Asustek Computer has introduced the PCI Express interface Xonar D2X and the USB interface Xonar U1 audio devices.The Asustek Xonar family of audio cards utilizes an Asustek exclusive technology – the new DS3D GX extension in the Xonar D2X driver; to provide full support for surround sound and hardware accelerated features by translating DirectX to the DS3D GX, according to the company. Other solutions like OpenAL require special installation and game support, while, DS3D GX does not, pointed out Asustek. Gamers can enjoy DirectX gaming with hardware enhanced surround sound and EAX effects automatically and immediately after installation, it added.The Xonar D2X also includes Acoustics Echo Cancellation (AEC) technology to improve online voice communication quality. AEC can eliminate up-to-40dB speaker echo return and suppress noises that would otherwise enter a user's microphone, according to Asustek.The Asustek Xonar D2X also features a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 118dB for both audio in and out – reaching the maximum limit of audio quality on most PC platforms, said Asustek. Unlike generic audio cards on the market that provide the highest SNR to only the front stereo outputs, the Xonar D2X is able to deliver 118dB quality audio for all 7.1 channels, the company highlighted.The Xonar U1 is an external USB audio device that improves the underachieving audio of notebooks and PCs by first eliminating electromagnetic interference (EMI) and noisy DC circuits inside the PC chassis. It then utilizes a high-quality DAC (digital to analog converter) to bring about "crisp, clear music or gaming audio in the original flavor" said Asustek. The Xonar U1 provides a large boost to PC gamers by supporting EAX and DirectSound hardware acceleration, noted the company.Asustek Xonar D2X PCI Express-based audio cardPhoto: Company

Leadtek Research has announced the launch of an entry-level graphics card, the WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI, with a low profile form factor, heatpipe design and built-in HDMI connector.Based on 80nm technology and powered by the Nvidia GeForce 8500 GT graphics processing unit (GPU), the WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI comes with 256MB DDR2 memory and a GPU/memory clock of 450/800MHz, noted the company.The WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI features Nvidia PureVideo HD, Lumenex Engine, GigaThread and HDCP support. With Dual-Link DVI-I output, it can support digital displays up to 2560×1600 resolutions at 32-bit and 60Hz, added the company. Leadtek WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI graphics card specification Item Detail Graphic Bus PCI Express GPU Nvidia GeForce 8500 GT GPU Clock 450MHz Memory Clock 800MHz Memory Size 256MB GDDR2 Memory Interface 128-bit Stream Processors 16 DirectX Support DirectX 10.0 Shader Model 4.0 Output Dual-link DVI-I, HDMI, SPDIF-in Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, October 2007Leadtek WinFast PX8500 GT TDH HDMI graphics cardPhoto: Company

Gateway recently introduced the Gateway 30-inch LCD monitor (XHD3000), the world's first "Quad HD" display, delivering more than four times the resolution of standard 720p high definition, claimed the company.The new monitor is ideal for the high-end gaming market, music and video production and editing, graphic and 3D design as well as offices running demanding media applications, said Gateway. The company is offering the new model at US$1,699.99.The 30-inch monitor features a resolution of 2560×1600 and uses the Silicon Optix Realta HQV video processor. In addition, the new model's range of inputs include HDMI, single-link/dual-link DVI-D, VGA, component, s-video and composite interfaces.Additional features include a contrast ratio of 1,000:1, brightness of 400 cd/m2 and response time of 6ms with a viewing angle of 178-degrees both horizontally and vertically.Meanwhile, the new XHD3000 comes with a new four-device universal IR remote control that can be used to access not only the display, but also three additional devices, such as a Media Center PC, cable or satellite set-top box (STB)and DVD player. The included IR Blaster cable allows for remote transmission of IR controls directly from the XHD3000 via the universal remote as well as from other devices' remote controls to AV equipment behind cabinets, highlighted Gateway.High-definition picture-in-picture (PIP) functionality allows users to work on computer applications while simultaneously viewing programming from cable, satellite or other video sources at full HD resolutions, pointed out the company. Enhanced usability is delivered with the display's built-in, self-powered six-port USB 2.0 hub, which makes it easy and convenient to plug in a digital camera, digital music player, keyboard, mouse or USB flash drive, the company added.Gateway 30-inch new monitor Photo: Company

