Unveiled in February at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, ​​the FonePad Asus was a product that was expected with curiosity, even a certain impatience. Indeed, despite its low-cost tariff, it seems very attractive on paper, is paying the luxury to offer an unexpected phone function. Remains to be seen what role it can have in our daily lives ...

Let it be said: 2013 is the year of phablette,Dell Inspiron 1545  this new kind of mobile devices halfway between the smartphone and the tablet with a comfortable screen size. And if the Samsung Galaxy Note has pioneered a moment ago, many manufacturers have since stepped into the breach, pushing a little more reasonable limits on size. Huawei introduced at the beginning of the year of 6.1'' smartphone, Samsung offers Galaxy Mega 6.3'', but it is Asus, which wins the prize with this FonePad 7''. The same format as a Dell E4300 Battery , so, so much so that one wonders if it is reasonable to continue to be considered a phablette. Moreover, the editorial 'of PCworld, the debate rages: is a tablet that is also a phone, or a smartphone that can be used as a tablet? Both say that the disagreement was settled in sweat and blood, finally settled on this conclusion: the Asus FonePad is primarily a tablet which may serve as a phone, and that's a good thing because you will see, this aspect is not really his forte.

But proceed by step and start with scanning the device in all its glory. By far the FonePad largely resembles a Nexus 7 and, more generally, to most tablet 7'' that have flooded the  XPS M1330 market in recent months rather broad black stripes on the sides, no physical button on the front, and only the presence of a microphone on the top of its role betrayed phone. At the back, however, it is further away from the Google tablet (also manufactured by Asus, do not forget), with an aluminum shell and a fairly smooth rubber cover housing slots for SIM cards and microSD. Despite appearances, it is also easily removed, since just drag two inches above to pop out of its notches.

Unlike the Nexus 7, also the volume buttons and plugs are keyed to the left of the device, which is much more easily accessible. The E4310 Battery connection is meanwhile in minimalism, with a micro-USB port for charging and a jack, both located in the lower part of the device, which, for the use of a helmet is enough impractical. In this regard, the FonePad comes with in-ear headphones good surprise for rendering the music and hands-free kit simple and effective function. Side finish and build quality, nothing to complain, everything is impeccably assembled and exudes strength. However, the very 'slippery' of the casing prevents perfect grip and it was always a little afraid to let go when the catch with one hand.

Better than Nexus 7?

Call to screen this FonePad which, unsurprisingly again, quality is quite similar to that found on the Nexus 7. Based on an IPS LCD capacitive, the HP G32  manufacturer chooses the same definition (1280x800) and a pixel density equivalent (216ppi). In practice, visual comfort is ok but not great: viewing angles are good, but not exceptional, and the maximum brightness setting is a little low, unless you turn the "outdoor" mode in the settings. By screen tablets side by side two, however, we see white yellow pulling on FonePad and more generally, a little duller colors. It says nothing insurmountable, and it remains in the top quality average in this price category.

Side autonomy, FonePad also pleasantly surprised: the Pavilion G4  battery offers ten hours of use with WiFi on, and reaches nearly 8 hours of video playback, which places it directly in the first place our comparison in the category of tablets 7 and 8 inches.

Now let us get to the heart of the FonePad: its performance and everyday use. Next benchmark, it is, again, a good average, given its size and price, and shows consistent results with the hardware it offers. In use, the Intel Atom Z2420 1.2 Ghz processor, Pavilion G7 PowerVR SGX540 GPU and do the job in most cases and can benefit from a fast and fluid navigation within the interface, and an honorable comfort on 3D games. Again, you can expect something similar to that offered a Nexus 7 and Tegra 3 SoC, even if, on paper, our benchmarks show a net benefit to the machine stamped Google.

Especially as the Jelly Bean Android 4.1.2 version used here is very customized and just allow some proprietary applications without interest (taking notes, slideshow creation ...), or the ability to superimpose a widget (calculator, calendar, stopwatch ...) transparency of any screen. Functionally equivalent to that found on the LG Optimus G. Briefly, the OS appears light and pleasant to use.

Conclude with what remains the most subjective to assess point but we will still try to judge: the phone part. Much to say right now, the format 7'' seems to us clearly too large to be effective through use of conventional telephony, that is to say, the HP Envy 17T device glued to his ear. Too large in the hand and in the pocket, it may eventually find its way into a bag or briefcase, but quickly sentenced to be used with a handsfree. To summarize: it can act as a secondary phone perfect for the home, on a table, but certainly not the main smartphone, unless you are ready to use it only with a headset.

The Asus FonePad is therefore not a revolutionary Latitude E5520  product and is positioned primarily as a good tablet 7'', which may serve as a phone in a particular context. However, it keeps the price argument, since it can be found for less than € 229. For this price, so you are entitled to a good clone of the Nexus 7 3G version, which also offers a microSD slot and a longer battery life, which is already very good.

TAGS: Dell XPS M1530， PA3534U-1BAS， CQ62 Battery

Fractal Design is not only Dell XPS M1530 PC cases. The Swedish company also provides power to put into it. With its new Newton R3 and 80Plus certification range, she hopes to make an impression. But these models are they really a good deal?

After Tesla Integra R2 and R2, Fractal Design is now offering a new range of power supplies called Newton R3. We were able to spend a few days with the 600W model, which, like its peers, has an 80Plus Platinum certification, the highest award in this power category. Around this block we begin with the  PA3534U-1BAS cooling system of which 13,5 cm fan may operate in a semi-passive mode. More specifically, it does not take effect until the moment when the load exceeds 50%, or about 300W. Once started, it will continue to regulate its rotation in order to provide the minimum of noise, while meeting energy needs. A system that generally works wonders, since this block Newton R3 will be shown in an exemplary discretion, even more than 600W load.

Side wiring, Fractal  CQ62 Battery Design offers everything you need in a bag that does not disown the hero of the series Dexter ... Inside, a PCI-Express cable doubled with two 6 +2 pin connectors, three SATA cables to cover a total of 9 HDD cable for Molex devices and Floppy Molex adapter. Note that all this a platform. The missing? Yes! This Newton R3 is semi-modular effect and offers cables ATX 20 +4 pin, the EPS ATX PCI-Express socket for the CPU 4 +4 pin, and a second cable doubled 6 +2 pin directly. The  Dell D630 Battery offer is so bloated, but not enough to hide a defect, however: some cables are too short, especially those intended for food or the graphics card. In fact, if you do not encounter problems on a small box, with a medium or large tower case, the case will be complicated, and the links will then be live, which singularly fail to aesthetics.

Since we are talking about dimensions, it should be noted that this block Fractal Design has not done in the standard. If the Inspiron 1525 height and width are fixed and data to 8.6 cm and 15 cm respectively, the length by 16.5 cm. These dimensions are all the more strange that the modular connectors on the block does not seem to require much space. In addition, the interior block provided by the Taiwanese company ATNG is not particularly greedy on this aspect. We can therefore assume that Fractal Design has simply erred on the side of the 600W model. Always side connector block, modular cables have a little trouble returning. At least, once you have a little forced on the holding mechanism, the HP Pavilion DV6 cable will not risk moving.

SLI and Crossfire

Like its sister version 800 and 1000 W, 600 W R3 that Newton will dsponible in black or white, and benefit from an 80Plus Platinum certification. A certification that will not fly, because the official figures place it in the top of the basket over the E5500 batteries competition. At 20% load, it gets 91.41% yield while at 50% load, it goes up to 92.37%. The value drops to 89.45% to 100% load.

And good news: these numbers are found on our test bench (see protocol). As expected, a little more than the 300W ventilation starts. But the cooling cycle under Fractal Design allows it to also turn off depending on the temperature inside the block. Another good point between each cycle, the Dell Vostro 1520 fan does not cause unpleasant noise as was the case on our Corsair GS800 power.

Good but could do better ...

Fractal Design HP Pavilion DV7 signs here a new range of high potential. With the help of circuits ATNG, this Newton R3 delivers easily the power you need, even for a dual GPU configuration. However, we must not forget to check the size of your case before you buy! Issue price, if you look over our competition on price comparison, this block Newton R3 600W is 10 € cheaper than the equivalent of 660W Seasonic. In all cases, Fractal Design comes in a good position on this power range. I bet that the Swedish firm quickly fix this glitch cable length.

Tags: Dell Studio 1555, Latitude E6510,  E6420 batteries

No doubt you will find our test Bioshock Infinite shorter than usual ... At the same time, when a title also shows excellent, sometimes it does not need to make tons.

If you think a moment, and try to count the number of films that, in recent years, could boast of having a real emotion to arise in the small icy heart beating in your chest, probably count be limited a small handful of elected. In our case, we would quote some excerpts from epic Toshiba PA3534U-1BRS in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, probably ... The conclusion of Shutter Island, perhaps ... Or the legendary scene where Dictator Sacha Baron Cohen has crush on her naked sex the window of a New York building ... Now, if you're having fun to transpose this thinking to the field of video games, it is very simple: at best, you might find a title that you have made the story really upset, but more likely, you will lose the afternoon to haunt the pages of Wikipedia to find your happiness.

Again, with regard to our personal experience: the only way that we came to mind is Spec Ops: The Lines (and I mean emotionally, not fun game, although the title of Yager s' also came out very well on this aspect). Well, coincidence or not: today is another shooting VGP-BPS14 game published by 2K Games to be able to repeat this feat in 2013, Bioshock Infinite.

Bring the girl, and we will erase debt

Bioshock Infinite is the kind of game that, when analyzed coldly, element by element, does not look like anything ... For example, if one admits that the implementation is very to his advantage , the colorful and clean again, it is far from being Sony VGP-BPS11 technically flamboyant than a Farcry 3 or Crysis 3. Same thing about game mechanics: Irrational Games then uses revenue that has already seen many times in many modern FPS. The player has access to a nice range of weapons for him to enjoy the attacking style that best suits him. Appendices are also different powers at its disposal to enable it to expand its strategic options during a confrontation: back an opponent against his clan, immobilizer, push it away, etc ...

And may improve the VGP-BPS8 Battery effectiveness of spells or its weapons buying various improvement options distributors who serve him also to replenish ammunition. As for our opponents, they will land in patterns that we learn very quickly to decipher: waves, which occasionally precede the arrival of a boss himself always chosen from among three or four recurring creatures.

God forgives all, but I'm not a prophet, nothing compels me

Very classic videogame attributes, therefore, not yet Bioshock Infinite will prevent you take your guts to throw down, and trample joyously ... This is more than a game, the Pavilion DV6 FPS Irrational provides a real emotional experience. And you find yourself feeling compassion, and some form of attachment to the character of Elizabeth, which compensates its exterior by a very cartoon character particularly well built.

You fall in love with this city of Columbia, real living organism that always seems on the edge between the image of paradise on earth, and that a reduced that it has more to offer black humanity. Finally, thank you to completely a DV5 Battery storyline fly high, you can find, as we did, to get ahead, exploring every corner of the city, gathering every piece of information on Comstock, Elizabeth bribe or the two inseparable Robert and Rosalind Lutetia as if to gather these indices would help you solve the mystery of this adventure, beyond what the developers have imagined. In a word, Bioshock is an example of a successful immersion.

You fear God? No, but I fear you, you ...

Again, let's be clear: the game is not perfect. Beyond the fairly common aspects that we mentioned above, the notion of difficulty really appear at the most difficult level. Similarly, the whole is particularly linear, although it is recognized as part of the adventure, the city of Columbia, can not feel too constrained by this aspect. However, the atmosphere, the HP Pavilion DV4 strength and originality of the story that is told us (and ends in an incredible climax), crush everything in their path, leaving us with no other choice but to conseillerde you plunging as quickly, if not already done.

Tags: Presario CQ60,  XPS M1210, Dell Latitude E6400

Have you always wanted to know what your 'alim but were afraid to ask. Well you meet with his Corsair Link system, available on some of its power. Let's see what it's worth with this AX760i on the test bench. And out of this gadget is that a good block?

The American firm Corsair offers for two months its new power of 760 Watts 80Plus Platinum certified (see the report) in the AX range with particularity,Dell XPS M1530 electronic management controllable by the user. This is indeed what will stand out from the other power blocks competition. But before discussing this subject, presented in outline this alim Corsair AX760i.

To provide this power, the block is a little larger than standard ATX lower power blocks with 15 cm and 16 cm to 8.6 cm. Fully modular, this model offers a variety of removable plugs on one side as the ATX connector for the  Latitude E5500 motherboard, both ATX EPS taken for the CPU 8-pin (one being divided into two), six taken for a PCI-Express configuration with three graphics cards such as 6 +2 pin and eight Molex taken and twelve SATA connectors, plus two floppy connectors that will connect everyone on a Molex connector.

Inside, there is a proposed Flextronics circuit composed of a DSP to ensure the delivery of different voltages 3.3, 5 and 12 volts as it should. But that's not all because we are talking here of an extended version that can be controlled from Windows. Corsair effectively provides a block of a special connector included in the box that you will plug into a free USB port on the XPS M2010 internal motherboard.

A simple interface

At first glance, we feel that the attention was not focused on the design of the aptly named Corsair Link application. However, everything is there, whether the monitoring data block as its temperature or the real-time consumption on the EDF input jack and output to the components. In addition, there are other sensors on the

Vostro 1400 battery motherboard or CPU supported by the application to also see all the action on its configuration. Note that we met values ​​display a small problem when the CPU is at 100% charge. The real-time graph is indeed no longer updated in a big load in OCCT. However, it is possible to create an automatic log file on the hard drive that you can see from his or other benchmarks. I bet still a future update will fix this app.

Corsair also has the power of another function, and not least, the cutting of the 12V rail. Initially, the supply behaves as if it has a single 12V rail to provide Latitude d630 power to all the components of the configuration. But taking care to note the numbers plugged into the graphics card cables, it is possible to activate the multi-track mode. Corsair did not want to explain in detail how it works. But our test results, the consumption measures and change relatively little modification can be carried out hot without affecting the operation of the computer.

To cool all these people, Corsair did not really wrong here. Indeed, with 80Plus Platinum certification in hand, the  VGP-BPS14 power supply is not going to remove that 76W maximum. Thus, the 12 cm fan positioned above can be off up to 20% load. Above, it will start to reach full speed after 80% load. As stated on the box Corsair, ventilation is silent whatever the situation.

For 20 € more ...

This version does deserve the most requested € 20 on average compared to not having the suffix "i" (not multi-track without settings via Link)? Hard to tell, and each attempt to evaluate the Dell Studio 1558 usefulness of this additional investment depending on their needs and expectations. Needless to say, for the average user, it will have no interest, while for serious overclockers, and enthusiasts of hardware, the extra ticket can be justified.

