Category: Computers

January 20, 2025
Aoostar GEM 12 Max Mini PC: Ryzen R7, DDR5 RAM, Wi-Fi 6
Aoostar has launched its newest mini PC, the GEM 12 Max, which is driven by the AMD Ryzen R7-8745HS chip. The starting price for this mini PC is 1,959 yuan ($267), and it’s currently available for purchase on JD.com. Let’s take a look at its main specifications.
Overview of the GEM 12 Max
This mini PC has a sturdy CNC-machined aluminum frame, weighing only 0.66 kg, and its small size (13 cm x 13 cm x 6 cm) makes it portable and easy to save space. The AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor is built on the advanced Zen 4 architecture. This powerful processor offers 8 cores and 16 threads, with a peak clock speed of 4.9 GHz, providing impressive computing performance.
Graphics and Memory
The GEM 12 Max includes Radeon 780M integrated graphics, which is based on RDNA3 architecture and has 12 GPU cores. This configuration allows for smooth gaming experiences, ray tracing support, and strong rendering abilities for creative projects. The device can handle dual-channel DDR5 memory, supporting up to 96GB and speeds reaching 5600 MHz, which is great for tackling demanding tasks.
Storage and Connectivity
For storage, the GEM 12 Max is equipped with two M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 slots, allowing for speedy SSD performance and the option to expand storage capacity to 2TB. It also features an independent OCuLink interface for external graphics or disk arrays, which helps free up NVMe slots and offers great expansion capabilities.
When it comes to connectivity, this mini PC includes dual USB4 ports with 40Gbps bandwidth, two 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. It can support up to 4K at 120Hz across four displays using HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4, which is ideal for multitasking and creative work. Additionally, the device has a VC graphene heatsink and an advanced cooling system to manage heat effectively, supporting power draws of up to 70W.
Pricing Details
The pricing for the GEM 12 Max starts at 1,959 yuan ($267) for the barebones version, with a 16GB RAM + 1TB storage variant priced at 2,759 yuan ($376), and a 32GB RAM + 1TB storage option available for 3,059 yuan ($418).
In November last year, Aoostar also released the Gem 12 Pro Max gaming mini PC, which comes with an AMD R7 8845HS processor, OCuLink support, and can accommodate up to 64GB of RAM.
Tags: AMD Ryzen R7-8745HS, Aoostar GEM 12 Max, Mini-PC
January 19, 2025
Affordable AMD Ryzen 5 7400F Launches as New Zen 4 CPU
AMD has introduced the Ryzen 5 7400F in China, adding to the growing lineup of Zen 4 processors. This new CPU is priced at CNY 849 in the Chinese market, which is about $116. This makes it one of the more budget-friendly Zen 4 options in AMD’s range.
Global Pricing Expectations
While we can’t expect the same pricing internationally, it’s likely that the Ryzen 5 7400F will stay under the $150 threshold in the global market. This CPU features a configuration of 6 cores and 12 threads, similar to the 7500F model. However, the boost clock speed is a bit lower at 4.7 GHz compared to the 5.0 GHz of the 7500F. The base clock speed remains unchanged.
No Integrated Graphics
Importantly, the Ryzen 5 7400F lacks an integrated GPU, which isn’t surprising for a CPU in the $120 range. Therefore, users will need a dedicated GPU for builds using this processor, like the XFX Speedster Radeon RX 6600, currently priced at $229.99 at Best Buy. AMD seems to be focusing on OEMs and system builders, but these kinds of CPUs often end up being sold individually by retailers.
Performance Insights
In terms of performance, the Ryzen 5 7400F should closely match the Ryzen 5 7500F. Given their similar configurations, the 7400F’s slightly slower boost clock will likely result in marginally lower benchmark scores than the 7500F. Nonetheless, it should provide a solid price-to-performance ratio when compared to the Ryzen 5 7600 and 7600X, which are priced at $229 and $299, respectively.
There has been no announcement on when it will be available globally, but AMD has indicated that the Ryzen 5 7400F will be introduced internationally. For more details about this new Zen 4 CPU, check out the spec sheet attached below.
