store.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen 7 8840U, One-Netbook, OneXPlayer G1
May 14, 2025
SanDisk Unveils Ultra-Fast Gen5 Gaming SSD WD_Black SN8100
Key Takeaways
1. The WD_Black SN8100 NVMe SSD features PCIe Gen 5.0 for high performance, targeting gamers and content creators.
2. It offers impressive read speeds up to 14,900 MB/s and write speeds of 14,000 MB/s, significantly faster than previous PCIe Gen 4.0 SSDs.
3. The SSD achieves over 2,300,000 IOPS for random performance, enhancing quick access to small data chunks.
4. It boasts a durability rating of up to 2,400 TBW for the 4 TB model, suitable for demanding applications.
5. The WD_Black SN8100 will be available in 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB sizes, with an anticipated 8 TB version coming by late 2025, and includes a five-year warranty.
SanDisk has launched a new premium SSD under the WD_Black label. The WD_Black SN8100 NVMe SSD employs the PCIe Gen 5.0 connection and is specifically designed for high-performance PC users, which includes serious gamers, content creators, and professionals who need superior storage capabilities.
Performance Specs
This SSD comes in the M.2 2280 size and boasts impressive read speeds of up to 14,900 MB/s and write speeds reaching 14,000 MB/s, as claimed by SanDisk. These speeds position it among the quickest models on the market, offering a notable edge over SSDs based on PCIe 4.0. Notably, the read speed is reported to have more than doubled when compared to the earlier SanDisk PCIe Gen 4.0 SSD.
Random Performance
The SN8100 also delivers exceptional random performance metrics, exceeding 2,300,000 IOPS for both the 2 TB and 4 TB versions. This is crucial for quick access to small data chunks. SanDisk incorporates its proprietary BiCS8 TLC 3D CBA NAND technology in this model. Besides its speed, the SSD is claimed to be over 100% more energy-efficient than the previous generation, with an average power draw during use estimated to be below 7 watts.
Longevity and Availability
Regarding durability, the company states a figure of up to 2,400 TBW (terabytes written) for the 4 TB model. This aligns with the typical lifespan for high-end SSDs and should adequately support demanding applications like gaming, video editing, and AI tasks.
When it debuts, the WD Black SN8100 will come in sizes of 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB. By late 2025, a larger 8 TB version is anticipated, which will be available with or without a heatsink, priced about $20 more than the version lacking cooling features. SanDisk backs the WD Black SN8100 with a five-year warranty.
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Tags: NVMe SSD, PCIe Gen 5.0, WD_Black SN8100
May 14, 2025
Alpha-One Mini PC with NPU and 20 TOPS Performance
Key Takeaways
1. Most AI models are cloud-based, which can create legal issues with sensitive data.
2. AMD and Intel are integrating NPUs into their chipsets, while more devices emphasize local AI capabilities.
3. The Pine64 Alpha-One mini PC features a robust NPU with 20 TOPS INT8 performance, based on RISC-V architecture.
4. It builds on the StarPro64 SBC and includes 64GB of eMMC storage and a preloaded 7b Deepseek/Oen LLM.
5. The device operates quietly with passive cooling, uses less than 30 watts, supports 4K monitors, and is priced at $330.
The majority of AI models today operate in the cloud, relying on external computers. While this is easy to use, it can lead to (legal) complications when handling sensitive data for analysis. Even though regular users typically do not run AI models on their own devices, companies such as AMD and Intel are already incorporating NPUs into their existing chipsets. Additionally, some network storage devices and security cameras are beginning to emphasize local AI capabilities.
New Mini PC with RISC-V Architecture
Recently, a new mini PC utilizing the RISC-V architecture and boasting a robust NPU has been introduced. The Pine64 Alpha-One features an NPU with an INT8 performance reaching 20 TOPS. It’s important to mention that other contemporary APUs could be considerably more powerful in this area.
Based on Existing Technology
The Pine64 device is not completely novel, as it builds off the StarPro64 SBC. This board is equipped with an ESWIN EIC7700X SoC which has four SiFive 550 processing cores that can operate at speeds of up to 1.4GHz. In addition, the Alpha-One includes 64GB of eMMC storage, and comes preloaded with 7b Deepseek/Oen LLM in Docker containers. The manufacturer also asserts that it achieves a throughput of about 3.5 tokens per second (for a 7b LLM), which should suffice for many novices eager to run AI models locally.
