TechPowerUP NEWS

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During its Q2 2024 earnings call, NVIDIA confirmed that its upcoming Blackwell-based products are facing low-yield challenges. However, the company announced that it has implemented design changes to improve the production yields of its B100 and B200 processors. Despite these setbacks, NVIDIA remains optimistic about its production timeline. The tech giant plans to commence the production ramp of Blackwell GPUs in Q4 2024, with expected shipments worth several billion dollars by the end of the year. In an official statement, NVIDIA explained, "We executed a change to the Blackwell GPU mask to improve production yield." The company also reaffirmed that it had successfully sampled Blackwell GPUs with customers in the second quarter.

However, NVIDIA acknowledged that meeting demand required producing "low-yielding Blackwell material," which impacted its gross margins. During an earnings call, NVIDIA's CEO Jensen Huang assured investors that the supply of B100 and B200 GPUs will be there. He expressed confidence in the company's ability to mass-produce these chips starting in the fourth quarter. The Blackwell B100 and B200 GPUs use TSMC's CoWoS-L packaging technology and a complex design, which prompted rumors about the company facing yield issues with its designs. Reports suggest that initial challenges arose from mismatched thermal expansion coefficients among various components, leading to warping and system failures. However, now the company claims that the fix that solved these problems was a new GPU photomask, which bumped yields back to normal levels.

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ASMedia announced that its USB4 host controller chip, ASM4242, has received Thunderbolt 4 certification, following its USB-IF certification earlier this year. This marks a significant milestone for the ASM4242, toward providing a comprehensive high-speed transmission solution and an outstanding user experience. The Thunderbolt 4 certification signifies that ASM4242 meets Thunderbolt's stringent standards in signal quality, compatibility, and reliability, ensuring exceptional connection stability and compatibility.

Thunderbolt 4 is fully compatible with USB4, integrating power, data transmission, and video display into a single interface, offering up to 40 Gbps bandwidth to meet the demands of high-speed file transfer, 100 W fast charging, and multi-display setups. A single cable can daisy-chain up to 5 devices, driving high-bandwidth data, power, and video transmission. Gamers, creators, and professionals can connect multiple displays and accessories through this powerful connection standard. They can also enjoy a clean and convenient workspace.
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Samsung Electronics today announced the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, a Copilot+ PC and the first in the all-new Galaxy Book5 series. Performance upgrades made possible by the Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) bring next-level computing power, with up to 47 total TOPs NPU - and more than 300 AI-accelerated features across 100+ creativity, productivity, gaming and entertainment apps. Microsoft Phone Link provides access to your Galaxy phone screen on a larger, more immersive PC display, enabling use of fan-favorite Galaxy AI features like Circle to Search with Google, Chat Assist, Live Translate and more. And with the Intel ARC GPU, graphics performance is improved by 17%. When paired with stunning features like the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with Vision Booster and 10-point multi-touchscreen, Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 allows creation anytime, anywhere.

"The Galaxy Book5 series brings even more cutting-edge AI experiences to Galaxy users around the world who want to enhance and simplify their everyday tasks - a vision made possible by our continued collaboration with longtime industry partners," said Dr. Hark-Sang Kim, EVP & Head of New Computing R&D Team, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. "As one of our most powerful PCs, Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 brings together top-tier performance with Galaxy's expansive mobile AI ecosystem for the ultimate AI PC experience."
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MSI, a leading brand in gaming, content creation, and business & productivity laptops, proudly launched several next-gen AI+ gaming and business productivity laptops featuring the new Intel Core Ultra processor (Series 2) and AMD Ryzen AI 300 Series at IFA 2024. These laptops offer more AI computing power, making it the most robust platform for AI PC development, with more AI models, frameworks, and runtimes enable. Additionally, MSI officially launched the new Claw 8 AI+ Windows 11 gaming handheld device, powered by Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and an 8-inch screen, providing a smoother and broader mobile gaming experience. MSI also announced the whole new Venture series laptops, redefining the combination of thin, light and powerful. Equipped with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2) and varieties of different size, from 14, 15.6, 16, to 17 inches.

"MSI not only brings the industry's most comprehensive AI+ PC lineup but also introduces multiple new laptops and handheld devices designed for gamers worldwide," said Eric Kuo, MSI's Executive Vice President and General Manager of NB Business Unit. "We welcome global guests to visit the MSI booth to experience next-gen AI computing and exciting gaming products."
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Intel today launched its most efficient family of x86 processors ever, the Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors. They deliver exceptional performance, breakthrough x86 power efficiency, a massive leap in graphics performance, no-compromise application compatibility, enhanced security and unmatched AI compute. The technology will power the industry's most complete and capable AI PCs with more than 80 consumer designs from more than 20 of the world's top manufacturing partners, including Acer, ASUS, Dell Technologies, HP, Lenovo, LG, MSI and Samsung. Pre-orders begin today with systems available globally on-shelf and online at over 30 global retailers starting Sept. 24. All designs featuring Intel Core Ultra 200V series processors and running the latest version of Windows are eligible to receive Copilot+ PC features as a free update starting in November.