Asustek has released the P5E WS Professional and P5E3 WS Professional workstation motherboards with multiple high speed I/O interfaces including dual PCI Express (PCIe) 2.0 and PCI-X slots.The multiple slot interfaces increase expansion choices and allow users to obtain high data transmission speeds, highlighted Asustek. PCIe 2.0 x16 offers double the bus bandwidth of PCIe, from 2.5Gb/s to 5.0Gb/s. The P5E workstation series also showcases PCI-X slots for more convenience on slot expansion, and is able to bring about full speeds for Gigabit Ethernet, SCSI RAID and other PCI-X devices, claimed Asustek.Asustek's Super Memspeed technology, found on the P5E3 WS Pro, enables users with the ability to achieve enhanced overclocking by providing precise overclocking options and calculating the most accurate FSB/DRAM frequency proportions to boost memory speeds up to 72% on DDR3 memory, according to the motherboard maker.The P5E workstation series also provides several integrated features like AI Slot Detector, AI Gear 2 and AI Nap. Asustek P5E series motherboard specification Model P5E WS Professional P5E3 WS Professional CPU Supports Intel Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Quad, Pentium D, Pentium 4, Celeron and upcoming 45nm processors Chipset North Bridge: Intel X38 South Bridge: Intel ICH9R System Bus FSB 1333/1066/800MHz Memory Dual-channel DDR2 1200, 1066, 800 and 667MHz memory up to 8GB Dual-channel DDR3 1800, 1600, 1333, 1066 and 800MHz memory up to 8GB Audio RealTek ALC888, 8-channel Azalia Audio codec ADI 1988B, 8-channel Azalia Audio codec Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, October 2007Asustek P5E series motherboard Photo: Company

Samsung Electronics America has announced the Samsung 940UX monitor, the first 19-inch flat-panel USB connected LCD monitor, claimed the company. The monitor supports UbiSync technology that allows multiple screens to connect via USB, rather than VGA, without the need for a graphics card or any special video hardware.Each 940UX features an onboard video card and embedded software driver allowing for automatic installation on any Windows XP PC, eliminating inconveniences such as purchasing additional graphic cards and downloading separate drivers, pointed out the company. The monitor is suitable for users who need to add a second or third monitor to a notebook or PC, particularly PCs that lack space for an extra graphics card.Users can add up to six 940UX monitors on one PC, providing up to 114-inches of desktop space increasing productivity by giving users the ability to have multiple windows open across multiple displays. For additional flexibility, the 940UX also features the traditional VGA (15-pin D-sub) and DVI connections.The 940UX is priced at US$379 manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). The monitor is currently available at a variety of retail outlets and through Samsung resellers and distribution channels.Samsung premieres 19-inch LCD monitor with UbiSync technologyPhoto: Company

Micro-Star International (MSI) has introduced its latest P6NGM series motherboard based on the new-generation Nvidia MCP73 series chipset with integrated GeForce 7 series graphics for Intel processors and Q35MDO (MS-7358) motherboard, which supports Intel vPro technology and is designed specifically for business PCs, while also featuring the Intel Q35 Express chipset and support for the Intel Core 2 Quad/Duo processors.The P6NGM supports 1333MHz FSB multi-core processors including the Core 2 Quad and Duo. The motherboard is also the first to feature HDMI for Intel processors, claimed the company.The Q35MDO chooses a Q35 and ICH9DO chipset combination, and integrates the necessary functions for vPro digital office technology including Intel's Active Management Technology (AMT) 3.0, Matrix Storage Technology (MST), Trust Execution Technology (TXT), and Virtualization Technology (VT) to deliver high security storage and convenient manageability in office environment, highlighted MSI.The Q35MDO also features energy efficient performance by supporting upcoming Intel 1333MHz FSB 45nm multi-core processors. It also has integrated GMA 3100 graphics, noted the company. MSI Intel platform-based motherboards specifications Model P6NGM series Q35MDO CPU Intel Core 2 Quad and Duo with 1333MHz FSB Chipsets Nvidia MCP73 Intel Q35 Express Memory Supports DDR2 800/667/533 Supports dual-channel DDR2 800/667/533 VGA GeForce 7 series Intel GMA 3100 IGP Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, October 2007MSI P6NGM series motherboardPhoto: CompanyMSI Q35MDO motherboardPhoto: Company

