Category: Computers

  • Minisforum NAB9 Mini-PCs Recalled for Boot and Shutdown Issues

    Minisforum NAB9 Mini-PCs Recalled for Boot and Shutdown Issues

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Minisforum NAB9 series is a budget-friendly mini-PC priced at $319.99, with a newer NAB9 Plus model featuring OCuLink connectivity.
    2. Some NAB9 units shipped with incorrect capacitor materials, leading to issues like unusual shutdowns or failure to start.
    3. Affected units were made between September 19, 2024, and March 14, 2025, identifiable by specific serial number ranges.
    4. Minisforum will replace faulty NAB9 units within the serial number range that experience issues, offering a new device with an extra 12-month warranty.
    5. Only the NAB9, not the NAB9 Plus, is affected, and details on improved quality control measures and return shipping costs remain unclear.

    The Minisforum NAB9 series is a budget-friendly choice for people looking for a reasonably powerful mini-PC, currently priced at $319.99 on Amazon. Since its launch in March, the NAB9 has been accompanied by the NAB9 Plus, which features OCuLink connectivity.

    Issues with Certain Units

    Recently, Minisforum found that some NAB9 models were shipped with incorrect capacitor materials. This mistake means that some devices could experience unusual shutdowns or even fail to start at all. A blog post from Minisforum states that the problematic units were made between September 19, 2024, and March 14, 2025. You can identify these affected mini-PCs if the first three digits of the serial number are between 017 to 117 or 386 to 526.

    Replacement Offer

    Minisforum has announced that it will only replace units that fall within the defined serial number range and are having issues with startup or shutdown. If your NAB9 meets these conditions, the company promises to swap it for a new device that comes with an extra 12-month warranty. However, keep in mind that when you receive a replacement, you probably won’t get your data back.

    At this point, it seems that only the NAB9 is impacted by this situation, and not the NAB9 Plus. While Minisforum has stated that it has ‘improved quality control measures’ to prevent this from happening again, it hasn’t shared specific details about the changes made. Additionally, it’s uncertain whether users need to pay for return shipping to have their NAB9 checked. For further information, you can check out Minisforum’s blog post.

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    Minisforum NAB9 Mini-PCs Recalled for Boot and Shutdown Issues
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  • MaiYunda Y104A: Affordable NAS with 112 TB Storage Support

    MaiYunda Y104A: Affordable NAS with 112 TB Storage Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. MaiYunda has released the budget-friendly Y104A NAS with a stylish aluminum chassis and good airflow design.
    2. The Y104A features a four-bay configuration with a total storage capacity of up to 112 TB when combining HDDs and M.2 slots.
    3. It is powered by an Intel N150 processor and supports a maximum of 48 GB of DDR5 RAM, although limited to a single-channel configuration.
    4. The NAS includes various ports for versatility, status indicators on HDD bays, a compact design, and tool-free drive installation.
    5. The base model is priced at $345, with a higher-end version available for $504, including 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD.

    MaiYunda has launched a new budget-friendly NAS, called the Y104A. This system is not only economical considering the storage capacity it offers, but also sports an elegant aluminum chassis. The company emphasizes that the front and back of the device have a sufficient number of vents to ensure good airflow.

    Storage Capacity

    The Y104A features a four-bay configuration, with each bay able to accommodate either a 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch HDD. Each bay can support drives up to 20 TB, like the Toshiba N300, which is currently priced at $349 on Amazon. Thus, with all four bays combined, you can achieve a total storage capacity of up to 80 TB. Additionally, there are four 2280 M.2 slots that can provide an extra 32 TB of storage. Altogether, this means the total storage capability can reach as high as 112 TB.

    Performance Specs

    Inside the MaiYunda Y104A, you’ll find the Intel N150 processor from the Twin Lake series. This CPU can work with a maximum of 48 GB of DDR5 RAM that runs at 4800 MHz. However, it’s important to remember that there is only one SO-DIMM slot. This limits the memory to a single-channel configuration. On the positive side, the NAS comes with a variety of ports, which adds to its versatility.

