Transcend releases triple channel DDR3-1333 memory kits

By Koushik Saha on 5.1.09

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Transcend Information Inc has released its DDR3-1333 triple channel memory kits for use with Intel Core i7 processors and Intel X58 Express Chipset motherboards. Transcend’s triple channel kits are designed specifically for the new platform, and offer an optimized combination of low voltage (1.5V), speed and enhanced latency (9-9-9-24) to deliver suitable performance and compatibility with next-generation PCs.
Available in two different capacities of 3GB (1GBx3) and 6GB (2GBx3), Transcend’s DDR3-1333 triple channel memory kits’ three identically matched DDR3 modules are carefully matched for use in triple-channel configuration, which together provide memory bandwidth of up to 32GB/sec. To ensure extra-stability and signal integrity, all DDR3 modules use robust PCBs that fully comply with JEDEC standards.Each chip is manufactured using small Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) packages with extra contacts to assure better thermal dissipation, electrical efficiency and reliable computing quality.

Transcend memory modules are built to the highest specifications with the finest chips and materials available, and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they provide the best performance possible. All Transcend memory modules come with a lifetime warranty and the support of a global service network.


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ASUS launches Triton 88 cooler to cool core i7

By Koushik Saha on 25.12.08

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To keep up with the latest trends in processor technologies, ASUS has been constantly launching powerful CPU coolers to cater to the demands of gaming enthusiasts worldwide. However, one of the most eagerly-awaited would no doubt be the latest ASUS Triton 88 CPU cooler. This “fierce-looking” exterior of the Triton 88 comprises of an exclusive twin-pillared heatsink design, a 120mm inner-fan with a Diamond blue LED, and 6 copper heatpipes. With this ensemble of thermal features, it is able to deliver ultimate cooling performances for up to 180W and can support multiple applications—including the latest Intel® Core™ i7 processor (LGA1366).

Exclusive Twin-pillared Design and 120mm Inner-fan for 180W Overclocking Support
The Triton 88 utilizes an exclusive twin-pillared heatsink design that; when combined with the 120mm inner-fan, will help in lowering temperatures and create powerful air-cooled performance for extremeoverclocking of up to 180W. Furthermore, with the fan positioned within the heatsink, VRM can be protected against high temperatures with the guiding of cool air to critical components near the CPU—ensuring system stability.

Massive Heat Dissipation Area of up to 8000cm2 for Optimal Cooling
To provide the best heat dissipation, the Triton 88 is also equipped with a massive heat dissipation area of up to 8000cm2; while 6 high conductive copper heatpipes and the 120mm LED fan provides maximum airflow and optimal cooling performance. This will ensure that enthusiasts worldwide will be able to enjoy overclocking of up to 180W without an inkling of concern. Furthermore, the Triton 88 is equipped with a PWM function that is able to automatically adjust the fan speed according to the CPU’s temperature—providing low acoustics during operation.

Up-to-date Application
To keep up with future gaming and processor technologies, the Triton 88 not only supports multiple applications, and but also the latest Intel® Core™ i7 processor (LGA1366). DIY and gaming enthusiasts worldwide can now easily utilize this top-notch cooler to help ensure that their own PC systems can run faster and more stable than ever before.


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Intel Core i7 920, Core i7 965 EE

By Koushik Saha on 15.12.08

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Long awaited Nehalem architecture got its official name: Core i7. We have tested two CPUs based on this architecture along with one motherboard based on X58 chipset also signed by Intel. But let’s cut to the chase and go straight to testing and results.
New Chipset

