Cost-Effective Radeon HD 7900 PCB Already In The Works

A little earlier today, we showed you pictures of AMD's first Radeon HD 7900 series single-GPU PCB that makes use of digital-PWM power delivery. Some of the first batches of Radeon HD 7900 graphics cards will stick to that PCB and board design, as it's backed by AMD's engineering. Even as the SKU's launch is less than 24 hours away, there are pictures of AMD's cost-effective Radeon HD 7900 PCB surfacing on Asian media sites. Once ready, AMD add-in board partners can opt for this cost-effective PCB if they want to fine-tune their prices. It looks like AMD is ready well ahead to face competition from NVIDIA, with its GeForce Kepler 104 (GK104) GPU. The cost-effective PCB, without any components laid, is pictured below. The first picture shows its obverse side, the second, its reverse side. The PCB is completely up to speed with everything Tahiti GPU will need. It has provision for two 8-pin PCIe power inputs, an 8+2 phase cost-effective analog VRM, probably driven by a cost-effective CHIL controller, and a different display output connector loadout. It has provision for two DVI, and one each of HDMI and full-size DisplayPort. Partners can still use a single DVI connector, and keep their cards single-slot capable. Provisions for 12 GDDR5 chips are right where they should be. There is nothing eventful in the reverse side, just traces for all the supportive components. 

from : techpowerup.com

AMD Expands A-Series Line with Seven New Mobile APUs

 

In addition to introducing the 'new' Radeon HD 7000M mobile GPUs, AMD has this week updated its A-Series family of APUs (accelerated processing units) by adding to it no less than seven models specifically targeting the mobile segment. All seven chips are manufactured using 32nm process technology and should keep laptops makers (relatively) happy until Trinity lands in the first half of 2012.

The new arrivals are four quad-cores (A8-3550MX, A8-3520M, A6-3430MX and A6-3420M) and three dual-cores (A4-3330MX, A4-3320M and A4-3305M) which are probably intended to replace the first wave of APUs launched during the summer. All in all, there's not much to these APUs except the 100 MHz base and Turbo clock advantage over the initial models. For a more significant update we'll have to wait for Trinity. The full specs of the new chips is available in the table above.

from techpowerup.com

Compare AMD Ontario C-50 vs Intel Atom N550/N570 !!

Lately netbook market previously dominated by Intel's Atom platform began to falter with the advent of the Brazos Bobcat of AMD's architecture that are specific to netbooks.

One variant for the AMD platform Brazos C-50 Ontario, face to face with the Intel Atom N550/N570. AMD C-50 has 2 cores at a speed of 1.0 GHz, 2 threads and 1 MB of L2 cache. He integrated with the AMD Radeon HD 6250 GPU that has supported the UVD 3.0, Shader Model 5.0 and DirectX version 11. With such complete ability, the combination of CPU and GPU is claimed to only consume a maximum of 9 watts.
While the Atom N550 is widely used in various brands netbook because it is the first Dual Core Atom (with a 4 thread capabilities thanks to Hyper Threading). N550 works on the frequency of 1.5 GHz and integrated Intel GMA 3150 GPU. Atom N550 is claimed to consume 8.5 watts of power. Atom N570 is very similar to the N550. The only thing different from her sister is that N570 works at a clock speed of 1.66 GHz.

Recently we had the opportunity to play around with the netbooks that use AMD C-50 and the following benchmark results are obtained:

Chart above clearly shows how powerful AMD Radeon HD 6250 graphics than the Intel GMA 3150 found on most netbooks. 3DMark scores on AMD C-50 is much left Atom N550. Some modern games can still be played even on a netbook with AMD C-50. One example Street Fighter IV, though with the LOW setting (640x480) the game is still playable with smooth and get the average 50-an FPS. Never dreamed to play them on the GMA 3150.

As for the PCMark Vantage, a score derived AMD C-50 is still below the Atom N550 processor clock speed due to differences in both (1.0 GHz vs. 1.5 GHz). However, in everyday use, we can not feel the difference between the two.

In addition to performance, battery life is also a factor important consideration in choosing a netbook. Therefore, since the beginning of many who want to know how exactly the actual power consumption on AMD C-50 compared with rivals. Below we summarize some of the results of tests conducted by the site NetbookNews.com (in watts): 

  It should be noted that the above gaming tests using the online game is Live for Speed ​​where the AMD C-50 get an average of 50-60 FPS, while the Atom N550 is only around 7 FPS. Atomic power consumption in the system is lower but the game can not run properly.

Overall it can be concluded that the battery life between systems with AMD C-50 and Atom N550/N570 almost equal, but still won by Intel. C-50 superior performance at the expense of battery life.

