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Thursday 4 June 2015
AMD unveils sixth-generation A-series APUs for mobile products
AMD has announced its sixth-generation A-series accelerated processing units (APUs) in a system-on-chip (SoC) design.Previously codenamed Carrizo, the AMD A-series processors bring HEVC/H.265 to the notebook, enabling consumers to benefit from higher quality, lower bandwidth streaming video playback versus traditional H.264 videos.The APUs support Ultra HD resolution videos. The APUs also have a faster media conversion rate with up to five times accelerated encoding performance compared to CPU-only processing.The A-series processors come with discrete-class graphics built in, harnessing AMD Radeon Graphics Core Next (GCN) architecture.The APUs also supports AMD's FreeSync technology as well as DirectX 12, Vulkan and AMD's Mantle.AMD Gesture Control is available on mainstream notebooks, allowing users to navigate and control their notebook with a wave of the hand.For Microsoft Windows 10 experience, the A-series processors accelerate video playback on the forthcoming operating system with native HEVC decode supported, and enable the latest Windows 10 features with Secure boot and resume, Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0), and Drive Key Encryption using the first AMD Secure Processor for performance APUs.Notebooks powered by AMD new A series APUsPhoto: Shihmin, Fu, Digitimes, June 2015
Thursday 4 June 2015
Computex 2015: Startup company Endless pushing PC for developing countries
Startup company Endless, an operating system developer, has participated at Computex 2015 showcasing its first product, the Endless PC, priced from US$169-229, targeting mainly developing countries.Endless was founded in San Francisco and raised funding from the Kickstarter platform in May. The Endless PC is a desktop equipped with the company's in-house developed Linux-based operating system, which is able to operate without Internet connectivity making it suitable for emerging markets, which usually do not feature stable Internet services.The operating system features over 150 applications and consumers are able to connect the PC to a display via a HDMI cable. Consumers will be able to update the programs when connected to the Internet.Endless CEO Matt Dalio pointed out that demand for PCs has been weakening for the past few years, but he believes the business opportunities in emerging markets are still strong and the IT market so far still has not yet seen an appropriate device for these markets; therefore, he expects the Endless PC to have a good chance to receive good sales in the markets.Dalio noted that the Endless PC is mainly targeting consumers with annual earnings of US$2,500-5,000 and the overall population within the segment is about three billion. Endless is looking to sell its device to the high-end portion of the segment, allowing the company to have potential clients of at least one billion people.Commenting on the hardware of the device, Endless Chief Growth Officer, Marcelo Sampaio noted that the expensive parts of a PC are the processor and Microsoft's operating system. Since the Endless PC's operating system is designed in-house, and the system adopts an integrated processor, the company is able to cut the price of the device to a level friendly to emerging market consumers. The Endless PC is currently using a CPU from Intel.Dalio also pointed out that the One Laptop per Child (OLPC) project, which had a goal similar to the Endless PC, failed in the end because of issues of product design and business model. The OLPC is not designed for average consumers and is not meant for profit, therefore the organization has not been able to acquire more funds to continue its operations. Endless does not have these issues.The Endless PC will start selling in Guatemala in July and gradually expand to other countries in Latin America as well as other emerging markets worldwide. The company declined to comment on its shipment goals. Sources from the upstream supply chain revealed that the device is manufactured by Wistron.The Endless PCPhoto: Michael Lee, Digitimes, June 2015
Thursday 4 June 2015
What will the future hold for mobile technology?