Power and Connectivity Features
Power is delivered through a DC barrel plug at 12 volts, and USB Type-C PD is not available. This mini PC has a passive cooling system, ensuring that there’s no fan noise, as the SoC’s temperatures are regulated by a heat pipe. The device operates on less than 30 watts and provides various connectivity options like Ethernet, USB 3.0, and USB 2.0. Furthermore, the Pine64 Alpha-One is capable of supporting 4K monitors at resolutions up to 60Hz, and PCIe Gen 3 with four lanes can be utilized for specific expansion modules. The new mini PC is priced at $330, yet no specific release date has been announced yet.
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Tags: NPU, Pine64 Alpha-One, RISC-V
May 14, 2025
AMD Zen 7 3D Core Leaks: Mandatory Cache Chiplets for Gaming Boost
Key Takeaways
1. AMD is expected to enhance gaming capabilities in Zen 6 CPUs by increasing the size of the 3D V-Cache.
2. Zen 7 is rumored to introduce a unified CPU architecture with various core types, including “Classic,” “Dense,” “Efficiency,” and “Low-Power” cores.
3. The new “3D Core” in Zen 7 will feature individual cache chiplets for each core, rather than a shared cache unit.
4. AMD is heavily investing in the latest process node technology for Zen 7, aiming for cutting-edge manufacturing from TSMC or Samsung.
5. Anticipation for more details on Zen 7, particularly regarding the 3D Core, is high, with expectations of improved gaming performance.
We are currently at a stage in the progression of AMD Zen 5 Ryzen 9000 CPUs where there is an uptick in leaks and speculation about future AMD CPU designs. We’ve shared a lot of information about Zen 6 enhancements, such as the expected CPU core counts, clock speeds, and cache capacities. Additionally, leaks have verified that AMD plans to boost the gaming capabilities of Zen 6 CPUs further by enlarging the 3D V-Cache.
AMD’s Future Plans
Thanks to insights from Moore’s Law Is Dead, we might have a clearer picture of AMD’s strategy for CPU architectures post-Zen 6. Zen 7, or whatever name the successor to Zen 6 will carry, is said to introduce a range of new features, including a novel “3D Core”.
According to the information provided by MLID, AMD aims to create a unified CPU architecture with Zen 7, which will then be divided into various product categories. Reportedly, Team Red is working on new core types, including “Classic,” “Dense,” “Efficiency,” and “Low-Power” cores for Zen 7. Moreover, AMD is investing heavily in the latest process node for Zen 7, meaning they will utilize whatever cutting-edge nodes are available from foundries like TSMC or Samsung at that time.
The Exciting New 3D Core
Despite the interesting details shared by MLID, none are as thrilling as the introduction of Zen 7’s new “3D Core.”
MLID hasn’t disclosed too much about the 3D Core, as it seems the leaker is reserving details for a more comprehensive Zen 7 leak in the future. However, what we do know about the 3D Cores for Zen 7 is quite intriguing.
To begin with, while Zen 7’s 3D Core uses the same cache-stacking concept seen in 3D V-Cache, it is fundamentally distinct. From our understanding, each Zen 7 3D Core will feature its own cache chiplet, instead of having a single cache unit shared across the entire CCD.
Presently, AMD’s 3D V-Cache CPUs, like the Ryzen 7 9800X3D, utilize one 64 MB cache chiplet positioned beneath a CCD that houses 8 cores. This means the 64 MB 3D V-Cache is distributed across the CCD. MLID suggests that every 3D Core in a Zen 7 CPU will possess its own cache chiplet, rather than relying on one block for the entire CCD.
Anticipation for More Details
We’ll need to wait for a more detailed leak from MLID regarding Zen 7 to gain additional insights about the 3D core. Until that happens, it’s an exciting prospect if AMD is indeed pursuing this direction with Zen 7, as it could lead to significantly enhanced gaming performance.
It’s already established that 3D V-Cache is extremely beneficial for gaming. Over the last two CPU generations, the top gaming CPUs available have been AMD models featuring 3D V-Cache, such as the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Ryzen 7 7800X3D. Thus, it’s easy to imagine that a Zen 7 CPU equipped with 3D Cores, each having its own cache chiplet, could dominate gaming performance.