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Tags: amd, Ryzen 5 7400F, Zen 4
January 19, 2025
Energizer Launches Affordable EnergyBooks for Laptops
Energizer has some similarities with Nokia and Blackberry, as all these brands are now well-recognized and licensed to different companies. This situation has resulted in some unusual circumstances. For instance, after we noticed a press release from Avenir Telecom on January 6, 2025, regarding the new Energizer EnergyBooks, we decided to visit Energizer’s booth at CES 2025 to inquire about the laptops. However, there were no laptops on display, and the representatives from the company seemed completely unaware of what we were referring to.
Licensing Confusion
The reason for this confusion is that the brand is licensed to multiple companies. Avenir Telecom, for example, has the exclusive rights to market smartphones under the Energizer name, which is associated with long-lasting power. This French company is also reportedly working on offering laptops under the Energizer EnergyBooks label. The press release they issued had several images (as seen above and below) but lacked substantial details about the specifications. The launch is planned for the first quarter of 2025, with the lineup named EnergyBook Classic, which includes 15-inch and 17-inch models that come with either 128 GB or 256 GB of storage, and prices starting at an astonishingly low $199.
Speculation on Specs
On January 6, Notebookcheck reached out to Avenir Telecom for more detailed specifications, but they have not yet received a reply. There’s also a healthy dose of skepticism regarding whether the $199 price can be realistically met, especially since the French firm is promising laptops that are durable, offer long-term support, and use eco-friendly materials. The EnergyBooks seem to target not only users with basic needs but also students and professionals. However, it’s probably wise to temper expectations regarding their performance.
Awaiting Updates
We will keep you posted as soon as we gather additional information about these laptops. Oddly, even two weeks after the press release, there appears to be no further updates online about Energizer’s entry into the laptop market, not even on Avenir Telecom’s site. However, a vacant “Computer” category has already popped up on the website.
Tags: Avenir Telecom, Energizer, EnergyBook Classic
January 19, 2025
Montech Heritage PC Cases: Leather Accents & Carrying Handle
PC case makers are opting for unique designs to stand out. Recently, wooden cases have become trendy, giving setups a more elegant touch. Montech now introduces the Heritage micro ATX cases, which combine luxurious leather with a steel and glass build. Although larger than mini ITX options, both the Heritage and Heritage Pro cases come with carrying straps. The cases are available for purchase in black and white, priced at $89.90 for the Heritage and $109.90 for the Heritage Pro.
Performance and Compatibility
The Montech Heritage cases are designed for micro ATX and mini ITX motherboards. Micro ATX components provide top-tier performance while saving desk space. Gamers can fit graphics cards up to 400mm in length in the Heritage chassis, which is enough for the Nvidia RTX 4090. The Heritage Pro comes with four 120mm fans, but those opting for the slightly cheaper Heritage will need to provide their own cooling solutions. Both models support generous AIO liquid cooling, accommodating 360mm radiators under the top panels.
Smart Design Features
To tackle overheating, the Montech Heritage includes large ventilation areas throughout the cases. The left panel features a clear window bordered by triangular leather strips, offering a glimpse of the internal components. These cases are designed to work well with modern back-connect motherboards, allowing for tidy cable management. However, even with easily removable panels, space behind the motherboard tray is a bit tight.
Portability vs. Practicality
For those who frequently move their PCs to work or school, laptops are the clear choice. After assembling components in the Heritage cases, the leather straps might not hold up well. Nonetheless, the Montech Heritage micro ATX cases provide a more budget-friendly option for custom builds. Given that the Heritage Pro comes with four fans and a headphone hanger, it becomes a more appealing option.
TAIPEI, Jan. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MONTECH, a leading name in PC case innovation, is proud to present the Heritage, a stylish fusion of leather and metal. This compact yet spacious PC case reimagines portability with both elegance and practicality, featuring a suitcase-style handle.
A Blend of Style and Function
The Heritage encapsulates sophistication with its classic mix of high-quality leather and sturdy metal. Signature triangular details highlight the brand’s essence, while the suitcase-style leather handle merges elegance with ease of transport. Crafted for individuals who appreciate aesthetics and functionality, the Heritage provides a unique look along with convenience.
