TechPowerUP NEWS

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Exceleram, a provider of high-quality RAM and storage devices, announces the release of the new 42 DDR4 U-DIMM and 42 DDR5 U-DIMM product series. A standout feature is its anodized aluminium heatsink, which enhances durability while giving the module a sleek finish. Its minimalist black design provides a subtle touch to any hardware setup. With a low-profile height of just 38.5 mm, it is engineered to fit seamlessly into compact builds, including SFF cases and systems equipped with large CPU coolers.

"Of course, this is a homage to The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy," says Steven Eisenstein, VP of Product at Exceleram. "We wanted to build a RAM that serves as the answer to any question about memory, even if you have not asked the question yet. With our 42 series, you simply cannot go wrong. It is stylish yet simple, standing out without being distracting," said Excelram.
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[NextPowerUP]

OpenAI and NVIDIA today announced a letter of intent for a landmark strategic partnership to deploy at least 10 gigawatts of NVIDIA systems for OpenAI's next-generation AI infrastructure to train and run its next generation of models on the path to deploying superintelligence. To support this deployment including data center and power capacity, NVIDIA intends to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI as the new NVIDIA systems are deployed. The first phase is targeted to come online in the second half of 2026 using the NVIDIA Vera Rubin platform.

"NVIDIA and OpenAI have pushed each other for a decade, from the first DGX supercomputer to the breakthrough of ChatGPT," said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. "This investment and infrastructure partnership mark the next leap forward—deploying 10 gigawatts to power the next era of intelligence."
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[NextPowerUP]

Ubiquiti has unveiled its UniFi UNAS desktop NAS series that includes the UNAS 2 (two-bay) and UNAS 4 (four-bay) models each targeting different storage and performance needs. The UNAS 4 with its four bays, stands as the top model in the series featuring a quad-core Arm Cortex-A55 processor operating at 1.7 GHz paired with 4 GB of system memory. It can hold both 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch drives, and has room for two M.2 NVMe SSDs. This device is 246 x 129 x 224.5 mm in size and weighs 2.6 kg. Users can swap drives while the system is running, set up RAID, and use hot-spare features. The drives can use up to 80 W of power, while the whole system tops out at 90 W through PoE+++ power delivery.

The smaller UNAS 2 is made for less demanding setups offering two 3.5-inch drive bays in a 135 x 129 x 223.7 mm case. While lacking hot-swap functionality and NVMe support, it retains the same processor, memory configuration, and networking options as its larger sibling. Power consumption drops to 60 W via PoE++ delivery.
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[NextPowerUP]

Monthly subscriptions for PDF software can add up quickly. PDF Expert is a simple alternative with a one-time lifetime plan that lets you edit, organize, and share PDFs on a Mac without ongoing fees. Right now, a lifetime subscription is only $79.97 (reg. $139.99). PDF Expert is fast, clean, and built for macOS, so you can jump right into your work without dealing with a complicated interface.

Until September 30 at 11:59 p.m. PT, you can get a PDF Expert Premium Lifetime Subscription on sale for $79.97.
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[NextPowerUP]

Windows OS is bringing back live wallpapers, reminiscent of the Windows Vista era. Originally known as DreamScene, this feature enabled video files, such as MP4 or MKV, to be used as live wallpapers on Windows desktop PCs. Microsoft is currently testing this feature again, as noted by @phantomofearth on X. In the latest Windows 11 Dev/Beta build 26x20.6690, there is a hidden option that lets you use video files as live wallpapers. Microsoft is also testing support for external files, which means we might see the company include a selection of customized live wallpapers in the next Windows 11 update.

To enable this feature, you need to be a part of the Windows Insider program. Once you become a part of this feature-preview program, you need to enable feature ID 57645315 and restart your explorer.exe, so Windows can apply it. However, the timeline for this feature is uncertain, and it might be part of next year's major updates. As of now, no significant features have been added this year. Microsoft isn't aiming for more under-the-hood changes for the 25H2 update, nor a visual makeover that prior updates were usually known for. Instead, the updates are primarily focused on security and are delivered as an enablement package. For changes like this, we assume Microsoft needs more bug testing before rolling out the feature to stable channels.