    Additional Features

    Some other notable features of this cost-effective NAS include status indicators located on the HDD bays, a compact form factor, and a tool-free design for the bays. The barebone model is currently available for $345 on AliExpress, while a version equipped with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD is priced at $504. For further details, you can check the full specifications provided below regarding this mini PC.

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    MaiYunda Y104A: Affordable NAS with 112 TB Storage SupportMaiYunda Y104A: Affordable NAS with 112 TB Storage Support
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  • Google Signs $3 Billion Renewable Energy Deal for AI and Cloud

    Google Signs $3 Billion Renewable Energy Deal for AI and Cloud

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google has signed a $3 billion power purchase agreement with Brookfield for up to 3,000 MW of hydroelectric power in the U.S.
    2. The Hydro Framework Agreement ensures a steady 20-year supply of electricity from the Holtwood and Safe Harbor hydroelectric plants in Pennsylvania.
    3. Hydropower provides a consistent energy supply, essential for businesses like data centers that require reliable electricity.
    4. Google aims for net-zero emissions by 2030 and has also signed its first PPA for nuclear energy starting in 2035.
    5. The partnership emphasizes sustainability and energy independence, encouraging other companies to secure their energy future while minimizing environmental impact.

    With the increasing demand for energy driven by artificial intelligence and cloud computing, many companies are now entering into power purchase agreements (PPA) to meet their energy needs without relying on national grids. In line with this movement, Google has inked a deal with Brookfield worth $3 billion to supply up to 3,000 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric power in the United States.

    Long-Term Supply Agreement

    Both companies have established a Hydro Framework Agreement (HFA) to ensure a steady supply of electricity for the next 20 years from the Holtwood and Safe Harbor hydroelectric plants located in Pennsylvania, which have a combined capacity of 670 megawatts.

    Brookfield has stated that Google will be able to obtain carbon-free electricity from as much as 3,000 MW of hydroelectric resources that will be relicensed, renovated, or improved to extend their operational life and continue contributing power to the grid. These two hydro facilities represent the initial phase of this initiative, initially targeting the mid-Atlantic (PJM) and mid-continent (MISO) electricity markets, with the option to grow into other regions throughout the country.

    Importance of Hydro Energy

    Hydropower offers a unique advantage: it provides a consistent supply throughout the day. This is crucial for businesses that need a reliable energy source for their infrastructure, such as data centers.

    This recent agreement aligns with industry trends and fits into Google’s overall strategy. In 2024, the company finalized PPAs that represented over 8GW of renewable energy across the various nations where it operates. Additionally, Google has noted a 12% decrease in emissions related to energy use in data centers.

    In a groundbreaking move, Google has also signed its first PPA to source nuclear energy starting in 2035, aiming to ensure reliable energy access and reduce carbon emissions. The tech leader plans to achieve net-zero emissions across its operations by 2030.

    Commitment to Sustainability

    Brookfield and Google’s partnership highlights the growing focus on sustainability and energy independence in the tech industry. This step is not only beneficial for Google but also sets an example for other companies looking to secure their energy future while reducing their environmental impact.

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  • Minisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAM

    Minisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAM

    Key Takeaways

    1. Minisforum is launching high-quality mini-PCs, particularly in the AI X1 and N5 series, featuring AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU.
    2. The Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU includes four Zen 5 cores, eight Zen 5c cores, and a Radeon 890M integrated GPU with 16 RDNA 3.5 Compute Units.
    3. While the AI X1 Pro and N5 Pro offer solid performance, they fall short compared to the Strix Halo alternatives like the GMKtec EVO-X2.
    4. Minisforum is reportedly developing a new competitor device to the GMKtec EVO-X2, hinted at through Geekbench listings.
    5. The upcoming Minisforum product is expected to feature a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and support for up to 128 GB of RAM.

