Tech News

  • Intel Core i9-10980XE Extreme Edition Review @ Vortez

    I do enjoy the new approach that Intel has been taking with their HEDT processors mostly in that how we get a processor refresh that will work on the motherboard we already bought.  Case in point X299 was launched to handle Skylake-X and now we can use that same board for Cascade Lake-X.

    While Cascade Lake-X incorporates some Intel-exclusive features such as native AVX-512 and Optane memory support, a key factor in the platform update is a comprehensive repositioning of per core pricing. It’s no exaggeration to say that Intel have halved their price per core in the space of a generation, making their Core-X lineup extremely attractive compared to just one year ago.

    Funny side note, Cascade Lake is located in my home state of Idaho.  It isn't really a lake but is a popular recreation spot for folks that cannot afford to go to a real location. happy smile

    Assuming I get a Cascade Lake processor I will be sure to take a picture of the processor with the lake AND if one dies I will be sure to drop it in the middle.

  • GIGABYTE 2080 Super Gaming OC Waterforce - Coolest Card

     Taipei, Taiwan, November 15th, 2019 – GIGABYTE, the world’s leading premium water-cooled graphics card manufacturer, today announced the GIGABYTE WATERFORCE graphics cards - GeForce® RTX 2080 SUPER™ GAMING OC WATERFORCE WB 8G powered by the NVIDIA GeForce® RTX 2080 SUPERTM GPU. Whether users are looking to fulfill the demands of their high-end water-cooled systems, or to enjoy the benefits of water-cooled GPU and CPUs, GIGABYTE WATERFORCE graphics card is the best choice. WATERFORCE WB graphics card is equipped with a top-of-the-line overclocked GPU certified by GIGABYTE GPU Gauntlet™ sorting technology. It provides an all-around cooling solution for all key components of the graphics card. It takes care of not only the GPU but also VRAM and MOSFET to ensure stable overclock operation and longer durability. In addition, with excellent RGB lighting effects, protection metal back plate, Ultra-Durable top-grade materials and extended warranty for registered members, etc.,

    GIGABYTE WATERFORCE WB graphics card is the best choice for top players to pursue both quiet operation and performance. In order to match the increasing number of high-end water-cooled motherboards on the market, GeForce® RTX 2080 SUPERTM GAMING OC WATERFORCE WB 8G is the best choice for graphics cards. Just invest a little more than the GAMING OC air-cooled version and you can enjoy the water cooling benefits for the GPU and CPU. GIGABYTE offers top-of-the-line overclocked GPUs, an optimized water-loop design, factory-assembled professional quality, and excellent RGB lighting effects with the most important features of the official warranty, allowing players to enjoy high quality without any worries. For traditional graphics cards, not only does replacing the water cooling kit void the graphics card warranty but there’s also no guarantee that the graphics cards are compatible with 3rd-party customized water blocks. The professional design of a GIGABYTE water block can quickly remove heat generated by the GPU, VRAM and MOSFET, keeping the graphics card cool and stable even when aggressively overclocked.

    We want you to experience the best service you have ever had. This is why on top of our standard 3-year warranty, we would like to offer you an additional 1 year of protection to your graphics card free of charge. You can enjoy a 4-year warranty by registering on the website within 30 days of purchase.

  • Intel Core i9-9900KS @ TechPowerUp

    I've been really curious about this processor since it was announced.  Sadly, Intel wasn't nice enough to send me a sample so I'll likely have to hit the retail channels if I want to take the KS for a spin.

    Thing is the processor isn't much different from the Core i9 9900K, Sure, with the KS you get a full processor turbo of 5Ghz but, you can get that from a stock 9900k and if you are lucky you can dial the CPU up even more.  For instance the Core i9 9900k I have runs 6Ghz on LN2 (which is bad) but will run 5.3Ghz on water all day long.

    I did check out the TechPowerUp review and W1zzard could only get 5.2Ghz out of his proc which could be one of a number of things including Bad Board, Bad Processor, Bad Chair to Keyboard Interface.

