Webtagr - Technology News Summarizer

Rackmounting the Unrackmountable: A HiFi DIY Adventure

2025-03-03

This article chronicles the author's journey to build a custom 2U rack unit for their HiFi system, integrating a DAC, input selector, and streaming device. Using OpenSCAD for design and CNC turret punching for fabrication, they encountered challenges with curve precision in the DXF output, solved by using FreeCAD. Initial attempts with a HiFiBerry hat proved unreliable, leading to a switch to a Wiim Pro. The project highlights the joys and challenges of DIY, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing unit. Code is available on Github.

(calbryant.uk)

Hardware Rack Mounting

MALIBAL: Linux Hardware Manufacturer's Bizarre Business Practices and 'Zombiegate'

2025-03-03

A Linux hardware manufacturer, MALIBAL, is embroiled in controversy due to its aggressive customer communication and erratic business practices. The author recounts their experience with MALIBAL, detailing how the company insulted customers and partners, referring to them as "zombies." The article exposes MALIBAL's bizarre actions, such as banning entire countries and technologies (like Google and Apple products). Their collaboration with the Coreboot project also ended in acrimony, with mutual accusations and personal attacks. The article humorously reveals serious internal problems within the company, prompting questions about its business model and management.

(thelibre.news)

Hardware Linux hardware business disputes

78% of Hardware Companies Lack Security.txt

2025-03-03

A developer maintaining a public list of companies using libexpat in hardware found that 78% (39 out of 50) of the companies tested in 2025 did not serve a /.well-known/security.txt file as specified by RFC 9116. This reveals a concerning lack of proactive security posture in many companies, making it difficult to contact their security teams. The author urges affected companies to fix this issue and share a link to securitytxt.org.

(blog.hartwork.org)

Hardware security.txt

Resurrecting 30-Year-Old Apple SCSI Hard Drives: The Rubber-Decay Data Recovery

2025-03-02

This post details the author's experience restoring 1990s Apple-branded Quantum and Conner SCSI hard drives. These drives commonly suffer from a failure mode where they spin up and immediately stop. By opening the drives, the author discovered the root cause: aging rubber bumpers causing the read/write head to stick. Two methods—manually moving the head and using Kapton tape to hold it in place—were successfully employed to recover data. The article also shares interesting details about how data is physically stored on these drives and serves as a reminder to regularly back up important data.

(www.downtowndougbrown.com)

Hardware vintage hardware SCSI hard drive

The Pentium's Mysterious ×3 Circuit: A Deep Dive into Chip Design

2025-03-02

In 1993, Intel released the high-performance Pentium processor. This article delves into the surprisingly complex design of a seemingly simple circuit within the Pentium: the multiply-by-three circuit (×3 circuit). This circuit is part of the floating-point multiplier; the Pentium uses radix-8 multiplication, which is faster than binary multiplication, but multiplication by three requires special handling. The article explains how this circuit combines techniques like carry lookahead, Kogge-Stone adders, and carry-select adders to maximize performance. Analysis of microscope images of the chip reveals the intricate structure of the ×3 circuit and its crucial role in the Pentium, highlighting the ingenuity and technical innovation in processor design.

(www.righto.com)

Hardware processor design chip architecture radix-8 multiplication

Motorola Edge 2024 and Moto G Power 2025 Review: Budget Kings?

2025-03-02

This review compares the Motorola Edge 2024 and Moto G Power 2025. The Edge 2024 offers good value at its $300 sale price, but suffers from shutter lag in its camera and limited software updates (only two Android OS upgrades). The Moto G Power 2025 boasts IP68 water resistance, longer battery life, and extended software support, but its performance is slightly weaker than its predecessor, and the camera is just adequate. Ultimately, both phones have strengths and weaknesses, requiring careful consideration based on individual needs.

