ComputersHardwareInfo

G.Skill RipjawsZ Quad-Channel Memory Kits

2011-11-17T09:34:00.001+07:00

With the release of Intel's X79 platform, G.Skill has released fourteen DDR3 quad-channel memory kits designed specifically for the LGA 2011 socket.

The new G.Skill memory kits utilize the latest Intel XMP 1.3 standard developed for the X79 platform on its DDR3 1866Mhz and up kits. XMP 1.3 is designed to provide PC enthusiasts a "trouble free overclocking experience" to boost their X79 systems to "extreme" levels of performance, while maintaining system stability. G.Skill claims it has the fastest quad-channel memory kits with its 64 GB kit @ DDR3 2133 MHz 64 GB (8 GB x8) 1.50V XMP 1.3, 32 GB kit @ DDR3 2400 MHz 32 GB (8 GB x4) 1.65V XMP 1.3, and 16 GB kit@ DDR3 2500 MHz 16 GB(4 GB x4) 1.65V XMP 1.3.

The quad-channel kits are available in a wide range of frequencies, timings and capacities. Users can pick up kits from DDR3 1333 MHz to DDR3 2500 MHz, with timings ranging from CL 8-8-8-24 to CL 11-11-11-30. Capacities are available from 8 GB (2 GB x4), 16 GB (4 GB x4), 32 GB (4 GB x8 or 8 GB x4), or 64 GB (8 GB x8). All the kits come in G.Skill's standard black or red colors, with voltage requirements at 1.65V or below.

Source: http://www.tomshardware.com/news/G.SKILL-DDR3-QUAD-CHANNEL-MEMORY-RAM,13998.html

OCZ Octane SSD

2011-11-17T09:19:00.001+07:00

Over the past weekend, OCZ Technology released more details on its new OCZ Octane SSDs based on the Indilinx Everest controller.

OCZ is set to release its Indilinx Everest based SSD known as Octane. This marks OCZ's first SSD based on its own controller since the purchase of Indilinx. The Octane will be available in capacities of 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB and 1 TB. OCZ is set to price the 128 GB at $199.99, 256 GB at $369.99 and the 512 GB at $879.99. There is still no word on the pricing for the 1 TB Octane version. The 128 GB and 256 GB pricing is very competitive to current SandForce and Marvell based SSDs.

The Octane series will sport up to 512 MB of DRAM cache, a dual-core controller (CPU), dynamic and static wear-leveling, background garbage collection, TRIM support, SMART reporting and a SATA 6.0 Gb/s interface. The Indilinx controller introduces latency reduction technology, which allows read access times as low as 0.06ms and write access times down to 0.09ms, enabling "fast boot" in consumer applications.

OCZ lists performance for the Octane at:

1 TB: Max Read: up to 560MB/s, Max Write: up to 400MB/s, Random Write 4KB: 19,500 IOPS, and Random Read 4KB: 45,000 IOPS
512 GB: Max Read: up to 535MB/s, Max Write: up to 400MB/s, Random Write 4KB: 16,000 IOPS, and Random Read 4KB: 37,000 IOPS
256 GB: Max Read: up to 535MB/s, Max Write: up to 270MB/s, Random Write 4KB: 12,000 IOPS, and Random Read 4KB: 37,000 IOPS
128 GB: Max Read: up to 535MB/s, Max Write: up to 170MB/s, Random Write 4KB: 7,700 IOPS, and Random Read 4KB: 37,000 IOPS

Source: http://www.tomshardware.com/news/OCZ-Octane-SSD-SATA-3-indilinx,13999.html

Porsche Design P’9981 Smartphone from BlackBerry

2011-11-15T12:13:00.001+07:00

Timeless style meets best-in-class technology

The performance you demand. The power you need. Styled by Porsche Design, forged in stainless steel, finished in leather and powered by BlackBerry^®. The Porsche Design P’9981 Smartphone from BlackBerry^® is engineered luxury at its finest.

The power you need

Superior BlackBerry performance and elegant Porsche Design styling place the P’9981 smartphone in a class of its own. An enhanced 1.2 GHz processor and 8 GB of onboard memory powers a responsive and nimble browsing experience, 720p HD video recording, dual band Wi-Fi®, a built-in compass and access to a selection of exclusive apps.