As IT developers move toward 5G - analysts suggest the next-level network milestone will arrive as soon as in the next few years - the size, shape, and operation of our now ever-present portable devices are evolving in numerous and different directions. According to Digitimes Research, tablet shipments will reach 221 million units in 2015. If adding the growth from other mobile devices, the entire market scale will reach to touch all sectors of the entire industry. Mobile technology has become more than just a tool - it's now a way of life that brings all of us closer together.The Computex 2015 Mobile technology Forum went beyond the traditional method of presentation to create true user engagement. This was done through a wireless network, high-speed transmission, multimedia, high-definition video, power savings and product development platforms for the engineering and marketing background attendees, as well as for the rich mix of talented speakers and conversation starters. This year Computex tapped into people's passion and leveraged the power of smart technology.According to Qualcomm Technologies' new, cutting- edge and more affordable devices, tablets and mobile computing products are affecting key vertical markets such as education, healthcare and retail point-of-sale. In addition, progress is being enabled for connectivity, immersive entertainment experiences, enhanced productivity and advancements in sensors, computational photography, augmented reality and virtual reality.This year, Wireless Power reaches a tipping point, whether it is in wearable devices for healthcare or smartphones and tablets for information and connectivity, consumers are demanding products that function anywhere they are. Within that requirement, they are also looking for battery-charging solutions that will eliminate cables and connectors from their chargers. To meet these market prerequisites, wireless power charging has emerged as an attractive alternative to plug-in adapters in the last few years and is gaining momentum because standards have emerged.In addition to futuristic technologies, WPC supports the latest Qi-enabled products. Qi is the most widely deployed wireless power standard, available in 3,000 hotels, restaurants, airports and public locations worldwide. There are now more than 80 Qi-enabled smartphones, 15 Qi-enabled car models and countless Qi mobile accessories in the market today.A brave new world of connected smart devices will transform how we live, work and play and create new opportunities for businesses.Wi-Fi - The Past, Present and FutureBroadcom Corporation, Director, Product Marketing, Broadband and Connectivity Group, Vijay NagarajanToday's data is mostly consumed wirelessly, and an overwhelm portion through technologies using the unlicensed spectrum. Wi-Fi, in particular, has morphed itself over the years and adapted to the needs of the digital world very well. As compared to first generation Wi-Fi back in 1997, today's solutions can deliver 1,000 times more data. As an illustration of this journey, Vijay Nagarajan took a brief look at the past, present and future of Wi-Fi. In particular, he investigated the attributes of a good Wi-Fi solution. The talk also aimed to provide a sneak peek into the technologies that will make up Wi-Fi in the future.The next Wi-Fi solution should arm you with the latest speeds and feeds without the blockage or increased cost of upgrading a hardware controller. In addition, the best Wi-Fi solutions are CFO- and helpdesk-friendly by providing a flexible licensing model, customizable reporting and analytics. Lastly, security and quality of service are supreme as businesses and educational institutions depend more on wireless networks for mission critical functions such as accepting credit cards and accessing student records.Broadcom Corporation, Director, Product Marketing, Broadband and Connectivity Group, Vijay NagarajanSecuring the future: Connecting Mobile, IOT and the CloudImagination Technologies, Executive Vice President Marketing, Tony King-SmithThe rapid evolution of mobile SoCs has seen a spectacular rise in high-performance, low-power platforms, and Imagination's PowerVR GPUs and MIPS CPUs are at the heart of many of these innovations. As the industry designs next generation SoCs (Systems on Chips), it must consider evolving use-models, device interconnectedness, heterogeneous computing models and other factors, which all point to a need for a new security paradigm. King-Smith described a heterogeneous, multi-domain SoC security approach that will enable SoC designers, OEMs and operators to successfully address next-generation products and applications. In addition, he also discussed industry initiatives that will be critical to success for addressing the need for a new security paradigm in next-generation products.Imagination is a global technology leader whose products touch the lives of billions of people across the globe. The company's broad range of silicon IP (intellectual property) includes the key processing blocks needed to create the SoCs (Systems on Chips) that power all mobile, consumer and embedded electronics. Its unique software IP, infrastructure technologies and system solutions enable its customers to get to market quickly with complete and highly differentiated SoC platforms. Imagination's licensees include many of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers, network operators and OEMs/ODMs that are creating some of the world's most iconic products.Imagination Technologies, Executive Vice President Marketing, Tony King-SmithUSB Type-C applications and ecosystemVIA Labs, Inc., Associate VP, David HsuAs one of a select few products to achieve USB-IF certification, the VIA Labs VL150 is unique in being the only solution based on an optimized hardware design with powerful yet flexible programming options for ease of manufacturing and low BOM cost.The upcoming USB cable design is reversible, has no right-side-up or upside-down problems, and will click when you plug it in. Expect the new design on the market as soon as this year.The new design, called USB Type-C, is designed to replace today's multitude of