Category: Computers

  • Linglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PC

    Linglong Unveils AMD Strix Halo After Launching Foldable Keyboard PC

    Key Takeaways

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

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

    New Developments in Technology

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

    What’s Next for Linglong?

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

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

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

    Key Takeaways

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

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

    Specifications and Performance

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

    Expansion and Cooling

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

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  • New Lenovo GeekPro Desktops with Intel Core Ultra and RTX 5060 Ti

    New Lenovo GeekPro Desktops with Intel Core Ultra and RTX 5060 Ti

    Key Takeaways

    1. Lenovo has launched three new GeekPro desktop models in China, featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 200S processors, available for purchase starting May 8.
    2. The desktops range in specifications, with prices from 6,599 yuan ($908) to 9,999 yuan ($1,375), offering different processors, graphics cards, RAM, and storage options.
    3. The highest-end model, Core Ultra 9 275HX, includes 24 cores, a turbo boost of up to 5.4GHz, and AI acceleration capability of 36 TOPS.
    4. Each desktop features a custom RTX 5060 Ti GPU with 4608 CUDA cores, supports DLSS 4 technology, and comes in a 17L chassis with improved airflow and customizable lights.
    5. All models come with various connectivity options, a 500W platinum power supply, pre-loaded Windows 11 and Office Home Edition, and a 3-year warranty with customer support.

    Lenovo has introduced three new GeekPro desktop computers in China, each equipped with Intel’s newest Core Ultra 200S processors. These desktops will be available for purchase starting from May 8.

    Model Specifications

    The first variant includes a Core Ultra 7 255HX processor alongside an RTX 3050 6GB graphics card, 24GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, with a price tag of 6,599 yuan ($908). The second version maintains the same processor but upgrades to an RTX 5060 Ti 8GB GPU and a 1TB SSD, costing 8,999 yuan ($1,238). The highest-end model boasts a Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, RTX 5060 Ti 8GB GPU, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, priced at 9,999 yuan ($1,375).

    Processor Features

    The Core Ultra 9 275HX features a total of 24 cores and 24 threads, which includes 8 performance and 16 efficiency cores. It has a turbo boost capability of reaching up to 5.4GHz and enables AI acceleration with 36 TOPS. Additionally, it supports ray tracing and the AV1 codec for enhanced media processing.

    Graphics and Build

    The RTX 5060 Ti is a custom dual-fan GPU that comes with 4608 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR7 memory, operating on a 128-bit interface. Its AI performance reaches 759 TOPS and it supports DLSS 4 technology. Each of the three desktops is built in a 17L chassis with improved airflow, concealed vents, and a 3D front panel. They also feature adjustable breathing lights and can handle up to 32GB of dual-channel DDR5 5600 RAM, alongside two PCIe 4.0 M.2 slots that include SSD heatsinks, allowing for hassle-free installation of 3.5-inch hard drives.

    Connectivity and Support

    On the front, the ports consist of USB 3.2 Gen2x2 Type-C and USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A. The rear is equipped with USB 2.0, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 2.1, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. All models come with a 500W platinum power supply and are pre-loaded with Windows 11 and Office Home Edition. They also include a 3-year warranty, featuring door-to-door service and online support for customer assistance.

    New Lenovo GeekPro Desktops with Intel Core Ultra and RTX 5060 TiNew Lenovo GeekPro Desktops with Intel Core Ultra and RTX 5060 Ti
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  • Apple Mac Mini Modified for USB-C Power Supply

    Apple Mac Mini Modified for USB-C Power Supply

    Key Takeaways

    1. Apple launched the latest Mac mini with an M4 Pro version featuring Thunderbolt 5 ports.
    2. The only official way to power the Mac mini is through the AC power port.
    3. A YouTuber demonstrated that the Mac mini can also be powered via a USB-C PD board module.
    4. Both the AC power port and USB-C PD board can supply power simultaneously, allowing the system to function even if one is unplugged.
    5. While the standard AC port meets most user needs, adding USB-C passthrough could have been an easy enhancement for Apple.

    Apple has launched the latest Mac mini, a small but powerful PC that offers some flexibility. The M4 Pro version includes Thunderbolt 5 ports, but it’s worth noting that the only way to turn on the system is via the AC power port.