The world at your feet

Shape and share your world via Augmented Reality. The Wikitude World Browser app helps you find, identify, access, and forward relevant information instantly. Read reviews on restaurants, theatres and VIP events as you find them. Discover Porsche dealerships. Explore the unexpected. With over 150 million points of interest curated exclusively for P’9981 smartphone users, the world is truly yours to mould and behold.

Elegant simplicity

Enjoy faster, smoother web navigation. Your P’9981 smartphone is equipped with a full touch screen, and a wide BlackBerry QWERTY keyboard for easier messaging and enhanced technology.

Why wait for what you want? Get fast, fluid animation and instant responses from the Liquid Graphics™ 2.8” high resolution display touch screen and 1.2 GHz processor.

Stay Exclusive

Ensure your prestige is instantly recognised with a limited edition PIN series, available only with the Porsche Design P’9981 smartphone from BlackBerry. Clearly identifiable, the exclusive PIN series will ensure you stand out from the crowd.

Refinement redefined

BlackBerry 7

New features and innovative apps like Wikitude create deeper, more dynamic ways to interact with the world. Near Field Communication¹ (NFC) readiness ensures simple connection with other NFC-enabled devices and smart tags.
BlackBerry Tag² enables effortless ‘tap to share’ exchanges of multimedia content and contact info between friends and BBM contacts. Friends can also add each other as BBM contacts with a simple ‘tap’.

Multi-tasking for the modern world

All this plus dual-band Wi-Fi® and BlackBerry App World™ 3.0. It makes discovering the latest apps, themes and games easier and faster than ever. The advanced technology you demand. And the engineered luxury you deserve.

Source: http://uk.blackberry.com/devices/p9981/features.jsp

Detox Limited Edition Headphone

2011-11-15T11:37:00.001+07:00

To celebrate the release of Dr. Dre’s highly anticipated album Detox, we’re introducing the limited edition Detox Pros so you can feel and hear the music how Dre intended. Uniquely styled by the Doctor himself with strong, yet lightweight aluminum construction to absorb heavy use in any environment. Detox Pro’s large, plush ear cushions add passive noise isolation and comfort for extended use. This is a must have product for any Dr. Dre fan and uncompromising premium audio seeker. You will not want to listen to Detox or any other of your favorite Dre beats on anything else. Pre-order today. Only a limited run has been produced, so get yours fast!

Limited Edition Black Anodized Finish with Detox Branded Headband

Colorway stylized by Dr. Dre to commemorate the release of his epic album, Detox.

Proprietary Driver Technology and Materials for Pro-Caliber Sound

Delivers the even frequency response of studio monitors for ultra accurate recording, mixing, and playback.

Deep Bass Response and Clean Sound Across the Spectrum

Beats Pro Detox Edition uses no amplification or noise cancellation circuitry that adds other frequencies and colors the sound, so you hear the bass, uncompromised.

Superior Sound Isolation

Increased ear cup foam density and precise fitting shut out external noise for extraordinary accuracy, extreme clarity, and hard driving bass.

Durable, Lightweight Aluminum Frame

Stands up to heavy use and rough treatment for long life. Metal construction won't resonate and introduce artifacts that interfere with the sound.

Unique Flip-up Ear Cups

Backward rotating ear cups make it easy to monitor the room, studio or club, or hear others, with Beats Pro Detox Edition on your head at all times.

Extra long, coiled cable

Don't get tangled up in your work. The coiled cable is extra durable and flexible for extra length when you need it.

Source: http://www.beatsbydre.com/products/Products.aspx?pid=B6387&cat=1

Monster Beats Tour with ControlTalk

2011-11-15T11:09:00.001+07:00

With Tour ControlTalk, you get the same amazing listening experience of the original Beats by Dr. Dre Tour, with the added convenience of a built-in Monster ControlTalk. ControlTalk gives you on-cable control of your music, as well as easy, high quality hands-free calling. You’ll enjoy quick-access music playback control, like volume, play/pause and tracking, without having to dig for your iPod. Plus, the high-grade mic and sound-isolating headphones all combine to let you hear and be heard much more clearly than you ever could with your phone to your ear.