    Minisforum has been launching a variety of high-quality mini-PCs recently, particularly under their AI X1 and N5 series. Many of these models are equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, which includes four Zen 5 cores and eight Zen 5c cores along with a Radeon 890M integrated GPU that uses 16 RDNA 3.5 Compute Units (CUs).

    Performance Comparison

    Though the AI X1 Pro and N5 Pro provide solid performance, they do not measure up to the Strix Halo alternatives, like the GMKtec EVO-X2 (currently priced at $1,499.99 on Amazon) that features the Ryzen AI Max+ 395. Benchmarks illustrate a significant difference in iGPU performance between these two APUs. However, when it comes to CPU-intensive tasks, the gap is often less pronounced.

    Upcoming Alternatives

    It appears that Minisforum is working on a competitor to devices such as the GMKtec EVO-X2. So far, the company hasn’t made any official announcements. Nevertheless, several listings hinting at a future Minisforum product have appeared on Geekbench.

    As reported by ITHome, these listings are labeled ‘Micro Computer (HK) Tech Limited AI Series’ instead of a retail name. Still, this label is consistent across many AI X1 and AI X1 Pro listings. This suggests that Minisforum is likely developing a Strix Halo option as part of its AI series. Additionally, it seems that the new device will come equipped with a Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU and support for up to 128 GB of RAM.

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    Minisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAMMinisforum AMD Strix Halo Mini-PC Leaks: Ryzen AI Max+ 395, 128GB RAM

     

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  • Peladn Launches First Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock with Expansion Ports

    Peladn Launches First Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock with Expansion Ports

    Key Takeaways

    1. Peladn launched the Link S-3 eGPU dock shortly after the Y01 mini-PC with AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU.
    2. The Link S-3 utilizes Thunderbolt 5 technology, offering two ports for connectivity, unlike previous docks that used OCuLink ports.
    3. Thunderbolt 5 theoretically provides 80 Gbps bandwidth, but is limited to 64 Gbps due to PCIe 4.0 x4 pass-through.
    4. The Link S-3 features additional ports including a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, an SD card reader, an M.2 2280 SSD slot, and a 10 Gbps USB Type-A port.
    5. The Link S-3 is available for pre-order in China for CNY 1,599 (about $223) and will start shipping on July 26, with no global release date announced yet.

    Peladn has launched a new device, just a few weeks after introducing the Y01 mini-PC equipped with an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 APU. To give some context, the Y01 competes with the GMKtec EVO-X2 and similar products. On the other hand, the Link S-3 has a design similar to the Minisforum DEG1 eGPU dock, which is currently priced at $99 on Amazon.

    A Different Approach

    Unlike the DEG1 or the previous Link S-2, Peladn has chosen a unique strategy with the Link S-3. In comparison, the earlier eGPU docks had OCuLink ports that could offer up to 64 Gbps bandwidth, suitable for desktop-grade graphics cards. On the contrary, the Link S-3 uses Thunderbolt 5 technology through two ports.

    Bandwidth Considerations

    In theory, Thunderbolt 5 could deliver a superior bandwidth connection, boasting 80 Gbps compared to OCuLink’s 64 Gbps. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Thunderbolt 5 is limited to a PCIe 4.0 x4 pass-through, which caps the connection at a maximum of 64 Gbps bandwidth. Consequently, latency may still hinder performance when compared to an OCuLink setup.

    The Link S-3 offers additional features that are not present in OCuLink eGPU docks, including a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port that uses Realtek’s RTL8156B chip. Furthermore, Peladn has added an SD card reader, an M.2 2280 (PCIe 3.0 x1) SSD slot, and a 10 Gbps USB Type-A port. The Peladn Link S-3 is available for pre-order in China at CNY 1,599 (approximately $223) and is set to start shipping on July 26. However, there has been no announcement regarding when it will be available globally.