"Intel's newest Core Ultra processors set the industry standard for mobile AI and graphics performance, and smash misconceptions about x86 efficiency. Only Intel has the scale through our partnerships with ISVs and OEMs, and the broader technology ecosystem, to provide consumers with a no-compromise AI PC experience."
--Michelle Johnston Holthaus, Intel executive vice president and general manager of the Client Computing Group
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Magewell's USB Capture family has long been the gold standard for professional video capture devices, earning a reputation for being the easiest and most reliable way to bring video and audio signals into software for live streaming, video conferencing, medical imaging and more. Magewell has expanded the renowned product line with the unveiling of a new model that captures video sources up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second - the USB Capture HDMI 4K Pro. The new model will be demonstrated alongside other Magewell innovations in stand 7.A44 at the IBC2024 exhibition in Amsterdam from September 13 to 16.

Magewell's compact USB Capture devices enable computers including laptops to capture high-quality AV signals through a USB interface, with no additional power source required. The new USB Capture HDMI 4K Pro offers everything that users love about the existing USB Capture HDMI 4K Plus model, while leveraging 20 Gbps USB transfer performance on compatible host systems to enable the capture of 4K video at higher frame rates and color precision.
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Cooler Master, a leading provider of PC components, gaming peripherals, and tech lifestyle solutions, today announced the Shark X, a groundbreaking pre-built PC that redefines the boundaries between performance, design, and art. The Shark X delivers an exceptional computing experience while standing as a bold statement piece inspired by the ocean's mightiest and most efficient predator.

"The Shark X is not just a high-performance PC—it's a masterpiece that brings art and technology together, reflecting Cooler Master's commitment to innovative design and engineering," said Jimmy Sha, CEO of Cooler Master.
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Kingston Digital, Inc., the flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., a world leader in memory products and technology solutions, today announced it is shipping the NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD for users looking for high capacity 4x4 NVMe PCIe performance in a compact form factor.

The Kingston NV3 PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD is a robust next-gen storage solution powered by a Gen 4x4 NVMe controller. The Kingston NV3 delivers read/write speeds of up to 6,000/5,000 MB/s, ensuring a faster system capable of handling a variety of workloads, from editing to gaming. The drive optimizes system performance and delivers value without compromise. Its compact single-sided M.2 2280 (22x80mm) design allows for storage expansion up to 4TB2,5 while saving space for other components. As a cost-effective storage solution, the NV3 is ideal for creators and gamers looking to enhance their PC performance.
[Editor's note: Our in-depth review of the Kingston NV3 is now live]Read full story

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Thermaltake, a leading PC DIY brand for premium hardware solutions, is thrilled to announce that the CTE E550 TG Mid Tower Chassis is now ready for purchase. The CTE E550 TG features three tempered glass panels, providing an expansive view to showcase your build. Furthermore, it supports the latest hidden-connector motherboards and offers a three-way GPU installation option, seamlessly blending aesthetics with high compatibility. Available in Black, Snow, Gravel Sand, and Matcha Green, the CTE E550 TG allows you to choose the perfect color for PC configurations.

The CTE E550 TG is the CTE Series' new dual chamber mid-tower with a panoramic design. It is equipped with tempered glass panels on the front, rear, and left side, delivering a wide field of vision typically seen only in open-frame chassis. Compatible with standard and the latest hidden-connector motherboards such as ASUS BTF Series, MSI PROJECT ZERO Series, and GIGABYTE PROJECT STEALTH Series, the CTE E550 TG excels in cable management by routing cables to the back side for a cleaner, more organized look.
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For over a decade, Noble has been leading the way in universal and custom in-ear monitor design and development. From their first K-10 universal IEM, to their award-winning true wireless range and prestige custom in-ear monitors - Noble only uses the finest materials, hand-crafted with passion and precision. The FoKus Apollo is Noble's first ever headphone model, and the world's first headphones to use a dynamic driver and planar magnetic driver hybrid speaker arrangement. This unique blend of technologies results in audio like no other wireless headphone that has come before, utilizing the accuracy and top-end clarity of planar with the power and body achieved by dynamic drivers. Available to buy on the 3rd September from NobleAudio.com and selected retailers worldwide for $649/£599/€699.