High Resolution Sound

Ultra-fast, accurate speaker design delivers the full details of today’s digital music with extreme clarity and deep bass

Built-in Mic for Hands-Free Calls and Online Chats

ControlTalk's built-in mic lets you talk hands-free on your iPhone or music phone. It works with online voice or video chats on iPod® touch or iPhone®.

Control iPod and iPhone the Easy Way

ControlTalk™ gives you on-cable playback control of your iPod or iPhone, including pause, next track and volume.

Full Power

Large, high-efficiency drivers let you crank it up and enjoy loud play without sound-wrecking distortion.

Noise Isolation

Sealed in-ear design and multiple eartip designs block out external noise so you hear more of the details in your music and less of the outside world.

Monster XLN® High Performance Headphone Cable

At Monster®, we know cable. Tours’ cable features Monster’s patented magnetic flux tube and Micro-strand construction to provide clear, no-loss audio and reduced interference.

Tangle Free Cable

Earbuds are incredibly convenient, but they’ve got one big problem: they tangle. But Monster’s innovative, patent-pending flat cable design is ultra-flexible and tangle-free.

Source: http://www.beatsbydre.com/products/Products.aspx?pid=B5097&cat=2

HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio™’s 4.3 inch

2011-11-14T11:17:00.001+07:00

Designed to impress

HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio™ comes inbox with custom made Beats headsets, engineered to deliver extraordinary sound. The specially tuned software and user interface delivers the ultimate mobile audio experience we know you’ll appreciate. Featuring an aluminum unibody construction and designed with touches of red, the phone feels premium and looks beautiful inside and out.

Blazing fast performance

HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio™ is powered by a blazing fast 1.5 GHz dual core processor. Now, you can easily multitask and surf the most visually rich websites at blazing speeds. Your apps will start up instantly and switching between multiple apps has never been easier.

Uncompromised viewing and audio experience

HTC Sensation XE with Beats Audio™’s 4.3 inch expansive qHD display brings you an unprecedented movie watching experience when you are on the go. The audio experience is just as immersive. The phone automatically detects your Beats headset and optimizes the output so your audio experience sounds extraordinary, just like the artist intended.

Source: http://www.htc.com/www/smartphones/htc-sensation-xe/#overview

Galaxy Note Stories

2011-11-14T10:58:00.001+07:00

A new type of smartphone, borne of insight and innovation.
It is the ultimate on-the-go device which consolidates core benefits of diverse mobile devices
while maintaining smartphone portability.
It empowers you with everything you can ever desire so that you can simply, feel free. It is truly smart.

Consumer research indicates that people always want to do more tasks much better, even on the go, whether it is web browsing, email, games, or viewing photos and videos.

To do all this, consumers carry multiple devices, because each device has unique benefits that work best in a particular situation. Therefore, consumers constantly switch devices to use the right device at the right time.

Even for consumers with multiple smart devices, they still carry around a notepad for writing down ideas.

There is an emerging desire for a primary device for on-the-go use that could consolidate the core tasks of multiple devices as well as recreate the ease and simplicity of using a pen and paper.

The GALAXY Note was created to reflect your desires.The Galaxy Note is a primary device that will minimize the need to switch to other devices while on the go and open up the potential of your mobile experience.

Source: http://www.samsung.com/global/microsite/galaxynote/note/story.html?type=find

Axsotic's Mouse has a 3-D Twist

2010-11-03T00:02:00.002+07:00

Working in 3-D can be a hassle, especially since most input devices move in two dimensions only. Asxotic promises to liberate 3-D modelers from a flat plane of existence with their new spherical mouse. In fact, don't call it a mouse. Axsotic prefers the term 3-D tablet.

The Axsotic doesn't just win awards for Weirdest-Looking Controller ever. The central floating ball design is key to its capabilities. Once you've locked onto an object, you can freely spin it in on a specified axis with a simple twist of the ball. Nudging the ball in any of 6 directions will make the object zoom or scroll with ease.