(www.wired.com)

Hardware phone review Motorola budget phones

AMD Unveils RDNA 4 Architecture and Radeon RX 9070 Series GPUs

2025-03-01

AMD officially revealed its RDNA 4 GPU architecture and the Radeon RX 9070 series, built upon it. RDNA 4 boasts significant improvements in efficiency, ray tracing, and AI performance. Featuring a single-chip design, it includes enhanced Infinity Cache and higher memory bandwidth. Targeting the mid-range market, the RX 9070 series offers performance comparable to the RTX 4070 Ti or RTX 5070 Ti, bundled with technologies like FSR 4 and HYPR-RX. AMD also introduced new software features, including an AI Apps Manager and the LLM-powered chatbot, AMD Chat, enhancing user experience.

(hothardware.com)

Hardware

World's Craziest Video Wall: A Chromebook Frankenstein

2025-03-01

Two high school students embarked on a three-year odyssey to transform a fleet of discarded Chromebooks into the world's most unconventional video wall. Overcoming numerous software and hardware hurdles, including ChromeOS limitations, precise video synchronization challenges, and aging hardware compatibility issues, they created a custom Linux distro, a clever video syncing algorithm, and ingenious mounting hardware. Their project showcases ingenuity, resourcefulness, and the power of collaboration, turning e-waste into an impressive technological marvel.

(varun.ch)

Hardware video wall

Enhanced Spin-Orbit Torque via Orbital Hall Effect for High-Density SOT-MRAM

2025-03-01

Researchers significantly improved Spin-Orbit Torque (SOT) Magnetic Random-Access Memory (MRAM) device performance by leveraging the enhanced orbital Hall effect (OHE) of Ru, Nb, and Cr layers in combination with a perpendicularly magnetized [Co/Ni]3 ferromagnetic layer. Experiments showed a ~30% increase in damping-like torque efficiency with a positive sign for the Ru/Pt OHE layer compared to pure Pt. This resulted in a ~20% reduction in switching current across >250 devices and a >60% reduction in switching power. This work paves the way for next-generation SOT-MRAM devices with enhanced performance for high-density cache memory applications.

(www.nature.com)

Hardware Orbital Hall Effect Spin-Orbit Torque

Zen 5: AMD's Graceful Handling of AVX-512 at High Frequencies

2025-03-01

This article delves into the performance of AMD's Zen 5 architecture running AVX-512 instructions at high frequencies. Unlike Intel's Skylake-X, which suffered from fixed frequency offsets and lengthy transition periods, Zen 5 leverages improved on-die sensors and adaptive clocking to achieve full AVX-512 performance at its 5.7GHz peak frequency. Tests reveal that Zen 5 doesn't experience significant frequency drops when encountering AVX-512 workloads; instead, it employs fine-grained IPC (instructions per cycle) adjustments as needed to maintain high performance. This dynamic adjustment mechanism effectively avoids frequent frequency transitions, ensuring smooth performance transitions between high and low loads. While brief IPC drops might occur under extreme conditions, overall, Zen 5's AVX-512 support is impressive, significantly outperforming previous Intel architectures.

(chipsandcheese.com)

Hardware

Warping in Fan-out Wafer-Level Packaging: Modeling, Measurement, and Control

2025-02-28

The end of Moore's Law has spurred advancements in advanced semiconductor packaging, such as fan-out wafer-level packaging (FOWLP). FOWLP enhances performance and efficiency by packaging chips at the wafer level and redistributing interconnects. However, warping during FOWLP manufacturing poses a significant challenge. This paper reviews methods for measuring (Moiré interferometry, digital fringe projection, digital image correlation), modeling (Stoney's equation, Timoshenko's theory, finite element method, AI/ML models, multi-scale approaches), and controlling warping. Warping is primarily determined by material properties (coefficient of thermal expansion, glass transition temperature, Young's modulus), process parameters (temperature profiles, mold cure rate, mold flow rate), and geometry (layer thickness, chip geometry, chip layout, redistribution layer). Future research directions include the need for more accurate material data, multi-scale models, and the development of digital twin technology for real-time warping control.