As always, rumors like these are prone to inaccuracies or may overlook crucial details. Therefore, it’s wise to approach this information with a healthy skepticism.
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Tags: 3D V-cache, AMD Zen 7, Ryzen 9 9950X3D
May 14, 2025
System76 Serval WS Linux Laptop Now Features RTX 5070 Ti GPU
Key Takeaways
1. System76 offers a variety of Linux-compatible products, including laptops, desktops, mini PCs, servers, and keyboards.
2. The upgraded Serval WS notebook features a 16-inch display with a 240 Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 2560 × 1600.
3. It is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor with 24 cores and can support up to 96 GB of DDR5 RAM.
4. Users can expand storage up to 12 TB with PCIe 5.0 and 4.0, and it includes advanced connectivity options like 2.5 GbE Ethernet, WLAN 7, and Bluetooth 5.4.
5. The Serval WS starts at $2,999 and comes pre-installed with Pop!_OS, with Ubuntu 24.04 LTS as an additional option.
US company System76 offers a wide range of products, including laptops, desktop computers, mini PCs, servers, and keyboards. Their devices are specifically designed to work with Linux, and they come pre-installed with System76’s own Linux distribution, Pop!_OS. The Serval WS notebook is now receiving an upgrade, featuring powerful hardware that targets scientists, gamers, engineers, and developers.
Exciting New Features
One of the most notable upgrades to the Serval WS notebook is its 16-inch display, which boasts a fast refresh rate of 240 Hz and a resolution of 2560 × 1600 in a 16:10 aspect ratio. To take full advantage of this high refresh rate for gaming and other uses, it includes an Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti laptop GPU with 12 GB of DDR7 RAM, which System76 claims can achieve up to 1406 TOPS.
Enhanced Performance
The updated Serval WS is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, featuring a total of 24 cores split between 8 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores. To handle even the toughest computing tasks, this Linux laptop can be configured with as much as 96 GB DDR5 RAM running at 5600 MT/s, although it already comes with 32 GB of RAM as standard.
Connectivity and Storage Options
Moreover, users can add up to 12 TB of storage, utilizing both PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 technology. In terms of connectivity, the Serval WS notebook is equipped with 2.5 GbE Ethernet, WLAN 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, making it very modern. Apart from the built-in Pop!_OS 22.04 LTS, which includes full hard drive encryption, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is also an option for the operating system.
You can find the refreshed Serval WS available for purchase on System76’s online store, starting at a price of $2,999 (not including shipping), featuring a US ANSI keyboard. The expected delivery date is set for the end of May.
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Tags: Pop!_OS, Serval WS, System76
May 14, 2025
ECS Launches Ultraportable Laptops with AI-Powered Intel, AMD, Qualcomm
Key Takeaways
1. ECS is returning to the laptop market, focusing on compact designs and AI-enhanced processors from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm.
2. The new UP42 series includes three 14-inch ultraportables and a 15.3-inch UP52PW model powered by Snapdragon X Plus chips.
3. All models feature a sleek metal design, 16.9 mm thickness, 1.5 kg weight, and display options of 1080p or 2560 x 1600 resolutions.
4. The laptops support up to 64 GB DDR5 RAM, have a single M.2 SSD slot for up to 1 TB storage, and offer various connectivity options including USB4 and HDMI 2.1.
5. Pricing is not yet revealed, but ECS aims to be competitive in the SEA market against brands like Lenovo, Asus, and MSI.
Back in the early 2000s, ECS was as well-known as Asus in the laptop industry, but they decided to concentrate on compact designs and embedded systems. With all major CPU manufacturers now providing AI-enhanced processors that consume less power, ECS is shifting its focus back to laptops. At Computex 2025, ECS is set to broaden its laptop range, showcasing a variety of specifications that will include processors from Intel, AMD, and Qualcomm.
New Models in the Lineup
The fresh AI-infused ultraportables consist of three new 14-inch models from the UP42 series:
Additionally, there’s a 15.3-inch UP52PW model that runs solely on the Snapdragon X Plus chips.
Design and Features
Every new model boasts a sleek metal body with a 16.9 mm (0.66-inch) thickness and weighs just 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs). Two display choices are offered: one with an IPS 1080p panel and another with a 2560 x 1600 resolution, both featuring an 88% narrow bezel.