It can even work simultaneously with a light pen or tablet. No drivers are needed, so you can go to work immediately, regardless of your chosen operating system. Just download the plugin for your preferred modelling program, and experience 3-dimensional freedom like never before.

AMD Radeon HD 6870 CrossFireX Performance Analysis

2010-11-01T02:54:00.001+07:00

After Evergreen comes Northern Islands, and just last week, AMD released their next generation graphics solution with the Radeon HD 6870 and HD 6850. The two new SKUs powered by the all-new Barts GPU has received high praise from for its compelling combination of performance and price (us included). In fact, the new cards even forced NVIDIA to cut prices of their cards - the GeForce GTX 470 can now be had for around US$259, while the 1GB variants of the GeForce GTX 460 is set to retail for around US$199.

However, the new cards are not perfect and one of the major criticisms leveled at the card was that architecturally, Northern Islands is not all that different from Evergreen, leading some to be dismayed that AMD failed to introduce a revolutionary architecture. Nevertheless, there’s no denying that the new Radeon HD 6800 series cards offer serious graphics firepower for their price, and we are sure that they’ll sell like hot cakes.

And in HardwareZone tradition, we are now following up on our Radeon HD 6800 series review with an analysis on how the Radeon HD 6870 will perform in CrossFireX. AMD claims that performance scaling has been improved and we are hoping to see some dramatic increases in performance.

Our original intention was to present both Radeon HD 6870 and HD 6850 CrossFireX results, but due to some compatibility issues, our two Radeon HD 6850 cards refused to work together. Hence, we’ll be looking at the results from the Radeon HD 6870 and update you in due time once we get the issue of our Radeon HD 6850 cards sorted.

Corsair H70: Next-Gen Self-Contained Liquid Cooling

2010-10-30T04:31:00.001+07:00

Anyone familiar with the subject of liquid cooling knows that it can be quite a challenging topic with which to deal. What components do you need to buy? Should you buy individual parts or go for a pre-assembled system? Which manufacturer can you trust as you contemplate adding water inside your PC?

These are probably the most frequently asked questions when an enthusiast first contemplates entering the world of liquid cooling. However, things have changed in recent years. Last year, we looked at one of the first self-contained liquid cooling solutions, Corsair's H50, and found it to be comparable to some of the air coolers out there. That's not particularly ideal when you're trying to preach the benefits of liquid cooling. However, the device did successfully fit in environments where larger air coolers simply couldn't.

We now have the company's follow-on to the H50, called the H70, which again demonstrates that liquid cooling doesn't have to involve a complex setup procedure. But does it improve on the H50's performance?

This is where the Corsair H70 liquid cooling system comes into play. It is designed to achieve high cooling performance, low noise levels, and simplify installation by as much as possible. Just like the previous model, the Corsair H50, the Corsair H70 is a complete closed loop cooling system consisting of a radiator, hoses, CPU water block, fan, and coolant, fully assembled from the factory. In addition to making the installation easier, this also saves you the trouble of gathering the necessary components yourself.

The Corsair H50 cooling system was the first result of cooperation between Corsair and the manufacturer Asetek, the company behind the CPU freezer Vapochill that let you operate your CPU at -20°C back in 2003. The challenge, here, of course, is trying to exceed the capabilities of today's greatest air coolers from a liquid-cooled circuit. This isn't something the H50 was really able to do, but our expectations of the improved H70 are naturally much higher.

Corsair GTX XMP module runs at 2333 MHz

2010-01-27T06:11:00.001+07:00

Corsair has introduced the Dominator GTX, claimed to be the world's fastest memory module with XMP-profiles. The Dominator GTX DDR3 (CMGTX1) module features an XMP-profile that allows for a speed of 2333 MHz. Corsair states that the modules are handpicked to ensure stability. Each module has a 2GB capacity and at 2333 MHz uses 9-11-9-27 latencies at 1.65 V. These latencies are retained when overclocking the module to 2400 MHz.