(www.frontiersin.org)

Hardware Fan-out Wafer-Level Packaging Warping Finite Element Analysis

Walkman Interface Enhancement Addon: Revamp Your Music Experience

2025-02-27

A new addon called Walkman One enhances the interface and adds features to Sony's NW-A50, ZX300, WM1A, and WM1Z series Walkman players. It boasts Winamp 2 skin support, custom cassette skins, on-the-fly skin changing, a volume table editor, per-song audio options, and access to all audio filters. Additional features include a clock, larger cover art, a digital clock skin, a low-latency USB DAC module, and FM radio (on compatible models). While supporting many Walkman models, some older ones require Walkman One firmware. Installation is easy: download and run the installer, select your model and firmware version.

(github.com)

Hardware Interface Enhancement

Chipmakers' Software Ecosystem Anxiety

2025-02-27

Chipmakers often worry about others writing software that interfaces with their chips, fearing that poorly written software will reflect badly on their products. This fear stems partly from the close relationship between hardware and software, and partly from an undervaluation of external engineers' capabilities. However, Joy's Law states that "No matter who you are, most of the smartest people work for someone else." Chipmakers need to acknowledge this and actively embrace external engineers to build successful software ecosystems.

(rfd.shared.oxide.computer)

Hardware chips software ecosystem Joy's Law

Retrofitting an M4 Mac Mini into an iMac G4: A Hackintosh Odyssey

2025-02-26

The author embarked on a project to integrate an M4 Mac Mini into a 17-inch iMac G4, creating a powerful retro-futuristic machine. Initially, a Juicy Crumb DockLite G4 was attempted but its color banding, low resolution, and lack of automatic screen shutoff proved problematic. The author ultimately replaced the screen with a high-resolution Sharp LQ170R1JX42 LCD and corresponding driver board. Custom 3D-printed and CNC-machined parts were created to manage cable routing and Mac Mini mounting. Challenges included backlight control and exposed ports, but the resulting 'iMac G4(K)' successfully runs, blending retro aesthetics with modern performance.

(jcs.org)

Hardware

Hive Roaster: Revolutionizing Home Coffee Roasting

2025-02-26

The Hive Roaster Cascabel is a lightweight, durable home coffee roaster inspired by commercial designs. It allows for high-quality coffee bean roasting at home with ease. Its unique design combines convective and conductive heat for low-smoke, mess-free indoor roasting, and it's incredibly easy to learn. User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising its simplicity and professional-level results, even in small apartments. The Hive Roaster is available internationally, including Thailand, and has earned endorsements from professional coffee roasters.

(hiveroaster.com)

Hardware coffee roasting home appliance

Framework Expands Beyond Laptops: Desktops and a Student-Focused Convertible Arrive

2025-02-26

Framework unveiled its second-generation products, including an updated Framework Laptop 13 with AMD Ryzen AI 300, a 4.5-liter Mini-ITX desktop powered by Ryzen AI Max and Radeon 8060S graphics, and a new 12-inch convertible laptop aimed at students. The desktop, a significant expansion into a new market, emphasizes customizability and boasts 1440p gaming capabilities. The company highlights the repairability and modularity characteristic of its previous laptops across its new lineup. Prices range from $899 to $1999.

(www.tomshardware.com)

Hardware

Framework's First All-in-One Mini PC: Powerful, But Not Upgradable

2025-02-25

Framework has launched its first all-in-one mini PC, boasting a compact 4.5-liter chassis, comparable to a game console. Powered by Ryzen AI Max processors and starting with 32GB of RAM, it's capable of 1440p gaming and workstation tasks. Pricing starts at $1099, topping out at $1999 for the highest configuration. While offering strong performance at a relatively competitive price, its soldered CPU, GPU, and RAM make it non-upgradeable – a significant departure from Framework's usual modular design philosophy.