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    Peladn Launches First Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock with Expansion PortsPeladn Launches First Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Dock with Expansion Ports
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  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X Benchmark Shows Performance Boost

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X Benchmark Shows Performance Boost

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD is set to launch its new Ryzen Threadripper 9980X CPUs later this month (July).
    2. The Threadripper 9980X has shown significant performance improvements, with a single-core score of 3,259 and a multi-core score of 28,666.
    3. Compared to its predecessor, the Threadripper 7980X, the 9980X offers about 10-12% better single-core performance and 13-15% better multi-core performance.
    4. The Threadripper 9980X features 64 cores, 128 threads, boost speeds up to 5.4 GHz, and a 256 MB L3 cache with a TDP of 350W.
    5. The official release date for the Threadripper 9000WX series is set for July 23, available through regional system integration partners and global OEMs.

    AMD is getting ready to launch its new Ryzen Threadripper CPUs soon. This expected release is happening later this month (July), and the new lineup is already showing up on several benchmarking sites. Notably, the Threadripper 9980X recently set a record on PassMark and has also appeared on Geekbench, revealing similar performance improvements compared to its predecessor.

    Performance Highlights

    The 64-core AMD Ryzen Threadripper 9980X was identified by Benchleaks on X, where they provided details about its performance. The CPU achieved a single-core score of 3,259 and a multi-core score of 28,666. Testing was done using an Asus Pro WS TRX50-SAGE WIFI motherboard paired with 128 GB of RAM. In contrast, the Threadripper 7980X, tested on a similar setup, managed a single-core score of 2,882 and a multi-core score of 24,790.

    Performance Comparison

    These results indicate an improvement of about 10% to 12% in single-core performance and roughly 13% to 15% in multi-core performance. Though Geekbench may not perfectly reflect real-world CPU performance, it provides a general sense of how the CPU measures up against other processors.

    The findings are consistent with the recent scores from PassMark, which has placed the Threadripper 9980X at the forefront, showing a 7.7% increase in performance compared to the Threadripper 7980X.

    Specifications Overview

    AMD has released complete specifications for the Threadripper 9980X. This CPU features 64 cores, 128 threads, and is built on the Zen 5 architecture. It can reach boost speeds of up to 5.4 GHz and comes with a 256 MB L3 cache. The standard TDP is 350W, and it also supports the latest AMD Ryzen Technologies, including EXPO.

    While AMD has yet to announce an official release date for the new Threadripper 9000X series, their recent blog post mentions that the Threadripper 9000WX lineup will be available starting July 23 through various regional system integration partners and global OEMs.

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  • AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9000WX Price and Release Date Revealed

    AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9000WX Price and Release Date Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD will launch the Ryzen Threadripper PRO 9000 WX-series CPUs on July 23.
    2. The new processors promise up to a 26% performance increase over the previous generation.
    3. Pricing for the Threadripper PRO 9000 WX series starts at $1,649 and goes up to $11,699.
    4. The processors will be available through AMD’s partners and OEMs on the launch date.
    5. Performance comparisons show significant boosts in tasks like Adobe After Effects (up to 26%) and AI workloads (up to 49% over Intel Xeon).

    As expected, AMD has announced the launch date for its upcoming Ryzen Threadripper series of CPUs, which will be on July 23. At this point, the date pertains solely to the Threadripper PRO 9000 WX-series processors, which come with a significant price range. In terms of performance, AMD asserts that these new processors offer up to a 26% increase in performance compared to the previous generation Threadripper Pro WX series chip.

    Availability Details

    AMD has indicated in a blog that the Ryzen Threadripper Pro 9000WX processors will be accessible through AMD’s regional system integration partners and various global OEMs starting from July 23. Additionally, regular consumers will also be able to purchase these processors through AMD’s worldwide network of channel partners on the same day.