To test the new RAM, Corsair used Gigabyte's GA-P55A-UD4P motherboard, after which the manufacturer guaranteed compatibility with Intel's P55-platform. The memory chips are cooled by Corsair's familiar DHX+ heatsink. This heatsink sports extra long cooling fins, allowing for a better heat dissipation. Corsair also recommends using its Airflow 2 GTL (CMXAF2 GTL) fan to further cool the modules.

The CMGTX1 modules can only be purchased through Corsair's Online Store, bearing a pricetag of $200 USD a piece. Because the modules are handpicked, they are only available in limited quantities.

New Epson projectors

2010-01-27T06:08:00.002+07:00

Epson reports that it will release the multifunctional EB-S6, EB-X6 and EB-W6 projectors for the business and educational market. According to Epson, these affordable projectors are ideal in these area's.

The EB-S6 (SVGA) and EB-X6 (XGA) deliver 2.200 lumen and have a contrastratio of 2.000:1. The EB-X6 and EB-W6 feature Automatic Keystone-correction, which automatically enhances the projection angle and range. The WXGA technology of the EB-W6 is meant for widescreen notebooks and gives a better display. The EB-W6 produces 2.000 lumen and is meant for presentations or colleges in combination with a whiteboard. All projectors also feature Epson's 3LCD-technology.

The quickstart function of the EB-S6, EB-X6 and EB-W6 will make a warming up last only five seconds, whereas the Direct Power On/Off function allows the user to plug or disconnect the cabling to turn the projector on or off. The EB-W6 is compatible with HDMI, as well as with USB and SD memory cards. Epson's USB Display function is easy in use and makes it possible to give a presentation through a USB-connection, without having to adjust any settings. The bundled remote control makes it possible to control slideshows, and even zoom in on them.

Epson's new product line coms with a carrying bag for both the projector and the accessories. There's a three year warranty on the projector and one year on the lamp . Recommended prices excluding VAT are €434,- for the Epson EB-S6, €565,- for the Epson EB-X6 and €779,- for the Epson EB-W6.

Canon introduces three new projectors

2010-01-27T06:04:00.002+07:00

Canon introduces three new multimedia projectors that are to be released soon. Canon claims that the LV-7280 and LV8215 are eco-friendly and feature an excellent price/performance ratio. The third projector, the XEED SX7 Mark II is meant for professional use and is optimized for photo display.

The LV-7280 is a 4:3 projector capable of projecting at a resolution of up to 1024x768 pixels. The bulb, featuring a specified life expectancy of 5000 hours, has a 2200 lumen brightness, at a 2000:1 contrastratio. The projector can be connected by either D-Sub, DVI (with HDCP-support) and S-video, which includes two 3,5 mm mini-jackconnectors and two RCA audio connectors to power the 7 watt RMS speaker. The projector is also equipped with a networkconnector. The LV-7280 is sized 317 x 111 x 336 mm, weighs 3,3 kg and uses 239 watt while active. While standby, a power consumption of 0,7 watt is specified. Under all circumstances, the sound production is to be kept under 35 dB(A).

Canon's LV-8215 is the more luxurious version of the LV-7280 and features a native 16:10 resolution, as well as 1280x800 pixels. The bulb has a brightness of 2600 lumen and a contrast of 450:1. Again, the life expectancy of the bulb is estimated at 5000 hours. The dimensions and connectivity are identical to the LV-7280, including the mono-speaker. The LV-8215 has a maximum power consumption of 294 watt, limited to 0,7 watt in standby.

As mentioned, the XEED SX7 Mark II is meant for business users. Thanks to the Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS), the projector is to be capable of projecting vivid colours and accurate gray tones. The device sports a special 'Photo' and 'Adobe RGB' mode. The SX7 Mark II uses a 1400 x 1050 pixel resolution. The bulb's brightness is set at 4000 lumen, the contrast at 1000:1. S-video has been left out on this model, though DVI, D-Sub and the audio connectors are present. A USB-connector has been added to use a mouse. With dimensions and a weight of respectively 266 x 114 x 336 mm and 4,8 kg, the SX7 Mark II is both smaller and heavier than the LV-models. The power consumption is specified at 360 watt in normal mode, as well as 7 watt in standby.