(arstechnica.com)

Hardware mini PC

Microsoft Locks Out Older Intel CPUs from Windows 11 24H2

2025-02-25

Microsoft's published CPU support list for Windows 11 24H2 confirms that only 11th-generation Intel CPUs and later are supported. This means OEMs can no longer build new PCs with older Intel chips for Windows 11 24H2. While the restriction applies to OEMs, it has sparked concerns among users about future hardware compatibility. Although Microsoft's official hardware compatibility list currently supports older CPUs (e.g., 8th, 9th, and 10th gen Intel chips), this change could signal further tightening of hardware requirements in the future.

(www.theregister.com)

Hardware Hardware Compatibility

Evolution of the Micro Journal: A Distraction-Free Writing Device

2025-02-24

Un Kyu Lee's Micro Journal is a fascinating evolution of distraction-free writing devices. Starting with a Raspberry Pi and a mechanical keyboard, the project iterated through several versions, each addressing different needs and design challenges. From the foldable Rev.2.ReVamp to the Cherry MX hot-swappable Rev.6, each Micro Journal iteration improves on portability, customization, and the overall writing experience. Rev.7 offers a traditional keyboard layout, while Rev.5 allows connection to a wide range of mechanical keyboards. The story showcases the maker spirit and a relentless pursuit of the perfect writing experience, attracting significant media attention along the way.

(github.com)

Hardware mechanical keyboard writing device

Python Library for RadiaCode-10x Radiation Detectors

2025-02-24

This Python library simplifies interaction with RadiaCode-10x radiation detectors and spectrometers. Features include real-time radiation measurements, spectrum acquisition and analysis, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and a web interface example. Easily control your device, collect data, and analyze radiation information. Manage device settings, configure display brightness, language, sound, and vibration. Comprehensive examples are provided for both basic terminal output and an interactive web interface.

(github.com)

Hardware radiation detection python library

Fixing 'No space left on device' Error on an Old Dell's EFI Variables

2025-02-24

While migrating boot drives and setting up GRUB on an old (2011) Dell, the author encountered a 'Could not prepare boot variable: No space left on device' error. The `efivars` partition was full according to `df -h`, despite having only a few boot entries. Suspecting fragmented or unusable space in NVRAM, the author booted to an EFI shell and used `dmpstore` commands (`dmpstore -s efi-vars`, `dmpstore -d`, `dmpstore -l efi-vars`) to clean up EFI variables. This freed up space and resolved the issue. Caution: This process might brick your system; check `dmpstore`'s help before using these commands.

(artemis.sh)

Hardware EFI variables

Stelo CGM Teardown: Unlocking the Secrets of a Cheap CGM

2025-02-23

This article details a teardown of Dexcom's Stelo CGM, an affordable ($50) continuous glucose monitor. The author shares their experience using the device and delves into its internal workings, including the nRF52832 microcontroller, CR1216 coin cell battery, and other unidentified chips. By measuring power consumption, the author reveals that the battery life far exceeds the claimed 15 days, and explores the possibility of using energy harvesting for permanent power. The article also sparks discussion on product cost breakdown and market competition, making it a compelling read for both tech enthusiasts and those interested in medical technology.

(andykong.org)

Hardware CGM Hardware Teardown

Unlocking the RAK5010's BG95-M3 USB Serial Ports

2025-02-22

This post details accessing the three serial ports on the Quectel BG95-M3 module embedded in the RAK5010 development board. The author, after consulting the schematic, identified and resoldered four resistors to redirect the USB data lines from the nRF52840 to the BG95-M3. Despite a minor mishap involving a lost resistor, the modification was successful, allowing direct USB communication with the modem and access to its three serial ports.