    Pricing Information

    The entry price for the Threadripper Pro 9000WX series starts at $1,649, reaching up to $11,699 for the highest-end model. The complete pricing details are as follows:

    AMD has also released some performance comparisons between the Threadripper Pro 9995WX and the Threadripper Pro 7995WX. In Adobe After Effects tasks, the newer chip showed a performance boost of up to 26%. For architecture, engineering, and construction tasks, it was approximately 15% quicker, and in software and science workloads, users can expect an improvement of up to 23%. When it comes to AI tasks, AMD compared the new chip against the Intel Xeon W9-3595X, revealing a performance enhancement of up to 49% when tested with DeepSeek R1.

    Final Notes

    These are the details regarding the release and pricing for the Ryzen Threadripper PRO 9000 WX-series processors. However, the blog post did not mention the Ryzen Threadripper 9000X chips. Nevertheless, the Threadripper 9980X has been appearing in various benchmarks online, suggesting that a launch could be happening soon.

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  • CannonKeys Soleil: Wireless Keyboard with Solar Charging & Wood Design

    CannonKeys Soleil: Wireless Keyboard with Solar Charging & Wood Design

    Key Takeaways

    1. Solar-Powered Design: The Soleil TKL keyboard utilizes solar and ambient light for charging, aiming for about 12 months of battery life under normal usage.

    2. Launch and Pricing: Currently in the group buy phase, the Soleil TKL is expected to be priced around $450 with a minimum order quantity of 100 units.

    3. High-Quality Build: The keyboard features an aluminum case with wood accents, prioritizing sound quality and aesthetics while adhering to a standard TKL layout.

    4. Customization Options: It supports a hot-swap PCB for easy switch changes and may include a wired PCB option, allowing for personalized configurations.

    5. Advanced Software: The Soleil will use ZMK Studio firmware for extensive customization, enabling users to create macros and distinct profiles for a tailored experience.

    The concept of a keyboard that uses solar and ambient light for power isn’t particularly new. Earlier this year at CES, Lenovo introduced the Lenovo Self Charging Bluetooth Keyboard, which, although not yet released, promises an impressive two years of battery life. This idea appears to be gaining popularity in the enthusiast keyboard community, with CannonKeys recently revealing its own solar-powered DIY mechanical keyboard — the Soleil TKL.

    Launch Details and Pricing

    The Soleil TKL has not completely launched yet, as CannonKeys has begun the group buy process with an interest check form. The designers aim to hold a group buy in the Fall, and with a minimum order quantity of 100 units, the Soleil is expected to be priced around $450.

    Features and Specifications

    The key focus of the Soleil is to provide high-quality build and hassle-free wireless usage. Unlike typical wireless mechanical keyboards like the Keychron Q13 Max (which we have reviewed here) that require charging once or twice monthly, the Soleil should achieve about 12 months of battery life under normal usage, thanks to a 780 mAh battery, ZMK firmware, and a small solar cell located above the arrow keys. CannonKeys and the keyboard’s designer, known online as Gondolindrim, have shared more information about the specifications and construction in a Geekhack forum post.

    Performance Under Lighting Conditions

    Calculations and real-world tests indicate that under standard office lighting, the keyboard comes close to being self-sufficient. This suggests that, in typical office environments, you may still need to charge the keyboard at certain times… However, if your office receives plenty of sunlight, this keyboard might be able to sustain itself!

    It’s worth noting that verifying CannonKeys’s battery life claims requires direct testing. For comparison, the BakenekoGO, another CannonKeys model utilizing ZMK firmware and a smaller 200 mAh battery, lasts about a month on a full charge. It’s reasonable to think that the Soleil’s solar charging could allow it to reach that one-year battery life, especially if the backlighting is kept off.

    Design and Aesthetics

    The Soleil adheres to a standard TKL layout, featuring an F13 key above the backspace and the navigation cluster alongside the arrow keys to the right of the alphanumeric keys. It is crafted with an aluminum case adorned with walnut or maple accents. The design of the case, along with the aluminum plate and top-mount structure, prioritizes sound quality over providing the cushioned typing experience found in models like the Epomaker Galaxy100 we recently reviewed (currently priced at $95.19 for Amazon Prime members).