However, we note the absence of some small unnecessary features, but essential for the self-respecting geek, as inlay on-screen printing of a value or more, or the Latitude e6400 battery ability to display a value in the state to reduce the window of Corsair Link bar ... This would avoid having to constantly keep the window open wide to check the values ​​software. If you are a little disappointed by the application, it is still usable. And finally, in this power range, this 80Plus certification and at this rate, it is estimated that the additional cost required for the USB dongle and the application and the ability to switch between mono-rail system is the multi more than reasonable.

Tags: Latitude E6510 , HP 484170-001 , Pavilion DV5 

 It's been a few years since we sent Trials air blow ramps, jumps and explosive canisters. And this new version might be the ultimate outcome of the Dell XPS M1530 series, as it turns out comprehensive and demanding.

How does one recognize a great game? In many things, but there is a more representative than any aspect: the ability to federate. Experience, Trials Evolution install on a machine, leave it available to everyone and you will see very quickly a crowd massing around the screen, each trying to beat the records of others, insulting copiously. And it can take a long, long time to rot the productivity of writing an entire day ... which is a good sign as to the final quality of the title.

The Trials series, it's been a few years we know it, through several still very successful and particularly addictive episodes. The Dell XPS M1330 principle is simple and has ultimately not changed much since the beginning: you drive a motocross on a littered with obstacles, jumps, traps and whatnot based crunching metal circuit. Progress is made on a single plane and you have "only" manage your speed and incline of the vehicle, namely the distribution of the weight of the driver. Too simple and basic? Wait until you have passed the first races - always fairly easy - to say it ... because soon, Trials Evolution is capable of tearing your hair out in handfuls, but always with a smile, thanks to its management physical copy.

Delusions of grandeur

For the biggest news of this episode is crazy and uninhibited side circuits. Here, no more indoor pises who all look a bit, up to fresh air and delusions level Latitude E5500 design almost limitless. 129 tracks are proposed, which is based on a bunch of decorations totally unexpected in a motocross game: beach landing, suspended in the air, nuclear and even some taken from the video game landscape (Limbo and Shadow of the Colossus Islands , for example). The vertiginous descents of some jumps and some are startling and quickly tracks become so technical that it is closer to the platform game that the simulation 'on two wheels.

Alone, Trials Evolution proposes a holy life, with a E6400 Battery permit system to unlock through winning medals, but also a whole bunch of crazy events, like downhill skiing, control a ball on a tray (so Marble Madness) or piloting a flying saucer (yes, yes). All with a constant pleasure, thanks to the precision of the physics governing the handling and extreme good taste realization, despite some jerks and framerate drops from time to time, which makes us say that porting to Xbox 360 PC was not particularly optimized.

Community and generous

If he stopped to solo, Trials Evolution would be a great arcade game, enjoyable in any time and providing immediate pleasure. But RedLynx did not stop there, since the whole community and multiplayer portion was very developed. A level editor (a complex hair, but powerful) is available as well, like the Dell Latitude E6500 ability to get online circuits created by the players, some of which are an incredible sadism.

The multiplayer side is not left with the option - local or online - to face three opponents on the same circuit, each boasting its own "corridor" to reach the finish before the others. These tracks are only a fortnight, which seems a bit stingy compared to the Dell Studio 1555 proposed expansion solo. But the fact is that the multiplayer mode is very successful, immediately establishing an atmosphere made of a mixture of competition and in bad faith, a sign that the goal is reached.

The "Evolution" of Trials is a gem of fun and instant gratification, but also offers a huge room for improvement, as some circuits require high technical skills and unfailing patience, especially if you are aiming for the gold medal . The Dell Studio 1558 quality of the recipe developed by RedLynx seems in any case to have peaked and is particularly pleasing as it is available at a great price, twenty euros. A value for money life, which seems unbeatable.

Tag: Inspiron 1300 , XPS M1210, Compaq Presario CQ60

 You had already served as the first Sniper Ghost Warrior was a FPS more than faded, but you have still bought boxes. Result: City Interactive offers us a second album. It is also faded, but we guess you will also foutrez, right?

In the wonderful world of Interactive City, there is a HP Pavilion DV4 predator that surpasses all others when it comes to distributing the death around him: the sniper. Moreover, in the spirit of our Polish developers, there's no doubt that the children of the world, even before dreaming to become a fireman, astronaut or GI Joe, want to become ... sniper. So it's true, on paper, the hero that we sell has a number of advantages seduction: for example, in the same way that Batman only comes rarely without his Robin, the sniper is always accompanied his faithful observer, marking her target to eliminate, warns of the potential dangers, he opened his boxes of Sheba (to say I love you) and makes him the conversation that never gets boring.

On the ground, our hero can also count on an impressive clump of greenery that trudging along on the back, which allows him to move into enemy territory undetected. In doing so, he may, at the option, clean its different targets the knife, the Compaq Presario CQ60 automatic pistol, or with his favorite weapon, the long-range rifle. A machine ideal death, which concentrates all the pleasures of the chase without the aftertaste of danger. In short, if one believes City Interactive, our lives would have been 100 times better if we had chosen the career sniper, rather than high-tech journalist.

More boring than a mother: an observer!

The problem is that between the ideal vision that we used the Latitude E6500 cover of the game and what we have lived through this ersatz "Living my life as a sniper," there is a gulf. Take for example our guide ... Seriously, if Robin had been broken testicle with Batman long ago that it would have a Batarang stuck between the eyes ... Imagine a game that looks like a big tutorial in which an NPC, your observer in this case you step by step how to play each sequence: forward crawling, shoots one, eliminates the other with a knife, do not put your fingers in your nose and eat your soup . Aaaaargh ... After half an hour , we begin to find that annoying. An hour later, enraged not find an option that allows to activate the Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS friendly fire.

Direct consequence of this choice of gameplay: Sniper Ghost Warrior 2 gives new meaning to the word "linear". Especially since this is accompanied by permanent assistantship levels to go which can be summarized in a long and winding corridor. There will be some slightly more open areas, but they never benefit other than through the viewfinder of our telescope, a well stashed position, and distant some good hundred yards from the action, true.

Total lack of interaction with the places that we cross, or the Dell Inspiron 1300 opponents are slain (not pick weapons or ammunition), transparent scenario, no variety in the phases of the game, and no change of pace that could generate renewed interest ... City Interactive has managed to lay us a FPS to completely flatlined, with one exception: his realization that benefits, it must be said, rather well its next gen engine, the CryEngine 3 . But you'll understand this Pavilion DV5 technical aspect is not enough to raise a set that fly little higher than the first episode of this series. That said, no doubt, these considerations should not prevent City Interactive attempting the trilogy, convinced that they are potential heroes they defend.

Tags: VGP-BPS8, Latitude e6400, XPS M2010

 Looking for a headset to play, not expensive, and offer a good level of spatial? You have a big head (yes, yes, you will see, this is important)? So take a few moments to browse this Dell XPS M1530 test Ozone 7HX Rage, which might interest you.

If we were to find a parallel to begin the description of this helmet Ozone Rage 7HX, we would undoubtedly look into the world of video games. More specifically, it would be a comparison with Crysis 3, which would we most certainly in mind. Why so? Just because the XPS M1330 product of the European audio manufacturer happens to be the exact antithesis of the title of Crytek. And while this last has clearly taken the party to stake everything on his physics, outer plastic of Rage 7HX leash for the least perplexed. In fact, the reaction that gripped us when we opened the box was rather this: "Okay, it's true we did not pay much, especially for a helmet featuring a 7.1 spatial, but anyway, it all seems very good summary. "

Yes, at first glance, the 7HX Rage does not appeal. The  Dell Latitude E5500 design is not shameful, the materials used either, far from it, but in the overall design, the comfort, the manufacturer seems to have confused simplicity and poverty. The system height adjustment cushions is rigid and unpleasant. The arch is also revealed little malleable, which will mainly result from failing to adjust to all profiles head. And for those who do not dispose of sufficient width between the ears is no salvation: your helmet will go on lollipop any sudden movement. In the same vein, the headphones, though with a soft and comfortable foam, absolutely offer no sense of isolation, or noise attenuation. Again, it comes without doubt a consequence of this difficulty of the helmet to offer a good level clamping of the head. 

This lack of practicality in construction, is also found at the  E6400 Battery manual control is located on the USB cable, the bases are indeed present, with four buttons: two on one side to turn the headphones silence microphone, and two on the other, for adjusting the volume. Problem: we happened to accidentally activate the command "mute" button by pressing the opposite button. In fact, out of this ergonomic review, the only positives that we can remember concerning the lightness of the product (once placed on the head, and beyond its instability, we do feel almost no), and the option of detachable microphone, always preferable to the presence of an unsightly appendage on the side. Let's face it, so far, the Dell Latitude E6500 picture is not exactly rosy. Fortunately, and this is where we will continue our parallel with the FPS from Crytek, the Rage 7HX has hidden assets, and also prove effective in terms of sound, Crysis 3 was hollow gameplay level.

Frankly, and given our first impression, and the posted price (65 euros), it was far from imagining such a level rendering, especially in terms of spatial, emulated via the sound card contained in the Gearcase. It is simply stunning. In game, the environments are powerful and precise, the helmet offering very compelling variations, both in terms of distance and positioning.

Good impressions are confirmed naturally when we decided to start reading a Skyfall or The Hobbit. Finally, on a musical level, the Dell studio 1558 situation is perhaps a little more nuanced, with tones of voice a little deaf, a slight prominence of the bass (as often, you want to say), and a tendency to saturation at high volume (knowing that you probably will never have the opportunity to get there, unless you really deaf as a post).

However, quality remains at the rendezvous, and this, all the more that the software provided with the headset you authorize a full palette of adjustments: choice of emulated (between two and eight) channels, ambience d ' listening (concert hall, outdoor, broom closet, ...), distance virtual remote speakers, everything is ... We still regret there simply that an additional effort is not been done on the Dell Inspiron 1300 presentation aspect, the proposed interface bringing us back kindly at the time windows Windows 3.11.

On the last point we still had to deal with, microphone, in addition to its detachable aspect, it will make a companion effective frag, in the sense that our opponents hear our loud and clear mockery. Finally, that retain of these arguments contrasting? Of course, the 7HX Rage had to solve a few compromises. Of course, it will not be as stylish and well built a helmet Asus ROG, Razer or Corsair, to name a few ... However, it is placed in a quality rendering asked unbeatable sound / price ratio, and will suddenly a very interesting Dell XPS M1210 

product for those who do not want to mortgage their house for a bit of listening comfort.

 Tags: COMPAQ PRESARIO CQ60, HP 484170-001, Pavilion DV4 

 Appeared in the last quarter of 2012, AMD FX 4100 and FX 4130 are mandated to integrate machines with very good price performance ratio.

With a rate close to one hundred euros, you have a CPU socket AM3 + integrates four cores clocked at 3.6GHz and 3.8GHz, but also an appropriate cooling system.

That the AMD FX 4100 is different from the FX 4130.

It is therefore possible with these processors make a PC Dell Inspiron 1526 with ease of use attractive for the most basic tasks and will also go a little further in the use of multimedia or games not too demanding. In our test, we entrust to one of the best motherboards available on the market: The Asus Sabertooth 990FX R2.0.

The Bulldozer architecture used 2011 date. She had to replace K10 with the first signs of aging began to be felt.

AMD FX Series CPUs ship some of the most interesting features. The first to our attention is undoubtedly the multiplier unbridled. We can imagine easily exceed the frequencies of factory overclocking the chip.

AMD Overdrive technology is accessible via an application supporting and simplifying overclock.

Turbo mode will exceed the base frequencies at high loads and found not to change a lot of new instructions always bringing more efficiency.

Finally, AMD PowerNow! (Cool'n'Quiet) FX Series CPU provides management mechanisms to reduce energy consumption.

After Pavilion DV4 battery testing in August 2012 the very convincing AMD FX 8120 here, variations FX 4100 and FX 4130 will it also a good choice for entry level?

 
Presentation

Appeared in the second half of 2012, the generation of AMD FX had to replace the Phenom too down face to Intel Sandy Bridge. The latter having with their power, caused a real enthusiasm among both professional and private homes.

AMD FX Series were also the first to board eight cores although this claim has been strongly criticized by the press. Failing board eight independent computing units, the Compaq Presario CQ60  accounted actually four groups each comprising two hearts. In addition, the cache is shared.

Across three categories, FX differ mainly on the number of cores. FX 8000 include eight FX 6000: 6 and finally our FX 4100 and 4130 test: 4.

Based upon an architecture known as "Bulldozer" CPU entry-level FX also respond to the name "Zambezi". They are marked in 32nm and each computer unit is composed of two modules or threads.

While at Intel this modularity is purely software with Hyper Threading, AMD is going a little further but this is really effective in practice?

Compatible with 64-bit instructions, FX 4100/30 differ in the cache onboard. If it is the same on levels 1 and 2 (4x16KB for data 2x64KB instructions for L1 and 4096KB L2), it differs in L3: 8MB for the FX 4100 and 4MB for 4130.

This specificity is most amazing because in general, the most powerful processors are those that receive the most cache. We can therefore speculate that the Latitude E6500 battery based on a TDP of 125 watts, we imagine that the founder did not want to increase it by castrating the L3 half.

They have the HyperTransport 3.0 and can be coupled to the memory clocked at 1866MHz maximum. While the FX 4100 is clocked at 3.6GHz (3.8GHz with Turbo), the FX 4130 run at 3.8GHz (3.9GHz with turbo).

Us closer features of these processors for overclocking adorned with their coefficients unlocked. They embark new instruction sets AVX FMA4, XOP and AES significantly accelerate the processing of specific data.

The integrated DRAM controller supports up to 1866MHz modules clocked at a voltage range down to 1.2V. The theoretical available bandwidth being 29.9Go / s.

AMD FX Series supports virtualization technologies with AMD-V that makes them compatible with applications such as VMware.

A modern processor is to integrate advanced functionality in terms of consumption, AMD PowerNow Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS  developed based Cool'n'Quiet. Its role is to adjust the tension as needed through C6 Power State.

Compatible chipsets

If Intel chipset choice is required depending on the chosen processor, AMD things may seem much more complicated for the novice.

AMD platform started with the main objective to ensure compatibility with future developments.

To maintain the life of its socket, the founder of a proposed new chipsets to meet the expectations of users. Thus we find sixteen controllers from Round 7 itself contains new versions. Series 8 and 9 have been greatly simplified by providing 3 or 4 models.

Three chipsets stand on the market and ensures compatibility with FX processors subject to compatibility with the manufacturer of the

Pavilion DV5 motherboard. They correspond to three distinct ranges: entry-level, mid and high range.

The AMD 760G is an economic model for the motherboards start shipping at a rate less than forty euros. Of course, it will ignore the multi-GPU solutions, and even USB 3 SATA III. It would be a shame to curb the CPU fault features missing.