Small Yet Powerful
The Heritage showcases that great things can come in compact forms. It’s built to maximize internal space and deliver outstanding performance, accommodating various cooling options, making it perfect for high-performance builds in a small package.
– Top Radiator: 280mm/360mm
– Air Cooler: 170mm
– Fans Support: Up to 9 fans.
With its efficient design and advanced cooling capabilities, the Heritage caters to users who desire both power and elegance in one package.
Modern Stability
Stepping away from the typical four-corner design, the Heritage boasts sleek, elongated feet that not only provide stability but also contribute to its contemporary look, merging functional support with sophisticated style.
Added Utility
The Heritage PRO comes with 4 high-quality GF 120 fans pre-installed and features a detachable handle connection point, allowing users to attach an accessory bracket for hanging headphones or other essentials. This clever design enhances the case’s practicality without sacrificing its stylish appearance.
Availability and Pricing
The Heritage will be available for sale starting January 18, 2025, at 9 AM ET.
– Heritage Black & White: US$89.90
– Heritage PRO Black & White: US$109.90
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Tags: leather design, Montech Heritage, PC case
January 19, 2025
GMKtec Evo-X1 Mini PC: 64GB RAM, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, eGPU Support
We previously shared information about the GMKtec Evo-X1 HX 370 in November 2024. Now, there’s a new model variant of this mini PC. While it doesn’t change much from the earlier versions, it does offer a lot more memory. Specifically, this model features 64GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. Currently, this version is being sold for $1,029, while its regular price is set at $1,699. It’s uncertain if GMKtec will ever revert to the manufacturer’s suggested retail price for this new mini PC.
Specs and Design
This mini computer has the dimensions of 110.19 x 107.3 x 63.2 millimeters and is driven by the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, which boasts 12 cores and an AI computing capacity of 50 TOPs. It comes equipped with an integrated AMD Radeon 890M graphics chip and supports external GPUs through OCuLink. There are two PCIe 4.0 slots designed for full-sized M.2 2280 modules, and external hard drives can be connected via USB 4. This same port can also transfer video, but the GMKtec Evo-X1 also includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1.
Connectivity Options
Additionally, on the front side, there are two USB 3.2 ports supporting 10 Gbit/s, and a 3.5mm headphone jack is also present. In the back, you will find two more USB 2.0 ports along with two Ethernet ports capable of a maximum data transfer rate of 2.5 Gbit/s. The system further provides support for Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
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Tags: AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, GMKtec EVO-X1, Mini-PC
January 18, 2025
TSMC’s $65B Arizona Chip Plant Faces Challenges vs US Regulations
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is making a big move to increase semiconductor production in the United States, investing $65 billion in three factories located in Arizona. These new facilities are part of a larger plan to enhance domestic chip manufacturing and decrease dependence on Asia for essential technology.
Challenges in the US
Even with such a grand vision, TSMC has encountered a lot of challenges during its expansion in Arizona. Regulatory issues and compliance requirements have delayed progress, making the permitting and construction phases take at least double the time they would in Taiwan. Every construction step needs approvals, which adds a level of complexity that is not seen in Taiwan’s more efficient processes.
Labor shortages have added to the difficulties, prompting TSMC to move half of its staff from Texas to Arizona. This relocation has notably raised costs due to moving and housing expenses. On top of that, gaps in the local supply chain have caused operational problems. For example, the price of sulfuric acid in the US is five times more than in Taiwan, forcing TSMC to ship materials from Taiwan to Los Angeles and then transport them to Arizona by truck.
Technological and Cost Constraints
The Arizona factory will primarily produce slightly older chip technologies, including the 4-nanometer chips currently being supplied to companies like Apple and Nvidia. The production of more advanced chips is expected to stay in Taiwan, where regulations and operational efficiencies make it easier to adopt cutting-edge technologies quickly.
The high expenses associated with building in the US present another hurdle. TSMC has invested $35 million to establish 18,000 guidelines to meet local regulatory standards, and the overall costs for materials and labor are significantly higher than they are in Taiwan.