    The Core i9-9900KS is Intel's new consumer flagship processor. It runs at 5 GHz boost, no matter how many cores are active, which translates into 10% application performance gained over the 9900K. Gaming performance is improved too, but the pricing is high, especially compared to what AMD is offering.

    Based on this review I'm less likely to make the jump to the 9900KS, especially given the $600 USD pricetag.  However, I do want to pick up another 9900k([s|f]) at some point and try for another run at 7Ghz.

    Decisions, Decisions

  • Threadripper Air Cooling Roundup @ LanOC Reviews

    Threadripper is a pretty big chip and for those of you wondering how a chip the size of Hawaii can be cooled by the very thing you breathe then maybe this review is for you.

    Not long ago AMD pushed their 3950X launch out into November and when they did that they also teased in that same announcement that it will come out with their Threadripper 3 processor family. With that, this isn’t a bad time to revisit the cooling options. Unlike every other consumer CPU, Threadripper is large enough that it actually required all of the heatsink companies to go back and redesign their heatsinks to get full coverage. With that there are a lot fewer options available for Threadripper. But there are two big names that stand out. Cooler Master partnered with AMD and is who designed and sells the Wraith Ripper heatsink which goes in line with the rest of the Wraith air coolers that typically come with AMD CPUs. Then there is Noctua, who went all out with three different models in their Threadripper lineup. Today I am going to check out all four of those coolers and see how they perform to help those of you waiting for the new launch or others who have been snatching up the marked down Threadripper 1 and 2 models. 

    Sadly I am not one of the lucky ones to actually own a Threadripper and to be honest while I am the target demographic I really have no desire to drive down that road.  Of course, with that being said if by driving down that road AMD was there saying "hey Hardware Asylum, you should review one of our Threadripper platforms" I'd be all.

    Yes!

    #makethreadripperhappen #amdsupportshardwareasylum

    Pfft,  as if hashtags and poundsigns actually work in news postings these days.  Thanks google!

  • ABKONCORE Helios 500 Sync PC Case

    Maarheeze, The Netherlands –14 October, 2019 – Introducing the Abkoncore Helios 500 SYNC middle tower PC case for the DYI, PC enthusiast and PC gamer alike. Cool front tempered glass design with large side ventilation intakes for fresh air enabled by the two 200mm large RGB SYNC Hurricane Spectrum cooling fans.

    The body is built out of 0.65mm SECC steel with side temperred glass for best viewing your hardware. Ready to accommodate your high wattage power supplies up to 220mm long. Mainboard support for ATX, Micro-ATX or Mini-ITX. Space for long graphics cards up to 355mm, large cpu coolers up to 178mm high and liquid cooling systems up to 360mm large. Total air cooling support locations: Front 3x 120mm or 2x 140mm or 2x 200mm, included 2x 200mm Hurricane Spectrum RGB SYNC. Top cooling space: 2x 120mm or 2x 140mm and rear exhaust space: 1x120mm or 1x 140mm, built in 1x120 Hurricance Spectrum RGB SYNC included.

    The Helios 500 SYNC is prepared with two removable and washable dust filters, one on the bottom and one on the top. The Top metal panel is equpped with multipple I/O ports such as 2x USB3.0, 2x USB2.0 and HD Audio & Microphon jacks as well as the power button, reset button and power LED indicator.

    The structure is simple and spacious and supplied with HDD/SSD multi-guide for up to 2 HDD or 4 SSD which are easy to instal and remove. Should you need more space for your long power supply, no worries, you can reposition the HDD/SSD cage in no time.