Code name for X58 chipset is “Tylersburg”. This chipset is made in 65 nm manufacturing process and it is direct descendant of X48 chipset, which means that it belongs to Intel Extreme chipset series. There will be more than one version of X58 chipset: EP, EN and WS version that will be differentiated by number of PCI Express lines and QPI (QuickPath Interconnect) connections (links, busses). On server or WS (WorkStation) motherboards we can expect larger number of QPIs (used for I/O communication of integrated memory controller), while EP versions will have more PCI Express lines. Motherboards based on EP and EN versions of X58 chipset will be used more frequently than WS version. Weexpect that EP versions of X58 motherboards will have at least 3 PCI Express slots of which 2 slots will operate in x16 mode. Maybe the best detail of X58 chipset is that it will support CrossFire and SLI technologies.X58 chipset consists of two chips but MCH (Memory Controller Hub – memory controller) is integrated in CPU so there is no memory controller in NorthBridge. Because of that it is wrong to call it NorthBridge but many of us will continue to call it that way. Right name for that chip would be: I/O Hub, because almost only function of this chip is to connect CPU with PCI Express bus and SouthBridge. ICH10 or ICH10R (I/O Control Hub) is known from the past, and we encountered it for the first time on P45 chipset. Technical specifications are the same: 6 SATAII ports, two GB LAN controllers, 12 USB 2.0 ports, 6 PCI Express x1 slots, Intel HD audio etc. Real difference is existence of one PCI slot and no PATA connectors.At first sight Intel DX58SO is so different from any other tested motherboard and since we got technical sample we cannot comment on accessories that will be in retail package. Motherboard itself looks conservative and at the same time very contemporary. As you may already conclude, it is based on X58 chipset. This model belongs to Intel Extreme series of motherboards. Layout is drastically different from earlier models from this series. DDR3 memory slots are located on same positions as on legendary DFI NF4 LanParty Ultra-D model. There are 4 DIMM memory slots but it is not clear why Intel didn’t implement all 6 slots. Triple Channel mode for memory is achievable by inserting memory modules in blue colored DIMM slots. Fourth slot is almost useless in this configuration because it can be cause of problems with memory addressing (degradation of performances can occur), especially if we take into account integrated memory controller. Location of memory slots affected position of CPU socket that is located almost at the center of motherboard. Six-phase power unit is placed right beside CPU socket and mosfet transistors are covered with aluminum heat-spreaders. On the right are positioned 24-pin power connector and I/O Hub (IOH) that is also cooled by blue colored aluminum heat-spreader on which can be mounted 40mm transparent fan. This small fan is lighted by blue diodes and can be mounted thanks to supplied plastics clips. EPS12 connector has unusual location: at the middle of motherboard closer to right edge. We assume that this location is used because of closeness with CPU power unit so current will be more “ironed” and with less loss. Other components on motherboard have more or less standard positions.
Besides standard and many times seen options, most interesting options are those that are used for overclock. Overclock options can be found in “Processor Overrides” section while other important settings can be found in “BUS Overrides” and “Memory Overrides” sections. In BUS Overrides menu you can set voltage and basic speed of integrated memory controller and QPI bus. In Memory Overrides section can be found settings for all memory timings. Interesting detail is that only upon inserting Core i7 965 CPU we unlocked some of the options in Memory Overrides section. One of those “new” options were two additional multipliers for memory (10 and 12) besides “old” 6 and 8 values. After we plugged in “weaker” Core i7 920 CPU those options disappeared but despite that we managed to achieve stable clock for QPI of 195MHz which resulted in 3.9 GHz frequency for Core i7 920 CPU model. Very impressive! Unfortunately we didn’t manage to determine are those 195 MHz limit of motherboard or is it only for our CPU. The fact was that motherboard booted even on QPI set on 210 MHz but system was very unstable. Most surprising fact was that even with new BIOS (updated) motherboard didn’t allowed us to lower multiplier so we didn’t manage to test limits of QPI bus. Nor “regular” (920) nor EE (Extreme Edition – 965) Core i7 didn’t allowed us to lower multiplier so we think that it is “fresh” BIOS to be blamed for that and the hope remains that this “bug” will be ironed in next BIOS version.


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Intel finalized 32 nm

By Koushik Saha on 12.12.08

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The first 45 nm processor Intel was unveiled in October 2007, was the Core 2 Extreme QX9650. In mid-November 2008, Intel introduced its new architecture, Nehalem, with the Core i7, always engraved in 45 nm. To follow the agenda of its tick-tock (a new fine etching / a new architecture a year, alternating), the manufacturer will have to disclose the process of burning 32 nm next year. The roadmaps show the "Westmere", a development of 32 nm "Bloomfield" (the Core i7), scheduled for Q4 2009. And obviously, "Sandy Bridge" with a new architecture, landing in 2010. All this seems on track ...