The AMD 970 is much more interesting because it includes the SATA III allowing it to benefit from the speed of the SSD last generation. It will probably be the best solution for FX 4100/30 for a little over sixty euros, you will have access to the latest technologies.

Finally fans of high-end components will be based on the 990FX chipset only be compatible with multi-GPU solutions. Rates start for this chipset to one hundred euros.

 
Cooling system

The AMD FX 4130 has the same cooler as the Dell Inspiron 1525, a natural choice for the TDP of these processors is 125W.

It is based on the traditional radiator / fan. The heater uses four copper heatpipes traveled by many fins nickel. Relatively compact size, the block is surmounted by a very small fan pretending to 120mm face found on the majority of alternative models.

It has seven blades classical and ensures compatibility with PWM technology. (4 --------------------------- 3222222222222223 / this is comment Aaron over my 4 months).

Under the base of fully copper radiator, we find a pre-applied thermal paste.

On the model of the FX 4100 is a bit smaller and above all it is characterized by a bright red color. It is thinner, wider but thinner. It has nine blades and also a connector supports four PWM pins.

The radiator has two heatpipes and all fins corresponds to the first stage of the model dedicated to FX 4130.

This time the base of the radiator does not have the right to copper but found the same dough thermique.Il is time to measure the performance of AMD FX 4100/30 through a range of representative benchmarks renowned for their Pavilion DV6 quality and reliability . We compare the results with those of the Intel i3 2100 real current reference on this range.

Performance synthetic

We know very well, Intel is more swift in some spots like Super Pi calculation gross

This is why it offers more than ten seconds on all AMD tested.

Four cores of AMD FX have no trouble to go well beyond the i3 2100 which embeds two units calculations even if it has the Hyper Threading. It was found that the frequency of the FX 4130 outweighs the FX 4100 thanks to its slightly higher frequency.

Truecrypt uses the cache of the Dell Inspiron 6000 CPU and that is why the FX 4100 is better than the FX 4130. Once again, the FX coiffent Intel i3 but narrowly for it.

wPrime 1024 follows the pattern of Super Pi in which the i3 Intel achieved better scores than AMD. As is the frequency which determines the FX yet the i3 2100 is clocked at 3.1GHz only.

Passmark under the AMD still steal the spotlight by taking a minimum of 300 points.

GeekBench sequence contains a specially dedicated to CPU we use exclusively. This is why the i3 2100 beats the FX 200 points.

ScienceMark gives preference to Intel i3 with a big lead of 350 points. He also appreciates the 8MB cache.

Turning to compress files with 7Zip where the i3 2100 is very small with less than 9000 points. Such as Truecrypt, cache capacity is more important than the frequency and therefore the FX 4100 takes a slight lead.

It's time for the  Pavilion DV2000 memory to be expressed via AIDA64. Intel has a big lead on this issue and it is not really a surprise if the i3 2100 is twice as fast writing. Read the gap is smaller with a difference of 30%.

PCMark 07 estimating the total power of a platform, the limit comparison absurd because unfortunately the graphics card was replaced. Radeon HD6950 with the deceased, we now use a GTX 570 appreciated by PCMark.

However, the difference between the two CPUs are tested and speaking clearly show the interest of a larger L3 cache. The i3 with an IGP did not take advantage of our GTX 570.

Cinebench rendering pass with or neither FX manages to distinguish. The two i3 (Sandy Bridge and Ivy) do not advance dramatically.

The best for last: X264Benchmark is our program of choice for measuring the performance of a Dell Vostro 1510 processor. The number of processing units makes the difference and that is why AMD have a slight lead. The i3 is not overclockable, the interest of AMD takes on its full meaning.

Now we integrate 3D 3DMark Fire Storm which does not favor one of the two CPU AMD FX with a little over 900 points.

Metro in 2033, the measured differences between the two processors are so small that they can not draw real conclusions for a particular model.

Overclocking

The AMD FX 4100/30 with their coefficients unlocked, overclocking is thereby simplified because all simply increase as the Vcore voltage. It took less than 1.5V to stabilize the two chips.

So the FX 4100 3.6GHz clocked base (3.8GHz Turbo Mode) and reached 4.6GHz FX 4130 (3.8GGz 3.9GHe with base and turbo) reached 4.8GHz. This is the frustration of not reaching the bar 5GHz while many models are suitable.

AMD FX 4130

The 4130 is therefore much better student and gains easily exceed 30%. Applications Latitude d830 benefiting the less still reach 25% without the need for alternative cooling system.

Cinebench love mounted frequency and for proof he is the first to gain performance through overclocking. Base within 3 points, almost 4 points.

Truecrypt also benefits greatly from the overclocking from 1300 MB / s to 1700MB / s.

Finally X264Benchmark shows that overclocking the FX 4130 video encoding times will be greatly accelerated from 18 FPS to 24 FPS on the second pass. The first pass 25FPS wins.

AMD FX 4100

The 4100 sentences compared to 4130 because the maximum gains to expect on our test processor is limited to 20% in the best case. They are on average around 10%. Whereas in the case of the Dell Vostro 1400, it is the applications related to the production of multimedia content, the FX 4100 wins more general tools where hearts are not fully exploited .

WPrime 1024 and is the benchmark in the most favorable way to the brink of the 500 seconds instead of 623 seconds at base frequency.

Super Pi, we gain 4 seconds, approaching very close to 20 seconds instead of 25 seconds frequency supported by the factory.

Finally 7Zip already beyond the 10 000 points Base frequency is approaching 12,000 points once the 4.6GHz configurés.Fans watts

The AMD FX 4100/30 it heats? Their stock coolers they are correctly proportioned and these chips require high power it electric?

Temperatures and fans

A base frequency, the temperatures are high enough to rest a little more than 40 ° C.

They exceed 50 ° C when the CPU at full speed which is very correct. We note that the XPS M2010  reached the highest value due to less efficient cooler.

Fans installed on the radiators each processor has very high speeds due to their small diameter. It is far above the rest of 2000 revolutions per minute and if the FX 4100 is limited to 500 RPM additional FX 4130 flew to almost 3500 RPM.

At this level the noise is naturally high and overclockng will not fix the situation really.

Once overclocked CPU, the resting temperature close to 50 ° C and not exceed 65 ° C or 10 ° C barely higher than the base frequency. It is clear that the coolers provided enough to properly cool the chips requirement not be demanding noise.

Because if the cooler FX 4100 happy 3000 RPM, the 4130 FX reaches its maximum 5000 RPM is causing a noise level bearable but only in small doses. It may possibly opt for a small cooler alternative to enjoy a perfect silence.

Finally finish the Vcore voltage. Announced as standing at 1.27V, it can easily reach 1.4V in the case of the FX 4100 and FX 4130 for 1.3V.

Once the CPU overclocked to 1.5V, again the Dell Latitude E5500 requires more power than the 4130. This finding suggests that the extra L3 cache is no stranger to this phenomenon. The FX 4130 he wanders with 1.4V.

While the i3 2100 is exemplary in terms of power consumption, the FX show far more greedy with the best 120 watts for the FX 4100 idle. Once overclocked, the FX 4130 remains below 200 watts with 189 watts.

Conclusion

They are the processors essential input range. FX 4100 and FX 4130 mostly have everything to rush towards a bright future.

Yes they do not include a GUI (IGP), they consume a lot against an Intel i3 and cooling systems are noisy quickly.

However, for a hundred euros, performance is the appointment and largely meet our expectations. You could tell by browsing the specifications they are widely equipped for basic applications.

But our tests showed that they were also able to go further by considering minor video, photos and music. About games, you will certainly turn to a dedicated graphics card but the FX 4100/30 will not be a real bride in the most current titles.

Particularly important in this Dell Vostro 1400 test good overclocking capabilities of the AMD FX 4130. Even if 5GHz have not been met, it is likely that tatillonnant the parameters, we can without too much trouble even earn a few hundred megahertz.

Care must be taken to use a cooler alternative if you want to gain noise. The 135 watt TDP FX 4130 will pose no problem to the great majority of cooling input range.

We especially appreciate the opportunities offered by a hosting platform AMD FX. Using a motherboard based on AMD 990FX chipset as the excellent Asus Sabertooth 990FX REV 2.0 we dedicate a full review in the coming weeks, we will move to a CPU much faster.

Reminder E5500 battery machines bases on such a card are the only ones to benefit from six SATA 6Gbps, an argument can no longer compelling for demanding users aware that Intel platforms do not embark two.

AMD FX 4100 and FX 4130 is an excellent option in the entry level models and competitors from Intel have their power consumption to distinguish.

Tags: VGP-BPS8, Pavilion DV7, Dell Latitude E6410

 GETTING STARTED

XPS 13: Full HD successful passage for this powerful and enduring ultrabook
Dell updated its flagship ultrabook, the XPS 13, changing the screen. It increases the Dell XPS M1530 capacity of the passage SSD while remaining under 1100 euros.

the promise

Released in early February, the new version of the Dell XPS 13 ultrabook goes high definition. No touch screen but higher resolution and more advanced display technology, for even more beautiful images. The frame of the machine, he does not move an inch. Pass the test.

reality

Transition to high definition for managed Dell XPS 13. The new 13.3 inch ultrabook this now displays images (and the Windows desktop 8) in 1920 by 1080 points. In addition, it uses display Dell XPS M1330 technology IPS (In-Plan Switching) which is characterized by a homogeneous display quality whatever the inclination of the glossy screen. It also wins but loses some brightness in contrast to the latest version that we tested. Nothing alarming though! Photos and videos are apparent and colors are more faithful than before.

The Dell XPS 13 is also very strong. Intel's low-power double heart art is supported by 8 GB of memory. Storing your data and apps is done on a 256 GB SSD swift. Windows start faster, office and Internet apps running in record time. Despite power consumption slightly higher than the previous versions, the endurance of the device is good. It is slightly more than 4 hours of video playback. What work or watch a movie trip.

Always so beautiful and well finished

Side of the chassis, nothing changes. Brushed anodized aluminum, carbon fiber and magnesium, always cocktail effect. The keyboard is chiclet type (separate keys size pill), backlit and very pleasant. The touchpad, it remains as wide as on previous Latitude E5500 Battery and its surface-is soft to the touch-sensitive gestures several fingers supported by Windows 8.

The change of screen plays anything on the weight of the whole (1.27 kg) nor its size. Finally, on the sides of the machine, the connection does not move an inch. The two USB 3, the output video and audio jack miniDisplayPort that combines a microphone input and stereo headphone output are still in the game. Dell does but still no adapter to extend the connectivity of the machine despite all the criticism about it.

the verdict

The E6400 Battery  and the new screen have convinced us. The naysayers we would have appreciated the endurance of five hours approach, like that of the Asus Zenbook Prime UX31A. But if you are looking for a powerful ultrabook, without a touchscreen, it is one you need.

 Tags: Dell Studio 1555, dell batteries, Inspiron 1300

    Late January, AMD did disappear from the catalog the FX-4100, replaced by a FX-4130 offering a "speedbump" a few megahertz for the same price. A good deal? This is what we'll see ...

   Introduced in August 2012 and formalized in January, the FX-4130 is an evolution of the FX-4100. From the point of view of architecture, it is a family processor "Bulldozer" Zambezi has four hearts, like those of FX-8120 and FX-8150 (see test). So be careful, since this CPU is the previous generation to current processors "Vishera" which are themselves composed of VGP-BPS26A  cores Piledriver (these references FX-8320 and FX-8350).

The strict point of view of the differences between the FX-4100 and FX-4130, AMD revises the base frequency on the rise from 3.6 GHz to 3.8 GHz and Turbo Boost frequency that takes 300 MHz to reach 4.1 GHz. However, this has a cost in terms of heat release, and FX-4130 has a TDP of 125 Watts instead of 95 Watts processor it replaces. Nothing terrible in itself, it will just have to check the consumption of the chip in practice, choose a cooler and a bit more efficient to avoid too much noise. Those delivered by AMD Version Box is perfectly capable of generating such a TDP, the Dell XPS M1530 founder and take this opportunity to deliver a new version of its cooling system. For the rest, the former founder of Sunnyvale not touch anything because it keeps the CPU 8MB L3 cache shared between the two modules CMT.

The test of this new processor is an opportunity for us to launch a new "feature" on PCWorld.fr, the dynamic display of results for our test protocols, now managed in a database and only in an Excel file on our machines work. You can then view the data set of each test on this page compiling all the data for our test protocol CPU.

The first data that we will exploit the consumer. Indeed, this FX-4130 has a TDP higher than 30W FX-4100. Do we find this increase?

Consumption at idle or load is actually higher. But as expected, since the Dell Vostro 1400  shows 17W more compared to the previous reference at rest, and 14W charging. For AMD, it is an opportunity to update its cooler version of Black Edition. This new CPU, it will be entitled to purchase a boxed cooler that is more efficient and reliable, while maintaining small dimensions as the previous model. Care, it seems fulfill its function as the 14W extra cash while maintaining the temperature of the CPU at 76 ° C, but at the cost of a little more noise disturbing than the FX-4100 CPU cooler. We must therefore consider replacing it with another cooler quieter if silence is your primary objective.

If we compile the results of all our tests, weighted base and put in 100, we find that the performance index puts the FX-4130 as 9.57% faster than the FX-4100.

Note that the increase in frequency is beneficial in situations where the number of desktop processing units is the same.

Overall, AMD has sometimes take a little juice on the Bulldozer architecture. Tests in gross 6.27% there is a better and a 22.93% gap multimedia side. It also fared a little better for the office that relies more heavily on the frequency with 4.75% more Latitude d630 performance in this category. AMD promises are held throughout, although the rise in temperature slightly tarnishes the table.

The FX-4130 is an attractive alternative to processors from the competition. Despite a call price low enough, it will still think to predict the purchase of a heatsink replacement if your goal is to silence your config '. We have not addressed the overclocking part in this test, but the first BCLK changes and the coefficient indicates that the potential is there, can then increase a little performance on applications requiring a high frequency. Finally, as the FX-4130 is installed on a socket AM3 +, we can build a machine low cost initially and subsequently replace the processor when the need will be felt, which is not always the case Intel sockets with the more limited life.

Tag: Dell Studio 1558 , Dell Vostro 1510, Dell Latitude e6400

 Test: Xigmatek Alfar

Just after Talon looked, it was the turn of the Alfar Xigmatek pass on our test bench. Smaller in size, this case wants a little more rudimentary. But is this really a problem? Can we get a configuration muscular? This is what we'll see ...

Released last November, the housing Xigmatek Alfar is simple, practical and compact Dell XPS M1530 enough to accommodate a motherboard ATX but micro ATX and mini-ITX with various attachments provided by the manufacturer. Measuring 50.5 cm x 44.5 cm to 19.5 cm wide and 6 kg load, the Alfar assumes its steel structure and its plastic front. Available in several colors, it offers versions with or without transparent window on the side door. Our black and orange version does not have, but instead offers two slots for fans 14 cm.