    Specifications:

    • Product size: 225x440x472mm (WxDxH)
    • Chassis size: 225x375x450mm WxDxH)
    • Material: 0.65mm steel / tempered glass / Mesh / ABS
    • USB3.0 *2 + USB2.0 *2 and HD-AC97 Audio
    • 2* HDD & 4* SSD + 7* expansion slots
    • Space for up to 6* 120/140/200mm cooling fans
    • CPU cooler clearance: 178mm
    • Graphics card clearance: 355mm
    • Radiator compatibility: 120/140/240/280/360mm
    • Bottom ATX PSU positioning 195-220mm
    • N.W: 8.3 KG G.W: 10.1 KG
  • Thermaltake Pacific DP100-D5 Plus/Core P5 DP-D5 Plus Distro-Plate

    Taipei, Taiwan-October 15th, 2019-Thermaltake, the leading PC DIY premium brand for Cooling, Gaming Gear and Enthusiast Memory solutions, has launched a top-end distro-plate– Pacific DP100-D5 Plus and Pacific Core P5 DP-D5 Plus. The application of the distro-plate aims to simplify the tube structure of hard tubing water cooling - a smarter way for beginners or experienced modders to present their water-cooled builds. The size of the Pacific DP100-D5 and 360mm radiators are similar, if your case supports more than two 360mm radiators, the distro can be easily installed on the fan mounting points. The Pacific Core P5 DP-D5 is specially tailored for the Core P5 TG, which is designed to fit on the radiator mounting points on the chassis with its L design. This gives users more flexibility to create tube runs and creative loops. All the distro-plates are equipped with preinstalled LED strips allowing users to set up different RGB lighting through the TT RGB PLUS software. This gives users complete control of their color themes. With these remarkable distro-plates, users can easily make their builds even more unique and reach a modder-like appearance. Also, the high-standard materials and superb performance of the distro-plate bring countless possibilities in modification.

    For more details on the Thermaltake Pacific DP100-D5 Plus & Pacific Core P5 DP-D5 Plus, please visit:

    Pacific DP100-D5 Plus- https://www.thermaltake.com/pacific-dp100-d5-plus.html

    Pacific Core P5 DP-D5 Plus- http://www.thermaltake.com/pacific-core-p5-dp-d5-plus.html

  • G.SKILL Announces Extreme Low Latency DDR4-4000 CL15 32GB (8GBx4) Memory Kits

    (18 October 2019) – G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world’s leading manufacturer of extreme performance memory and gaming peripherals, is delighted to announce an extreme low-latency, high-speed DDR4 memory kit at DDR4-4000 CL15-16-16-36 in a 32GB (8GBx4) capacity configuration under the classic Trident Z and the RGB-enabled Trident Z Royal memory series. Once again, these extraordinary memory kits are manufactured using high-performance Samsung B-die ICs to achieve the world's lowest latency of CL15 at DDR4-4000.

    World’s Lowest Latency DDR4-4000 Memory Kit at CL15
    At G.SKILL, we are always searching for the ultimate memory kit, tuned not only for speed, but also for efficiency. This means pushing for lower latency timings. Previously, the best CAS latency that memory kits at the DDR4-4000 level could achieve was at CL17. This is surpassed by the new DDR4-4000 CL15-16-16-36 32GB (8GBx4) memory kit running under 1.5V, shown validated on the MSI MEG Z390 ACE motherboard and Intel™ Core® i7-9700K processor in the screenshot below.

    Exceptional Bandwidth Performance on AMD X570
    A lower CAS latency typically means a bump in bandwidth performance, and this is no different on the latest AMD Ryzen platform. Normally, AMD Ryzen 9 3900X processor bandwidth with popular DDR4-3200 CL14 kit would fall around 50GB/s for memory read bandwidth in AIDA64. With the new ultra-efficient DDR4-4000 CL15 memory kit, the memory read bandwidth breaks 61GB/s in AIDA64 with a few additional tweaks, along with over 58GB/s in memory write and 65GB/s in memory copy bandwidth speed, as demonstrated in the following screenshot with the MSI X570 Unify motherboard and the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X processor.

    Availability & XMP 2.0 Support
    This extreme low latency performance memory specification will support Intel XMP 2.0 for easy overclocking and will be available via G.SKILL worldwide distribution partners in Q4 2019.