The last important factor of consideration that we want to review is the PRICE. Our survey found that prices N550/N570 Atom netbooks on the market is still relatively high compared to those using AMD C-50. The data we get by April 2011 that the price intel atom is more expensive than AMD's -50 C with approximately one hundred thousand. Can be concluded that the presence of AMD C-50 and successfully forced the Brazos platform Intel cut prices and ultimately end-users who benefit. Now the choice is returned to the user, select price compare performance or battery life. 
source:www.ruangpc.com

AMD Bulldozer A Surprisingly Sell-Out Sales Success. Victims: Phenom II & Athlon II

AMD's new Bulldozer "FX" series of processors may be very lacklustre performers in reviewer's benchmarks and have garnered considerable scorn in enthusiast circles, but they're a very good performer for AMD's bottom line. Incredibly, they are selling out as soon as shops get them in stock - and they are not even priced very competitively against Intel's offerings, so perhaps the "It's an 8 core CPU!!" marketing is working well on the uninformed "enthusiast" after all? Mind you, what enthusiast, however uninformed, wouldn't know exactly how these products perform? Every tech website and computer magazine has covered these chips by now. The mind boggles.

AMD Realizes That Bulldozer Has 800 Million LESS Transistors Than It Thought!

AMD's new flagship Bulldozer "FX" series of processors have turned out to be mediocre performers in almost every review and benchmark going, sometimes even getting bested by the existing Phenom II and certainly no match for their Intel competition. To add to this tale of fail, it now turns out that AMD didn't even know how many transistors they have! Anand Lal Shimpi of AnandTech received an email from AMD's PR department and this is the revelation he had to share with us:

AMD Unlocked FX Processors Announced

AMD today unleashed the AMD FX family of CPUs, delivering a fully unlocked and customizable experience for desktop PC users. The AMD FX series of desktop CPUs includes the first-ever eight-core desktop processor, enabling extreme multi-display gaming, mega-tasking and HD content creation for PC and digital enthusiasts – all for less than $245 (suggested U.S. retail price). This marks the first retail availability of processors that use AMD’s new multi-core architecture (codenamed “Bulldozer”), which is included in AMD’s upcoming server CPU (codenamed “Interlagos”) and the next-generation of AMD Accelerated Processing Units.

“AMD FX CPUs are back with a vengeance, as validated by the recent feat of setting a Guinness World Records title for ‘Highest Frequency of a Computer Processor,’” said Chris Cloran, corporate vice president and general manager, Client Group at AMD. “While overclockers will certainly enjoy the frequencies the AMD FX processors can achieve, PC enthusiasts and HD media aficionados will appreciate the remarkable experience that AMD FX processors can provide as part of a balanced, affordable desktop system.”

Know Your Processor AMD Bulldozer

Advanced Micro Devices Inc. according to the plan will immediately throw the processor based on AMD's FX Series Bulldozer micro-architecture to the world market. In the early stages of AMD released four models with eight cores, six cores or four cores, and the TDP (Thermal Design Power) 95W or 125W. The model is AMD FX8000, FX6000 and FX4000 are currently known by the code Zambesi. All three models are beginning to fully support what is supported by the micro-architecture Bulldozer, including a new processing unit Flex FP floating point. Bulldozer eight-core chips offer increased performance by 50% compared to AMD Phenom II in running multimedia apikasi. Processor AMD FX series are produced through the 32 nm SOI technology (Silicon on Insulator) supports dual-channel DDR3 1866 MHz, Turbo Core support dynamic acceleration technology and is present in the AM3 + form factor.

While in the second stage, Bulldozer chip also consists of four processors and will bring improved performance. Two eight-core chip FX 8130 and FX 8110, a six-core FX 6110 chip and a chip four-core FX 4110. The following data:

Sandy Bridge-E Model Numbers, Clock Speeds Surface

Here are details of the first three models of Intel's "Sandy Bridge-E" Core i7 processors in the LGA2011 package. Some of these details were made public as early as mid-April. It was then analyzed that Intel was driving two distinct lines of LGA2011 client processors: Enthusiast and Performance, and within Performance, there were BClk multiplier-unlocked six-core, and locked quad-core chips. With the new series, Intel will move to the 3000 series of processor model numbering, indicating that the new processors will be part of Intel's 3rd generation Core processors, even though they're based on the Sandy Bridge architecture.