Always side ventilation, Xigmatek equips its Alfar a 12 cm fan in the front with LED that can be completed by another turbine of the same diameter. At the rear, it is the same diameter officiates with a rotation speed of 1200 t / m at its maximum. On the top, you can add two 14 cm fans or watercooling block 240 mm if needed. We stay on top for now present the front panel of the Alfar. It provides the ability to connect two USB 3.0 devices with USB 2.0 adapter included directly on the cable. In addition, a jack for headphones and one for microphone. Then there are two buttons painted the same color as the case that will turn your Toshiba PA3534U-1BAS PC or restart in case of crash. We also note the presence of two rectangular LEDs, one for the blue indicator turned red and the other for disk activity. If the structure itself is fairly standard, the front panel displays a bit of character, but discreet enough to be stored in any location.

An arrangement interesting ...

Below, there are three locations 5.25 "with a fixing system without clever and effective tool that can be found. There is no special cache for an optical drive included in the bundle, but the asking price, we do not keep strict manufacturer. Beneath these locations, the Alfar will accommodate four hard drives formatted 3.5 "system without the tool also be placed on both sides of the disk to mount. Simple to implement, Compaq Presario CQ62 this system is strong enough to keep the discs in their homes. On 2.5 "hard drives, the same system is proposed for a total of three HDD this size. You can add a fourth 2.5" hard drive, but it will screw onto the HDD cage.

Not far from the location of the power below the motherboard has small rubber feet to reduce vibration. The breakdown of the ATX power supply can suck fresh air from the bottom through a fine mesh dust. It is easily removable for cleaning with water and then replace without much difficulty. Over food, seven slots for expansion cards are present. Thumbscrews used only maintain future cards that will be placed here. Protections slots will retire the old metal twisting several times to snatch.

Around the owner is finished, we move on to the final assembly. That is, if it is only a manual here Xigmatek offers very limited support for editing. Apart from this minor annoyance for beginners, the  Dell D630 Battery motherboard is installed on its spacers using a button specifically tailored with Phillips on top. The circuit diagram is engraved on the plate, which facilitates installation. Cable management is fairly standard with a few passes around the plate and passages for necklaces autoserrants are enough to perfect everything. The cable EPS ATX CPU power at the top of our motherboard is large enough, no worries on that side.

You can almost store the screwdriver ...

Mounting of HDDs is - as we said - simple since it will simply flatten each side of the plastic strips then push the drive into place to hold it there with a small "bed". The optical drive is also entitled to the same treatment. Simply pinch the black rod and then pull it toward you to the location to unlock. Then reverse path to lock the drive in place. It is also possible to secure the mounting screws provided in some bags.

Limitations on editing, it will not be the CPU cooler is more than 16 cm high. For the graphics card, the  Inspiron 1525 cage is divided into two blocks with HDD 3.5 "down and 2.5" high, leaving a good length for this component if necessary by removing the cage through. To complete the installation, we note that the shoes bearing the weight of the configuration do not cross the ground and are quite slippery. Handling is easier, but it may bother some of which do not wish their PC dragging in the middle of the room by taking on the cord of the headphones. Is exaggerated (barely).

With only two 12 cm fans Xigmatek proposed in this Alfar, some may wonder if it will not return to store to add more turbines to improve the flow of air or to minimize the noise of the configuration . So let's turn the heat to analyze its ability to dissipate heat.

Overall, fans come supplied to create a Pavilion dv6000 sufficient air flow to cool all our test configuration running at full speed. 5V, Xigmatek turbines are quiet enough, although a slight air movement noise is heard. In the context of a desktop configuration, this voltage will be quite acceptable. However, fans subjected to a voltage of 12V sing a little more clearly in the case. The Alfar has no special treatment in terms of soundproofing and it feels as our 43.7 dbA sound level goes to about 40 cm. With headphones on, no problem, but the other occupants of the room might curse because the case is heard when its ventilos blow at full capacity ...

Flawless?

This is very interesting Xigmatek Alfar who assumes seek low-cost housing side as classic trust. We appreciate that at this price, the

 Pavilion DV6 manufacturer has made an effort to provide a finish not yucky and has brought to the front a little soft-touch plastic to simulate upmarket. USB 3.0 is present in façade, installation goes smoothly, the possibility of changes are there. In short, a tower ATX no surprise, but that does not disappoint. Let's face it, for € 52 on average in our price comparison, we have a lot for your money. Xigmatek shows the Alfar indeed an attractive price which completes seduce us even if it has to do with the original ventilation.

Tags:  Latitude E6400  , E5500 batteries, HP Pavilion DV7

 Medal of Honor after Warfighter after Need for Speed ​​Most Wanted Electronic Arts Crysis was March 1 chance to return to our little paper ... Okay, well as you say immediately, Sim City's interest to be downright good!

Friends, take a deep breath ... Focus ... And a few moments to think back to the last gadget on which you con cracked after seeing it in the window of your local high-tech preferred. At this time, most certainly, the contraption in question represented the ultimate object of desire, a revolutionary tool that was bound to become your new VGP-BPS26A companion, your indispensable companion of the evening short, your Holy Grail to you. Two days later, the object is dust on the shelf in your living room, you do not look as it already or may from time to time to regret, wondering how you could slam XXX euros for this useless crap (replace XXX by the amount of the check that you have done). That's it? You are viewing the concept?

A perfect body ...
Ben here ... Battlefield 3 is just that: a game that we fantasized for months, a fantasy also largely fueled by a marketing campaign and concrete statements tasty like "the FPS of the year" or "We will melt your Dell XPS M1530 PC. " A game that we bought (yes, us), and which will ultimately played four hours, approximate duration of the solo campaign when it was no problem psychomotor major (if not, count two more hours) . Finally, a game that can not come out probably more, if it is to tell the guests to an evening geeks, by throwing with confidence: "Wait, guys: this is the most beautiful game currently available on PC! ".

And somewhere, this pompous declaration will not be a lie: Crysis 3 is actually and unquestionably the best game we've tested all media, to Far Cry 3, or even Assassin's Creed III. And even better than that: in addition to being beautiful, it is frankly beautifully optimized PC. This is reflected in the graphics settings, which allow rendering between the minimum and providing the details, to adapt to a wide range of GPU (but beware, Battlefield 3 absolutely requires a card compatible with DirectX 11 to run). And even if we would simply rendering the Rider least, the Latitude E5500 battery game continues to impress with his level of entertainment, information, and physical effects. Yes, Crysis 3 is a superb demonstration of what technology can offer the third iteration of the CryEngine.

Sparrow brains ...

However, we must admit that debauchery visual paying a high price when it comes to the aspect of gaming itself, leaving us to a title hollow, soulless, agreed, in short, as boring a stone . With a script that navigates between déjà vu and frankly ridiculous, Crysis 3 will offer premium staged messy, leaving the player completely lost before the events he saw, and he will quickly zap all kinematic transition. Side action, the finding is hardly more encouraging: the Dell Vostro 1400 battery progression varies almost never do a repetitive pattern which is to place the player in a hallway, where he will find what is generally supply different ammunition. The corridor then lead a large area open, but not that much, and decorated with a primary mission to accomplish and one or two secondary objectives. Then it will return to the corridor and its refueling before moving to the next area, etc, etc, etc ... An experience that may be, would not be so prohibitive, being faithful to the strategy laid down by Crysis second progression name, if it was not accompanied by significant imbalances in terms of difficulty.

The nanites is fantastic

Because if the solo game only lasts four hours, it is as much the fault of the smallness of the campaign as the ease with which they deceive the opponent. Because it is often as stupid as a goat, but mostly because the famous nano-suit that covers us is a p **** unstoppable weapon mass destruction. The powers it grants - invisibility, increased strength and endurance, control Latitude d630 electronic systems close - obviating any situation or compensate for any errors. And when you combine this powerful new weapon Garment highlighted by the game, this futuristic bow whose arrows can be projected without even cancel our stealth necessarily our enemies, be they CELL soldiers or aliens , have no more life expectancy than in a clay duck shooting.

Oh, of course, Crytek has tried to add some fireworks to dress his game gameplay like this RPG twist that moves us to recover kits optimizations to improve our features. There is also the fact sheets scattered all along our route. But admittedly, it all remains a rather feeble interest. Remained a last point to be addressed: the multiplayer. This aspect of the game will allow he to transcend, as was the case for Battlefield 3, for example? Again, disappointment ... Admittedly, the multiplayer is supplied with a dozen game modes to negotiate or alone against all Dell Batteries teams, according to a scenario or set freely. Certainly seem more populated servers at the moment. That being said, there is nothing here that can not already be found in Call of, or in Battlefield 3, more often, and hunter mode except that some have already been experienced in the beta phase of the game

No, really, Crysis 3 is a sacred disappointment. Remaining technical demonstration, undeniable, and what is the strength of the community in which the PC Dell Inspiron 1525 will rest: its ability to transcend a game to make it get better, or transform into something else. In fact, if today we can not advise you on this third album, maybe tomorrow, thanks to a promotion, and / or the emergence of one or more mods sexy, come to our notice changed. Hopefully, anyway.

Tags: Pavilion DV7 , HP 484170-001, XPS M1530 battery 

 Ozone is a little way in the field of peripheral gamer, the long awaited second keyboard to the firm finally arrived to come to strengthen the range of key held only by the Strike, mechanical keyboard is very popular with the players. The second key of the firm took the name Blade.

It aims to be accessible with a selling price of € 60 while maximum functionality including: macros, backlighting bicolor dimmable, blocking the Windows key, and finally 5 profiles multimedia features.  Abandoning the Cherry MX switches to a rubber membrane, we may certainly lose in comfort and responsiveness, the main advantages of HP Envy 17T mechanical keyboards but a whole other side, the characteristic sound produced by mechanical keys should, against, be much higher than that of a rubber membrane keypad, as tested on the device today.

Presentation

Receiving the Blade, we are astonished at the length of the box. At the opening, we understand why the box is so big. The Blade is simply too long. It features a uniform black color despite two different types of plastics, that is soft keys, while the  E5420 batteries rest of the keyboard is of a type plastic slightly grainy. The Blade can either be illuminated blue or red with varying intensity, it is a backlight almost full (keys and macros configuration buttons at the ends do not receive this treatment) with in addition, two bands backlit on the wrist. Besides talking about the wrist, it lacks 1 or 2cm to fully accept the wrists.

Damage the diodes Shift key locks, Lock and Scroll Lock Num remain illuminated in red, ca swear a little while selecting the blue backlight but ... Let's take a closer look at what happens with a brightness in the room very low and backlight tuned to the maximum:

The new device Ozone still weighs 1.14 Kg It is not as heavy as Dell Latitude E5520 mechanical cousins, but for a membrane keyboard, it starts to weigh. The origin of this weight is probably the size of the keyboard, in fact the second Ozone keyboard is quite impressive in length, it measures just 510 x 199.8 x 30mm. Yeah, half a meter long is impressive nonetheless. Not even talking about the integration of a sliding leaves little room for the mouse. It measures almost 10cm longer in length than the Gigabyte Osmium though it was already a monster of its kind.

This length is mainly due to the integration of macro buttons and settings on both ends of the keyboard. 8 in number they are distributed as follows: 4 macro keys on the left, four buttons on the right settings used to:

- Disabling the Windows key,
- Changing profiles up to 5 profiles available for 10 macro keys which gives a total of 50 total macros! (Four macro keys on the left and six others who can replace the software via the insertion keys, delete, end, origin, next and previous page)
- The choice of colors and the intensity of the backlight (this button also allows the backlight off, no need to go through the slider).
- Access to key functions to use the volume control (+, -, mute) as well as pause / play function and forward / back.

To save all settings, 128KB chip is integrated into the bowels of the keyboard. To power the keyboard, Ozone chose a braided cable short of 1, 60m with a gold plated USB connector. The Latitude E6320  keyboard is silent on any USB hub and also an extension jacks.

Under the keyboard, you will find two small pads that will ensure the stability of the keyboard surface on which it is placed. Two big paws will raise the position of the keyboard. Two small pads for as large a keyboard it's a little light above the two tabs tilt keyboard does not have ...

Software

The software supplied with the Blade Ozone Ozone is simply name is Blade Driver. Comes in its version 1.0, it can make all the necessary adjustments and save the memory of 128KB integrated into the keyboard, so it takes only connect the keyboard to access the 5 stored profiles without installing software (useful for LAN Party). Pretty simple, the software is built around a main page with 3 tabs of settings. Main leaves free rein to create profiles. It is possible to assign a profile to start a Dell Latitude E6420 ATG  game or an executable that is a very good point. The first tab, launched at the same time as the main page, allows you to assign a mouse or a keyboard key to any other key. This page allows among others to access the Macros IDE. The second tab is used to set the 4 macro keys placed on the left of the blade. We can place controls multimedia mouse function, assign a shortcut program or an Internet function. Ozone can also disable the macro key. The last tab will deal with macro keys located above the arrow keys. Functions are exactly the same as the macro keys listed above. 

Conclusion

Inevitably, a membrane keyboard, it is less expensive than mechanical, then results in a price of just € 60 for Ozone Blade. Affordable to find a keyboard as the only close Latitude E6520 competition and the Logitech G110 Roccat Isku both at 69 €. Below is the Logitech G105 at 45 € which is the closest. Suffice to say that Ozone is more aggressive on the prices of its devices. Especially given that the equipment offers Blade: backlight Full (two colors), macros, media keys, adjustable brightness, 5 profiles and a price of only € 60. Actually, we are still looking negative points on the Blade and the only points that emerge, it is the size and quality of the plastics used that "seem" cheap.

But the undeniable advantage of a membrane keyboard, it is obviously the silence! We had almost forgotten what it was with all the bunch of mechanical keyboards that were part of the last  DV4 batteries tests on the portal. Too bad press "Space" is not as silencieuce other keys. It remains quieter than mechanical switch with key. In short, it is a label "recommended by 59H" which is awarded for this device, that even if it can not match the performance and comfort of the mechanical keyboards keys (thanks to Cherry MX switches) It does very well what it was designed, without some problems, for a price defying any competition.