  • Thermaltake Releases High-Frequency TOUGHRAM RGB DDR4 Memory Kit 4400MHz 16GB

    aipei, Taiwan-Oct 31 st, 2019-Thermaltake, the leading PC DIY premium brand for Cooling , Gaming Gear and Enthusiast Memory solutions, today announced the release of the Thermaltake TOUGHRAM RGB DDR4 Memory Series whichcomes in new frequencies of 4,000MHz, 4,266MHz and 4,400MHz 2x8 GB modules, supported by Intel and AMD platforms. Featuring 10-layer PCB construction, 2oz copper inner layers and 10μ gold fingers, the TOUGHRAM RGB enhances overclocking performance and betters gaming experiences. The high-frequency memory kits are constructed with higher standard chips, which have been tested to achieve higher and more stable overclocks. Our latest module 4,400MHz and 4,000MHz was tested with Intel’s Core i7 platform, ASUS ROG MAXIMUS XI GENE and MAXIMUS XI HERO motherboards and remained stable under load.

    Thermaltake CEO Kenny Lin is excited to launch the newest addition to the TOUGRAM RGB Series. “We are glad to embrace the new era of high-frequency memory. With the rapid rise of esports, higher frequency ram is essential for faster and smoother performance. Level up your gameplay with the next level TOUGHRAM RGB DDR4 16GB Memory Kit in 4,000MHz, 4,266MHz, 4,400MHz.” stated Thermaltake CEO Kenny Lin.

    Thermaltake TOUGHRAM RGB DDR4 Memory Series 4,000MHz, 4,266MHz, and 4,400MHz come in black and are now available for pre-order on ttpremium.com. Please refer to the Thermaltake website or contact your local Thermaltake sales or PR representative for more information on pricing of the Thermaltake TOUGHRAM RGB DDR4 high-frequencies memory kits.

  • EVGA X299 Motherboards are Built For Intel® Core™ X-Series 10000 Processor Family

    EVGA X299 motherboards immediately set the bar for performance, cooling and stability. Since then, EVGA has improved the cooling, reinvented the modern motherboard BIOS, and continued to shock the enthusiast world with the EVGA X299 DARK. And these boards are only just getting started….

    With the release of Intel®’s Core™ X-Series 10000 Processor Family, EVGA X299 Motherboards are ready and waiting for them. Current owners need only update the motherboard BIOS for full compatibility; new owners can boot into the motherboard BIOS and update the BIOS with their brand-new CPUs.

    Make EVGA X299 Motherboards Your Choice to harness the power of the latest and greatest Intel® Core™ X-Series 10000 Processors!

    Learn more at https://www.evga.com/articles/01369/intel-x299-update/

  • GIGABYTE X299X Motherboards Accelerate Your Creativity

    Taipei, Taiwan, October 2nd, 2019 - GIGABYTE TECHNOLOGY Co. Ltd, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, today launched the X299X Series Motherboards based on the newly upgraded X299 chipset. With up to a 16-phase digital power design, GIGABYTE X299X motherboards raise the bar for performance on enthusiast grade Intel Core X processors. Coupled with an 8-DIMM Quad Channel DDR4 design with up to 256GB memory support, the motherboards enable users to easily handle memory intensive tasks such as file conversion, video editing, and more. The new X299X stack features a trio of high-end models, the X299X DESIGNARE 10G, X299 AORUS XTREME WATERFORCE, and the X299X AORUS MASTER, presenting users the most advanced tools for content creation, 3D modeling, audio/visual editing, and projects that require large-scale system resources, while also scratching that gaming itch for users who want to kick back and relax.



    The GIGABYTE X299X lineup stands out with all-new power designs, thermal solutions, ultra-efficient data transmission for storage devices, and workstation graphics card certification. Features such as the lightning-quick Intel Thunderbolt 3 transmission interface, 5Gbps or 10Gbps network connectivity, multi-display configuration, M.2 Thermal Guard, PCIe slot armor, Smart Fan 5 and other GIGABYTE exclusive technology, enable users to put together their dream build so they can focus on sharpening their craft.