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[NextPowerUP]

Windows OS is bringing back live wallpapers, reminiscent of the Windows Vista era. Originally known as DreamScene, this feature enabled video files, such as MP4 or MKV, to be used as live wallpapers on Windows desktop PCs. Microsoft is currently testing this feature again, as noted by @phantomofearth on X. In the latest Windows 11 Dev/Beta build 26x20.6690, there is a hidden option that lets you use video files as live wallpapers. Microsoft is also testing support for external files, which means we might see the company include a selection of customized live wallpapers in the next Windows 11 update.

To enable this feature, you need to be a part of the Windows Insider program. Once you become a part of this feature-preview program, you need to enable feature ID 57645315 and restart your explorer.exe, so Windows can apply it. However, the timeline for this feature is uncertain, and it might be part of next year's major updates. As of now, no significant features have been added this year. Microsoft isn't aiming for more under-the-hood changes for the 25H2 update, nor a visual makeover that prior updates were usually known for. Instead, the updates are primarily focused on security and are delivered as an enablement package. For changes like this, we assume Microsoft needs more bug testing before rolling out the feature to stable channels.

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[NextPowerUP]

Intel has reportedly split its driver branches for its older processors, with the 11th-14th Gen Core processors now on a separate iGPU driver branch compared to the newer CPU models. According to the latest driver release dated September 19th, Intel supplies Intel Graphics Driver 32.0.101.7076 for 11th-14th Gen Intel Core processor graphics, separating the support for integrated graphics into "Arc"-based and non-Arc-based models. The 11th Gen Intel "Rocket Lake" Core processors feature UHD Graphics 750, while the 12th Gen "Alder Lake", 13th Gen "Raptor Lake", and 14th Gen "Raptor Lake Refresh" Core processors feature UHD Graphics 770 GPU, all based on Intel's older "Iris" architecture. Hence, Intel decided to separate these older "Iris" variations from its newest "Arc" driver support branch, possibly assigning different support teams to the iGPU driver support.

The current cross-architecture package, v32.0.101.7029, continues to support Intel "Arc" as well as "Iris Xe" integrated designs while listing compatibility with 11th-Gen CPUs and newer. Separately, Intel published a slightly newer iGPU-focused release, v32.0.101.7076, that targets the non-Arc integrated graphics used on 11th-14th-Gen Core processors (the Iris/UHD variants). The existence of a dedicated v7076 branch implies Intel consolidated a set of iGPU-specific tweaks—performance and power/frequency profiles, accumulated bug fixes and platform adjustments—into a parallel maintenance stream before rolling broader Arc/Iris Xe updates through the v7029 line.
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[NextPowerUP]

After AMD recently leaked its own FSR 4 libraries on its GPUOpen GitHub repo, replete with libraries that support older hardware, it was only a matter of time before enterprising modders started demonstrating how those libraries could be used to port FSR to older RDNA GPUs. An enterprising Reddit user and modder recently posted a how-to guide explaining how to get FSR 4 implemented in games on RDNA 2 GPUs, and the results reveal improved image quality at the cost of performance. There are other caveats, as well, like having to use a very outdated driver or dive deep into configuration files to rename DLL files to get the upscaler working.

According to both the results posted in the Reddit thread and testing done by Computerbase, FSR 4 seems to offer a balance between native image quality and FSR 3.1 performance on both RDNA 3 and RDNA 2 hardware. Computerbase tested Cyberpunk 2077 in 4K on the Ultra settings preset using the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX, and FSR 4 delivered 11% faster performance than native, but fell short of FSR 3.1 frame rates by 16%. The Reddit user who posted the how-to guide tested an AMD RX6950 XT across a range of FSR 4 quality presets, and found that even when set to "Quality," the RDNA 2 GPU gained around 10% performance compared to native rendering in The Last of Us Part 2 at 1440p. Both sources comment that the image quality is a noticeable improvement over FSR 3, and it was more stable than XeSS, which, to its credit, beat out FSR 4 on RDNA 2 in The Last of Us Part 2 by up to 10%, depending on the quality preset. Curiously, similar performance deltas were observed when comparing the unofficial INT8 FSR 4 libraries on RDNA 4 to the officially supported FP8 libraries, and the performance difference between FSR 3.1 and FSR 4 is almost identical, as well.