You should know that Intel is preparing a new finesse burning in three stages, the research, development and production. In September, the foundryfoundry announced it had produced a first chip SRAM in 32 nm. Today, Intel indicate that the development of this fine etching and her forthcoming production. The world's leading manufacturer of x86 processors is on time and for the moment everything is going well for the 32 nm.

AMD, which has just introduced its first server processors in 45 nm and declination preparing their public for January, should keep a good year behind Intel. The manufacturer should not break its 32 nm server CPU before the end of 2010, and the general public will have to wait 2011. AMD has also recently indicated that instead of the 44% originally planned, it has only 34% of The Foundry Company, the rest being provided by investors from Abu Dhabi.


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Patriot's unveils Viper Series Tri-Channel for Intel i7

By Koushik Saha on 4.12.08

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Patriot Memory, a global provider of premium quality memory module and flash memory solutions, today announced the release of their Viper series Tri-Channel memory kits designed for the forthcoming Intel® Core™ i7/Intel® X58 Express Chipset. Available in both 3GB and 6GB kits, these newly engineered memory kits come with the award winning Viper series heat shields and are the perfect balance of speed and latency while achieving lower voltage requirements."Intel's® Nehalem architecture shows significant improvements over previous platforms," says Les Henry, Technical Director for Patriot Memory.
"High performance DDR3 DIMMs from Patriot Memory, combined with the phenomenal memory bandwidth & processing capability of Intel's®upcoming Core™ i7 microprocessors, will deliver exciting levels of performance to PC enthusiasts worldwide," said, Steve R. Peterson, Intel's® Director of Chipset & Graphics Marketing.


PRODUCT INFO:
3GB PC3-12800 Viper Series Low Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1600MHz (3 x 1GB) 8-8-8-24
6GB PC3-12800 Viper Series Low Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1600MHz (3 x 2GB) 8-8-8-24
3GB PC3-12800 Viper Series Enhanced Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1600MHz (3 x 1GB) 9-9-9-24
6GB PC3-12800 Viper Series Enhanced Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1600MHz (3 x 2GB) 9-9-9-24
3GB PC3-10666 Viper Series Low Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1333MHz (3 x 1GB) 7-7-7-20
6GB PC3-10666 Viper Series Low Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1333MHz (3 x 2GB) 7-7-7-20
3GB PC3-10666 Viper Series Enhanced Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1333MHz (3 x 1GB) 9-9-9-24
6GB PC3-10666 Viper Series Enhanced Latency Tri-Channel Kit, 1333MHz (3 x 2GB) 9-9-9-24

The Viper series Tri-Channel kits will also include Intel's® newest XMP settings for Core™ i7 processor based platforms. When enabled, XMP settings allow easy, uncomplicated overclocking on Intel's® X58 Express chipsets.

Patriot will also offer a 3GB and 6GB PC3-10666 1333MHz CL9 Tri-Channel kit for their Signature Line for entry level consumers looking to experience Intel's® newest platform.

Patriot's Tri-Channel solutions are manufactured and tested for quality and compatibility as a kit in our USA manufacturing facility located in Fremont, CA.


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Core 2 processors with TDP desktop systems

By Koushik Saha on 21.11.08

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Despite the recent debut of solutions based on Nehalem architecture, marketed under the brand name of Core I7 few days, Intel seems not willing to stop the development of solutions Core 2 Duo systems for Socket 775 LGA least for the first part of 2009 .

The debut of some new cpu with Intel quad core architecture characterized by low levels of consumption of particular content, with maximum TDP in 65 Watt said.

The models are to debut Core 2 Quad Q9550, with clock frequency of 2.83 GHz and L2 cache of 12 Mbytes, Core 2 Quad Q9400 with clock of 2.66 GHz and 6 MB of L2 cache and Core 2 Quad Q8200 with clock of 2.33 GHz and L2 cache of 4 MB. For all these cpu are the same value as TDP quad pumped bus and by 1333 for MHz clock.he prices are respectively 369, 320 and 245 U.S. dollars excluding taxes.
Processors such, in view of the total content combined with a high power, to obtain HTPC systems of major power computer that does not descend to particular compromises in terms of noise operation. Similar approach will be followed by Intel for a wide range of processors Core 2 family, in this case with TDP up to 35 watts.