(danielmangum.com)

Hardware

WinRAR 7.10 Released: Dark Mode and Enhanced Privacy

2025-02-21

WinRAR 7.10 has been released, boasting numerous improvements including larger memory pages for performance boosts, a much-requested dark mode, and a redesigned settings interface. A standout feature is its enhanced privacy controls. Users can now fine-tune how information from the Mark-of-the-Web (MoTW) is propagated, with a default setting that only retains the security zone value, stripping potentially revealing URLs and IP addresses from extracted files. While this might impact digital forensics, it's a welcome addition for privacy-conscious users.

(www.bleepingcomputer.com)

Hardware

Exa: Building the Next-Gen AI Chips - Join the Founding Team!

2025-02-21

Exa is building the next generation of AI chips, aiming to surpass current market leaders. Their novel polymorphic XPU chips self-reconfigure for optimal dataflow, supporting AGI and ASI while drastically reducing energy consumption. They're seeking exceptional engineers to join their founding team and build revolutionary technology with lasting impact for centuries.

(www.ycombinator.com)

Hardware Job Opportunity

Pocket-Sized AI Inference: Introducing the Coral USB Accelerator

2025-02-20

The Coral USB Accelerator brings high-speed machine learning inference to your desktop. Simply plug this tiny (65mm x 30mm) device into your USB port (supports Windows, macOS, and Debian Linux, including Raspberry Pi) to unleash the power of its 4 TOPS Edge TPU coprocessor. Boasting impressive power efficiency (2 TOPS per watt), it can run state-of-the-art models like MobileNet v2 at nearly 400 FPS. Leveraging TensorFlow Lite, it simplifies model deployment.

(coral.ai)

Hardware AI accelerator

Hetzner AX162 Server Reliability Nightmare: A Painful Debugging Journey

2025-02-19

Ubicloud encountered serious reliability issues with Hetzner's new AX162 servers: a 16x higher crash rate than its predecessor, AX161. After months of debugging, they suspected power limiting by Hetzner and motherboard defects as the root causes. Multiple hardware upgrades, especially motherboard replacements, ultimately resolved the issue. This experience taught them the risks of early adoption and led to process improvements, including more thorough vetting and gradual hardware rollouts.

(www.ubicloud.com)

Hardware server reliability

Backblaze's SSD vs. HDD Reliability Showdown: The Verdict is...

2025-02-19

Backblaze conducted a long-term reliability study comparing SSDs and HDDs in their data centers. Initial data suggested significantly lower failure rates for SSDs, but this was skewed by the much shorter operational lifespan of SSDs and varying drive-day counts. Retrospectively analyzing HDD data to match SSD age and usage revealed comparable failure rates between the two. Long-term data shows HDD failure rates increase dramatically with age, while the future trend for SSDs remains unclear. Currently, using failure rate as the sole deciding factor when choosing between SSDs and HDDs is questionable; cost, speed, and other factors should weigh heavier in your decision.

(www.backblaze.com)

Hardware Reliability

Daylight DC-1: A Monochromatic Tablet That Reimagines Computing

2025-02-19

The Daylight DC-1 is a unique grayscale tablet prioritizing a healthy relationship with light and the outdoors. The author's experience on an Amtrak train highlighted its readability in direct sunlight, comfortable nighttime use, and the ease of using Android. While it has some shortcomings, such as keyboard support, software roughness, and missing features, it's an impressive device, particularly its innovative display technology. The author ultimately praises its potential and the company's direction.

(jon.bo)

Hardware tablet display technology outdoor use

Acer to Hike Laptop Prices in US by 10% Due to Tariffs

2025-02-18

Acer CEO Jason Chen announced a 10% price increase on its laptops in the US starting March 2025, citing upcoming tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. This increase will affect even existing stock, and while Acer is exploring alternative supply chains including US-based production, the immediate impact will be felt by consumers. Other PC manufacturers remain silent, suggesting this might be a harbinger of broader price increases across the market.

(www.tomshardware.com)

Hardware Acer Tariffs Laptop Price Increase

Category: Hardware