cables and fix a number of their shortcomings. Type-C USB jacks will be small enough for mobile phones, the cable will be reversible end-to-end so it doesn't matter which end you attach to your computer and which to your digital camera, and as with Apple's Lightning connector there will be no upside-down when it's time to actually plug the cable in.VIA Labs, Inc., Associate VP, David HsuNext generation of immersive audioDTS, Director, Sales, APAC, Vincent TingAs part of DTS' strategy to support the entire audio ecosystem - from cinema to home to mobile - it is important that consumers can access an engaging audio experience at the cinema for object-based audio with DTS:X and also their mobile devices with DTS Headphone:X, which enhances any ordinary pair of headphones with fully immersive surround.It is an open, immersive and flexible object-based audio coming to cinema and home. It is also a next generation technology that gives content creators, cinema and home theater owners more control than ever; audiences will experience the richest, most realistic soundscape possible. The technology also provides numerous customization options for cinema and home theater owners.The DTS:X unveil includes partners across the ecosystem. To ensure quality and provide flexibility within the DTS:X program, DTS has partnered with industry-leading server, sound rendering and processing companies. GDC Technology, QSC and USL have developed and made available DTS:X-ready components that process and render MDA files.DTS, Director, Sales, APAC, Vincent TingReinvigorating the true tablet experience: The innovations needed for continued growth and broad-based adoptionQualcomm Technologies, VP of Product Management, Seshu MadhavapeddyThe tablet market has recently come to a crossroads. With the rapid adoption and near ubiquity of tablets, and the fast pace of innovation in smartphone experiences, consumers need a more compelling reason to buy a tablet - including unique and differentiating experiences they cannot already get using their phone or laptop.In this talk, Seshu Madhavapeddy, VP of Product Management for Qualcomm Technologies' mobile computing group, discussed some of the unique user experiences and recent technological advancements that will help further spur tablet adoption and drive new user demand. He explored always-on connectivity, immersive entertainment experiences, enhanced productivity and advancements in sensors, computational photography, augmented reality and virtual reality. Seshu also explored how tablets and mobile computing are affecting key vertical markets such as education, healthcare and retail point-of-sale.Qualcomm Technologies, VP of Product Management, Seshu MadhavapeddyMobile displays: How much resolution is enough?Pixelworks Inc., Director, product marketing, Vikas DhukaMobile devices are an integral part of our daily lives. While improvements in display technology have enabled extremely high resolution displays with richer colors, are those benefits actually visible to the user and how much resolution is enough? This presentation explored the realities of what the human eye is able to perceive and how to maximize the return on display investment by maximizing the user experience.This question can't really be answered with logic. It is similar in the way that 10 years ago, most people thought the Internet was enough. And 30 years back, landline phones were enough. In many cases, the technology must progress for the sake of progress so that something else will become highly useful and relevant one day. Maybe future displays will serve a biological or neural function or something, but to get there, you need to go through a dozen iterations of marketing nonsense and unnecessary innovation for the sake of it.Pixelworks Inc., Director, product marketing, Vikas DhukaOptimizing power delivery in future mobile devicesDialog Semiconductor, Director Marketing - Audio & Power Management, Mark JacobAs mobile devices continue to incorporate more powerful processing squeezed into a variety of thinner and smaller form factors, combined with the constraints of low-leakage always-on functionality, the challenges to maximize battery life continue to mount. The goal remains, as always, to assist system designers in delivering the next wave of promising products with an enhanced user experience.This session outlined the market drivers, trends and some new concepts that PMIC vendors such as Dialog Semiconductor are bringing to market in this area.With a long legacy of delivering different Power Management designs for world-leading mobile phone manufacturers and portable consumer OEMs, Dialog Semiconductor optimizes all aspects of the design including electrical, thermal and mechanical (packaging) considerations. These designs offer unprecedented integration with multiple power management and analog functions on the chip.Power Management from Dialog replaces discrete or integrated power management components with highly integrated single chip solutions that provide power supply domain flexibility, increased efficiency, space saving, as well as improved reliability and design simplicity.Dialog Semiconductor, Director Marketing - Audio & Power Management, Mark JacobOptimal design performance, accelerate application development for mobile devicesNeil Su, technical support manager of Mouser Electronics AsiaRapid innovation is global and for R&D and design engineers the most important task ahead is getting the product to market. Being such, design tools are the most important winning points.MultiSIM BLUE free circuit simulation tool contains more than 100,000 kinds of electronic components, and has an intuitive SPICE simulation and analysis capabilities. Engineers can use MultiSIM BLUE build schematic, analog circuits and the establishment of a printed circuit board layout, and fully integrated wiring and review platform. MultiSIM BLUE provides planning and simulation capability and can handle PCB layout, bill of materials (BOM) and procurement operations, allowing engineers to optimize the design performance and reduce time to market.Neil Su, technical support manager of Mouser Electronics