    “Efficiency and reliability are at the top of the list for the needs of content creators but the versatility of a content creation focused workstation that can also be used a suitable gaming rig is also high in demand,” said Jackson Hsu, Director of the GIGABYTE Channel Solutions Product Development Division. “To fulfill the needs of users and content creators alike, we are introducing three all-new X299X series motherboards with fully validated support for Quadro Graphics Cards. We want to make sure our users get the fastest network connectivity and lightning-quick data transfer speed with Intel Dual 10Gbe connectivity and the Intel Thunderbolt 3 interface. These content creation focused motherboards bring more to the table than just pure content creation capabilities. With up to 16-phases, the power designs on X299X motherboards are geared towards unlocking the most efficient performance on Intel Core X series processors. Support for 256GB memory allows users to easily handle even the most memory-intensive tasks. The multi-graphical configuration also enables users to fulfill both their content creation as well as hardcore gaming needs, giving them the best of both worlds!”

    As quintessential content creation motherboards, GIGABYTE X299X Series motherboards not only unleash the potential of the newest Intel Core X processors and support up to 256GB memory, they also pair with NVIDIA Quadro graphics cards flawlessly. Since GIGABYTE is the only Motherboard vendor that is an Authorized Distributor of NVIDIA Quadro in the market, GIGABYTE X299X motherboards have been tested with Quadro graphics cards extensively before release to ensure that they have the best compatibility with these high-end workstation graphics cards. With this level of support, the new content creation boards optimize performance on 3D modeling and video editing software so content creators have powerful tools for producing exciting new content.



    The motherboard series retains the design principles of the GIGABYTE DESIGNARE series with its professional look but adds the AORUS touch with its design choices and customizability so even content creators can channel their inner gamer with the boards’ awesome style!

    Extreme Storage Performance
    With higher data transfer speeds, content creators can minimize read/write times and maximize working efficiency. To address this need, X299X AORUS XTREME WATERFORCE, X299X DESIGNARE 10G puts the data transfer process on the fast-track with its built-in Intel Thunderbolt 3 via two USB Type-C interfaces for 40 Gb/s bandwidth, which not only saves time but also facilitates transfers of larger files. With Daisy-Chain technology, users can connect up to 6 devices. The lane configuration between the board and the graphics card allows the Type-C interface to be used as a video and audio output. In addition to the increased bandwidth it provides, the Intel Thunderbolt 3 controller chip on the two X299X motherboards comes with built-in USB 3.2 technology for faster transmission speeds as well as backward compatibility with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0, setting the standard for professional content creation motherboards. Support for DisplayPort 1.2 makes the Thunderbolt 3 interface even more indispensable for professional designers.

    Built-in NVMe PCIe x4 M.2 slots on GIGABYTE X299X motherboards provide single slot transmission speeds up to 32Gb/s. For the M.2 slots, users can choose to allocate the lanes from the chipset or CPU to install Intel OPTANE MEMORY or set up VROC disk array for incredible storage performance. To combat thermal throttling and prevent excess heat from slowing down read/write speeds on M.2 SSD devices while they are operating at high speeds, GIGABYTE has done its research and implements M.2 Thermal Guard to ensure that heat doesn’t slow M.2 SSD performance.



    X299X AORUS XTREME WATERFORCE and X299X DESIGNARE 10G models both come with the AORUS Gen4 AIC Adaptor which offers users four additional M.2 PCIe X4 slots for increased SSD expansion. Users can set up VROC or build a RAID disk array for ultra-fast data transfer, which are perfect when handling high-resolution, large-sized files for content creation. The active cooling design and the built-in fans keep all four sets of SSDs cool even under high-speed operation so that heat doesn’t marginalize storage performance!