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[NextPowerUP]

MONTECH, a leading innovator in PC cases and cooling solutions, proudly announces the HyperFlow Digital Series, available in both 240 mm and 360 mm configurations. Designed to deliver enhanced clarity and control, the HyperFlow Digital features an integrated digital display that provides real-time CPU and GPU temperature monitoring at a glance. Paired with a high-density 27 mm radiator and MONTECH's newly engineered E28 ARGB performance fans, the HyperFlow Digital ensures exceptional thermal efficiency with striking ARGB lighting. The E28 fans, included with the cooler, will also be available as a standalone product, giving users the flexibility to upgrade their builds with precision-engineered airflow and static pressure performance.

At the core of the HyperFlow Digital is a 3100 RPM high-efficiency pump, paired with a bold 7-segment digital display that puts real-time CPU or GPU temperatures front and center. Supporting this hardware is MONTECH's streamlined software—lightweight, intuitive, and effortless to use—enabling quick toggles between sensor sources and °C/°F readouts. With near-zero footprint and instant responsiveness, it empowers users to stay in control of their system thermals without distraction.

[Editor's note: Our in-depth review of the HyperFlow AIO is now live]
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[NextPowerUP]

Biwin announces that its Amber CB500 CFexpress Type B card has become the world's first CFexpress Type B card to receive VPG800 certification from the CompactFlash Association. With sustained write speeds of 800 MB/s guaranteed, the CB500 empowers filmmakers, cinematographers, and content creators to capture 8K RAW, high frame rate, and uncompressed video with stability. When every frame matters, the Biwin Amber CB500 CFexpress 4.0 Type B memory card is built to keep up, offering the reliability and performance pros need to stay focused on the shot. Crafted for creators, it flows seamlessly with their workflow.

• Enhanced Speed & Performance: Up to 3750 MB/s read and 3500 MB/s write speeds, supporting 4K, 6K, 8K and 12K RAW high-bitrate video recording. Up to 40 Gb/s transfer speed when paired with the Biwin Amber RB510 high-speed card reader, enabling fast, seamless data offloading and accelerating the post-production process.
• Guaranteed Stability with VPG800: Certified for a sustained 800 MB/s write speed for consistent performance during long takes.
• Optimized for Professional Workflows: Reduces transfer times during file offloading, streamlining entire workflows to move faster from shooting to editing.

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[NextPowerUP]

As a global leader in gaming and high-performance computing, MSI will showcase its latest AI-powered product lineup at Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2025. The portfolio spans gaming laptops, desktops, monitors, graphics cards, motherboards, components, and peripherals—delivering breakthroughs in performance, design, and cross-cultural innovation. Since its inception in 1996, Tokyo Game Show has become one of the world's most influential gaming events, serving as a vital stage for MSI to demonstrate its technological strength and brand value to a global audience. In 2025, MSI will highlight not only top-tier performance but also the fusion of technology and culture, exemplified by the Prestige 13 AI+ Ukiyo-e Edition and the MLG Series, showcasing the brand's innovative drive.

Sam Chern, Vice President of Marketing at MSI, stated: "As a leader in gaming and high-performance computing, MSI is dedicated to delivering cutting-edge technology to gamers. At this year's Tokyo Game Show, we are unveiling our new generation of AI-powered products while also paying tribute to Japanese culture—from the timeless artistry of Ukiyo-e to the MLG character universe. We want gamers to experience not just performance and design, but also the cultural connections that make each product unique. Every product showcased at TGS represents a chapter co-created with our global gaming community."
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[NextPowerUP]

EK by LM TEK, the leader in high-performance liquid cooling solutions, proudly presents the new EK-CryoFuel Space Black (Premix 1000ml) Clear Coolant. Based on our award-winning formula, EK CryoFuel Space Black is developed with vivid black color for maximum light absorption, ensuring an ultra-premium Space Black finish to your custom-loop.