AsiaWireless power reaches a tipping pointPowerbyProxi, VP Business Development, Consumer Technologies, Tony Francesca2015 is the year when Wireless power goes mainstream, with an end to the standards battle in sight. The current Wireless Power Consortium's (WPC) Qi specification is quickly gaining a market leadership position over rival standards. The recent announcement that the Samsung Galaxy S6 will support Qi, as well as the release of new range of IKEA Qi-enabled furniture, has provided strong validation of the WPC's Qi standard. IKEA's home furnishings embed charging spots and will propel Qi further into mainstream adoption.At Computex 2015, PowerbyProxi showcased the next evolution.Mobile phones are vital parts to people's lives at home and their desire to stay connected, and Qi addresses an unmet need to keep devices powered.The reward for successfully developing wireless power solutions is considerable. Having over 200 big companies through the Wireless Power Consortium backing up the Qi wireless standard, it is only a matter of time when we see wireless charging pads everywhere we go.PowerbyProxi, VP Business Development, Consumer Technologies, Tony Francesca
Thursday 4 June 2015
Good Way Technology introduces its most innovative Windows tablet docking solutions at COMPUTEX Taipei 2015
Good Way Technology, a global leading USB peripherals and docking solution provider, today announces the DU21050 Windows tablet docking station at COMPUTEX Taipei, the Asia's largest ICT trade show, during 2nd - 6th June 2015. This product is the recent innovative engineering progress relating to new technologies of USB and display proving the strength of Good Way Technology in the USB peripheral industry. Tablet market has long been dominating by Apple iOS and Android operating systems. Windows tablet, originally taking up only a small share, is showing an upward trend to grow from 2% - 3% to 5% and is expected to further ramp up to 8% in 2015. The biggest boost momentum is because the launch of Windows 10 to elevate sales of Windows tablets. Microsoft is to kick off a new license plan with the launch of Windows 10 that will exempt license fees for operating systems in tablets under 9 inches. And this is expected to make a very promising outlook on Windows tablet sales. Meanwhile, according to IDC, there are 32% of users expecting their next tablet to be running Windows operating system, which truly reflect the global trends of Bring Your Own Device (BYOD). However, one inherent disadvantage while using tablets is the sole connector, which is often prioritized for battery charging and inadequate for additional connections with mouse, keyboard, storage or other peripherals. Moreover, another drawback is the smaller display size of tablet to reduce entertainment experience. To overcome these shortcomings of tablets for business users, Good Way Technology sets up a new standard in Windows tablet docking station specifically targeting Windows tablet users. Good Way Technology's major launch this year in COMPUTEX is DU21050 Windows tablet docking station, which is supporting USB On-The-Go (OTG) port with transmitting data and delivering power at the same time. So there is no need to worry about running out of battery power with long use of the tablet. DU21050 Windows tablet docking station equipped with single HDMI with 1080P specification, one VGA outputs. In addition, there are one Gigabit LAN port and six USB 2.0 ports, one of which is BC 1.2 compliant. Good Way has also designed a special foldable holder so that users can make adjustments for the best view angle of tablet. DU21050 Windows tablet docking station also offers an optional remote control for enhance the user experience to control tablet on/off switch, display pause or resume, volume adjustment, and other functions. Good Way will maintain several optional designs to provide extreme flexibility to fit different tablet's user experience. Use DU21050 Windows tablet docking station not only providing the power sources in one device, but also equipping with different display capability to allow users to switch to different displays. DU21050 Windows Tablet Docking Features- Support Tablet USB(OTG) port with transmitting data and charging power at the same time- Support video display through HDMI or VGA port- Provide 6 USB 2.0 ports for connecting peripheries- Coexist with USB Battery Charging 1.2 specification- Optional remote control to enhance user's experience Good Way will be also displaying its Windows tablet docking station in COMPUTEX Taipei 2015, at booth #B0910 of the Taipei World Trade Exhibition Hall. For more information, please visit: http://www.goodway.com.tw/. Windows tablet docking station - DU21050
Thursday 4 June 2015
Modeling trend raising AVEXIR worldwide brand awareness
Memory modules are practically standardized products to consumers among those produced by different key makers. However, AVEXIR Technologies has something unusual gaming products to showcase at 2015 Computex Taipei.The company is established nine years ago, started its business from scratch, with no support from any powerful investor and no customer base. Cornered by strong competitors in the field, AVEXIR seemingly had no chance to succeed at all but it now stands as a global leading brand of high-end gaming memory products. One can't help but wonder what has sharpened AVEXIR's competitive edge.Due to similarities of product features and appearances, memory module makers are often limited by product itself. Therefore, the memory module market has provided few sensational products that could attract attentions. However, in 2011, Avexir has launched Core Series, it proved that memory products could have breakthroughs and could show up in a new form much like a boutique item.AVEXIR core series surprised game players as it was the first memory module able to emit dazzling light through multiple colors of LEDs and light guide bar, allowing the memory to blink in a rhythm as if it were breathing. What enabled this unique feature was AVEXIR's intelligence patented technology. Now in 2015, AVEXIR is launching the Raiden series with effects resembling lightning