A new feature is that owners of two XEED projectors will be capable of combining the output into a 3D-image projection using Canon's Passive Three-Dimensional Imaging solution. Software divides the image over both projectors, while special polarisation filters block the part of the image that is meant for the other projector. Lastly, a digital lens-shift is to result in a perfectly aligned video feed for both the right- and left eye.

Each of the projectors comes with three years of warranty. In order of appearance, the recommended prices are set at €649, €799 and €4.449. The LV-models are to be released in March, with the XEED version following shortly after in April.

OCZ adds TRIM command to Summit SSD's

2010-01-27T06:02:00.001+07:00

Following several other manufacturers, OCZ has launched a firmware upgrade to enable the TRIM command on its Summit SSD's. Firmware version VBM19C1Q can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website, including a manual to explain the process of flashing the drive. Like Corsair's SSD's, the Summit drives will be completely erased during the flashing, which means backing up data is required prior to updating.

The TRIM command, supported by Windows 7 and the latest Linux kernels, allows an operating system to relay unused data blocks. The controller is then capable of physically clearing those blocks, reducing the loss of performance that often plagues SSD's.

Corsair adds TRIM command to P-series SSD's

2010-01-27T06:00:00.002+07:00

Corsair has released a new firmware for its P-series of SSD's, adding support for the TRIM command. The new update is available for the P64, P128 and P256 SSD's, all based on a Samsung controllerchip. The new firmware, as well as the tool required to install it, have been developed by Samsung and extensively tested by Corsair.

Due to the extensive testing, Corsair does not expect to suffer from the same issues Intel initially experienced with their first TRIM firmware. Updating the firmware isn't very userfriendly; first a backup of all data needs to be made. While flashing the new TRIM firmware, all data present on the SSD is destroyed. The flashing is done through a bootable USB flashdrive and users are required to configure their SSD's in IDE mode in the BIOS.

When the drive is updated, the SSD is capable of physically removing the data from the drive, allowing clusters to be freed up and the drive to perform at full speed. The TRIM command is part of Windows 7 and does not work with older operating systems such as Windows XP and Vista.

Micron creates SSD with SATA 6 Gbps interface

2010-01-27T05:56:00.003+07:00

Memory manufacturer Micron has launched its first series of SATA 6 Gbps SSD's. Thanks to this new SATA interface, the maximum bandwidth has been doubled, allowing even greater transfer speeds. Micron uses 34nm MLC flashmemory on the new series of SSD's, which are capable of reaching a maximum reading speed of 355 MB/s. The writing speed is less extreme; Micron claims 215 MB/s.

Video demonstration of the RealSSD C300

Apart from these higher speeds, Micron also promises improvements in the field of power consumption and life expectancy, thanks to the usage of ONFI 2.1 NAND flash chips. The new RealSSD C300 series will be released in a 1,8 and 2,5" version, featuring a capacity of up to 256GB. The first samples have already been shipped and its expected that mass production of the the new SATA 6 Gbps SSD's will start in the first quarter of 2010.

Team Group combines SSD with IDE

2010-01-27T05:55:00.002+07:00

Team Group has launched the P2 series of SSD's. With the introduction of the SATA 6 Gbit/s and USB 3.0, limit after limit is breached in terms of data transfer speed. Team Group's P2 series however uses the old PATA (also known as IDE) interface. This makes it possible for older motherboards, sporting only PATA connectors, to use SSD's as well.

The P2 SSD's are 2,5" models and use MLC NAND flashmemory. Team Group specifies and MTBF of 2 million hours and promises reading and writing speeds of respectively 80 MB/s and 50 MB/s for the 32 GB model. The other two SSD's, with storage capacities of 64 and 128 GB have specified speeds of 60 and 40 MB/s for reading and writing. Though these speeds don't seem too great nowadays, it's quite fast on the older PATA interface.

Team Group's P2 IDE SSD's will be released shortly at a still unknown pricetag. The drives come with two years of warranty.

Mushkin launches "Europe" SSD's

2010-01-27T05:52:00.002+07:00

Mushkin also enters the SSD consumer market. The company's first series is branded Europe, after the goddess from Greek mythology. Yesterday, the 2.5" drives were announced in capacities of 32, 64, 128, 192 and 256 GB of MLC flash memory.