    A Surprising Discovery

    Interestingly, a YouTuber named Saad OUACHE demonstrated that it’s possible to power the Mac mini using a USB-C cable. To achieve this, he needed to add a USB-C PD board module. This board connects to the chassis ground and the “plus” port on the motherboard, allowing Saad to power the mini PC with a PD-compatible power bank, like the 140 W Anker 737 which is currently priced at $87.99 on Amazon.

    Dual Power Options

    What’s quite fascinating is that Saad proved power can be supplied through both the AC port and the extra USB-C PD board simultaneously. The mini PC continues to function even if one of the power sources is unplugged. Furthermore, the system boots up normally from a powered-off state when it starts receiving power through the additional board. This indicates that Apple could have easily implemented USB-C passthrough on the Mac mini.

    User Needs Considered

    However, the standard AC power port on the mini PC works well for the majority of users, and Apple might have considered adding USB-C passthrough as unnecessary. Nevertheless, based on Saad’s demonstration, it appears that incorporating this feature isn’t overly complicated for someone with the right electrical engineering knowledge. Be sure to check out Saad’s video linked below for more information on this modification.

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  • Chatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support Launches

    Chatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support Launches

    Key Takeaways

    1. Chatreey’s new mini PC, the AN4, features the Ryzen 7 8845HS APU, priced at $320.89.
    2. The integrated Radeon 780M GPU allows for 1080p gaming with lower to medium settings.
    3. Connectivity includes WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and support for dual DDR5 RAM and M.2 NVMe SSDs.
    4. The device has a dual-fan cooling system for reliable performance during heavy usage.
    5. The AN4 boasts a compact aluminum design and 100 W PD support on the USB4 port.

    Chatreey has introduced a new mini PC known as the AN4. It comes equipped with the Ryzen 7 8845HS, a high-performance chip from AMD’s Hawk Point series. This APU enables the device to efficiently manage a variety of tasks, and currently, the barebone setup is reasonably priced at $320.89 on AliExpress.

    Graphics Capability

    The AMD APU also includes the Radeon 780M integrated GPU, allowing this budget-friendly mini PC to run most AAA games at 1080p resolution with lower to medium graphic settings. Additionally, it features a USB4 port, enabling users to enhance their gaming experience with an external GPU (the GMKtec AD-GP1 is available for $469.99 on Amazon). While an OCuLink port would have improved the situation, it’s worth noting that few mini PCs in this price range come with one.

    Connectivity and Performance

    In terms of connectivity, the Chatreey AN4 supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for wireless needs. It has two DDR5 slots that work with RAM up to 5600 MT/s, as well as two M.2 slots for NVMe SSDs. Chatreey also emphasizes the dual-fan cooling system with VC cooling, which aims to maintain low temperatures during heavy usage for reliable performance.

    Design and Features

    Other features of the Chatreey AN4 include a compact and lightweight aluminum casing, 100 W PD support on the USB4 port, and an elegant design. More details can be found in the images provided below.

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    Chatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support LaunchesChatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support LaunchesChatreey AN4: Affordable Mini PC with eGPU Support Launches

     

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  • Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Google Secures First Offshore Wind Deal for Data Center Power

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google signed its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan, marking a first for the Asia Pacific region.
    2. The energy will be sourced from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), set to start operations in 2027.
    3. The wind farm will have an installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and is connected to the grid following a recent auction.
    4. Google aims to enhance its renewable energy portfolio in Taiwan, which already includes solar and geothermal energy, to meet rising energy demand and achieve 24/7 carbon-free energy.
    5. The company also plans to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in Taiwan in partnership with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business, targeting net-zero emissions by 2030.

    Google has revealed it has inked its first offshore wind Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in Taiwan. This is also the first agreement of its kind in the Asia Pacific region, adding to the renewable energy options available in the country.

    Energy Acquisition

    The tech giant will source energy from the Fengmiao I offshore wind project, which is being developed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP). The project is slated to commence operations in 2027.

    “This significant step enhances our current energy technology portfolio in Taiwan, which includes solar and geothermal energy sources, ensuring we can meet the increasing energy demand and move closer to achieving 24/7 carbon-free energy (CFE) in every grid we serve,” the company stated.

    Project Specifications

    The wind farm will boast a total installed capacity of 495 Megawatts (MW) and has already secured a connection to the grid. This was confirmed following Taiwan’s Round 3.1 auction, which allotted 500 MW of grid capacity to the project.

    CIP indicated that this offshore wind project has entered into PPAs with six major local and international corporate offtakers, who will utilize the entire production capacity. However, Google has not revealed the specific capacity it will acquire under this agreement.