Tags： Dell Latitude E6510， Pavilion DV7， Vostro 1520 battery

 ECS Elite Group alias is not the same for motherboards offer affordable and ECS-A2X Z77H2 heavy mission is to compete with the references made by Asus, Gigabyte and MSI. Thus Z77H2 ECS-A2X equipped Z77 chipset excellent is designed to accommodate the Intel socket 1155 performance report which is currently the best price. Compatible with multi-GPU technologies SLI and CrossFireX, the ECS Z77H2-A2X is more towards players who will also enjoy Lucid Virtu MVP permitting cumulation of multiple GPUs any brand. Overclockers will take the full potential of their processor with the ECS-A2X Z77H2 incorporating a BIOS when all options are present to set voltages and frequencies as finely as possible. The integration of Dell Inspiron 6000 quality components such as solid capacitors and adding gold all contacts will be a guarantee of stability, performance and reliability. To complete its dedicated storage equipment, a port can be used with mSATA Intel Smart Response with which we will combine speed SSD and hard drive capacity. Then the ECS Z77H2-A2X new queen of Z77 priced ultra tight? Or unfulfilled promises?

Presentation

The ECS-A2X Z77H2 like to become a high-end motherboards and ATX based on a socket 1155. We can install all processors meet this format. Being primarily designed for the players, we will consider the Intel i5 3770k or 3570K as they embark enough power to not limit or graphics cards. To accompany the CPU, chipset selected by the ECS-A2X Z77H2 Z77 is the most interesting time because it embeds the latest technologies: Intel Smart Response, USB 3.0 and memory management fast. Besides this new Pavilion DV7 motherboard supports speeds up to 2800MHz modules. But this is also where ECS Z77H2-A2X among the models present in the catalog of the brand? New models share the ECS chipset and socket 1155 Z77 and if it only stops the socket, sixty-five cards are all available chipsets combined. While users like to have the choice but at this rate the, we will lose more than anything else. For example just to test our model Z77H2-A2X, there are four versions! Three are called "Deluxe" in revision V1.0, V2.0 and V5.0 last pass directly. The last two have the right to power button, reset and display debug. What revolution. Our test version is 1.0. The brand does not lack arguments to reassure consumers increased reliability as ECS Technology Nonstop 72h burntest is 50 ° C. Nothing to impress us.

However, we appreciate the E6410 battery integration of selected components increasing the lifetime of the card. We thus find gold to fifteen microns, solid capacitors, and power levels up to 150% more stable. The Z77H2-A2X has also the right to protection against electrostatic discharge and accelerates EZ load battery charging time. But to qualify, must necessarily pass through the USB ports of the box deported because those on the rear panel are not compatible with this function. The Z77H2-A2X has a UEFI BIOS and MIB X menu developed to expand opportunities for overclocking and more support multi GPU as AMD than Nvidia. We can go further by taking advantage of Lucid Virtu MVP, a welcome feature for exploiting commonly IGP processor and dedicated graphics card. Finally thanks to its port mSATA, we can combine the advantages of SSD and hard drives using Intel Smart Response technology and its controller is compatible with THX.

Layout

Rather successful in terms of aesthetics with a mixture of black, gray and white, the ATX PCB is covered with inscriptions to the point where the color is barely distinguishable. We find a very basic HP 484170-001 design with a socket at the center of the upper part. The four-port RAM take place right while feeding floors surround processor. They are cooled by radiators of the most curious forms. On the coils, it is not known if their disposition is voluntary or not, but they are slightly askew. This suggests an error of more drilling PCB as a desired effect. We appreciate ka available CPU power connector located far enough from the auxiliary socket. It thus becomes more accessible in the use of massive coolers. In the lower part, two PCI Express 3.0 16X are welcome as well as 1X. As against this, wonders why two 32-bit PCI ancestral limited to 60MB / s take place here. Storage side, again ECS logic escapes us somewhat careful as six SATA ports are not cranked all managed by the Z77 chipset. Whites are managed by the chipset but 3Gbps. Those in the center are still supported by the chipset but 6Gbps while the two above are controlled by a third party chipset Asmedia ASM referenced 1061 supports standard SATA 6Gbps. 

The Z77 manager six SATA ports, two remain one of which is wired in and the last mSATA eSATA on the rear panel. This means exit the RAID volumes on six storage units unless you include the mSATA and eSATA configurations that clearly can not recommend as very risky for the data integrity. Note however that the port is suitable mSATA since it remains accessible even when imposing a graphics card is installed. The Z77 it has a radiator undersized compared to competing  Latitude E6510 products using regular models twice as large. Management remains well below the breakdown of typical configurations because only three connectors are present: one for CPU, one for system and one for the case. Only the CPU has the right contacts to ensure four PWM technology. The rear panel connectors embeds a relatively complete with eight USB ports (4 on the standard 3.0), one eSATA port, one DVI and VGA video output, Ethernet and 5 gigabyte mini jack for sound. A S / PDIF digital audio output as expected. The Ethernet interface is handled by a Realtek 8111E and the sound is assigned to a Realtek ALC 892. On the network, it must be ensured especially not to use the driver available for download on the ECS site because it is impossible to recognize with gigabyte networks. The connection is limited to 100Mb. Therefore recover drivers directly from the Realtek site. Bottom of the map, there is a complete connection to the connectors on the housing deported: audio, usb and power / reset.

The Advanced Menu provides access to the various options embedded components such as  Pavilion DV2000 network, storage or supervision of temperatures and pressures. The Chipset menu allows you to work on the sound or video options of the IGP. MIBX the menu is dedicated to overclocking. All useful options are present but beware, the CPU Vcore voltage is limited to 1.5V. A constraint difficult to accept for a map of its kind. Fan management is also disappointing because we feel we do a good ten years ago. Only four profiles are available: Normal, Quiet, Silent and Full. Even the first prize cards offer customizable profiles pace solicitations. If the BIOS is convincing platform for entry level, it will be difficult to convince users and more demanding fans of overclocking.

Applications

ECS Intel platforms have a right to a specific application dedicated to overclocking. Once again it seems outdated and unsuitable for a map oriented gamers. Simply compare to those offered by MSI, Gigabyte and Dell especially to realize how ECS train delay. The application reserved for ventilation hardly entitled to more attention. Only the Latitude e6400  is customizable.

Overclocking

A single time, our Intel i7 2600K has shown itself stable 1.5V or he needs a little more to show perfectly stable.

And it has not failed once we wanted to replicate our overclocking, Z77H2-A2X flatly refused to start with the same settings.

Yet all motherboards have received this CPU have never had any problems to support this overclocking. The Z77H2-A2X will eventually satisfy overclockers who do not seek very high frequencies and expect more of 4.6GHz to avoid significant thermal clearances above and wishing to maintain a long life for their components.

Performance synthetic

Super Pi shows results common to all platforms tested a little more in 7s and 10s without overclock. wPrime also gives consistent results with less overclock in 250s and 400s in less than base speed. Truecrypt confirms previous VGP-BPS13 tests with 3300Mo / s base frequency and 4700 overclock. Earnings more interesting with a frequency of 5GHz unfortunately not reproducible. File processing also requires large computational resources, Winrar is doing very well with almost 3500 KB / s base speed and more from 5000 to 5GHz. 7zip follows the same path as Winrar with almost 20,000 points to base speed and more than 25,000 once overclocked. PCMark 2011 faithfully representing multimedia usage shows almost 3000 points and speed stock nearly 4000 once our i7 2600K overclocked. Video encoding, compression X264 with good results with Z77H2-A2X even if it remains just below 50 FPS after overclocking set on the second pass. Cinebench knows take advantage of all the cores of a CPU and is not far from the 10 points once overclocked processor. Side memory bandwidth, it oscillates between 18000 and 23000Mo / s. Again the results are very convincing.

The Realtek network is doing pretty well provided you do not use the driver available on the ECS because it limits the speed at 100Mb while the chip is compatible gigabyte. Is achieved through the Realtek over 110MB / s downstream and over 70MB / s upload. Results common to most embedded interfaces. The sound also given to a Realtek chip is far from the desired 90dB while maintaining satisfactory but the surprise for the distortion much lower than the Dell Vostro 1510 competition yet also based on ALC 898. On bandwidth, it is also much more linear than other brands. If the Z77H2-A2X has many faults, on this point it is much better than the other controllers.

Multimedia performance & Storage

We use a Radeon 6950 BIOS 6970 carrying a single Lucid Virtu then with MVP, we benefit from the power of the IGP present in the Intel 2600K. 3DMark 11, we earn twenty points. A result that can be improved with a 3770k IGP which is much more powerful. Under Metro, gains are still interesting quality via high resolution but this is not even an FPS won.

Storage

 If you have the habit of seeing higher speeds on the ports managed by the chipset, this is not always the case because Asmedia is much faster reading with 343Mo / s. In writing that either 3 or 6Gbps, the gains are surprisingly low. The VGP-BPS12  not convince either on storage performance. RAID, we used to see in low flow mode 5 because it is just over 20MB / s write. Avoid donc.au benefit of RAID 10. On interfaces nothing to report because rates are consistent with each respective connections. Unless the eSATA cable directly on the chip is expected to rise much higher level of internal SATA 3Gbps interface.

Temperatures and consumption

 The temperatures of the motherboard to remain low base frequency. Fault for not being able to climb 5GHz a second time, we were not able to measure temperatures in overclocking. As mentioned in section BIOS, ventilation management offered by Z77H2-A2X is the most basic. Therefore remain constant speeds in normal mode. A shame for a Dell Studio 1555 motherboard of this generation. In terms of consumption also unable to reproduce overclocking at 5GHz, it is able to base frequency is 52 watts at rest and less than 120 watts being sought.

Conclusion

The Z77H2-A2X ECS motherboard is complete as well equipped. We have the right to support SLI, CrossFireX of Lucid Virtu MVP and that will appeal to players. The equipment does not stop because the mSATA port provides opportunities to extend the storage level. Our attempts at configuration (yet very simple) Smart Response has always resulted in destruction of the Bootloader files Windows. A disappointment which we would have liked to happen. We are pleased to discover a thoughtful design Latitude d830 and a satisfactory level of finish but it can not be forgotten BIOS acceptable platform for entry level but in no case for a motherboard in its class. Worse maximum voltage for the processor is only 1.5V. While it is dangerous to go beyond, but for a model dedicated to overclocking, it is difficult to understand. Fortunately a simple update will remove this big handicap. The number of revisions to the Z77H2-A2X does nothing  to reassure users as to present three different revisions in a row, you can not help but imagine some immaturity of products sold. And proposed $ 200 or a little over 150 euros, although its distribution is almost non-existent in our country, the Gigabyte GA-Z77-d3h (one example among many others) available fifty euros cheaper retains the same level of functionality. This difference of 30% will be well to mention a black PCB.

Tags: Latitude d630 , Dell Vostro 1400 , Dell XPS M1530

Finesse, Acer presents its Aspire XPS M1530 Ultrabook S7 as the ultimate touch and high-end Windows 8. Can we really rely on her look sexy? Is he able to meet all the expectations? Finger touch this Aspire S7 and analyze what it has to offer ...

Renew his computer is not an easy task at the moment. Many manufacturers are currently experiencing a revolution in this sector with the influx of hybrid or convertible. Windows 8 is ready for its new Touch GUI builders necessarily include them also touchscreens on their machines, like the Acer Aspire S7. We are therefore faced with a carefully Ultrabook that fills all the criteria for Intel (fineness, lightness, reactivity), but with a touch screen to draw more in the new operating system from Microsoft. Measuring 32.33 x 22.35 cm and which only 11.9 mm thick, it is a little thinner than the Apple MacBook Air. The weight is meanwhile in the average real Ultrabooks 13.3 "or 1.3 Kg

However, this involves some sacrifice on the altar of the fine, including ports present around the frame of the machine. At right, two USB 3.0 ports and an Toshiba PA3534U-1BAS card reader, and left the power supply, a micro HDMI output, headphone jack and finally the power button. We took the opportunity to talk a little of this button. This has caused us a few problems during our test. Of the same form as those found on smartphones and tablets, is directly accessible on the edge of S7. To locate, it is right in the extension of the tab keys and caps lock. When you take your computer in the hands to go into a meeting room for example, fingers inevitably end up on the button, which has the effect of turning off the computer ... Argh!

Small outside but big on the inside?

At the opening of Acer Aspire S7, it first locates the color aluminum keyboard, but the keys are actually plastic. They are quite large, but the layout is not usual because it lacks the row of function keys above. We also note the presence of an ALT GR key to the left of the space bar instead of the Alt key normally this place. Instead of the Alt Gr key is a key "right click" and a big "Del" key which have been incorporated. The directional pad is arranged differently, the size of half-keys for arrows and access keys to scroll pages just above.

Pressing the Fn key will unlock other functions of these keys to go to the beginning or end of the line. To make a #, you must press the Ctrl and Alt Gr on the left of the space bar and then the number 3 to get this special character. Not obvious at the outset when a password with special characters, or you use a lot of hashtags Tweeter, but you'll quickly get used to it. A last but not least, the chiclet keyboard mechanism sees its keys have a very short stroke. The Compaq Presario CQ62 buttons just above the base, which has the effect of interfering a bit hit and generate a lot of mistakes, especially at the beginning.

Below the keyboard, trackpad correct size will pass through both sides of the desk without worry. Additional settings in the control panel allow to extend the possibilities of multi-touch trackpad that. With two fingers, you can add shortcuts, with three fingers, you can navigate in the Modern UI applications open. By dragging the right edge, the bar is called "Charm" and left the Modern UI applications that are launched. On our test model, the trackpad had a slight defect. The tapping of the finger on the  Dell D630  touchpad, but without generating a click, a tiny unpleasant Thurs arose. It is likely that this defect is only present on our test unit, which has obviously already toured extensively before landing here.

The slab is finally mounted on a hinge which allows a 180 ° angle to obtain a machine entirely flat. In this configuration, one can imagine to share information with the caller quickly, easily use the touchpad or a few games of touch several games. Moreover, the touch layer is accurate and properly respond to our pressure, even in the office. Above the touchscreen, it has a 720p webcam classic swarming a bit during video chats. The  Inspiron 1525  is correct, it is positioned on the front, near the left speaker.

Speaking of sound, Acer has two speakers on each side at the front of the chassis. On your lap, the sound is a bit muffled. On a desk, it's a little better, the sound is expressed a little stronger and allows sound to a small room. However, if you do not activate the Dolby Home Theater v4 in the sound settings (also available in the status bar of the desktop), it is far too weak and unbalanced. In all cases, the sound produced by these speakers is not good with treble and bass crackling absent. To listen to music, as so often with laptops, it will opt for a helmet.

In the sound category, we will also discuss two fans on board. Acer said the cooling operation of the Pavilion dv6000 one simple pattern. On one side the fan draws cool air through the bottom and the hot spring at the back of the display hinge. But why use two turbines? Knowing that there is only one processor and no secondary chipset, Acer could very well happen one of them. But now, with two small fans and rising rapidly in the towers, the noise can be annoying while working with the computer. At the lower CPU utilization, both fans kick into gear and it is an army of mosquitoes invaded the room. Any game launched as The Cave, absolutely necessary to put a headphones on, otherwise it quickly becomes deafening.