    According to CannonKeys, the front height of the Soleil will be about 20 mm, with the space bar positioned at 24 mm — not extraordinarily low, but certainly lower than many prebuilt keyboards. The fully assembled keyboard is expected to weigh around 1900 g. The Soleil will come in an anodized black finish with deep walnut accents or an e-coated white with lighter maple wood accents, and it will initially be sold as a DIY kit, meaning you will need to provide your own switches, stabilizers, and keycaps.

    Customization Options

    The Soleil will include a hot-swap PCB supporting both 6.25 u and 7 u space bars, along with split right shift and backspace keys, as well as a stepped caps lock. CannonKeys is also contemplating a wired PCB option for those who might prefer a wired connection while still wanting the Soleil design, but this hasn’t been confirmed yet.

    Software for Customization

    For customization, the Soleil keyboard will utilize ZMK Studio, which is a fork of the open-source QMK project that focuses on efficiency and is tailored for modern wireless keyboards. This ZMK firmware and ZMK Studio will allow users to extensively personalize their Soleil keyboards with features like macros, ModTap, distinct profiles, and extra layers.

    In conclusion, the Soleil keyboard seems to offer innovative features that could appeal to many enthusiasts, and its solar capabilities could change the way users interact with their keyboards.

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    CannonKeys Soleil: Wireless Keyboard with Solar Charging & Wood DesignCannonKeys Soleil: Wireless Keyboard with Solar Charging & Wood DesignCannonKeys Soleil: Wireless Keyboard with Solar Charging & Wood Design

     

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  • Keychron Launches $110 Compact Wireless Low-Profile POM Keyboard

    Keychron Launches $110 Compact Wireless Low-Profile POM Keyboard

    Key Takeaways

    1. Keychron K9 Max features new Milk POM switches, available in three types: Red, Brown, and Banana, offering a smooth key feel.
    2. The K9 Max retains a compact 60% layout with 61 keys and includes high-quality double-shot PBT keycaps and an aluminum top plate.
    3. Strong connectivity options include 2.4 GHz, Bluetooth 5.2, and wired USB-C, with a battery life of up to 73 hours without backlighting.
    4. The keyboard includes customizable RGB lighting, key remapping, and macro creation through the Keychron Launcher, which is QMK compatible.
    5. The K9 Max is available in both non-hot-swap ($99.99) and hot-swap ($109.99) versions, with the hot-swap option providing better durability.

    Keychron offers a wide range of low-profile mechanical keyboards. While they feature a simple design, versatile connection options, and good build quality, our review of the K15 Max showed that the Gateron Low-Profile 2.0 mechanical switches didn’t quite meet expectations. This became even clearer when Lofree introduced the Flow series, which used full-POM switches that were much smoother, more consistent, and overall better when we evaluated the Flow Lite.

    New Developments with the K9 Max

    Recently, Keychron announced the Keychron K9 Max, aiming to rival the POM keyboards with its Milk POM switches, which come standard in this model. The K9 Max offers both a non-hot-swap version for $99.99 and a hot-swap option for $109.99. If you’re looking for durability, the hot-swap variant is definitely the better investment.

    Key Features of the K9 Max

    The standout feature of the Keychron K9 Max is its new Milk POM switches, available in three types: Red (45 gf linear), Brown (50 gf tactile), and Banana (57 gf sharp tactile). All switches feature a POM housing and stem, providing smooth feel throughout the key travel. The total key travel is slightly extended to 3.1 mm, with the linear switch activating at 1.7 mm, and both tactile versions also at 1.7 mm. Weighing just 426 g, this keyboard is a great choice for those who are always on the go.