The following versions of the processor that will be presented by Intel during the month of November.
Core 2 Extreme QX9300
Core 2 Quad Q9100
Core 2 Extreme X9100
Core 2 Duo T9600
Core 2 Duo P9500
Core 2 Duo T9400
Core 2 Duo P8600.


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Velocity Micro Edge Z55with Intel Core i7

By Koushik Saha on 20.11.08

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Whenever AMD or Intel release a new processor and chipset platform, you can bet there’s going to be a good amount of excitement surrounding the release, along with anticipation as we eagerly await the arrival of systems that incorporate the new technologies. Velocity Micro’s new Edge Z55 Intel Core i7 Gaming System is out and we’ve had the chance to run it through our tests to see just how it stacks up. As you’ll see, the new Intel Core i7 CPU and X58 chipset enables the Velocity Micro Edge Z55 Gaming System to hold its own against the elite PCs of just a few months ago.

The new Core i7 brings with it new chipsets, motherboards, and a new LGA1366 processor socket. What sets the Core i7 processor apart from the other processors is its QuickPath Interconnect, which replaces Intel’s front side bus. This new 40-lane (20 each way), bi-directional serial link provides communication to Intel’s I/O hub and then fans out to PCI Express. The Core i7 also incorporates an integrated, triple-channel memory controller that offers over three times the memory bandwidth of the previous dual-channel controller at DDR3-1066. Intel also brought back Hyper-Threading Technology with the Core i7, which provides two logical threads per processor core, for a total of eight available processing threads in a quad core CPU.Like many enthusiast system manufacturers, Velocity Micro makes hand-built, high-end gaming rigs using the latest components, such as Intel’s Core i7 processors. Velocity Micro claims that they pride themselves on their extensive customization options, meticulous assembly procedures, a technically trained staff, and in-house US-based support. Each system is hand-assembled by expert engineers and run through extensive testing to ensure complete functionality. As you’ll see, Velocity Micro’s engineers are also appear to be very careful about how they route and tie cables to ensure optimal airflow within the chassis.

Velocity Micro offers two series of gaming rigs—the Raptor and Edge series. The Raptor is “the best of the best” with more customization and tweaking options along with higher-end specs. The Raptor line offers two models: the Raptor Signature Edition (starting at $5,499) and the Raptor Z90 (starting at $3,599). The Edge series is also geared towards serious gaming enthusiasts, but strikes a balance between high-end specs and affordability. You’ll find five models in the Edge series: the Edge Z5 (starting at $859), Edge M10 (starting at $1,099), Edge Z15 (starting at $1,499), the Edge M40 (starting at $1,699), and the Edge Z55 (starting at $2,199).

Velocity Micro added a few options to our Edge Z55 test system, bringing the cost up to $2,399. Read on to see how the Edge Z55 Intel Core i7 Gaming System faired as we put the system through the usual level of rigorous HotHardware testing and hands-on evaluation.


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Gateway brings two new gaming PCs

By Koushik Saha on 19.11.08

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Gateway has announced two new desktop PCs from the FX series, featuring the Intel Core i7 processors and Intel X58 Express Chipset.

The new PCs are dubbed as the Gateway FX6800-01e and Gateway FX6800-05.

Gateway FX6800-01e comes powered with Intel Core i7-920 Processor and Intel X58 chipset plus and ATI Radeon HD4850 w/ 512 MB discrete video memory.

It has 3 GB of three channel DDR3 memory and 750 GB SATA II hard drive. Also incorporated are 18X DVD+/-R/RW SuperMulti drive featuring LabelFlash Technology. The other features include 15-in-1 High Speed Digital Media Card Reader with Smart Copy Button and 8 USB ports. There is also a HDMI Connetor v1.3 and the system the PC operates on is Windows Vista Home Premium 64-Bit with Service Pack 1.

The Gateway FX6800-01e is available for an MSRP of $1,249.99.Next is the high-performance Gateway FX6800-05 that engages in it Intel Core i7-940 Processor, Intel X58 Express Chipset and ATI Radeon HD 4870 X2 Graphics w/ 2048MB Discrete Video Memory.