A well stocked bundle

In the margin of S7 Aspire, Acer has been quite generous. The box contains a cover Ultrabook our simple, but gray faux leather class, dress conservatively machine to protect it during transport. This cover could be a little more accomplished for instance by replacing the big white scratch by a simple magnet discreet. But overall, it will be his office. HP Pavilion DV6 also adds two cables, one USB 2.0 port for adding Ethernet (10 Mb / s) and other micro-HDMI to offer a VGA output. They are both good quality and always good to take. There is also the charger, an essential accessory that is put in his bag. This can provide 65W, is small and produced by Lite-On. To recharge the 35 Wh battery Aspire S7, 1:14 hours it will take from 20 to 80% load.

Since we are talking about the battery, make it a point to use this Ultrabook Acer. The model tested Aspire S7 has the same processor as the VAIO Duo 11 we tested there is little or an Intel Core i5-3317U clocked at 1.7 GHz (Turbo 2.6 GHz), supplemented by a circuit Intel HD Graphics 4000. It also features 4GB of RAM that can not expand here, and a 128GB SSD a bit special. All the Latitude E6400 technology is concentrated at the back of the machine on a motherboard "rectangular", the remainder being occupied by the battery. If a capacity of 35 Wh just seems a bit, she explained in part by the fineness of the machine. Autonomy is not ideal but still acceptable, with 3:26 and 4:56 of video playback on desktop use with WiFi on and the screen at 30% brightness. Not extraordinary compared to other Ultrabooks a little thicker, but it will come out easily if we cross a regular electrical outlet.

SSD atypical

Performance S7 perfectly show the height of advanced office. By this we mean that it is possible to perform some Excel macros or to have many tabs open web, while pointing his e-mails. However, if the small Core i5 smooth out some dell batteries  retouching advances, it will start to snore all the heavy computing tasks. On the slab, which has the advantage of offering a definition Full HD 1920 x 1080 pixels, our measurements show that it provides a maximum contrast ratio is not bad (876:1), while Delta E is 5.8 on the sRGB color space. Not great, but we've seen much worse, especially in Acer. The maximum brightness of the slab is against a little weak, limited to 184 cd / m². Indoors, that's enough, but outside, it is not always enough, not to mention that is also playing with the reflections of the glossy ...

Always about the Dell Vostro 1520performance, we discuss the SSD Acer Aspire installed in the S7. We mentioned a few weeks ago already, Acer has made with the help of Lite-On, a disk NAND Flash atypical for this machine. MSATA format, Acer offers a RAID 0 two 64GB SSD controlled by two Marvell chips 88SS9175 and two memory chips 64 MB RAM and two chips provided by Toshiba for storage. Looking more closely at the references of each chip, there is ultimately no RAID controller on the SSD both sides. RAID would be managed by the motherboard and copper connectors of the single taken mSATA have changed. Usually pinch connectors on each side mSATA SSDs. Acer separated by two rows to manage the DSS over the top with it, and the SSD installed upside down with the bottom. Then the RAID chip on the motherboard does its job of aggregating two discs. To be sure that we can still change Pavilion DV7 in case we tried to connect a classic, and - good news - the BIOS recognizes normally under the username HDD0 while another identifier HDD1 is free.

From the point of view of performance, SSD produced by Lite-On could not be faster sequential read and write in CrystalDiskMark with 874 MB / s and 364 MB / s! In other words, it pulls. Random access with 4k blocks on tail length to 32, the result is pretty good overall, with better results than talking about the leak last December. It displays these conditions in 282 MB / s random read and 238 MB / s random write. With such a SSD, the Dell Studio 1555 system is reactive and starts in just four seconds. Loading heavy applications like Photoshop does also only a few seconds, much less than on other machines we've had hands. This is interesting even if it ultimately adding to the bill ...

The Ultrabook like?

Since we are talking about price, the Aspire S7 is currently available in shops 1300 €. It is therefore apparent that Acer is trying to séduir market high-end Ultrabook with her, in order to trace its reputation. Overall, this machine is pretty well finished, very fine, and has a well-stocked bundle. The point of view of the slab which is one reminds Full HD for a diagonal of 13.3 "reading comfort is good and the touchscreen is pretty accurate, even on the environment" Bureau "Windows 8.

But now, Acer has a few touches to correct its Ultrabook that it is really perfect. Examples include self a bit disappointing, keyboard perfectible, or a slab that should be brighter and proposed matt (even as an option). One final point needs to review Acer notable: the sound. Speakers installed below the S7 not grow strong enough to render immersive interesting. Without the plug-in Dolby is even more striking. Nevertheless, Acer scores points on the design, which has not always been a strong brand with a touch screen mounted on a hinge interesting 180 °, while innovating with its mSATA SSD RAID 0 on both sides which accelerates even more the system.

Tags:  DV4,  Latitude E6520, E6420 batteries

The new Windows 8 interface (Modern UI) is intended to be used with your fingers. Logitech proposes a revised version of its touchpad, optimized for this new version of the Dell XPS M1530 operating system. A good idea, of course. But it still had to pass the product. Then?

Windows 8 and its Modern UI interface is primarily designed for use tactile. More machines - they either portable or not - also offer this feature and it is not unusual to see computers with touchscreens in shops. However, some machines do not have yet. If the interface is controlled Modern UI pretty well with the mouse on laptop, providing a touchpad is often appreciated. And offered the same opportunities on Desktop with a touchpad accessory, it is a good idea. Yes but now, the previous Logitech Touchpad we had not packed. This review will she better?

Good news, we are no longer dealing with a rounded stone, but something much more "square" 13.4 cm 13 cm 9 mm thick. The coating is also undoubtedly a cut above. It is softer and more pleasant to use. For those who were able to manipulate the Latitude E5500 battery quivalent Apple, Magic Trackapd, we touched on a similar sensations and click like.

But the comparison stops there, since Logitech went further with its T650 Touchpad. Is entitled to a non-removable battery in the housing which is supposed to take several months, and a thickness scaled down compared to its counterpart hit an apple (see test MacWorld.fr). On the other hand, the supplied USB cable allows the touchpad to be recharged during operation, more. It added that the Swiss firm has also added a button off to save battery power during transport, while the use of a USB dongle "Unifying" will also control other branded peripheral (keyboard, mouse ).

One branch and it works ...

After unpacking the beast, it's time to install it on our test XPS M2010 machine. Windows 8 (of course), from the Unifying dongle connection, the system we propose to install the Logitech software partner. After a few clicks and validation, the system is ready to be used by the new T650 Touchpad, a child's play. We put the switch to "ON" in green on the right side of the keypad and you can immediately start making some gestures above to test the grip.

In the configuration software Logitech reduced in the status bar, it is possible to modify, activate and deactivate many "gestures" that the Touchpad supports (13 in total to be exact). One to four fingers in the gesture, Logitech provides shortcuts to master Dell Vostro 1400 completely interesting Windows 8. By sliding your finger from the left edge of the touchpad for example, shows the bar "Charm" listing all open applications.

A word still for Windows users RT, the Windows operating system for ARM processors. By plugging the USB dongle, the system installs the drivers needed to operate the T650 touchpad. Then you can scroll through the pages, but point and click gestures of this version of the OS, or click by tapping the touchpad. It is imperative physically click on the left and bottom right of the touchpad. In addition, the Logitech support page for this product does not Windows compatible program RT. It will not be possible to benefit from this Dell Vostro 1520 product gestures on Windows tablets RT.

More surface worked but not very accurate ...

Daily on a computer with a mouse, touchpad accelerates access to some of the most used applications from time to slide his finger on the left edge. Scrolling Web pages is really nice with two fingers and you can return to the office or in the main interface sliding three fingers up or down. Certainly, we must remember a few steps to fully exploit, but after a few days of use, one begins to play and forth / back and forth between applications. We understand a little better the Latitude d630 mechanism introduced by Microsoft with its Windows 8 along the way.

But then, the movements are not everything. And the touchpad does not always respond properly when you need it, to make a selection for example. After typing a few words in an e-mail, the recovery of activity on our T650 touchpad is not the most responsive. We must also draw a few rounds before it wakes up the mouse. However, the dongle is approximately 40 cm in our touchpad. As if automatically activates sleep mode to save battery power.

On a computer with Media Center software installed, it will by T650 touchpad against wonders. Unifying technology for coupling the device to a wireless Dell Studio 1555 brand, you can easily obtienir a very convenient that will find a place on the coffee table in the living room to control its Media Center from the sofa. As for the contribution of the pavement compared to a mouse, it is not necessarily easy to enjoy on the desktop, it is necessarily greater in Modern UI. And it is surprising to appreciate this aspect touch discovering such a new way to play Cut The Rope. The advantage of the device thus climbed a few rungs with Windows 8 and use many gestures in Modern UI while finishing accessory is infinitely better than the previous version. But as nothing is ever perfect, just a few small flaws taint a report which he did not lack much to be idyllic.

Tags: Dell Vostro 1510, Dell Latitude e6400, Pavilion DV2000 

Looking for a NAS that is both server and storage media-center? Qnap offers in just one TS-269L with HDMI and remote control support MCE. To check if the promise is kept, we will pass on our test bench. Go!

Qnap has graciously lent his last born in the family of two-bay NAS HDD, TS-269L, as Intel Atom. On the exterior, one is faced with a Qnap which differs little from other references of the Dell Inspiron 1545 brand. We find the usual control panel on the left side panel of the NAS with a USB 2.0 port, a button duplication from disk to an external drive connected to one of the many ports of the TS-269L, a button ignition, an infrared port and four hidden status LEDs (network, eSATA, HDD2 HDD1 and).

In the middle, the two HDD racks that can accommodate Format hard drives 3.5 "or 2.5 classic" with the screw locations on the medium. Around, nothing special except stickers partner Intel and guidance on the disposal of hard drives. At the rear, there are other ports such as eSATA, two USB 2.0 but two USB 3.0, two RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet that can be aggregated and HDMI. In the center, a fan 7 cm which is capable of drawing all the calories therein, but also from Dell XPS M1330 hard CPU Intel Atom 1.86 GHz and other control chips.

Some minor interface

For the rest, Qnap slightly reworked interface for clarity and ease of handling for beginners. But all the functions are there, whether the management LAN settings for link aggregation, VLAN management or parameterization services like SMB share (CIFS) and Web servers and MySQL. For our test, we installed the latest firmware to date (3.8.1 20121205), which is proposed to start the NAS.

Navigating the maze of available settings on the Dell E4310 Battery Web Portal configuration, it was found that Qnap has not put a default cache write the brand name "EXT4 delayed allocation." Indeed, our RAID 0 is configured with the EXT4 file system to manipulate blocks of RAM writing for writing later. This helps improve performance, although, if a power outage occurs at this time, data can be lost as unsaved hard drives. To check if this feature is implemented correctly, we will do the test without and with the system delayed write either RAID 0 or RAID 1 in order to define the impact of this option. In RAID 1, the option is enabled by default, which also disables to see the impact of it.

On the other hand, QNAP offers on this model, but other models in the range also can add RAM is 1 GB default By removing our test model, it was also found that RAM is simply glued into place by two balls of the stopper either side of the strip. Nothing insurmountable, we can all just remove and replace  HP G42 Battery if necessary. Moreover, the issue of dismantling Qnap things easier and can be fully disassemble the NAS for repair or cleaning of any dust that may have occurred inside as shown in this photo.

The second RAM module is limited to 2 GB DDR3-1333 maximum, and it fits directly into the back of the HP G4 Battery motherboard. To achieve this, you must remove three screws from the cover, pull back and lift. Then the motherboard and RAM slot free are visible to add additional RAM module. We also test whether the impact of the increase in memory affects the performance either RAID 0 or RAID 1. It is estimated that this will affect especially the last option if delayed write many orders are sent simultaneously, a benefit that is certainly observed with the benchmark CrytalDiskMark.

It's time to send some packets to the NAS ...

After remounting rule in our test model, finally connected to the network, it is time to see what QNAP TS-269L and Intel Atom are in the stomach. Firstly RAID 1 with the timeout option of writing off by default, this NAS up to 110.4 MB / s sequential write, but only 58.5 MB / s read in CrystalDiskMark three HP G6 Battery test passes. Random access, it thickens a little more this time because writing is capped at 175 IOPS on 4K data against reading, it has a good 19,781 IOPS on the same data type. With the active option, things are moving in the right direction with almost 20K IOPS read and 1409 IOPS write is better!

RAID 0, note that this time the Qnap firmware activates the delayed write option by default. Whether active or not, the rates obtained by sequential reading and writing remain the same with 79 MB / s and 111 MB / s respectively. However, the option has an impact on the management of concurrency. Random read 4K block on disk, we get 17,420 IOPS with or without the option, but the writing goes from 4990 to 5238 IOPS IOPS. This is not the same net as RAID 1. Note that when HP G7 Battery testing with real files, the rates obtained are slightly different.

Indeed, it is with the Windows robocopy or a script that copies files from a real RAMdisk to and from the NAS, the results are superior. RAID 0, with the option enabled by default so, robocopy still barely pass the 80 MB / s on our files 5 MB

There is little doubt then that the option of delaying the writing must be directly related to the size of the memory available on our NAS testing. Indeed, by analyzing more closely the various tools available in the Latitude E5520 batteries management interface Qnap, we see that the memory occupied is important enough after a few benchmarks launched. We installed our RAM modules to verify this.

After extinction of the NAS and screws removed, lift the plastic cover on the back of the motherboard and slide the strip of RAM DDR3-1333. At startup, the fan blows at its maximum until validation of the new strip symbolized by a short beep from the system. In our case, we do not have that beep and the system simply does not agree to start. Removing that provided by Qnap and installing ours, the system starts to boot, strange. However, two bars turn out well at the same frequency as the two labels for each module. An incompatibility between the ADATA provided by Qnap and our Kingston? Probably.

Never mind, we then added a second bar 2 GB on the same slot available at the rear for mounting to 4 GB total. Note that Qnap only accepts up to 3 GB according to its technical documentation online, which could just drop our memory of 2 GB, and up to 1 GB, but it did not work. With our 4GB installed, do not worry, the Latitude E6320 system starts and the NAS is accessible again, quickly elsewhere. Then, in the tests we have done RAID 0 with delay option enabled, we could compare the synthetic tests CrystalDiskMark our scripts and copy actual files.

In CrystalDiskMark, the gain is triple random write as we move from 5200 to 15,064 IOPS IOPS. Over other testing scenario also shows a sizeable gain either read or write our multiple files. The biggest gain is reading our file 1.2GB on three passes with 95.8 MB / s at baseline and 117.3 MB / s with 4 GB of memory. A small boost in RAM which is good, then.

The NAS also media-center ...