The Europe SSD's are packaged in a special aluminum box.

Mushkin specifies a reading speed of 150 MB/s and a writing speed of 90 MB/s. The power consumption would be about 0.5 Watt. Apart from the SATA II interface, the drives also have an integrated mini-USB connector, which allows them to be used as external storage devices. The USB port is able to provide enough power, making a seperate adaptor obsolete.

The Mushkin Europe SSD's come with three years of warranty. Mushkin reports that the drives will become available soon bearing modest prices.

Affordable entry-level SSD by Maxflash

2010-01-27T05:50:00.001+07:00

Following the introduction of three Solid-state drives with a Indilinx controller and 64 MB cache, the german manufacturer Maxflash has added a new entry model to their line-up. According to Maxflash, this SSD is to find the perfect balance between price and performance. The company hopes that the new model will become popular among users that don't wish to spend a fortune on their storage, but still want to benefit from the advantages an SSD has to offer. When it comes to price, the $185 costing 64 GB storage device is to become a direct competitor with USB-flashdrives, while performing significantly better.

Like the more expensive models, Maxflash' new SSD uses MLC-memory chips. Unlike those versions however, the new model is equipped with a JMicron controller. According to Maxflash, the SSD is capable of maintaining a 'respectable' reading- and writing speed of 160 Mbyte/s and 70 MByte/s. Apart from its SATA 3.0 Gbit/s interface, the drive also featurese a mini-USB connector to use its externally. Its 2.5-inch casing allows the drive to be suitable for both notebooks and desktops and the SSD only uses 0,6 Watt.

It's still unclear what the 64 GB Maxflash SSD will cost in Europe. The eventual price will include three years of warranty.

New Kingston SSDNow V+ up to 512 GB

2010-01-27T05:45:00.001+07:00

Kingston expands its line of second generation SSDNow V+ solid state drives with a new topmodel, featuring a 512 GB capacity. As usual, the new storage device sports a 2,5-inch enclosure and uses the SATA 3.0 Gbit/s interface. Multi-level cell (MLC) NAND memory chips are used, capable of reaching sequential reading- and writing speeds of respectively 230 MByte/s and 180 Mbyte/s.

On average the SSDNow V+ 512 GB costs about €1350. If we take a look at the other models in the line-up, we can easily conclude that the doubled capacity also results in twice the pricetag. The 64 GB entry model costs €184, the 128 GB edition €350 and the 256 GB version €675.

Each of the SSDNow V+ drives will also be available in an upgrade kit, featuring cloning software, installation manual on CD, a USB 2.0 cable, SATA data- and power cable, external 2,5-inch enclosure and 2,5- to 3,5-inch adapter. This bundle is estimated to cost about €10 more than the bare SSD.

All four SSD's feature a specified MTBF of 1.000.000 hours and come with three years of warranty.

New Vaio TT's surface in Japan

2010-01-26T06:31:00.002+07:00

On Sony's Japanese website, several new models of the Vaio T notebooks have surfaced. Sony has equipped these new Vaio TT's with Intel Celeron SU2300, Intel Core 2 Duo SU9400 or SU9600 processors, combined with the GMA 4500MHD videochip and an 11.1-inch screen sporting a 1366x768 pixel resolution. The exact configuration is dependent on the chosen model; the VGN-TT93HS, TT93GS and TT93FS can be equipped with up to 8 GB of memory, a 500 GB hard disk and an SSD with two times 256 GB in RAID 0. A Blu-ray optical drive, 802.11n, Bluetooth, webcam, digital TV tuner and fingerprint scanner can also be added and the battery can be replaced by one that is to last up to 17 hours. Additional specifications can be found here.

Sony has opted to pre-install Windows 7 on its new systems. Recommended prices start at $1400 USD.