Micro-Star International (MSI) has announced the K9NU Speedster motherboard and P1-106 server barebone, which support the recently launched AMD Quad-Core Opteron processors (Barcelona).Paired with the Nvidia nForce 3400 chipset, the K9NU-Speedster motherboard and P1-106 server barebone focus on the entry-level server market, supporting one Quad-Core Opteron 2200 series processor. The Nvidia nForce Pro 3400 supports 1GHz HyperTransport in full-duplex mode giving a bi-directional throughput that can reach 8GB/s to reduce bottlenecks. The K9NU-Speedster also provides a maximum memory bandwidth up to 8.5GB/s (DDR2-533) or 10.5GB/s (DDR2-667), according to MSI.The K9NU-Speedster motherboard and P1-106 Server barebone provide eight DIMMs supporting a maximum 32GB DDR2 533/667 memory. Their XGI Volari Z7 graphics processor with 16MB video memory can meet users' needs without adding another discrete graphics adapter, while the products still provide two PCI Express x16 ports with Nvidia SLI technology support for future expansion.The K9NU-Speedster and P1-106 have dual Gigabit Ethernet LAN ports based on Marvell's 1116 PHY chip to speed network bandwidth and response times for higher efficiency when transferring large files or providing multimedia/communication services, added MSI.MSI K9NU Speedster server motherboardPhoto: CompanyMSI P1-106 server barebonePhoto: Company

OCZ Technology Group announced the release of the Turbo-Cool 1200 power supply from PC Power & Cooling.PC Power & Cooling has designed the Turbo-Cool 1200 for optimum power distribution to all components by utilizing a custom single +12V rail design, according to OCZ.The Turbo-Cool 1200 is SLI certified by Nvidia to run dual GeForce 8800 Ultra, the highest configuration currently available, according to OCZ, adding that the unit can deliver 1.2kW of continuous power with a 1300W peak through a complete array of connectors.OCZ Turbo-Cool 1200 power supplyPhoto: Company

Mitsubishi Digital Electronics America has introduced the HL650U, a new SXGA+ (1400×1050) resolution high-brightness LCD projector, designed for applications requiring high, accurate details and vivid colors such as CAD/CAM, geographical and tactical mapping, medical imaging and virtual simulation. The HL650U outputs 3100 ANSI lumens for a bright, clear image even in high-ambient light settings such as large classrooms or meeting rooms with windows, according to the company.Easy set-up features include digital vertical and horizontal keystone correction and an option that allows users to match selected background wall colors including beige, blue, green, pink and blackboard. Once the color is chosen the projector then automatically adjusts its color gamma to create the best image possible on that surface, making set-up in classrooms and conference rooms a breeze, highlighted the company.A side-loading lamp also makes replacement quick, simple and efficient. Users can just extract the old lamp from the side and replace it – saving time and money. Network management is also simple and easy with the HL650U's embedded ProjectorView and RJ45 connectivity for LAN asset management control of up to 200 projectors. Its RS232c connection makes it simple to integrate with third-party control systems and an anti-theft security anchor is included to deter unapproved removal.The HL650U is offered at a suggested retail price of US$4,995 and is available from Mitsubishi's professional dealer network.Mitsubishi HL650U LCD projectorPhoto: Company

Transcend has announced the release of professional-grade 2GB DDR2-667 VLP (very low profile) ECC registered memory modules.At less than 3/4 of an inch high, these modules are 40% shorter than standard memory, making them appropriate for use in 1U (or thinner) blade servers and embedded systems with space restrictions, according to Transcend. Due to the low profile design, the VLP DIMM can be installed in vertical memory slots rather than the traditional 45-degree angle server memory slots. Vertical orientation helps maximize usable space in the chassis, improve airflow and heat dissipation, and allows for the installation of more memory modules, noted Transcend.The 2GB VLP DIMMs are made of 18 Micron 256M×4 DDR2 FBGA (fine-pitch ball grid array) chips. As opposed to traditional server memory with standard ECC, Transcend's 2GB DDR2-667 VLP registered modules incorporate IBM's advanced new Chipkill technology, according to Transcend. With Chipkill, DIMMs are able to check and correct multi-bit errors from a single memory chip, whereas standard ECC is only able to correct one-bit errors. This can significantly increase data reliability, which is especially important for heavy-duty server applications running complex tasks, noted Transcend.The memory module is available now at a recommended retail price of US$399 before tax, according to the company.Transcend 2GB DDR2-667 VLP (very low profile) ECC registered memoryPhoto: Company