Before we move to the model numbers, here's a quick run up of the brand extenders. "X" denotes Extreme Edition, "K" denotes "Unlocked" (BClk multipler unlocked). Leading the pack will be Core i7-3960X Extreme Edition. This six-core (6 cores, 12 threads with HTT) chip has a nominal clock speed of 3.30 GHz, Turbo Boost speed of up to 3.90 GHz, and features the full 15 MB of L3 cache present on the Sandy Bridge-E silicon. Expect this chip to have a four figure price-tag.

Tt eSports Announces the Shock One USB Gaming Headset

Tt eSPORTS are proud and excited to release the next edition of their Professional Shock Gaming Headsets, the "One" which is the most advanced headset in the range, which has many amazing features including DTS 5.1 Virtual Surround Sound and Dynamic 40mm Speakers that allow for high quality Bass Enhancement.

The "One" has been designed to produce immense sound quality in-game as well as being able to offer a comfortable solution for gamers with it's multiple Ear-Pad Cushions and leather headband pad to allow for multiple hours of wear for continuous periods of gaming.The Shock "One" offers gamers a professional gaming headset with USB connectivity, a fully configurable user interface and an illuminated Tt logo so you can be the "One" who stands out in the crowd at gaming events all around the world.

ASUS Combines Killer NIC and Xonar Audio into Single Addon Card

It seems like Bigfoot Killer, the family hardware-accelerated latency-chopping network controllers is really taking off after garnering interest from the motherboard industry. First, it was MSI announcing a strategic partnership with Bigfoot to bundle NICs using Killer 2100 and the probability of integrating it onto its motherboards, then Gigabyte beating MSI to that by unveiling not one, but three LGA1366 motherboards under theG1.Killer series with integrated Killer controllers, that leaves us with ASUS.

ASUS' first encounter with the Killer NIC is in the form of a multifunction addon card called ASUS ThunderBolt. Multifunction addon cards aren't new to ASUS. Recently, it released U3S6, a card that integrates USB 3.0 and SATA 6 Gb/s controllers with two ports of each kind. The ThunderBolt, on the other hand, integrates Bigfoot Killer 2100 network controller and ASUS Xonar sound. So in one package, it gives gamers access to a more responsive network and clearer audio. 

Excellent price, 6950 for €225

We just got an update of Radeon HD 6900 series pricing. The Radeon HD 6970 will sell in Europe as of 5 AM Wednesday for €275+VAT, while Radeon HD 6950 will sell for just €225+VAT euro.

The UK suggested retail price is £225 incl VAT for Radeon HD 6950 and £279 incl VAT for Radeon HD 6970. UK chaps will get the cards at 6.00 AM due the time zone differences. California and the rest of Pacific time zone will get the card on December 14th at 9.00 PM, while east coast New York gets it December 15th at 00.00 AM.

This is a surprising move as the prices are much lower than anyone had expected. For comparison, the Geforce GTX 570 sells for at least 340 euro, while the cheapest Geforce GTX 580 on the EU market sells for 480 euro, and in most cases for well over €500.

AMD Introduces Catalyst 10.12 and 10.12 Preview Featuring Redesigned Control Center

AMD today released its latest version of the AMD Catalyst software suite, Catalyst 10.2 WHQL, as well as unveiled a Catalyst 10.2 Preview driver that lets you use the latest version Catalyst Control Center (CCC) that features a more functional user interface. The new CCC features a reworked UI that allows easier adjustment of 3D settings and image quality; makes setting up multiple displays easier; and helps adjust power settings to optimize battery life (on notebooks). 

Apart from that, Catalyst 10.2 introduces DivX Accelerated support for AMD Radeon HD 6800 series GPUs; support for OpenGL 4.1, including new ARB extensions introduced with OpenGL 4.1; and an updated AMD Stream v2.3 API. 

TRENDnet Releases the 300 Mbps Wireless N Media Bridge

TRENDnet, a best-in-class wired and wireless networking hardware brand, today announces the launch of the 300Mbps Wireless N Media Bridge, model TEW-640MB, which provides a high performance wireless connection for all networked media center devices.

The stylish 300Mbps Wireless N Media Bridge connects your favorite Ethernet-ready gaming console, network television, receiver, media controller, and DVR to a lag-free high-speed wireless n network. No need to place your media center near a hardwired Internet connection-cut the cables and experience the high definition connection quality of TRENDnet's 300Mbps Wireless N Media Bridge, model TEW-640MB.