Acer announces first 'Pine Trail' netbook

2010-01-26T06:29:00.001+07:00

Acer has announced its first Pine Trail-based netbook, the Aspire One AO532h. The new model sports the already-familiarized 10,1-inch screen with 1024x600 pixel resolution. The system is powered by the singlecore 1,66 GHz Atom N450 processor. With this new generation, both the videochip (Intel GMA3150) and memorycontroller have been integrated into the processor. Acer's Aspire One AO532h is equipped with 1 GB of DDR2 memory and a 160 GB SATA harddisk.

The new addition sports an integrated webcam, multi-in-1 cardreader, 10/00Mbit ethernet connector, WiFI, multi-touch touchpad and one or two six-cell batteries. The first battery has a capacity of 4400mAh, combined with a specified lifetime of up to 8 hours. The secondary battery has 5600 mAh capacity, allowing operation for up to 10 hours without recharging. Acer's new Aspire One AO532h has Windows 7 Starter pre-installed and will be available at a starting price of $300.

BenQ launches netbook with new Atom

2010-01-26T06:27:00.001+07:00

BenQ has announced its first 'Pine Trail'-based netbook, branded Joybook Lite U103. The Pine Trail platform is the direct successor to the first Atom platform, which used the antique 945GC chipset. The new platform integrates both the memorycontroller and videochip in the Atom processor. As a result, the traditional northbridge is no longer required.

BenQ's new netbook sports the familiar 10,1" screen and weighs no more than 1,1 kg. The screen of this netbook has a 16:9 aspectratio, allowing HD video to be played without any black edges. The Joybook Lite U103 is based on the 1,66 GHz singlecore Atom N450 processor. 1GB of memory is present and there's room for both a 2,5" SATA hard disk with capacities of up to 500 GB, as well as an additional SSD module of up to 32 GB.

The system features SRS TruSurround HD sound and a 1,3 megapixel webcam is integrated. The WLAN module supports 802.11b/g/n and optionally, a Bluetooth and 3,75G HSUPA module can be added. The Joybook Lite U103 is available with either a 3-cell or 6-cell battery which should allow the system to last up to respectively 4 and 8 hours on a single charge. The netbook runs on Windows 7 and will be available in the colours white and blue.

Dell Mini 10 based on Pine Trail platform

2010-01-26T06:25:00.001+07:00

Apart from the netbooks that ASUS introduced, competitor Dell has also introduced a netbook based on Intel's Pine Trail platform. Dell has chosen to release a vnew version of its Inspiron Mini 10.

Potential buyers can opt for a Broadcom Crystal HD expansion card next to their Atom N450 processor, which allows almost all video filetypes to be played back smoothly. The system sports 1 GB of DDR2 800Mhz memory and a harddisk of either 160 or 250 GB. The screen has a 1366 x 768 pixel resolution. The netbook will be available in various colours and optionally, a Bluetooth module, WLAN, GPS and TV-tuner can be installed. The netbook can also be equipped with a six-cell battery, which should last up to nine hours. In terms of operating systems, consumers get to pick from Windows 7 Starter, Windows XP Home and Ubuntu.

Dell's new Inspiron Minoi 10 netbooks sport a recommended starting price of $299 USD and are to be released in the webshop in January.

MSI introduces new GX-series notebook

2010-01-26T06:22:00.001+07:00

MSI has launched a new 17-inch notebook. The GX723 is sized 395 x 278 x 30 mm, weighs 3,2 kilograms and features an aluminum chassis. The W-, A-, S-, D-keys are colored differently to appeal more to gamers. MSI reports that the notebook sports an 'aerodynamic touchpad', Turbo-mode and the ECO Engine power management system.

MSI's GX723 has a Core 2 Duo processor, Intel PM45 chipset, up to 4 GB of DDR2-800 memory, a 320 or 500 GB hard disk, GeForce GT130M with 512 MB of DDR-memory, DVD- or optionally Blu-ray drive, 4-in-1 cardreader and either a 6- or a 9-cell battery. The screen has a 1680x1050 pixel resolution and also present in the system are Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi, Bluetooth 2.0, three USB-ports, eSATA, a 2 megapixel webcam, Express Card-slot and lastly, an HDMI-connector. The integrated speakers live up to the Dolby Theater Class 5 standard.

There's no information available regarding pricing and availability.