    Flagship 16 Power Phase Design, Server Grade Components
    The power supply design, quality of components, and the number of power phases play a huge role in the performance and stability of the motherboard. To fully unlock the monstrous power of the Intel Core X series processors, GIGABYTE X299X utilizes a 16-phase power design with a capacity of 70A per phase and an excellent VRM design for the processor to function smoothly even under high loading. Aside from the refined VRM design, Ultra-Durable components such as server-grade inductors and 10K durable black solid caps reduce interference, increase the durability of important components, and prevent interference from affecting the PWM signals, allowing for optimized performance on the new generation of Intel Core X series processors and greater working efficiency for content creators. Aside from the excellent power design, GIGABYTE X299X motherboards feature a Quad-Channel DDR memory configuration that comes with 8 DIMM slots and 256GB memory support, making it a highly stable, high-performing platform that is perfect for video editors, designers, streamers and the like.

    Extreme Connectivity, Extreme Performance Uninterrupted
    The new GIGABYTE X299X lineup features an assortment of exclusive GIGABYTE technologies and features. With connection speeds of at least 5Gbps, X299X DESIGNARE 10G boasts a server-grade and high-end workstation level Intel X550-AT2 ethernet controller. The board’s Intel Dual 10Gbe connectivity provides users with high quality, highly stable network connectivity and makes the X299X DESIGNARE 10G the world’s first and only X299 motherboard with Intel Dual 10Gbe and dual Thunderbolt 3 interfaces.

    Furthermore, X299X series motherboards add a great deal of versatility with its built-in Intel 802.11AX WiFi6 for ultra-stable network connectivity as well as its support for 2-Way NVIDIA NVLINK and 4-Way AMD CrossFire to boost graphical performance. With GIGABYTE exclusive compatibility testing and use of the finest components, GIGABYTE X299X motherboards deliver incredible graphical performance at a highly competitive value and offers 4K UHD resolution for users to indulge in. GIGABYTE exclusive PCIe armor adds Ultra-Durable level sturdiness to the card slots to mitigate any weight-inflicted damage by bulkier graphics cards, ensuring excellent performance.

    Extreme Audio Experience
    For the best audio experience content creation motherboards have to offer, select GIGABYTE X299X series motherboards come with the newest ALC 1220-VB IC and professional-grade ESS 9218 SABRE DAC. AMP-UP AudioTM technology ramps up the front and rear audio output for high-fidelity, 130 dB SNR, enhancing the overall audio quality. DTS:X Ultra Technology on all GIGABYTE X299X models enhances audio quality to improve the 3D sound experience and further calibrates audio on headphones and speakers through DTS Headphone: X technology. The Microsoft Spatial Sound function further enhances the audio fidelity and DTS Sound Unbound’s post-processing enhancements, device adjustments, and object-oriented surround sound technology, delivers a crisper, richer, and more immersive 3D audio experience. Users will be able to utilize the superior audio for content creation while indulging in rich audio experiences during their free time.

    Fully Armored, Sleek Aesthetics
    Effective heat dissipation is absolutely essential for content creation systems to perform at their best so a quick glimpse at the motherboard’s extensive armor gives users an idea of how extensive the cooling solution on these boards are. The armor also adds to the board’s aesthetics with its professional look and lighting configuration. Fins-Array heatsink, large diameter heatpipe, high thermal conductivity pad, and the thermal backplate maximize the heat dissipation on the board. X299X AORUS XTREME WATERFORCE takes cooling a step further with an AIO cooling design that delivers cooling to the CPU, VRM, chipset, M.2 SSDs for extreme cooling performance.

    X299X motherboards come with Smart Fan 5 Technology, the ideal cooling solution. The newest edition of Smart Fan technology not only allows content creators to customize fan speeds and preferred heat thresholds to their liking but also comes with hybrid fan headers and temperature sensors to support different fan accessories and provide up to date information on temperature and fan speeds. Smart Fan 5 prevents overheating and stagnant coolant flow, making watercooling more convenient to use. In addition, Ultra-Durable components increase both the durability and performance of the motherboards.

    GIGABYTE X299X series motherboards will be available soon. For more product related information and processor support information, please visit the official GIGABYTE website and stay tuned for further updates.