ZOTAC Unleashes Duo of AMD 800 Series Mini-ITX Platforms

ZOTAC International, a leading innovator and the world’s largest channel manufacturer of graphics cards, motherboards and mini-PCs, today unleashes a duo of mini-ITX platforms designed for optimal energy-efficiency, home theatre PC and powered by AMD 800 series chipsets – including the world’s first AMD mobile-on-desktop platform - the new ZOTAC M880G-ITX WiFi - and the socket AM3 compatible 880G-ITX WiFi.
Powered by AMD 800 series chipsets, the ZOTAC M880G-ITX WiFi and 880G-ITX WiFi platforms deliver a premium AMD experience in a mini-ITX form factor with USB 3.0, SATA 6.0 Gb/s and 802.11n WiFi technologies. High-performance integrated ATI Radeon HD 4200 series graphics processor enables stunning visuals with Microsoft DirectX 10.1 technology.

LaCie Intros 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

 LaCie introduced the Hub4 USB 3.0, a 4-port USB 3.0 hub. Resembling an Ethernet hub, LaCie's box uses a stylish black and silver chassis with connection indicators in the front, four USB 3.0 ports, a USB 3.0 input, and a DC 5V input, on the back. Measuring 116 x 71 x 25 mm, it weighs 69 g. The hub is also backwards-compatible with USB 2.0 (the ports will work in USB 2.0 mode). It is designed for the majority of USB 3.0 adopters who have no more than two USB 3.0 ports in their system. LaCie's Hub4 USB 3.0 is priced at $59.99.

ADATA Releases Ultra-Compact Micro Memory Card Reader

ADATA Technology, the worldwide leader in DRAM modules and flash memory products, today released its latest Micro Memory Card Reader, the microReader version III, an ultra-compact and stylish solution for easy and convenient data transfers between mobile phones and PCs via High-Speed USB 2.0 interface.

For users of digital devices who are constantly on the go, moving and sharing personal files from memory-enabled phones to other devices can be a hassle when there is no USB cable on hand. Weighing just 3 grams, and the size of a small coin, the new ADATA microReader is one of the smallest card readers available on the market, with incredible portability that provides the freedom of data transfers any time, any place. Due to its ultra-compact size, the microReader can be plugged into the USB slot of a notebook PC at all times, without blocking the neighboring slots or getting in the way when the computer is stowed in a bag.

2011 Intel Core Processor Pricing and Launch Dates Surface

Back in August, a report with details sourced from ComputerBase.de was bang-on in tabling what the 2011 Intel Core processor lineup is going to look like. With a little over a month to go for the market release of these processors, fresh details emerged that reveal pricing and precise availability dates of each model. To begin with, 9th January is D-day for the socket LGA1155 platform, when one can expect a large wave of motherboards to reach stores, along with 10 new Core i5, Core i7 "Sandy Bridge" quad-core processors.

Plextor Announces New PX-NAS4 Network Attached Storage Device

Plextor LLC, a leading developer and manufacturer of high-performance digital media equipment, announces the PX-NAS4, its latest network-attached storage (NAS) device. The PX-NAS4 offers an exceptional performance, massive storage capacity, high data reliability and security, and low power consumption, making it a perfect solution for today’s small and medium sized business environment.

With dual LAN ports, the PX-NAS4 provides substantial bandwidth up to 2Gbps data access to support the increasing data demands and needs of small and medium-sized businesses. PX-NAS4 has the capacity to store up to 8TB of data across four hot-swap drive bays. Also, the PX-NAS4 has a storage expansion option available via built-in eSATA and USB ports which allow for the connection of additional external hard drives to meet continuous storage demand.

Review of Thrustmaster F1 Dual Analog Ferrari F60 Exclusive Edition PC Gamepad

Specifications:

F1 Dual Analog Ferrari F60 Exclusive Edition

The comfortable, efficient and realistic controller

2 mini-sticks with a rubber texture

* For precise control of your progressive actions and skid-free racing!

Compatible with Windows 7, VISTA & XP.

The ultimate dual analog controller: EXCLUSIVELY by THRUSTMASTER
* Metal design inspired by the "musetto" (nose) of the 2009 Ferrari F1 race car, the F60, for a truly immersive experience in the world of F1 races
* Lower grip featuring a peach skin texture, for unrivalled comfort

10 buttons and 8-way directional cross
* For full compatibility with all PC games
* Easy menu selection

USB Plug & Play connectivity:
* Installation CD not required: the device is directly and instantly recognized in HID games.

Price: $20.11 (from Amazon at time of review)

OCZ Flex EX PC3-17000 8GB CL10 Memory Review

You have an Intel P55 based computer. You are looking for memory and slot yourself into the "high volume" sector of the market. There are a few different routes you can go. The standard enthusiast machine is likely to have a 2 x 2GB kit of memory providing a total of 4GB's of memory. For those in high demand of memory to run virtual machines—for example—you could double that up and be running 8GB's of memory.