created by an unprecedented application of patented plasma tube technology, bringing gamers more exciting and true-to-life experiences.As a matter of fact, the introduction of the AVEXIR core series not only kick-started the trend of "glowing memory" but also ignited a computer case modification (case modding) craze. People now seek dazzling cool effects, instead of efficiency, for their computer cases, graphics cards, and even motherboards. Take the casing for example, transparent side panels that allow consumers to see the lights as well as internal components including the motherboard, graphics card, heat sinks, and memory modules are gaining popularity in recent years. Color coordination and exterior design are also appealing to consumers.Computer case modification frenzy boosting red hot demand for AVEXIR memoryAs a result of the modding frenzy, AVEXIR memory modules have emerged as a top choice for gamers. Furthermore, various AVEXIR patented strip lights have attracted a host of motherboard and computer peripheral makers to seek license from AVEXIR."AVEXIR's brand awareness is rapidly rising not only to outstanding product performance but also to three major advantages – innovation, customization, and differentiation," indicated by Hans Cheng, General Manager, AVEXIR Technologies. The company has created glowing, breathing, lightning-flashing memory modules with unsurpassed originality, which has enabled it to win the Germany iF design award three years in a row. AVEXIR has continuously broken through the barriers and limitations of memory module design and made undoubtedly remarkable achievements in product innovation.Following the launch of AVEXIR core series that made AVEXIR a well-known brand, AVEXIR then kicked off the AVEXIR DIRECT service, providing gamers around the world with choices of heat sink styles, capacities, specifications, and LED colors selectable online as well as name inscriptions on SPD and heat sinks. AVEXIR is able to offer powerful customization for gamers to build unique memory modules of their own.In terms of differentiation, it is what enables AVEXIR to fuel the modding craze. Cheng states the AVEXIR core series offers six choices of color - blue, red, yellow, green, white, and orange - for mix-and-match with the motherboard look and color to create an optimum visual effect and distinctive style. In fact, AVEXIR and its partners have all noticed high-end gamers are seeking consistency in the style of their computers, and therefore are engaging in cross-industry partnership projects for joint marketing purposes.Hans Cheng, General Manager, AVEXIR Technologies, sums up that the company is winning industry recognition for its product performance, ability to innovate, and patented technologies, enabling numerous cross-industry partnership opportunitiesPhoto: Company
Thursday 4 June 2015
KEYDEX NFC Smart Ring awarded the Computex d&i Award 2015
Union Genius is proud to present its own brand KEYDEX and the KEYDEX NFC Smart Ring. Unlike the conventional designs, KEYDEX NFC Rings adopted fine ceramic material that minimizes radio interference with NFC transmissions and elevates the comfort level of prolong wearing while minimizing allergic reactions to metal materials other products use. The ring itself is V-shaped; wider on top and narrower for the bottom, and this means more ergonomic to what most people are used to. This design offers both ease of prolong usage and it will not be damaged easily.KEYDEX NFC Smart now comes in three different colors and five decors for users to choose from; marrying cold hard technology with fashionable design. It is because of our design philosophy, we were awarded the Computex d&i Award 2015.KEYDEX has expanded NFC application to include "Safe Return" and "Medical Alert" function. Our solution is different from common solutions on the marketplace today; most are unwilling to use them because these products are usually overly bright in color and ostentatious in nature. Therefore, the users are looking for a product that is aesthetic, light weighted, and fashionable. KEYDEX's design approach made it even easier as people wishes to assist do not have to download some app to gather the vital information, but simply turn on their NFC function to obtain these information.Furthermore, KEYDEX Safe Return Ring also features "Door Access" function. The users and their family members can all use the same ring to increase dementia patients' willingness to adopt to the ring.During Computex, KEYDEX will introduce two different types of NFC Smart Rings: Safe Return Ring and Personal Profile Exchange Ring that can also unlock Android phone's locked screen. It does not matter what you are looking for in the wearable products, but we wish to bring you a novel experiences at our booth.Union Genius will be participating at COMPUTEX, Hall-1, A0525 from June 2 to June 6. Come visit us for a hands on sessions with our NFC Smart Rings.Keydex NFC Smart Ring awarded the Computex d&i Award 2015Photo: Company
Thursday 4 June 2015
GIGABYTE Unveils New ULTRAFORCE Laptops with 5th Gen Intel processor & NVIDIA 900M Graphics in COMPUTEX 2015
GIGABYTE has launched new P-series laptops with full array of features and class-leading performance. Thanks to the 5th generation Intel Core i7 processors in 14nm Broadwell architecture, GIGABYTE laptops are packed with more horsepower yet more efficient in consumption than ever. NVIDIA GeForce GTX 900M series graphics built on Maxwell architecture brings more visual breakthroughs, such as DSR, MFAA and VXGI technology, previously available to 3D animation professionals only. GIAGBYTE gaming laptop exclusive Doubled VRAM allows users to enable more effects and textures in gameplay without impacts on system performance. The bundled XSplit Gamecaster Premium membership grants users the freedom to record and stream their gameplay up to Twitch anytime, anywhere without resorting extra solutions. Powered by GTX 980M, the 17.3" flagship P37X delivers P10000+ in 3DMark 11. The comprehensive product line covers dimensions from 17" to 14". Customers can opt among the slim yet powerful new ULTRAFORCE line comprising P37, P35 