As of now, only the AMD specifications are available on the official website. ECS has not specified the precise CPU model, indicating only that it can have a maximum of 8 cores and 16 threads using Zen 5 tech. The devices support up to 64 GB of DDR5-5600 RAM and include a single M.2 SSD slot that can hold up to 1 TB of storage. Other typical features include a 2 MP webcam with a dual microphone array, a wireless card up to RTL8852CE Wi-Fi 6E, plus a GbE NIC, Copilot+ compatibility, a fingerprint sensor on the trackpad, and options for either a 55 or 70 Wh battery.
Connectivity Options
The AMD variant provides a USB4 port, a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports, HDMI 2.1 TMDS video output, an audio jack, and a microSD card reader. The Intel version will likely include up to two Thunderbolt 4 ports, while the Snapdragon variant is expected to utilize USB4.
Though pricing details are not yet disclosed, given that ECS is currently more favored in the SEA market, the prices are likely to be competitive with rivals such as Lenovo, Asus, and MSI.
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Tags: AI-powered laptops, ECS, UP42
May 14, 2025
New Microsoft Surface Pro and Laptop Expected Next Year with AMD Processors
Key Takeaways
1. Microsoft launched Intel Lunar Lake editions of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11, along with a new Surface USB4 Dock priced at $199.99.
2. The company introduced more affordable 13-inch Surface Laptop and 12-inch Surface Pro models compared to existing ARM-based versions.
3. A new Surface Laptop Studio with the latest x86 processors is speculated to be released by the end of the year.
4. Microsoft is reportedly collaborating with AMD on new chipsets based on ‘Sound Wave’ architecture for future Surface devices.
5. The Sound Wave APUs are expected to feature eight ARM-derived CPU cores and an integrated GPU, designed for Microsoft’s 2026 Surface lineup, potentially including Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12.
Microsoft has launched four new models of the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro this year. To summarize, the company started 2025 by unveiling the Intel Lunar Lake editions of the Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11, along with the Surface USB4 Dock, which is currently priced at $199.99 on Amazon.
Recent Announcements
Last week, Microsoft introduced the 13-inch Surface Laptop and the 12-inch Surface Pro as more affordable options compared to their current ARM-based versions. There are indications that Microsoft is still active in its Surface line. Speculation suggests that a new Surface Laptop Studio, featuring the latest x86 processors, could be released before the year wraps up.
Future Developments
Looking ahead, rumors hint at something even more significant for next year. Reports indicate that Microsoft is collaborating with AMD for chipsets intended for a variety of upcoming Surface devices. These chipsets are reportedly based on AMD’s ‘Sound Wave’ architecture, a topic discussed by Moore’s Law is Dead back in March.
The AMD Sound Wave APUs are rumored to include eight CPU cores derived from ARM, divided into two performance clusters and four efficiency clusters. They also come with an integrated GPU featuring four Compute Units (CUs) based on the ‘RDNA 3.5+’ architecture. According to Moore’s Law is Dead, the Sound Wave APUs will utilize TSMC’s 3 nm nodes to ensure optimal power efficiency within a range of 5-10 W.
Expected Releases
While information is still limited, KeplerL2 suggests that AMD has specifically tailored the Sound Wave APUs for Microsoft’s ‘2026 Surface lineup’. Therefore, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 were launched in the spring to take the place of Microsoft’s existing consumer-oriented models.
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Tags: AMD Sound Wave, Surface Laptop, Surface Pro
May 13, 2025
Acer Swift 16 AI Review: Stunning OLED and Great Value
Key Takeaways
1. The Acer Swift 16 AI features a standout 16-inch OLED screen with deep blacks, bright colors, and crisp resolution, ideal for creative tasks and video watching.
2. The laptop is powered by the Core Ultra 9 288V processor, but various configurations are available, ranging from Core Ultra 5 226V to Core Ultra 9 288V, priced between €1,200 and €1,700.
3. Higher-priced models are not always the best choice; the Core Ultra 7 258V delivers comparable performance to the Core Ultra 9 at a lower cost.
4. Budget-conscious shoppers can find value by opting for models without features like a touchscreen and considering configurations around €1,350.
5. Expanding internal storage with a second NVMe SSD is a cost-effective option, as SSDs can be purchased for around $60 on Amazon.