More NAS have an HDMI which allows them to use both as a media-center and at the same time as the storage server. Is this a good idea? Some probably find it interesting, since it will then be necessary to make E6420 batteries transfers or set of protocols like DLNA sharing on various high-tech home to enjoy his files on its audio-video equipment . This can sometimes be tedious.

Via the HDMI output, Qnap offers a few more features than the models Asustor tested recently, such as viewing YouTube videos or even the opportunity to go on the Internet quickly without the need to turn on the computer, not to mention a access to all the audio / video entertainment and photos contained in the NAS. Obviously, all this is fine, but it is still necessary that the NAS is not too noisy so we can imagine the install near its HDMI TV and the amplifier. As such, the Qnap TS-269L is forgotten. Very quiet daily, the fan never fully rotated during our tests. We all just tried to see what was pushing manually to 100% of its capacity, and, yes, it makes a lot of noise (51.7 dB measured at 1 meter) in our room test. But a priori, in normal use, it will never be the way this regime, except perhaps fully applied in summer and enclosed in an airless corner ... Consumption side, we were able to verify the data provided by Latitude E6420 ATG , namely a consolidated 19W lit with two disks mounted inside, which rises to over 27W.

To enjoy this feature, it is necessary to connect the TV or HDMI-compatible display and start the NAS. Then, on the control panel in the menu "Service Management" must go to "HD Station". Here, we can then start the function and install different applications as necessary XBMC for playback of video / audio and music, or Google Chrome, YouTube and even shortcuts to the panel. However, our Latitude E6520 test TV in 720p HD, the NAS just does not want to display anything. By plugging another screen in 1080p this time, do not worry, the interface of the first configuration is displayed and you can begin testing its multimedia applications (and change the resolution to a smaller if necessary ...) .

The 1080p video playback works perfectly, support files subtitle SRT is also present. The XBMC interface offers some interesting additions like the cover of the film or contextual information. Parallel reading and writing data from two different computers are some slowdowns appear on the screen when playing this file in 1080p. Blame the lack of RAM probably because our model has 1 GB by default. Indeed, on this point, Qnap recommends the installation of 3 GB of RAM to take advantage of the NAS function and media center at the same time. With our 4GB memory, reading no longer suffers from slowdown and transfers Pavilion DV4 batteries enchainent normally. Good to know.

NAS competition?

On one hand, if one seeks only a two-bay NAS, Qnap offers other slightly cheaper models that do not have function media center. By cons, if one seeks versatility, this model is able to ensure both simultaneous as long as you add the starting price of the price of additional RAM sticks. However, if we compare its price to that of two bays Asustor we recently tested, the Latitude E6510 difference in price is only € 20 for the Qnap TS-269L. If one adds to this the price of the bar of RAM starting price for the full enjoyment of the two functions of the NAS, the invoice is a little higher. We may add that the reputation of the product is no longer Qnap to do, so that we do not yet have enough perspective on products Asustor. Which can tip the balance in favor of this model at the time of purchase ...

Tags: Dell Studio 1555, Pavilion DV7 , E5500 batteries

THE Tahiti GPU on a map HD 7870 series to revitalize its mid-range ... This is the challenge that is Club 3D emboitant in the footsteps of three other manufacturers: PowerColor, Sapphire and VTX3D. A bet we could measure dimension for a few days.

It's fun sometimes turn can take a stupid test graphics card. By far, one might imagine that it gets less emotion, for example, a test of video game, and that is where a very mathematical exercise to gather and compile several hundred FPS values, eventually designate "this is who has the biggest and at what price." Not at all!

Thus, last Friday, and fatigue of the week helping, we prepared to sleep on our Word which would have undoubtedly been testing the thinnest in the history of test graphics card. A platitude that would also perfectly bonded with the pedigree of the new card HD 7870 Club 3D made in a product in the middle, with average performance for an average price. Nothing to ignite, so ... Then we went for a ride on the manufacturer's Toshiba PA3534U-1BAS website, just to get a little more familiar with all of its range, and after 10 minutes of investigation, the kind of plain text early began to turn against the uncompromising firebrand multiplication outrageous references to much to lose potential customers, that give us a good headache to us, journalists.

You do not see what you are talking? Let us enlighten you. For now, AMD has released a single card model leveraging the GPU Pitcairn XT, HD 7870 Edition GHz. On this basis, Club 3D has declined no less than 6 Products: HD Edition 7870 GHz, which wants a copy of the basic design of AMD. RoyalQueen HD 7870, which uses the specifications of the previous, adding cooling house, BUT that can also be found under the name HD 7870 CoolStream, or under that of HD 7870 jokerCard. Always follow you? Not because it is not finished! You also have the HD 7870 and royalKing royalAce, respectively clocked at 1050 and 1100 MHz instead of 1000 originally provided by AMD. And now, after all this is added a seventh model, the one we just tested a few days, a HD 7870 XT jokerCard, sister of the HD 7870 royalQueen. While all the cards mentioned above were based on Pitcairn GPU, this version draws its resources XT GPU Tahiti LE, a light version of the Tahiti XT usually reserved for the HD 7900. In addition, the cooling system has changed slightly, to offer a product 5 cm long, and without a second HDMI output.

To summarize, we find ourselves in front of a pretty mess, and even before speaking performance, and whether or not you are going to invest in this map, it seems necessary to warn you: you ask the question what is really behind the reference Compaq Presario CQ62  from Club 3D? How often, how cool, what GPU? Especially if online retailers retain good index to differentiate this map XT Tahiti others, the packaging, it is more equivocal, doing no mention of a change of GPU compared to the previous jokerCard edition in Pitcairn GHz and Edition. We will identify simply operating frequency, shown in the foreground: 925 MHz. A little light, we think he ...

Now, this aspect is difficult sales and marketing said, and beyond the frank exasperation that arouses us, it is nevertheless the most important question remains as outlined earlier in this paper (which begins dangerously close to the novel format): for some we manage to find their way through this jungle of  Dell D630 Battery referrals, the HD 7870 XT jokerCard she offers a good price / performance ratio with its GPU Tahiti LE? To answer this, we subjected the beast of course a number of benchmarks, which you now know as well as we, two resolutions, 2560 x 1600 and 1920 x 1080, with different levels of anti-aliasing on 3DMark 11, as well as many games, as representative of the variety of engines they use (CryEngine, Unreal Engine, Frostbite) by the effects they highlight (DX9 or 11). A protocol that we detail below, and in which you will also find cards that have served as the basis of comparison for our findings.

Noise measurements:

To measure the noise emitted by the different graphics cards, we placed our configuration in a room with the sound environment measured at 32 dB (A) and have placed a meter on a stand 15 cm from the center of the map and 20 cm to be at the same level as the GPU. We took action after five minutes on the Windows desktop to start the Inspiron 1525 Battery, so at rest, then have launched OCCT 4.1.0 to seek to maximize the graphics processor and its cooling system and have used the maximum value recorded by the meter. The values ​​of maximum and minimum temperatures are also identified during sound measurements in the same conditions and always with OCCT GPU-Z but also the ambient temperature of the room up to 25 ° C approx.

Conclusions on the performance criterion

Clearly, the performance of the HD 7870XT leave us a mixed impression. Not that these are particularly poor, quite the contrary. They are even a good average, slightly above the previous version of HD 7870 jokerCard (which featured a Pitcairn XT GPU), and perfect equality with the single GTX 660 in this ranking. However, we expected better, and if the well cap XT her little sister 15% in 3DMark 11, it offers only a 5% gain practice in games. Always good to take some might say, except that put into perspective with the parameters of price and consumption, these results are weaklings. Clearly, we expected more from Tahiti LE.

What about consumption, temperatures and noise

Because it is a fact highlighted by our tests: Pavilion dv6000  consumes this much a Leclerc tank at full speed in the middle of a rainforest! Charging, it displays a consumption of 239 W, 10% higher than the GTX 660Ti Asus, and 20% higher than its direct competitor, the GeForce GTX 660 DirectCU II TOP. And that's pretty much the same score that plays when you look at the noise measurements: Club 3D card displays a standard result in other AMD cards, but is systematically take a few dB (A) competition , 660 and other 660 Ti. As for the last parameter, the temperature, it remains at a rather measured the cooling system showing where some efficacy against a Tahiti GPU is known to prompt heat. Effectiveness of our colleagues TechPowerUp had the opportunity to demonstrate in more detail by performing on the same reference some overclocking tests: they were able to realize a gain of 24% frequency level GPU, and 8% on the side memory, all in maintaining the stability of the card. Overclocking enthusiasts, you hold perhaps a good horse.

Synthesis

In the end, and if you put brackets SEO strategy adopted by a little messy Club 3D, this card is it worth the trouble some attention? THE Tahiti GPU is that it will give AMD in the race on the mid-range? Compared to that offer competing HP Pavilion DV6  brands on the niche HD 7870, the card Club 3D is as an equally relevant than another, no more, no less. It will give you a slight performance gain compared to version Pitcairn, and have a great overclocking potential, in exchange for higher consumption, and an average price a bit enhanced. Moreover, and this, we could test the HD 7870XT jokerCard arise as a credible alternative to the card holder and HD 7900 series, which would afford a FPS gain at lower cost. CrossFireX between these models work, but with its ups and downs: sometimes it works (Aliens vs. Predator), sometimes not (Crysis 2 2560x1920 mode). The downside: other users diposant those cards Pitcairn GPU based, must turn to the previous generation HD7870 for their multi-card configurations, hoping that it will not be gradually replaced by new Dell Latitude E6400

That was the scenario for Radeon-Radeon. By cons, if it comes to talk about competition Radeon, GeForce, the

Dell Latitude E6400

relevance of this card is no longer so obvious. Particularly in relation to size GTX 660, with which the card Club 3D performance is on a par level, and is ahead of all other criteria. Same in terms of price, there are GTX 660 from Asus or Gigabyte to lower prices by 10 to 20% compared to that displayed by the E5500 batteries  (235 euros on average in our comparator). Add to that support for NVIDIA 3D Vision side, who begins to have an interest in the midrange, and you'll understand this niche, even if the card Club 3D HD 7870XT is not a bad card is, it will not be a first choice for us.

 Introduction

Announced at a press conference highly anticipated iPhone 5 is officially marketed since Friday, September 21, 2012. Apple Stores worldwide scroll saw thousands of customers and pre-orders were once again exceptional. However, the iPhone 5 is nothing exceptional property on paper. Innovations are non-existent and minor changes. Nevertheless, the launch of the iPhone 5 seems to be going well at the moment.
Mobiles in-Actus.com we melted into the ground last Friday and we stood in line at the Apple Store Opera, say it should be done at least once to understand the fans of the brand. Now we will try to test this new product innovation that Apple and the new iOS 6 that can be installed on many other brand products since 19 September.

Package Contents and Accessories
The iPhone 5 has a box still in the same spirit. The recipe has not changed except that the box is logically a little higher. Inside Apple book a compact power adapter that can also be purchased at 29 euros at the Apple Online Store. This is accompanied by the USB cable Lightning (new port owner) can also be purchased separately at 19 euros. There are always the little SIM card ejector. And finally, the iPhone 5 comes with new headphones EarsPod and storage case are also on sale at 29 euros. The box is white for the iPhone 5 white and black for black iPhone. By cons accessories always keep the white color so dear to Apple.

  
Side options, it is possible to buy an adapter to micro USB Lightning 19 euros a Lightning to 30-pin cable version (old port Apple) for 39 euros and a 30-pin Lightning to 29 euros. Apple has officially confirmed not to market its dock for iPhone 5.
Apple offers little new with the iPhone 5, more efficient headphones delivered in a small storage box. They are relatively easy to store, it is still necessary to take time. For the rest, it's classic and VGP-BPS26A accessories are still sold in a price range similar to previous versions. One can not help but make a point about changing port remains owner unfortunately. As a result, many accessories are not compatible and that's a shame. According to Apple, many props already working on new versions of their compatible produits.

iPhone 5 VS iPhone 4S

As you may know if you follow a regular mobile phone news, the announcement of the iPhone 5 has been marked by many critics. Many have criticized Apple is a great lack of innovation more or less moderate. We were the first to denounce a lack of risk-taking on the part of Apple to really surpass its competition. Apple has merely provide the bare minimum to provide a XPS M1530 hardware improved.

On the news, Apple has equipped its new smartphone processor A6 A5 house rather than present in the iPhone 4S. This performance are significantly improved without equal the most powerful smartphones on the market. We'll come over a little later in this test.
The iPhone 5 now offers a 4-inch screen 3.5-inch against the iPhone 4S and its predecessors. It still retains its density Retina (326 dpi) with a resolution of 1136 x 640 pixels 960 x 640 pixels against the previous model. We are still far from what we can see on Android smartphones or Windows Phone 8. In fact, the Samsung Galaxy S III has for example a 4.8 inch screen and has a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels which corresponds to a density of 306 dpi. Suddenly, the iPhone 5 grows a bit because now measures 123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6 mm against 115.2 x 58.6 x 9.3 mm. In addition to being thinner, the iPhone 5 is now much lighter with only 112 grams on the scale.

4G is now waiting for you on the iPhone 5! Well, not in France, where we'll have to settle for Dual Carrier technology, or more commonly known DC-HSDPA or H +. Beware though, the iPhone 5 released in France still have a chip 4G/LTE, however, it is unsuitable for the technology used by our operators in the deployment of 4G French, sorry. Let's say for the iPhone 5, it is not very serious for the moment since the network is far from ready in France.

Because Apple does not like to be everyone, the Dell Latitude E5500 company has developed its own SIM card technology. Precursor micro SIM, Apple now requires the use of nano SIM card type. Do not worry, operators have hundreds of these SIM cards in stock, and the replacement is free for most and only takes a few minutes in the shop or on the Internet.

Apple has also reworked its FaceTime video calling system. It is now possible, thanks to iOS 6, having conversations on the 3G network and not just WiFi. Better with the iPhone 5, the sensor front allows High Definition 720p while previous models were limited to VGA.

Design and finishing

 
Particularly criticized the design of the iPhone 5 iPhone remains in the mind, especially on the front. Since the first model, Apple has kept the spirit of its terminals. iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, exactly the same design. iPhone 4S and iPhone 5, the front has been maintained but enlarged to the dimensions of the new  Dell Vostro 1400  smartphone. The rear, meanwhile, has been completely redesigned. The glass has disappeared, giving way to a unibody metal shell which changes tone depending on the version. Bevelled corners of the iPhone 5 are very successful but are quite fragile. In two days of use, we already have a small scratch on our light white model. It is possible that daily, that iPhone 5 is unprotected to wear out very quickly. In addition, several items appear on the web regarding possible construction defects. We will not go so far as to use classic, we have not seen any abnormal wear. The iPhone 4 white metal offers more clear, it is brighter and a little gem, the iPhone 5 is unveiled in a completely dark look very classy. Our initial manipulations, the iPhone 5 seems more black mark fingerprints.