and P34, the aggressive yet stylish P55 and value all-rounders P17F and P15F.Thinnest & Lightest 17.3" Laptop with GTX 980MP37XBased on a Broadwell Core-i7 processor and the latest NVIDIA GTX 980M GeForce GDDR5 8GB in Maxwell architecture, P37X v4 scores a phenomenal P10000+ in 3DMark 11. Macro recording and editing across keyboard and mouse, formerly impossible on laptops, inputs is supported in one neat Macro Hub interface. Users will benefits from a solid edge in running most games in high settings. The hot-swappable storage design is configured to two rapid 512 GB mSATA SSDs and a dual of 2TB hard drives, blending speed and capacity in an incredibly thin and lightweight chassis. A Mini DisplayPort readies output to an external display up to 4K while built-in Dolby Digital Plus and Blu-ray drive turns the mobile platform into a personal theater. P37X offers gamers and graphic professionals desirable processing horsepower comparable to desktop systems when portability is a priority.*P37W with GTX 970M and P37K with GTX 965M are also available.Photo: CompanyThinnest 15.6" Laptop with GTX 980MP35XThe powerful P35X v4 with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980M GDDR5 8GB VRAM surges to P10000 in 3DMark11 and 5th-gen Intel Core i7 Processor upgrades battery life and power efficiency. The hot-swappable ODD/HDD Bay adds flexibility for ultimate convenience and numerous possibilities for user customization. Unique massive quad-storage supports four drives for a gigantic capacity of a total 5TB: two 512MB mSATA SSDs and two 2TB HDDs. GIGABYTE Exclusive RAID Storm makes for speedy transmission up to 1500MB/s while the massive storage houses larger files ready for off-line access or system backup. WQHD+ IPS display grants users unprecedented image details in resolution as high as 2880x1620; superb color accuracy and vivid images makes viewing from any direction is crystal clear. P35X marks immersive gameplay and captivating multimedia entertainment on the move.Photo: CompanyLightest 14" Gaming Laptop with GTX 970MP34WP34W v4 gets its primary motivation from a quad-core Intel Core i7 processor with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970M, a more punchy yet efficient combination than ever while remaining a slender size as seen on any Ultrabook. Benefit from the Maxwell architecture, GTX 970M brings a phenomenal score, P9000+ in 3DMark 11, creating a solid edge in running most games in high settings, offering gamers and graphic professionals desirable processing resources comparable to desktop systems when portability is a priority. Multiple visual innovations including DSR, MFAA & VXGI renders more realistic and stunning images for unprecedented gaming virtual reality. Storage is configured to one rapid 512 GB mSATA SSD and a 2TB hard drive, a blend of speed and capacity in an incredibly thin and lightweight chassis.Photo: CompanyDynamic Design & Smashing GTX 970M GraphicsP55WBrand new 15.6" P55W features a sporty design and ravishing performance - sizzling P9000 in 3DMark 11. The NVIDIA GTX 970M discrete graphics coupled with 1080p IPS Display grants brilliant vision, breathtaking details and ultra-smooth motion at ultra-high resolutions, hardly achievable on mid-range offerings. The dual storage incorporates one rapid mSATA SSD up to 512GB and a massive HDD up to 2TB for extra storage. The blistering responsiveness and storage convenience is perfect for either heading for any LAN gathering with a huge collection of games or backing up data and system without cloud access. The 2.2mm key travel ensures crisp and responsive typing while Dolby Digital Plus Home Theater optimizes sound clarity and effects for a high-fidelity audio, creating the most realistic yet thrilling experience when gaming.Photo: CompanyGrand Vision Packing Performance & ValueP17FP17F v3 with a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 950M boasts a decent score - P4822 in 3DMark11. The unique dual storage houses one 512GB mSATA SSD and a HDD up to 2TB, delivering rapid speed and massive storage at one shot. The Full HD matte display diffuses light, eliminates reflections to complete the most realistic gaming experience. Users will be impressed by the vivid color and high contrast level thanks to its 72% NTSC Color Gamut. The enhanced Sound Blaster Cinema 2 audio optimization produces crystal-clear sound for enveloping listening experience. The enhanced performance and all-around practicality makes P17F a worthwhile investment for multiple scenarios.Photo: CompanyExcellent Balance between Performance & ValueP15FP15F v3 with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 950M discrete graphics surges to P4822 in 3DMark11. The 4th-gen Intel Core i7 Processor improves power efficiency, offering impressive battery life for higher productivity. The unique dual storage incorporates one 512GB mSATA SSD and a HDD up to 2TB, delivers rapid speed and massive storage at one shot. The additional Simple-swap DVD-ROM/ HDD Bay brings an optional third storage, providing more flexibilities as well as productivity for work and fun. The P15F proves to be a worthwhile investment to maximize performance and portability. The enhanced performance makes for more engaging gaming experiences and practicality for multiple scenarios while minimizing the time cost.Photo: CompanyAbout GIGABYTEGIGABYTE Technology Co. Ltd., headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is known as a leading brand in the IT industry with branch offices located in 24 countries around the world. Founded in 1986, GIGABYTE started as a small research and development team and has since taken a position as one of the in the world's top motherboard manufacturers. In addition to motherboards and graphics cards, GIGABYTE further expanded its product portfolio to include notebook and desktop PCs, datacenter servers, networking products, mobile handsets, and home entertainment devices to serve each facet of the digital life in the home and office. Everyday GIGABYTE aims to "Upgrade Your Life" with innovative technology, exceptional quality, and unmatched customer service. Visit www.gigabyte.com for more information.