Progress and Support
Despite these obstacles, TSMC has marked a significant achievement by beginning the production of 4-nanometer chips in Arizona. TSMC CEO C.C. Wei has shared his belief that the quality of chips produced in the US will be on par with those manufactured in Taiwan.
The project has also received considerable support from the US government, which includes $6.6 billion in grants under the CHIPS Act. This funding highlights the strategic importance of domestic semiconductor production in lessening reliance on Asia.
While the Arizona factories are a notable step towards improving US chip production, regulatory and logistical issues still pose challenges. TSMC’s focus on older technologies for its US plants demonstrates the difficulties in mirroring Taiwan’s manufacturing efficiencies. Nevertheless, with ongoing investment and backing, the Arizona facilities could play a vital role in the US semiconductor strategy.
Tags: 4-nanometer chips, Arizona semiconductor factories, TSMC
January 18, 2025
TSMC Starts 4nm Chip Production in Arizona Amid Higher Costs
TSMC has kicked off the mass production of its advanced 4nm chips at the Fab 21 facility in Arizona, which is a significant step for the U.S. semiconductor sector. This was confirmed by CEO C.C. Wei during a recent earnings call, stating that high-volume manufacturing began in Q4 2024, using the N4P process technology with yields similar to those of TSMC’s operations in Taiwan.
TSMC’s New Chapter in Arizona
This milestone highlights TSMC’s capability to provide top-tier manufacturing quality outside of its main base. However, chips produced at the Arizona facility come at a higher price compared to those made in Taiwan, primarily due to increased depreciation costs, a smaller production scale, an immature local ecosystem, and the additional shipping costs for transporting chips back to Asia for packaging. Wei pointed out the “geographic flexibility” of the chips made in the U.S., which is reportedly appreciated by customers even with the higher cost.
Expansion Plans and Customer Engagement
Currently part of TSMC’s $65 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, the Arizona plant is operating Phase 1A with a monthly production capacity of around 10,000 wafers. Reports indicate that notable customers like Apple, AMD, and Nvidia are among the first to utilize this facility, with Apple testing its A16 Bionic chip for iPhones and S9 processors for Apple Watches produced there.
Future Growth and Strategic Objectives
TSMC intends to further increase its footprint, with Phase 1B expected to add an additional 14,000 wafers per month by the end of this year. The company also plans to introduce its 2nm process to Arizona by 2028, alongside a third fab slated for completion by 2030. These advancements are in line with the U.S. Chips and Science Act, which aims to enhance local semiconductor manufacturing. While chip packaging will still depend on Taiwan until Amkor’s U.S. packaging facility is operational, TSMC’s investment signals a move toward bolstering advanced chip supply chains within the U.S.
Regulatory Environment and Industry Dynamics
The U.S. and Netherlands have imposed stricter export controls to restrict China’s access to advanced semiconductors and AI technologies, citing national security reasons. This initiative impacts firms like Nvidia, TSMC, and ASML, enforcing tighter licensing regulations and increased scrutiny to stop advanced technologies from reaching China.
Additionally, sources hint that TSMC has turned down an offer to produce Samsung’s Exynos chips, possibly due to worries about technology sharing with System LSI and commitments to vital clients such as Apple and Qualcomm. Meanwhile, Samsung is facing difficulties with its 3nm production, which is affecting its Exynos roadmap and device strategies.
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Tags: A16 Bionic, Semiconductor Manufacturing, TSMC
January 18, 2025
Next MacBook Air to Feature Oxide LCD Display, Not OLED
Apple’s MacBook Air is set to receive a display enhancement, but it might not be what many anticipated. A report from The Elec indicates that Apple is working on a new version of the MacBook Air featuring an oxide thin-film transistor (TFT) liquid crystal display (LCD) expected to launch in 2027.
What is Oxide TFT LCD?
If this development goes through, it will mark the first instance of Apple integrating oxide TFT LCD technology into its standard MacBook Air series. Now, you might be wondering, what does oxide TFT LCD actually mean?
TFT stands for the specific type of transistor utilized in the display, while oxide denotes the material that comprises those transistors. In comparison to the current amorphous silicon (a-Si) TFT LCDs used in MacBook Airs, oxide TFT provides quicker electron mobility. This leads to enhanced visuals and better performance overall.