    Design and Layout

    The K9 Max sticks to the familiar design formula used in Keychron’s low-profile keyboards, featuring a compact 60% layout with 61 keys. It comes with an ABS plastic case, an aluminum top plate, and a floating keycap design. While this design might feel a bit outdated, it fits well within Keychron’s product line and is subtle enough for a professional environment, which appears to be the intended audience for K-series low-profile keyboards. The K9 Max stands at a height of 7.9 mm, which is nearly 5 mm shorter than the Iqunix Magi65 Pro, a product we recently reviewed, priced starting at $139.99 on Amazon.

    Strong Points and Connectivity

    By reusing a successful design, the Keychron K9 Max retains all the strong attributes we expect from Keychron keyboards, including hardware OS and connectivity toggles, flip-out feet for better ergonomics, internal sound dampening foam, and high-quality double-shot PBT keycaps in the KSA (Keychron Spherical Angled) profile.

    Battery Life and Backlighting

    Connectivity options for the K9 Max include 2.4 GHz with 1 kHz polling for minimal latency, Bluetooth 5.2 with 120 Hz polling, and a wired connection using a detachable USB-C cable. The K9 Max is equipped with a 1,550 mAh battery, which Keychron claims can provide about 73 hours of use without backlighting and 42 hours with the backlight set to its lowest brightness. The backlighting is RGB and positioned north-facing, which should make it easy to find compatible shine-through keycaps.

    Customization and Software

    RGB lighting, key remapping, and macro creation can be controlled via the Keychron Launcher, which is a beneficial tool for Keychron users. It enhances the versatility of the 60% layout with features like Mod Tap and layer support. Based on our previous experiences, the Launcher has always performed well, and the Keychron K9 Max is also QMK compatible, giving users the option to use open-source software or VIA for customization.

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    Keychron Launches $110 Compact Wireless Low-Profile POM KeyboardKeychron Launches $110 Compact Wireless Low-Profile POM Keyboard

     

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  • EBC77: PCIe Single-Board Computer Developed with Canonical

    EBC77: PCIe Single-Board Computer Developed with Canonical

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Eswin EBC77 is a new single-board computer powered by the RISC-V architecture with the EIC7700X SoC.
    2. It supports LPDDR5 RAM and includes an 8MB SPI NOR flash, but requires a microSD card for OS installation.
    3. The device allows for an SSD upgrade and supports PCIe 3 with a single lane configuration.
    4. The EIC7700X SoC features an NPU for AI applications, offering up to 20 TOPS performance, and includes various connectivity options like HDMI, USB, and Gigabit Ethernet.
    5. The EBC77 is priced at $149 in the U.S. and benefits from Canonical’s involvement, appealing to developers and tech enthusiasts.

    Eswin and Canonical have introduced a fresh single-board computer to the market. Known as the EBC77, this device is powered by the EIC7700X SoC, which utilizes the RISC-V architecture instead of the widely used ARM architecture seen in the Raspberry Pi 5 and other similar devices. The SBC is capable of supporting LPDDR5 RAM and includes an 8MB SPI NOR flash. However, like many single-board computers, it does not come with built-in mass storage, so users must install the operating system on a microSD card. Additionally, the Eswin EBC77 allows for an SSD upgrade. Similar to the Raspberry Pi 5, this compact computer supports PCIe 3 with a single lane configuration.

    Features of the EIC7700X SoC

    The EIC7700X SoC is equipped with an NPU, which is specially designed to enhance AI applications with a performance of up to 20 TOPS. For video output options, the SBC uses HDMI and MIPI DSI, and cameras can be attached through MIPI CSI or USB. Furthermore, the device includes two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports and two USB 2.0 ports. A Gigabit Ethernet port is also present, along with Wi-Fi 802.11 ac supporting both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands. Users can connect sensors and actuators through the standard 40-pin header.

    Pricing and Availability

    In the United States, Eswin’s new single-board computer is officially listed at $149 on Amazon. Canonical’s involvement in this project adds credibility and strength to the device, making it an attractive option for developers and tech enthusiasts alike.

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    EBC77: PCIe Single-Board Computer Developed with Canonical

     

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