Thursday 4 June 2015
Conexant launches next-generation HD Audio CODEC with integrated AudioSmart 2.0 Class-D amplifier
Conexant Systems has introduced an ultra-low power, high-performance HD Audio CODEC - the CX8200 - at Computex 2015. Targeted to mobile PC applications including notebooks, ultrabooks and tablets, the new CX8200 intelligently drives speakers to optimize sound pressure level (SPL) while providing best-in-class speaker protection and eliminating background noise. Part of the AudioSmart 2.0 product family, the CX8200 features a fully-integrated Class-D smart amplifier and interfaces directly with Conexant's innovative software to deliver flawless speech recognition and audio output that is up to several times louder using existing PC/tablet speakers. Pushing the limits of sound in tablets and PCs Voice and speech communications play a critical role in people's personal and professional lives; however, the background noises and echoes that occur during Skype or Lync calls can effectively shut down communication and ruin collaboration. Conexant's AudioSmart 2.0 solutions improve the audio experience in noisy, real-world conditions and allow for a more natural collaboration experience with crystal clear playback and no background noise. The CX8200 allows users to hear what others are saying, speak naturally, listen to multimedia content at higher volume levels, make use of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) for dictation and virtual assistant applications (such as Cortana) and much more. "Conexant offers a complete range of audio solutions that provide consistent benefits for all of the devices/applications in the mobile PC ecosystem," noted Saleel Awsare, Conexant vice president and general manager. "Our software radically improves the quality of voice and audio performance and is tightly coupled with our next generation CODEC and amplifier products for a truly innovative, comprehensive solution. With the CX8200, we're giving consumers an enterprise-class speakerphone experience - effectively a new appliance - on the same PC or tablet platform that they're already using every day for communication and collaboration." The whole is better than the sum of its parts A single-chip solution optimized for use on any platform with an integrated speaker, Conexant's CX8200 uses a proprietary "SoftAware" link to interconnect amplifier hardware sensors with software algorithms. The dataflow between hardware sensors and software enables dynamic updates to the algorithms performing speaker control and Acoustic Echo Cancellation functions, which radically improves overall system performance. The CX8200 features a ProCoustic capless stereo headphone output that includes offset calibration to eliminate pops and clicks. Integrated headset support includes CTIA/OMTP auto-detect and switch functionality. Inline command sensing and multi-button headset detection enables control of third-party applications, system wake, and satisfies Google requirements for Chromebook. Up to four digital microphones can be connected with integrated boost and DC offset removal, and smart microphone interfaces are supported for Wake-on-Voice applications. Additional features include:- Real-time speaker sensing and protection- Programmable, 14-band hardware EQ and DRC- Industry-leading, load-based short circuit, DC, and temperature detection/protection- Universal jack support- Fully compliant with standard industry specifications and regulations- Supports Windows 10, Android 5.x, Chrome OS, and Linux platforms- Support for Lync/Skype Unified Premium and Cortana Premium experiences- Support for latest Intel Automatic Speech Recognition requirements Computex Taipei attendees are encouraged to stop by Conexant's suite #1022-10F at the Grand Hyatt Taipei during the show to view a demo and see the new audio CODEC features in action. Please visit www.conexant.com for more details. About Conexant Conexant Systems, Inc., an audio and imaging innovation leader, combines its significant IP portfolio in DSP, analog and mixed signal technology with embedded software to deliver highly innovative silicon and software solutions to enrich and expand audio and imaging capabilities. Both enterprise and consumer markets are addressed by Conexant's AudioSmartTM and ImagingSmartTM solutions. Products with the company's technology built-in include PCs, tablet computers, TVs, headsets, printers, video monitors, game consoles and a variety of other devices. Founded in 1999, Conexant is a privately-held fabless semiconductor company headquartered in Irvine, Calif. with offices and design centers worldwide. To learn more, please visit http://www.conexant.com/, follow them on LinkedIn, http://www.linkedin.com/company/conexant and like them on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/Conexant.experiencesmart
Thursday 4 June 2015
DTS:X is free from channel and speaker restrictions, facilitating delivery of immersive sound
According to experts, the multichannel audio-visual applications market has rarely failed to wow users, having introduced stunning innovations almost every year. In 2015, the most exciting innovation is no doubt the DTS:X technology unveiled at CES at the beginning of the year. As the name suggests, the technology is a creation of DTS, with the most important feature being object-based sounds that can be accurately placed by the content creators and flexibly controlled and adjusted according to the venue where the audio-visual content is played back.A look at the digital theater server market in the Asia Pacific region will show that GDC Technology has been one of the market leaders. The firm has high market share in China and the Asia Pacific region and its focus for 2015-2016 is to install licensed DTS:X solutions at nearly 350 theaters across the Asia Pacific region, including in Taiwan. Hence, Taiwan's audiences will be able experience realistic, immersive sounds provided by the DTS:X next-generation audio technology in 2015.According to Aaron Chen, general manager of sales at the DTS Taiwan Branch Office, DTS:X technology solutions are not only meant