This coolant contains everything a high-end liquid cooling system requires for efficient thermal performance and providing the necessary protection for your water blocks. Now available to order at EK Shop and authorized EK distributors such as TITANRIG (US) & AQUATUNING (Germany, Austria, Switzerland).
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[NextPowerUP]

BIOSTAR, a leading manufacturer of edge computing solutions, industrial motherboards, graphics cards, and storage devices, today introduces the EdgeComp MU-N150, a compact, fanless industrial PC designed to meet the versatile demands of modern industrial applications. Engineered for system integrators, automation systems, edge computing, HMI terminals, and digital signage, the MU-N150 delivers powerful performance, silent operation, and broad connectivity in a rugged, space-saving form factor.

Designed for seamless integration into a wide range of industrial and commercial environments, the EdgeComp MU-N150 is ideal for system integrators managing customer data and business workflows, automation engineers developing real-time control systems, and edge computing solutions that demand high-speed local processing. With its dual Intel 2.5GbE LAN, robust I/O options, and fanless reliability, the MU-N150 also excels in HMI applications and kiosk systems, supporting essential peripherals like barcode scanners, receipt printers, and card readers. For digital signage deployments, its triple 4K display support enables crisp, multiscreen output in a compact, low-maintenance form factor.
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[NextPowerUP]

ASUS today announced the Turbo Radeon AI Pro R9700 32 GB graphics card, designed for AI developers and other professionals who seek efficient cooling, compact design, and reliability for their high-performance workstations. It empowers users to run large memory-intensive AI models locally, and its two-slot profile—cooled by a blower-style system—makes it ideal for multi-GPU setups and space-constrained cases.

Advanced cooling system
The blower-style fan generates high static pressure and is paired with a diecast metal shroud and backplate to help ensure efficient heat dissipation. This design expels most heat directly out of the case, which helps to keep system temperatures stable so consistently high performance can be maintained even under the most demanding AI workloads. The diecast backplate also features unique wave patterns and folds that can reduce memory temperature by up to 16%—a significant improvement over traditional designs. Meanwhile, the phase-change GPU thermal pad liquifies to fill in any gaps between the die and the heatsink, providing excellent heat transfer and more durable material than regular thermal paste.
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[NextPowerUP]

According to Korean media outlet News Daily, Samsung Electronics has confirmed that it has raised contract prices for DRAM by as much as 15-30% and mobile NAND flash by roughly 5-10%, in response to a noticeably tighter supply/demand balance. Samsung reportedly notified major customers ahead of fourth-quarter contracting, following a market shift, where older-generation parts are being phased down while demand from hyperscale cloud operators and device makers racing to ship AI-enabled PCs and flagship phones has surged. Additionally, Samsung's rivals such as SK Hynix and Micron have signaled similar adjustments, with several suppliers notifying clients of double-digit increases and temporary limits on new quotes. For buyers, the result is immediate price pressure across server and mobile storage purchases, while for vendors, it is a tactical reprioritization of wafer capacity toward higher-margin, next-generation product lines.

Samsung's DRAM LPDDR4X, LPDDR5, and LPDDR5X families, as well as embedded NAND formats such as eMMC and UFS, are among those experiencing contract uplifts. Meanwhile, shortages in commodity DDR4 briefly pushed spot quotes sharply higher. Memory makers have redirected capacity to DDR5 and HBM, prioritizing HBM orders used by AI accelerators, tightening the supply of consumer-focused DRAM. Samsung, which retains roughly a third of global DRAM and NAND market share, is accelerating development of next-generation LPDDR6 even as it tweaks production schedules for legacy nodes. The pricing reset is expected to materially improve semiconductor division margins in the near term, cushioning against earlier cyclical weakness. For customers, it will force revisions to inventory planning and, likely, a renewed focus on design choices for price/performance.

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