    Future Plans

    Google operates a datacenter in Changhua County, Taipei, Taiwan. Additionally, the company has formed agreements with BlackRock’s Climate Infrastructure business to generate 1 gigawatt of solar energy in the nation, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2030.

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  • WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

    WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Western Digital is offering discounts on My Passport portable hard drives during the Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days from May 1 to May 8, 2025.
    2. Key discounted models include the 2TB My Passport for Rs 7,049, the 6TB My Passport Ultra for Rs 15,949, and the 4TB My Passport for Rs 10,799.
    3. A special limited-edition 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition is available for Rs 7,999 only on Flipkart.
    4. The My Passport drives feature USB-C technology, modern metal designs, and 256-bit AES hardware encryption for secure file storage.
    5. The sale prices are valid from May 1st to May 8th, 2025, with exclusive offers available on both Amazon and Flipkart.

    Western Digital has shared some thrilling offers on its well-known My Passport portable hard drive range. These promotions, announced by the company, can be found during the Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days. Let’s dive into the discounted prices for the Western Digital hard drives up for grabs during this sale.

    Great Discounts on WD Portable Drives

    The Amazon Great Summer Sale and Flipkart Big Savings Days is happening from May 1 to May 8, showcasing enticing deals on various models of Western Digital’s popular My Passport and My Passport Ultra series. Among these offers, the WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive in Black Avenger is priced at Rs 7,049. The 6TB Blue My Passport Ultra is available for Rs 15,949, while the WD 6TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive, also in Black Avenger, can be purchased for Rs 14,899. Additionally, a 4TB Black Avenger version of the My Passport is on sale for Rs 10,799.

    Special Edition Drive

    One of the standout items is the limited-edition 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition, which features a striking green finish and is priced at Rs 7,999. This collector’s piece combines a unique design with excellent functionality and is only available on Flipkart.

    The standard WD My Passport drives come equipped with USB-C technology and a modern metal design, offering password protection with 256-bit AES hardware encryption. With storage options reaching up to 6TB, these drives are tailored for easy transport and secure backup of digital files. The My Passport Ultra series merges aesthetics with robustness, featuring built-in hardware encryption and automatic backup software, making it ideal for professionals and creators who need secure storage on the move.

    Sale Details

    The discounted rates for these Western Digital portable hard drives are valid from May 1st to May 8th, 2025, coinciding with the sales events on Amazon and Flipkart. Shoppers can find the mentioned deals on both platforms, except for the exclusive 2TB WD My Passport Ultra 20th Anniversary Edition, which can only be purchased through Flipkart.

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    WD My Passport Drives on Sale at Amazon and Flipkart Discounts

     

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  • Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support

    Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Teclast N30 is a budget-friendly mini PC with an Intel N150 processor suitable for basic tasks like office work and web browsing.
    2. It features 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, with an additional M.2 2280 slot for storage expansion and replaceable RAM.
    3. The compact design (about 9 ounces and half a liter) allows for easy placement and VESA compatibility for monitor attachment.
    4. Connectivity options include multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Ethernet, but lacks USB-C support.
    5. The Teclast N30 is priced at $181 on AliExpress, but shipping to the U.S. is currently unavailable; an alternative option is the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus on Amazon.

    Teclast offers a range of devices, including tablets available on Amazon, and compact PCs such as the newly released N30. This mini PC is equipped with an Intel N150 processor, which features four cores and is designed for budget-friendly use, though it doesn’t deliver high performance. It should be adequate for tasks like office work and web browsing; however, those interested in video editing or gaming should consider other options.

    Specifications and Features

    The N30 comes with 16GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB NVMe SSD, providing ample storage. Additionally, it has a second M.2 2280 SSD slot for further expansion of its internal storage. The RAM can also be replaced, which might help if any issues arise. Weighing just about 9 ounces and housed in a compact case of half a liter, it’s easy to place on any workspace. Furthermore, it can be attached to the back of a monitor due to its VESA compatibility.

    Connectivity Options

    On its front, the device features two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, while another Type-A and a USB 2.0 port are located at the back. Even though USB-C is known for its versatility, the N30 still includes HDMI and Ethernet ports on its rear. Currently, the Teclast N30 is available on AliExpress for a budget-friendly price of $181, but unfortunately, shipping to the United States is not available at this moment.