Memory options provided are 6GB DDR3 and 1000GB SATA II hard drive and 80GB SSD. There is also the 18X DVD+/-R/RW SuperMulti Drive with the LabelFlash Technology as present in the FX6800-01e as well. Also there is the 15-in-1 High Speed Digital Media Card Reader with Smart Copy Button, 8 USB ports and HDMI Connector v1.3 and requires 1000 Watt Power Supply unlike the FX6800-01e which requires 500W.

Gateway FX6800-05 can be purchased for $2,999.99 MSRP.

The FX series desktop are available with a one year limited warranty.


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Gigabyte brings X58 Series Mobos

By Koushik Saha on 7.11.08

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Gigabyte has announced their latest high performance X58 Series motherboards
, the GA-EX58-EXTREME and GA-EX58-UD5 designed from the ground up to meet the requirements of Intel's new Core i7 processors. It comes equipped with a host of new features including the new QPI interface, 3 channel DDR3 support, 3 Way SLI and CrossFireX support, Ultra Durable 3 technology.

The Gigabyte X58 Series was designed specifically to take advantage of the power of the next generation Intel Core i7 processors and the Intel X58 Express chipset, whose evolution in computing architecture is able to deliver an amazing performance break through from past processor generations. Replacing the Front Side Bus is the new Quick Path Interconnect, or QPI, whose 25.6 GB/sec transfer rate (double the bandwidth of the 1600MHz FSB) eliminates the communication bottleneck between the processor and chipset.The Intel Core i7 processors also feature an integrated memory controller
inside the processor die and support 192bit 3-channel DDR3 memory that delivers a 50% memory bandwidth
enhancement and lower memory latency for fast memory access. Additionally, the Gigabyte X58 Series features Intel Turbo Boost Technology, which is able to power down idle processor cores and dynamically reroute the power to the active cores for significant performance boosts, and at the same time, maintain greater energy efficiency. The Gigabyte X58 Series delivers 3 PCIe x16 Gen2.0 slots, supporting both ATI CrossFireX and 3 Way NVIDIA SLI.

The new boards come with Gigabyte's Ultra Durable 3 design, featuring 2 ounces of copper for both the Power and Ground layers which lowers system temperature by delivering a more efficient spreading of heat from critical areas of the motherboard such as the CPU power zone throughout the entire PCB. Gigabyte's Ultra Durable 3 also lowers the PCB impedance by 50%, which helps to reduce electrical waste and further lowers component temperatures. A 2oz Copper layer design also provides improved signal quality and lower EMI (Electromagnetic Interference), providing better system stability and allowing for greater margins for overclocking.

In addition to the "cool blue" new look and feel of the Gigabyte X58 Series, the Gigabyte GA-EX58-EXTREME motherboard now features the Gigabyte Hybrid Silent-Pipe 2, a fusion thermal solution that combines Gigabyte's proprietary screen cooling technology, external heat sink and liquid cooling with chipset water block to deliver maximum thermal performance. The Gigabyte GA-EX58-UD5 features specially designed chipset heat sinks and high performance copper heat pipe with sintered process to provide ultra efficient thermal conductivity making sure your system runs ultra cool and ultra stable.

Gigabyte X58 Series motherboards are equipped with 2-Phase power for the North Bridge and memory, allowing users to reach higher memory frequencies and enjoy better performance. Compared with only one phase solutions, this ensures longer power component lifespan and higher overclockability due to cooler working temperatures and better efficiency.

The Gigabyte GA-EX58-EXTREME and GA-EX58-UD5 Motherboards are priced at Rs. 24,650 and Rs. 20,400 respectively.


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Intel Core i7 Nehalem launching on November 17

By Koushik Saha on 6.11.08

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Intel provided information about its next-generation micro-architecture (Nehalem) with the Core i7 processors at a media event on Wednesday in Athens, Greece, prior to the worldwide official release of the system on November 17.

The event ran under the headline of "the fastest processor on the planet". The two major characteristics of the new i7 architecture are the triple-channel integrated memory controllers and the new interface called Quick Path Interconnect (QPI). Other highlights include the monolithic die to consolidate all four cores in a single piece of silicon, and the shared L3 cache. Further improvements include the use of the Hyper-threading as well as the Turbo Boost technologies. The Core i7 processors are also optimized to operate with Intel's X58 chipset.The Corei7 series will feature three quad-core models: The 2.66 GHz Core i7 920 will aim for the sub-$1000 class of PCs, the 2.93 GHz Core i7 940 for more expensive PCs in the $1500-$2000 range and the 3.2 GHz 965 Extreme Edition at enthusiast PCs.