The Acer Swift 16 AI stands out mainly due to its impressive 16-inch OLED screen. This display truly grabs attention with its deep blacks, bright colors, and crisp resolution, making it excellent for both creative tasks and watching videos. A key question arises: is it necessary to always go for the most expensive version, or is there a smarter, more affordable option available?
Performance Insights
The model we examined is powered by the robust Core Ultra 9 288V, which excels in tasks that require heavy artificial intelligence processing. However, when we take a detailed look at the European market, we see there are many different configurations. As of May 2025, the Swift 16 AI OLED laptop is priced between €1,200 and €1,700 and includes processors from the Core Ultra 5 226V to the Core Ultra 9 288V. The good news is that there are options for those who are mindful of their budgets.
Smart Choices for Shoppers
Interestingly, the highest-end model isn’t always the best option. The lower-priced variants are part of the least expensive laptops equipped with Lunar Lake technology. Our recent tests have shown that the Core Ultra 9 doesn’t significantly outperform the Core Ultra 7 258V. We’ve already pointed this out in our first take on Intel’s Lunar Lake processors.
For shoppers focused on saving money, it’s easier to find a model that fits their needs. For instance, if someone doesn’t require a touchscreen and chooses the Core Ultra 7 258V, they can buy the 16-inch Acer laptop for approximately €1,350. This is much cheaper than the premium versions and offers great value, in our view. Additionally, getting a second NVMe SSD to boost the internal storage could also be a wise financial move. The flagship model we looked at features 2 SSDs, totaling 2TB of space. Depending on the speed needed, SSDs can be purchased for around $60 on Amazon.
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Tags: Acer Swift 16, Core Ultra 9, OLED display
May 13, 2025
Prionman 5-Max Turns Raspberry Pi 5 into Dual NVMe Tower PC
Key Takeaways
1. Dual M.2 NVMe SSD Support: The Pironman 5-Max can support dual NVMe SSDs with RAID 0/1, enabling a high-speed NAS setup.
2. Enhanced Cooling System: It includes a strong tower cooler with one PWM fan and two RGB fans, optimized for better airflow and low noise levels.
3. Built-in OLED Display: The case features a 0.96-inch OLED screen for real-time system information, with an auto-sleep function and customizable options.
4. Improved Connectivity: Maintains the same port setup as the Raspberry Pi 5, with additional features like an external GPIO extender and RTC battery support.
5. Pre-order Availability: The Pironman 5-Max is available for pre-order at $71.24, with options to customize packages with various components.
The Pironman 5 was released last year as a compact tower-like case for the Raspberry Pi 5. It made the single-board computer (SBC) much more versatile by including an NVMe PiP expansion board, a cooling system with a PWM fan, and a tiny OLED display. Now, SunFounder has unveiled the enhanced version of this case, called the Pironman 5-Max.
Enhanced Features
One of the significant upgrades is the capability to support dual M.2 NVMe SSDs with RAID 0/1, featuring a 2 TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus, priced at $139.99 on Amazon. SunFounder mentions that this enhancement will enable users to create a “high-speed” NAS setup using the Raspberry Pi 5. Additionally, the Pironman 5-Max introduces support for the Hailo-8L AI Kit, which should provide a boost in performance for AI-related tasks.
Improved Cooling
It seems that SunFounder has also made improvements to the cooling system. The Pironman 5-Max reportedly includes a “strong” tower cooler, which comes with one PWM fan and two RGB fans. The design of the panel has been optimized for better airflow, and the company asserts that noise levels will remain low, even when the SBC is under heavy loads.
Display and Connectivity
The Pironman 5-Max features a built-in 0.96-inch OLED screen. This display can provide real-time system information, including temperature, memory, CPU usage, and disk status. SunFounder emphasizes that this screen has an auto-sleep function and customizable options.
In terms of connectivity, the Pironman 5-Max maintains the same port setup as the standard version of the Raspberry Pi 5 case. It includes the following:
Other important features of the Pironman 5-Max consist of an external GPIO extender, support for an RTC battery, and a layout designed for “clean” cable management. This new Raspberry Pi 5 case is currently open for pre-order, with the chassis priced at $71.24 on the official website. Customers can customize their package by adding SSDs, a SBC, a camera module, a power supply, and an AI kit.
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Tags: NVMe SSD, Pironman 5-Max, Raspberry Pi 5