    Alternative Option

    If you’re looking for something in the same price range, consider the GMKtec Mini PC G3 Plus, which is also listed on Amazon.

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    Teclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor SupportTeclast N30: Affordable Mini PC with Triple Monitor Support
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  • Huawei eKitStor Shield 200: Fast, Rugged 4TB External SSD

    Huawei eKitStor Shield 200: Fast, Rugged 4TB External SSD

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei launched the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, a new external SSD available in China.
    2. The SSD offers fast transfer speeds of up to 2GB/s via USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C.
    3. It features a durable design with a reinforced metal casing and a rubber layer, rated to survive drops and heavy weights.
    4. The SSD has an IP67 rating, making it resistant to dust and water.
    5. Pricing starts at $106 for the 1TB model and $192 for the 2TB version.

    Online stores like Amazon offer a vast array of portable storage options for smartphones and other gadgets. Some of these devices are designed to be compact, while others boast transfer speeds that traditional hard drives can’t match.

    New External SSD by Huawei

    Huawei has launched a fresh external SSD named the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200, and it’s currently on sale in China. This drive uses flash storage, which allows for quick transfer speeds, and it’s built to endure tough conditions thanks to its durable casing.

    Connection and Speed

    The Huawei SSD connects through USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 and USB Type-C, with claimed data rates of up to 2GB/s. This speed should be sufficient for fast transferring of videos or photos to and from the SSD. Of course, to reach these speeds, the Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 must be connected to a compatible device. Huawei also promotes hardware encryption for added security.

    Durability and Pricing

    As for durability, the external SSD features a reinforced metal casing with a rubber layer. Huawei claims that it can survive drops from about 10 feet and can even be driven over by vehicles weighing as much as 2 tons. Thanks to its IP67 rating, the solid-state drive is also protected from dust and water. The Kunling eKitStor Shield 200 weighs around 6.3 oz, with dimensions of 4.3 x 2.8 x 0.75 inches, and it consumes 6 watts of power. The new Huawei SSD starts at a price of $106 for the 1TB variant, while the 2TB model is priced at $192. However, the 4TB version doesn’t appear to be available at this time.

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  • Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Raspberry Pi 5 is a popular choice among single-board computer (SBC) enthusiasts, starting at $68.
    2. The Walnut Pi 2B is a new alternative to the Raspberry Pi, featuring an Allwinner T527 SoC with eight Cortex-A55 cores and an NPU for AI tasks.
    3. The Walnut Pi 2B offers options for 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB of built-in memory and comes with 32GB of eMMC storage, expandable via microSD.
    4. Connectivity features include USB 3.0, three USB 2.0 ports, microHDMI 2.0a (4K 60Hz), Gigabit Ethernet, and WiFi 6 support.
    5. The Walnut Pi 2B can be powered through PoE or USB Type-C and was available for around $50 on AliExpress.

    SBC enthusiasts have a variety of products to pick from these days, yet the Raspberry Pi 5 (starting at $68 on Amazon) remains a standout option in this field. On the other hand, the Walnut Pi 2B has emerged as a fresh alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

    Specifications Overview

    This device measures about 3.3 x 2.2 inches and runs on an Allwinner T527 SoC. The chipset includes eight Cortex-A55 cores along with a neural processing unit (NPU) that offers 2 TOPs of AI performance. Depending on the model chosen, the built-in memory can be 1GB, 2GB, or 4GB. Currently, the Walnut Pi 2B comes with only 32GB of eMMC storage, but it does allow for microSD card expansion. There is also one PCIe 2.1 lane, enabling the connection of an NVMe SSD.

    Connectivity Options

    This compact computer also features a 40-pin color-coded header. It includes USB 3.0 and three USB 2.0 ports for attaching external devices or accessories. In addition, the Walnut Pi 2B has a microHDMI 2.0a port that supports a 4K 60Hz output.

    For additional functionality, MIPI DSI and MIPI CSI interfaces are available, allowing for the connection of a camera or display. The single-board computer also supports Gigabit Ethernet and WiFi 6 connectivity. Powering the Walnut Pi 2B can be done through PoE or USB Type-C. It was briefly available on AliExpress for around $50.

    Conclusion

    With its impressive specifications and affordability, the Walnut Pi 2B presents a compelling option for anyone in search of a single-board computer alternative to the Raspberry Pi.

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    Walnut Pi 2B: PCIe & NPU Raspberry Pi Alternative for AI Workloads

     

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