The prices (1K pieces) of these CPUs are $999 for the Extreme Edition, $562 for the 940 and $284 for the 920.The X58 Express chipset covers both the northbridge/southbridge operations. The X58 IOH supports up to 36 PCIe 2.0 lanes. Depending on the processor model, QPI may run at either 6.4 GT/sec (Core i7-965) or 6.4 GT/sec (Core i7-940, i7-920) to communicate with the X58 Express chipset in each direction. This is twice the bandwidth of Intel's currently available X48 chipset, plus the full-duplex transport instead of the half-duplex. AMD's HyperTransport 3.0 still has an advantage herewith up to 41.6GB/s of bi-directional bandwidth.However, the X58 Express does not support the legacy PS/2 IDE, serial or parallel ports.

Turbo mode

Under the "TurboMode", the utilization of the number of active cores is used to adjust the frequency. For example, if only two cores are active, then there will be much more headroom within the thermal and power envelope and the CPU will be clocked higher. So the "turbo" frequencies of each core depend on the number of cores active. We could say that this is mainly a power saving feature.

Turbo Mode boasts single threaded applications as well as the performance of multi-threaded applications, according to Intel. Below is a graph that Intel showed with the Core i7 Extreme CPU to process in single-core and quad-core configurations, with Turbo Mode enabled. The graph shows the percent performance increase with Turbo Mode enable.


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Corsairunveils triple pack memory for Intel CoreTM i7 processors

By Koushik Saha on 23.10.08

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Corsair a worldwide leader in high performance computer and flash memory products, announced today that it is launching a full line of DDR3 performance memory products designed for Intel® CoreTM i7 processor.

Corsair will offer memory solutions supporting three different DDR3 memory speeds in triple memory packs: 1333MHz, 1600MHz and 1866MHz. Each memory speed will feature kits of three 1 Gigabyte or 2 Gigabyte modules for a total of 3 Gigabyte or 6 Gigabyte kits. The 1600MHz and 1866MHz DDR3 memory kits will also feature Corsair?s patented Dual-Path Heat Exchange (DHX) technology for maximum performance and reliability.Corsair?s DDR3-1333 part is available immediately in both 3x1GB and 3x2GB densities. With today?s modern programs utilizing more memory than ever before, Corsair recommends 6GB for optimum performance on the Intel CoreTM i7 platform. Next to launch will be the Dominator DDR3-1600MHz kit, with the DDR3-1866MHz kits to follow just before the official launch of the Intel CoreTM i7 processor.

TR3X6G1866C9DF - 6GB Kit, 1866MHz, DOMINATOR with Airflow fan - $475
TR3X3G1866C9D - 3GB Kit, 1866MHz DOMINATOR with Airflow fan - $250
TR3X6G1600C8D - 6GB Kit, 1600MHz DOMINATOR - $300
TR3X3G1600C8D - 3GB Kit, 1600MHz DOMINATOR - $175
TR3X6G1333C9 - 6GB Kit, 1333MHz - $230
TR3X3G1333C9 - 3GB Kit 1333MHz - $120


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MSI 3.5G Wind with no signs of touchscreen

By Koushik Saha on 20.10.08

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November's shaping up to be a busy month, and it has nothing to do with Thanksgiving. On the desktop front, Intel's Core i7 platform is rumored to launch on November 17th, and in the mobile sector, MSI looks to launch its Wind U120 with built-in 3.5G before December rolls around, according to DigiTimes.

The new netbook will feature the usual assortment of components - Atom N270 processor clocked at 1.6GHz, 1GB of RAM, 120GB hard drive, and Windows XP - tucked underneath your choice of a white or black shell and will run about $550. MSI has been working with Taiwan-based telco Vibo Telecom to implement 3.5G functionality in the U120 and will look to do the same with local telecom providers in Europe.What you won't find on the new netbook is a touchscreen. Asus is rumored to be readying a touchscreen version of its Eee PC line, but MSI cites high costs as a prohibiting factor for its Wind. Bummer.


