Microprocessors

The evolution of the modern microprocessor is one of many surprising twists and turns. Who invented the first micro? Who had the first 32-bit single-chip design? You might be surprised at the answers. This article shows the defining decisions that brought the contemporary microprocessor to its present-day configuration. Check out the history of microprocessors at IBM.com. 

A rather uncommon article has been published at AnandTech. Intel Pentium M processor 2.10GHz on a desktop mainboard was compared against Intel Pentium 4 and AMD Athlon 64 chips. While we do know that Intel’s Pentium M chip designed specifically for mobiles is a good performer, its operation under Linux operating system brings a few surprise.

Multimedia

Game Chronicles has reviewed Creative Labs’ GigaWorks S750 speaker surround sound system. The GigaWorks S750 features an impressive list of supported technologies and boasts with total system power of 700W with 70W going to the satellite speakers and 210W going to the subwoofer. Whether you are looking for a surround sound system to enjoy DVDs on your PC or dive into immersive world of modern computer games, the GigaWorks S750 is a product to look at.

Optical drives

VelocityReviwes.com has taken a look at Liteon SOHW-1633S DVD burner. This optical drive is aimed at those users who need a well-performing and reliable recorder capable of writing all of the modern CD and DVD standards. This drive is easy to install and use, while the included software should make DVD burning trouble-free even for novice users.

Displays

TrustedReviews has taken a look at Sharp’s LL-151-3D LCD monitor. This 15” monitor will allow you to use it in both 2D and 3D modes with any PC that has either D-Sub or DVI-I connectors. The Sharp’s 3D technology used in this monitor gives you 3D viewing experience without the need to wear special glasses.

SFF

HotHardware has taken a look at QBIC EQ3501-Pro barebone PC by Soltek. This small form-factor system is powered by Intel Pentium 530 microprocessor clocked at 3GHz, Intel i915G core-logic and 1024MB of PC2-4200 memory. Find out what performance you may expect from a compact, stylish and relatively feature-rich SFF PC from Soltek.

Graphics cards

Neoseeker has reviewed Gigabyte GV-N68128DH graphics cards. This product is a reference design GeForce 6800 graphics card with blue PCB and a fanless cooling solution. If you are looking for a silent PC but do not want to sacrifice its performance, this is definitely a product to consider.