The FoKus Apollo is Noble's first foray into the world of over-ear headphones. With the world's first patented 40 mm dynamic driver and 14.5 mm planar magnetic hybrid driver speaker arrangement, Noble has created a headphone that is completely unique in sound and design. Planar magnetic speakers are known for their delicacy and accuracy, without the blurring effects of excessive inertia. Dynamic drivers provide excellent bass by moving significant amounts of air, however, due to their mass, dynamic drivers cannot provide the crystal clear mid and high frequencies that planar magnetic speakers are capable of. By utilizing both a dynamic speaker and a planar magnetic speaker the Noble FoKus Apollo provides the clarity of a planar magnetic driver, while retaining the bass of a dynamic driver. Two worlds collide for a stunningly blissful audio experience like no other.
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be quiet!, the German manufacturer for premium PC components, is proud to announce the latest AIO series in its cooling portfolio: Light Loop. This water cooling series focuses on cooling capabilities and vivid lighting effects. An ARGB cooling block with a unique diffuser and ARGB-enabled Light Wings LX fans allow for impressively vibrant and colorful illumination. The jet plate and cold plate are optimized for enhanced performance, while a progressive IC keeps the pump noise low, making Light Loop the perfect match for users with overclocked systems. Light Loop is available in black and white versions with 240 mm and 360 mm radiators.

It's hard to overlook Light Loop. With up to 64 LEDs in total on the uniquely illuminated cooling block and the brand-new, visually imposing Light Wings LX 120 mm PWM high-speed fans this AIO series leaves a vibrant, lasting impression in every PC. The included ARGB-PWM-hub connects up to 6 PWM fans and 6 ARGB components to just one PWM and one ARGB header on the motherboard, for full ARGB synchronization of all lighting effects. The hub can be positioned anywhere inside the case with adhesive tape or screw holes that match 2.5" SSD mounting.
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Bang & Olufsen today announced its new flagship headphones Beoplay H100, reaching back into almost a century of history to redefine the listening future. Building on the success of Beoplay H95, Bang & Olufsen's most successful headphones to date, Beoplay H100 is improved in every discipline: unrivalled high-quality sound, outstanding digital noise cancellation, a new modular construction and a beautiful design that builds on Bang & Olufsen's design icons.

"Beoplay H100 elevates what we have accomplished over the past ten decades and defines our future: an era where beautiful sound is built to last. It represents the true potential of what a Bang & Olufsen audio wearable can be, and we cannot wait to bring the headphones to our customers," says Bang & Olufsen CEO Kristian Teär and continues: "Drawing inspiration from the unparalleled performance of our Beolab speakers, our iconic designs from the past and the modular construction that embraces material excellence and circularity, Beoplay H100 truly embodies our design and innovation capabilities."
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COLORFUL has introduced the Mini PC--Model No. CMNH01-13620H, an upgraded version of the previous 12450H model with a new CPU. This product is equipped with the Intel 13th Gen i7-13620H processor, built on the Intel 7 process, featuring 10 cores and 16 threads, with a turboboost up to 4.40 GHz. This upgrade brings a noticeable performance improvement. The CMNH01-13620H also features an optimized thermal design, with a high-power, low-noise turbofan that creates an efficient airflow for effective cooling.

In terms of connectivity, the front panel includes 2 USB 3.2 ports, while the rear offers 1 Type-C port, 2 USB 2.0 ports, 1 HDMI port, and 1 DP port, allowing for a triple-screen display setup. The compact dimensions of the unit are 127×127.5×54.7 mm. The CMNH01-13620H is part of COLORFUL's new Mini PC series "SMART 500", which focuses on upgrading and expanding the Mini PC product line. The series will continue to introduce more diverse and feature-rich Mini PC products in the future.

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GEEKOM, a global leader in high-end mini PCs, has partnered with TECNO, a renowned name in the tech industry, to unveil the groundbreaking MEGAMINI G1 on KICKSTARTER, the world's smallest water-cooled gaming PC. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the evolution of mini PC technology by merging outstanding performance with cutting-edge industrial design, setting new standards.

The MEGAMINI G1 boasts a compact chassis with a volume of only 5.74 liters, featuring a stylish metal exterior, transparent side panel, and charming RGB lighting. It is equipped with a mini display screen for real-time monitoring of CPU, GPU load, and chassis temperature. Undoubtedly, the MEGAMINI G1 stands out as a sci-fi masterpiece in the realm of gaming PCs.
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ASUSTOR Inc. today launched the nine-port hybrid 10GbE/2.5GbE Switch'nstor 9 Gen 2 which has eight 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports and a 10GbE port using SFP+ for NAS devices. Attach an ASUSTOR 10-Gigabit-Ethernet-Enabled NAS to give up to four clients full-speed access at 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet speeds without bottlenecks which improves the work efficiency of content creators and enterprises.

Not only can up to four clients receive full 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet performance when attaching a 10-Gigabit Ethernet ASUSTOR NAS to the switch, but the flexibility of 2.5-Gigabit Ethernet ports also allows for eight clients to connect at above-Gigabit performance for maximum efficiency. In addition to high speeds, the Switch'nstor 9 Gen 2 has numerous convenience features like its ability to be mounted on a wall, its fanless design ensures silence, and its 12 Watt hours of power consumption ensures it saves money over the long run which makes the Switch'nstor 9 Gen 2 especially suitable for team collaboration, home entertainment, small businesses and families.
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