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Intel scheduled Moorestown Platform in 2009-2010

By Koushik Saha on 20.10.08

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Looking to capitalize on the new surge of Internet-based applications and innovations, Intel today announced that its architecture is well positioned to be at the core of new innovations and transformation, according to Intel executive Anand Chandrasekher.

"Technology innovation is the catalyst for new user experiences, industry collaborations and business models that together will shape the next 40 years," said Chandrasekher. "As the next billion people connect to and experience the Internet, significant opportunities lie in the power of technology and the development of purpose-built devices that deliver more targeted computing needs and experiences."

Based on these observations, Intel spoke about the Atom processor, the upcoming "Nehalem" processor, and the Intel "Moorestown" platform scheduled for the 2009-2010 timeframe. The company also highlighted the progress they are making in the Mobile Internet Devices (MID) market segment with the world's first working "Moorestown" platform demonstration.Moorestown comprises of an SOC, codenamed "Lincroft," which integrates the 45nm processor, graphics, memory controller and video encode/decode onto a single chip and an I/O hub codenamed "Langwell", which supports a range of I/O ports to connect with wireless, storage, and display components in addition to incorporating several board level functions.

Chandrasekher stated that Intel is on track to reduce Moorestown platform idle power by more than 10x compared to the first-generation MIDs based on the Intel Atom processor. He indicated that Moorestown platforms will support a range of wireless technologies including 3G, WiMAX, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth and mobile TV.

Additionally, Chandrasekher announced collaboration with Ericsson for HSPA data modules optimized for the Moorestown platform. He also announced that Option is extending its collaboration for HSPA modules to the Moorestown platform. These 3G modules are 25x30x2.x mm in size, are optimized for Moorestown power requirements and will help provide MID users with always-on Internet-based experiences.

The company also provided details for the Intel Core i7 processor, launching next month.


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Memory Kits For Intel i7 CPUs from OCZ

By Koushik Saha on 17.10.08

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OCZ Technology today unveiled the industry's first triple channel memory kit designed specifically for the impending Intel Core i7 processor / Intel X58 Express Chipset, available in 3GB and 6GB kits.

The new memory modules are Optimized for the Core i7's triple channel mode, combining low voltage requirements, speed, and latency.

Developed for enthusiasts and early-adopters, the low voltage OCZ Triple Channel solutions are the choice counterparts for leading-edge performance that won't inhibit the functionality of Core i7 CPUs."OCZ engineered these 3GB and 6GB kits specifically for Intel's imminent platform," commented Dr. Michael Schuette, VP of Technology Development at OCZ Technology. "By using special-screened, low voltage-capable ICs, these modules are the perfect complement for the Intel X58 Chipset to deliver the maximum performance by enabling low latency settings and higher system frequency."The advanced memory modules offer clock speeds up to 1600MHz at just 1.65V memory voltage. Elpida memory has also anounced the development of DDR3 memory that match these specifications.

OCZ will release the triple channel kits under the Platinum and Gold series designed specifically for enthusiasts and gamers:

OCZ PC3-10666 Gold 3GB (3X1GB) 1333MHz CL 9-9-9-20 1.65V
OCZ PC3-10666 Gold 6GB (3X2GB) 1333MHz CL 9-9-9-20 1.65V
OCZ PC3-12800 Gold 3GB (3x1GB) 1600MHz DDR3 CL8-8-8-24 1.65V
OCZ PC3-12800 Gold 6GB (3x2GB) 1600MHz DDR3 CL8-8-8-24 1.65V
OCZ PC3-10666 Platinum 3GB (3x1GB) 1333MHz CL7-7-7-20 1.65V
OCZ PC3-10666 Platinum 6GB (3x2GB) 1333MHz CL7-7-7-20 1.65V

OCZ?s Triple Channel kits feature propriety XTC (Xtreme Thermal Convection) heatspreaders. The company has not provided pricing details.


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Core i7 Processors not too late to arrive

By Koushik Saha on 15.10.08

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The wait is almost over for anyone who has been anticipating Intel's upcoming processor lineup based on the Nehalem architecture. Citing un-named "industry sources," TGDaily says the new processors will launch on November 17, a little over one month from now. That won't be a paper launch either, as Intel CEO Paul Otellini said during the company's Q3 quarter conference call that Core i7 processors have already begun shipping.