for movie theaters but also for coding and sound mixing during upstream film production, as well as for end-market home theater systems. The birth of DTS:X was enabled by a breakthrough in the traditional Ultra HD (UHD) surround sound processing technology to form a next-generation audio technology that is not tied to specific sound channels and speaker configurations.Chen further explains that the traditional home surround sound system is set on one platform and requires multiple sets of speakers and pre-baked 2.0, 5.1, or 7.1 sound channels to allow the sound changes from speaker to speaker to create the surround sound effect. When the number of sound channels increases, the restrictions on the settings become more stringent, making it difficult to have leapfrogging development. This has prevented surround sound technology from keeping up with the rapid development of the imaging technology until the birth of DTS:X, which now allows home theater owners to customize and adjust the sounds to personal preference. For content creators, the technology allows them to make changes according to the different types of physical space and bring the listening experiences to a whole new level.Immersive sounds can be delivered even from entry-level playback systemsThe core of DTS:X is the multi-dimensional audio (MDA). For filmmakers, this is a major breakthrough in audio coding technology that uses a brand new way to control the placement, movement, and volume of sound, providing an open-source platform for creating content with object-based immersive audio. This is very different from similar types of technology in the market that require enormous licensing fees and the employment of engineers to verify the coding process. More importantly, once DTS:X finishes editing the content, the immersive sounds will be maintained at the same optimal settings from cinema to home theater using either high-end or entry-level playback systems. Even with static signals, the sound effects are still natural and smooth. No wonder DTS:X has wowed the film industry, with many major Hollywood studios adopting the technology. This has also helped DTS:X rapidly spread into the theater server, AVR, and home theater system markets.Against this backdrop, after DTS launched the DTS:X technology in the first quarter of 2015, top AV receiver brands that combine for close to 90% of the market, such as Denon, Integra, Marantz, Onkyo, Pioneer, Steinway Lyngdorf, Theta Digital, Trinnov Audio and Yamaha, all plan to introduce DTS:X AVR products in 2015. In particular, Denon AVR-X7200W and Marantz AV8802 have already been launched in the market, with DTS:X firmware upgrades coming later this year . As for the upstream AV amplifier chip solutions, the technology has also received support from several digital signal processor providers such as Cirrus Logic, Analog Devices, and Texas Instruments, all of whom have confirmed they will introduce DTS:X solutions.DTS:X and Headphone:X - the highlights of 2015The key benefits of DTS:X for home theater system owners are the personalized and flexible control modes that allows them to optimize their sound experiences. Among the key highlights are backward compatibility, which accommodates existing DTS coding streams to provide enhanced immersive sound experiences. The technology also supports flexible speaker and room configurations. The technology can present the best immersive sound quality as it supports any speaker configuration in a hemispherical layout based around the listening position in the room. This is consistent with the DTS goal of "making better sound through constant innovations."Chen noted that in order for Asia Pacific consumer electronics media and industry to experience the rich and realistic sound of DTS:X in person, the company will have a booth at CES Asia - which will be held in Shanghai at the end of May - creating a full DTS:X experience. DTS Headphone:X technology, which offers a breakthrough to the current headphone specifications for mobile devices by providing surround experiences, will also be showcased at CES Asia, as well as at Computex Taipei 2015 following closely after. The exhibits will show how the technology supports end market devices, such as headphones, mobile phones and tablets. Moreover, a special area will be devoted to showcasing applications for online music stores, such as Headphone:X, which delivers surround sound through any headphones, which opens up brand new opportunities for creating business revenues.Aaron Chen, general manager of sales at DTS Taiwan Branch Office, notes that DTS:X is not tied to specific channel or speaker configurations, giving content creators, cinema operators, and home theater users full control in creating a fully immersive sound experiencePhoto: Company
Thursday 4 June 2015
HED seeking worldwide partners for Beidou in China market
The Beidou, one of four global satellite navigation systems, is included in national strategy plans by China government. The navigation market size in China is over RMB40 billion by 2020. The GNSS market penetration rate of Beidou in China will reach 60%. In recent years, IoT and wearable device market is boosting. The potential opportunities are obvious and attractive.CEC Huada Electronic Design (HED), a leading IC design house from China, is also notable in global market. In 2013, HED entered the navigation field, aiming at IoT. Due to the advantages of its Beidou technology and unique GNSS eco-system, HED has introduced a series of Beidou/GNSS chip solutions which provide small size and low power consumption, and wishes to create a fruitful win-win business together with partners.In a Digitimes interview, Sun Zhong Liang (general manager of HED GNSS Business Unit) showed strong interests in cooperation with worldwide and local companies, looking forward to further communication. HED has already successfully established partnerships with module design houses and system manufacturers. HED's Computex booth is located at I1201, 1st floor, Nangang Exhibition Hall.Beidou/GNSS: HED launches GNSS Solution for IoT and wearable applicationsPhoto: Company