Changes in Technology
Apple has already rolled out oxide TFT LCDs in its premium MacBook Pro models that debuted in 2022. Thus, it looks like this technology is finally trickling down to the more budget-friendly MacBook Air.
The move to adopt oxide TFT LCD appears to be a part of a larger strategy that has not gone as planned. The report mentions that Apple initially aimed to launch an OLED MacBook Air around 2027.
OLED vs. LCD
OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays are favored for their outstanding contrast and richer blacks when compared to LCDs. However, due to disappointing sales of the newly released OLED iPad Pro, Apple has supposedly postponed its OLED MacBook Air plans. The underwhelming iPad Pro sales are likely linked to the high price tag that comes with OLED technology.
Hence, it seems that the oxide TFT LCD will serve as a temporary solution until Apple can improve its OLED tech and reduce manufacturing expenses. The Elec also notes that the OLED MacBook Air may not debut until approximately 2029.
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Tags: MacBook Air, OLED technology, oxide TFT LCD
January 18, 2025
Sonnet Echo 13: Thunderbolt 5 Dock with 4TB SSD & 140W Power
Thunderbolt 5 is still not very common in laptops, with only a few models like the Razer Blade 18 (priced at $2,845 on Amazon) supporting this new standard. For tech lovers considering a new docking station, choosing one that supports TB5 can help them stay ahead. For example, the Sonnet Echo 3 Thunderbolt 5 SSD docking station works with Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4 devices, though at slower speeds.
Impressive Storage and Speed
The main highlight of the Sonnet dock is its integrated PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, which offers up to 4 TB of storage and can achieve transfer speeds of up to 6,100 MB/s when linked through Thunderbolt 5. If using Thunderbolt 4 or USB 4, users can still get speeds of at least 3,400 MB/s. Notably, this docking station can deliver power to laptops at up to 140 watts, which is enough to support certain gaming laptops, like the HP Omen Transcend 14.
Multiple Display Support
The Sonnet Echo 13 dock can manage two 8K monitors or three 4K screens at refresh rates reaching 144 Hz. It comes with three additional Thunderbolt 5 ports (USB-C), where one port can charge devices at 60 watts and the other two provide 15 watts each. Instead of including HDMI and DisplayPort, Sonnet has chosen to incorporate four USB-A ports, a 2.5Gb ethernet port, and an SD/microSD card reader.
Launch and Pricing Information
Initially, the Sonnet Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 Dock will be available in the US. The 1TB SSD version is set at $399.99, the 2TB option is $499.99, and the 4TB model retails for $699.99. Information regarding the TB5 dock’s launch and pricing in other countries has yet to be revealed. For further information, interested buyers can visit the official product page for the Sonnet docking station.
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Tags: Razer Blade 18, Sonnet Echo 3, Thunderbolt 5
January 17, 2025
Raspberry Pi 500 Launches with Essential Accessories in New Version
The Raspberry Pi 500 has been around for a little more than a month now, having been launched at the end of last year. Recently, Raspberry Pi rolled out a stronger variant of the Raspberry Pi 5, which is currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon, and which had been leaked a few days prior to this announcement.
Return to the Pi 500
Interestingly, Raspberry Pi has decided to revisit the Pi 500. They now offer it as the Raspberry Pi 500 Desktop Kit. This kit is also referred to as the Computer Kit or Desktop Computer Kit. It features the same single-board computer (SBC) that was first introduced in December, which includes a Broadcom BCM2712 chipset and 8 GB of LPDDR4X-4267 RAM, all housed in a compact 286 x 122 x 23 mm case.
What’s Included in the Kit
Apart from the SBC, the Desktop Kit comes with a 32 GB microSD card, a 27 W power supply, a Raspberry Pi Beginner’s Guide, a wired mouse, and an HDMI cable. Consequently, this new offering is priced at $120, which is $30 more than the regular Raspberry Pi 500. For further details and to check local availability, you can visit Raspberry Pi’s official website.
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Tags: Broadcom BCM2712, Raspberry Pi 500, Raspberry Pi 500 Desktop Kit