While nothing is yet official, rumors regarding the three desktop processors expected to make the initial Core i7 debut remain unchanged from earlier speculation. These include the Core i7-965XE clocked at 3.2GHz, Core i7-940 clocked at 2.93GHz, and Core i7-920 clocked at 2.66GHz. According to those same sources, pricing in thousand tray quantities will be set at $999, $562, and $284 for the 965XE, 940, and 920 respectively.Also coinciding with the desktop parts, Intel is expected to release high-performance server chips codenamed Nehalem-EP.


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Intel core i7 cPU tested

By Koushik Saha on 26.9.08

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It looks like, while most of us mortals still have to wait until leading chip maker Intel officially unveils its next-generation Core i7 processors, the Chinese-language PC Online is one step ahead in the game. The website already had the chance to test and benchmark the performance of one of Intel's upcoming quad-core Core i7 CPUs, namely the Extreme 940 model.

Now, remember, these new chips aren't expected to come out until sometime in November, so the fact that they have already been tested is quite an important aspect. This is all the more true especially since, in order to fully set up a benchmarking platform for these CPUs, you require not only the processor itself, but also an X58-based motherboard, which comes with the only chipset that can support Intel's upcoming socket LGA1366.

The test was ran in comparison with Intel's Core 2 QX9770 (featuring 12MB of L2 cache) at both reference and overclocked core speeds. The Core 2 test platform included an ASUS X48 motherboard, two 1GB Apacer DDR3-1333 memory modules, a 500GB SATA 7200RPM Seagate hard drive and a GeForce GTX 260 graphics card. The Core i7 test platform featured the same components, plus the Intel X58 motherboard and the Core i7 Extreme 940 CPU, running at a reference clock speed of 2.93GHz and featuring 8MB of L3 cache.In regard to the software, the testing systems ran on a Windows Vista operating system, using the latest drivers. Benchmarking software included Super PI 1.4, Everest Ultimate 4.6, WinRAR 3.71, CINEBENCH R10, Fritz Chess Benchmark, 3DMark2006 and 3DMark Vantage version 101. Also, both CPUs were tested using some of the latest DirectX 9 and DirectX 10 games.

As it turns out, the Extreme Core i7 CPU outperformed both the overclocked and the standard Core 2 QX9770 processor in most benchmarks. Practically, the only tests where the Core i7 CPU could not live up to its name were the Super PI 1.4 benchmark and some of the gaming applications, including DirectX9 Call of Duty 4, Half Life 2: Ep2, and DirectX10 Company of Heroes. Aside from that, in 3DMark Vantage, the Core i7 940, clocked at 2.93GHz, achieved a CPU score of 18252, while the overclocked Core 2 could only go as high as 13128 points.

It is clear that the new Core i7 CPU will deliver an impressive performance boost compared with Intel's current CPU offering. However, it would have been nice to know how the non-Extreme Core i7 920 model would perform against some of Intel's more decently priced Core 2 models - especially since the Core i7 920 will probably become the most successful on the market, thanks to its comparatively lower estimated price tag.


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Intel officially confirms 'Core i7'

By Koushik Saha on 11.8.08

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The rumors we heard on Friday were apparently true. Intel has sent out a press release saying its next-generation Nehalem processors will indeed bear the Core i7 brand—at least, some of the chips will.

Intel Corporation announced today that desktop processors based on the company’s upcoming new microarchitecture (codenamed "Nehalem") will be formally branded "Intel® Core™ processor." The first products in this new family of processors, including an "Extreme Edition" version, will carry an "i7" identifier and will be formally branded as "Intel® Core™ i7 processor." This is the first of several new identifiers to come as different products launch over the next year.Intel goes on to explain that the Core i7 badge will go on "high-performance desktop PCs with a separate black logo for Intel’s highest-end 'Extreme Edition.'" The first Nehalem CPUs are still on track to hit production "in the fourth quarter of this year."

If we mix rumors with official information, Intel's announcement suggests the Core i7 brand will apply to Bloomfield chips, which will supposedly launch later this year with prices tags ranging from $284 to $999. Mobile and low-end desktop derivatives should follow in the third quarter of next year, and the wording of Intel's press release hints they might have different brand names.


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