For overall finishes, there is no doubt, it's Apple. The  Latitude d630 materials are very good quality service of this design always beautiful (to our taste), even if little blame him for enough change compared to previous models. The buttons on the iPhone 5 are very strong, probably in part because they are still new on all the models we have taken in hand.

Interface and iOS 6
Apple renews little interface iOS some great misfortune and happiness of others. For our part, we would have liked more again for this new iOS 6. In our heads, the transition from iOS 5 to iOS 6 would have scored a certain break. iOS 6 corresponds rather to iOS 5.x. The iPhone 5 has a bigger screen, and Apple had to deal with this new format for applications. Now, the d830 Battery dashboard can display an extra row of icons. By cons, if an application is not suitable, a black band appears above and below the application. Probably a way to force developers to update their applications since it would also be possible for Apple to make the choice to use this space to display additional information. To cite only a few changes, is now available without Bluetooth submenu mode "do not disturb" appears and privacy settings are more accessible than ever before. In addition to Twitter, Facebook makes its appearance here and there in the menus of the smartphone. Note that despite a higher screen size, the keyboard has not changed much in size in horizontal mode, the keys are slightly wider and it retains its sensitivity.

Plans
The Maps application is a huge disappointment. On previous versions of iOS, the Maps application used Google data. Although the application was limited to basic functionality but it had the merit function properly. Today, Apple delivers a Maps application developed by him in partnership with major Dell Latitude brands such as TomTom.

We must recognize, the Maps application to a high quality, it is very fast compared to the previous version. Navigation on the map is much more fluid and practice, even in 3D mode (available on some cities, Paris is not yet available but yes Lyon, in France).

Beyond its side easy to use, defects accumulate to the point that micro-blog like Tumblr are created to identify the majority of errors of this application Apple Plans. I must say, the database of points of interest is significantly poorer than that offered by Google despite the use of very good service Yelp, unfortunately still common in France. Small detail, Yelp does not publish a notice directly, you can only write a draft and should go Yelp.fr to put online a big mistake! It is hoped that the service will benefit from this alliance with Apple to really evolve and upgrade. Note also that the points of interest are poorly positioned. Found small example, the UGC Les Halles in Paris was positioned on the wrong side of the Seine, problem?

Plans is not very flexible. If you are looking for an address or a point of interest, the slightest typo will not forgive. No suggestion will be made, the application will only display a nice "No". Plans may also encounter some problems positioning your point tends to move around the map when you have not moved.
Now Plans integrates navigation turn-by-turn. The  VGP-BPS13 application is very well made and practical. We tried it on a very short distance in the Paris region and the indications were sufficiently clear and understandable. We return to this point in the coming weeks if we encounter difficulties.

Siri
Siri is available from the iPhone 4S, the new iOS version 6 was much improved but failed to convince us completely. We still looking for real value even if opportunities are added to each new version. In any case, French comprehension has improved. You can now see the results of the Ligue 1 in France or visit the cinema, to find restaurants and points of interest around you. In addition to sending messages, you can simply update their Facebook status or post a message on Twitter.

Passbook
Passbook is a beautiful new Apple. This new application allows to combine in one place your boarding cards, discount cards and so on. For now, applications are very limited and it is difficult to give you a real opinion. In any case, if the airlines, travel sites, SNCF or other companies begin to follow this mode all Pavilion DV2000 digital Passbook has a very bright future ahead of him. For cons, the iPhone 5 does not have NFC and yet it would have been very interesting to exploit this type of use. For the moment, some supermarkets like Leclerc and Auchan are compatible passbook.

Mail and Safari
Side mail to begin the improvements are very minor. It is now possible to add photos directly into a message without having to go through the Photos application. In the same way, it is possible to embed images in a response or a transfer. Then, as on Mountain Lion, it is possible to highlight some contacts by placing contacts as VIPs. By cons, if you mark a message with a flag, synchronization is still not done with a Google Account and can not find the same promotion on the online version or any other email client.

Safari side, we found a faster display of web pages. This logical progression is not entirely due to iOS 6, but in large part to the  Latitude E6510 performance delivered by the iPhone 5. Regarding new features, there is now a full screen landscape mode handy. It provides better readability for web pages. It is possible to view the open tabs on other Apple products and iCloud takes care of synchronizing your offline playlist.

Shared photo stream
Small private social network integrated flux shared photos to share photos with any of your contacts who has iCloud, a Mac with iPhoto or Apple device compatible. The HP 484170-001 principle is simple, the user creates a new album and includes pictures inside, then they find themselves directly to your selected contacts who accept the invitation to access the album. Then everyone can post comments, or simply "love" picture. Damage, for the moment the video is not supported.

App Store
The Apple App Store has been completely redesigned. This new version offers significantly improved ergonomics. When downloading an application, the App Store will no longer close. The password is not required when an updated application and submission of applications has been completely redesigned. This new App Store is what is expected for several versions.

Performance
The iPhone 4S was equipped with an A5 processor type and the iPhone 4 A4 processor. The iPhone 5 now includes a processor A6, more powerful, more efficient. Apple is guarded against revealing the precise characteristics of the processor during the E6410 Battery product announcement. Finally, the only thing that has been clarified is that this new component allows the iPhone 5 to be twice as fast both on the calculation on the graph. It is also 22% smaller than its predecessor and uses less energy.

If we compare this processor that is in the world of Android, for example, surprise! The iPhone 5 is satisfied with a dual processor 1.3 GHz heart. Its competition is already quad-core processor clocked at 1.5 GHz on average. And yet, the iPhone 5 is clearly not the slowest. If one refers to the benchmark tests, the Apple device is even in the top of the table.
Overall, according to several benchmark tests, the iPhone 5 would be about the same level as HTC One X or Samsung Galaxy S III in general. In terms of graphics, the iPhone 5 is announced clearly before. Regarding the display of Pavilion DV7 web pages, the iPhone 5 is once again the fastest run JavaScript. Of course, these conclusions are derived from figures more or less revealing. But one thing is certain, the A6 processor brings a real plus to the navigation on the iPhone. All actions are fast, the games are fluid and very aesthetic. Even without a quad-core Exynos, the iPhone 5 offers performance rather unusual.

Level calls, the iPhone 5 takes advantage of several microphones that allow it to transmit sound really clear to the caller. Regarding the H +, we have unfortunately not been able to verify the theoretical speeds advertised by  Inspiron 6000 operators (Orange Sosh for us). Our test area was not covered properly not the technology.

Regarding autonomy, the iPhone 5 has been slightly improved. Processor power consumption has been reduced, which changes a lot the final result. In our case, intensive use of the iPhone 5 using all the possibilities the iPhone 5 has managed to hold twenty hours. To put you in a situation, we had 3 mailboxes push in permanent employment histories, many iMessage, surf the Internet and social networks, and we captured a lot of pictures in addition to taking advantage of other opportunities iPhone as application download and listen to music (about 3 hours).

Camera
No big news on the camera. Here, you can not blame Apple for not having made any effort to innovate because the manufacturer was already at the top of the market. Only a few smartphones hold the top of the chart image quality with occasional differences on the final resolution of the picture either Sony VGP-BPS8, Samsung and Nokia. Moreover, the iPhone 5 as the iPhone 4S uses a sensor from Sony.

The iSight iPhone 5 features an 8 megapixel sensor with backlight. This is coupled with a high quality lens elements in five glass which allows f2.4 aperture. Note that the competition is f2.0 or f2.2 rather, what is still better. The image quality is rather interesting, outside, the iPhone 5 delivers very nice photo. The flash LED interior load correctly expose the scene and not trigger stupidly at full power. Without flash indoors, the iPhone 5 will automatically mount in sensitivity but image quality is reasonable for a smartphone up to ISO 800 (value non-adjustable). I'll let you make your own judgment on some pictures below. New, Apple now offers Sweep Panorama, also available on the iPhone 4S, the overall result is satisfactory even if it is not done with the same ease as a real camera. Too bad we can not take pictures in 16:9.

Multimedia

 
For those familiar with the iPhone will not be surprised. The interface has been redesigned and improved, but the Pavilion DV5 features are the same. In the same way, the restrictions Apple are still there. Always go through iTunes to sync music and audio formats supported like video did not move. Music lovers can still enjoy high fidelity formats.

The top screen of the iPhone becomes wider in landscape mode and it is much nicer to view videos. The color and brightness of the screen give really want to look beautiful images of the iPhone 5. Still regret the number of formats that require to go through an external application and transfer again to your iTunes media. Otherwise, it must go through a long and tedious coding.
New Apple headphones come EarsPod replace aging white earbuds that we know very well. These new headphones have been developed over three years by Apple and allow users to access their quality at low price (thirty euros only). It is based on the observation that the headphones are often uncomfortable. EarsPod the direct sound directly into the ear through a very particular form. The EarsPod offer a rather interesting with its low but not too strong present of what to listen to almost any style of music. For headphones supplied default, Apple offers an excellent solution.

Conclusion
The iPhone 5 is around to criticize its lack of innovation and originality. And yet, in all fairness, the iPhone 5 is positioned as a smartphone comprehensive, efficient (not to mention the most efficient), but no real change from the previous. Still further, louder for this iPhone 5 that offers a dual processor heart as powerful or even more powerful than its competitors while maintaining a iOS interface 6 always easy but unfortunately without much novelty / innovation. The camera has not moved since the iPhone 4S, the photo quality is always waiting for you. We regret the loss of Google Maps for the iPhone. A monumental loss when using much the Maps application which is well below what Google offers. To conclude, this iPhone 5 is very good and is very different uses. The wave of criticism from a certain frustrations passionate about mobility, not just Apple see this lack of risk-taking increasingly common in this brand.

Tags: Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS , Presario CQ60, battery

GETTING STARTED 

Archos Console Gamepad: good idea, bad materialized
With seven-inch non-touch screen and not real game controller FOR integrated, portable console in this bright idea interest robot June ... urban center lupus paper ONLY.

The Promise

The last idea was nutthousiasmés Archos BNO: June transformer touchpad seven inches in a real game console in portable robot. The

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Reality

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Powerful, BUT Could do better

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the verdict

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Tags: Pavilion DV7 battery,  Inspiron 1525 , Dell XPS M1330

 Intel invited us to the event dedicated to research within its labs in Barcelona. We took the opportunity to ask some questions to Jim Hurley, an expert on Visual Computing, which addresses the interaction with a new computer.

Can you explain what Visual Computing?

In fact, we are already in the era of Visual XPS M1530 Battery Computing since all computers have a camera and can observe what we do. Our hands are a good example of what can be done to play video games. We have also a project called "Magic Mirror."

It uses a camera as a sensor Microsoft Kinect to capture an image of the person to create an avatar. Then, the challenge will be to create as closely as possible the person, as the face is the most difficult to model with hair, etc.. Simulation and creation of clothing are difficult to model to give a final report on the subject as close as possible. Ultimately, we must capture, model and reproduce for completeness and make Visual Computing.

Outside of video games, is it possible to imagine the handling of information such as databases through Visual Computing?

The example of the magic mirror is an example much more meaningful and concrete, but data manipulation is more complex for imaging objects out supposed to humans. If we look at what are the applications that process data, usually Dell XPS M1330 output programs use colors to differentiate the results as in finance where indicators are displayed in red or green to attract the attention of the user . We can call it the first step in Visual Computing, but in our laboratory, we try to better schedule information and then find the best, and more visual.

On the other hand, we want to make it even more realistic user experiences, for example in the film industry for 3D rendering in real time with Xeon Phi, or in the automotive industry where designers want a picture their three-dimensional concepts and evolving in a quasi real observe what happens in our landscape, while keeping the design secret.

At IDF 2012, Intel announced a new product called "Perceptual Computing" with an SDK and a camera Creative. Is this a first step in the democratization of Visual Computing?

The group has expertise in the treatment of information and the working group "Perceptual Computing" surely has plans for the future as the integration of a more accurate camera for Latitude E5500 laptops for instance. It will no longer need to buy an external camera cumbersome to benefit from this new user experience.

What does Intel in the future with the Visual Computing?

This is a great question. Multiple reflections are underway in laboratories Intel as steering cars fully automatic, it also Google than experienced in Arizona. In a not so distant future, we will see roads that are more congested, cars automatically adjust their speed to cross at intersections. This is very scary, but it can display on the windows of the car to a video time (Laughter. ..).

To be honest, we have two paths in chip design: either increasing the raw power, it is stagnant, but we can make chips smaller and smaller. This solution will allow us to chip in places you could not even imagine.

Can we imagine that these Dell Latitude E6400 chips will evolve artificial intelligence thanks to Visual Computing?

We are working on intelligent glasses that would display information, such as Google Glasses example. But the format is not the same as we use screens such pixel density that the human eye can not see the difference between virtual and real even at a distance as short as glass Window opposite the eye.

The challenge is to capture an image of the outside world and the display on both screens and then add contextual information. It would then be possible for the system to learn what the user likes or does not like it. But it is difficult to understand or even give information that fall just with what the user wants at a time "t". Over time, it will be possible to achieve, but it is still too complex when it comes to human emotions, to schematize a Latitude E6500 computer, regardless of the size or power of the chip.

Tags；dell studio 1555， Studio 1558 Battery， compaq presario cq60

 The question is often asked: what is burning with a finer processors Ivy Bridge will exceed their predecessors frequency Sandy Bridge. We have therefore made some tests and aircooling liquid nitrogen to determine the overclocking potential of these new CPU for the socket LGA 1155. So what can we really expect Toshiba PA3534U-1BRS  these new processors engraved in 22 nm?

Before anything else, it is important to know that only two processors among the long list of Ivy Bridge chips are designed for overclocking. It is well on models "K" as in those of the Intel Sandy Bridge (2500K, 2550K, 2600K and 2700K). Here we have the first right in these two models, 3770k and 3570K (tested here).

K models have an unlocked multiplier, finally almost completely released because it can vary from 36X to 63X. Other family processors will settle for a slight overclocking the BCLK. The maximum bclock Ivy Bridge is slightly higher than what you might encounter on Sandy Bridge, but it is not extraordinary. We must be content with a maximum frequency of "+" or "-" 115 Mhz CPU for the best below 0 ° C. Recall that 110 Mhz bclock was very difficult to achieve on Sandy Bridge.

For this test, we used the Sony VGP-BPS14 motherboard Asus Maximus Gene V range ROG that we introduced some time ago in this article. Joking aside now and go home in the heart of the matter and see what Core i7-3770k in the belly:

Configuration used in air-cooling:

• Motherboard: Asus Maximus Gene V
• Processor: Intel Core i7 3770k
• CPU Cooling: Cooler Master 612S
• Memory: G.SKILL TridentX 2666 CL11
• SSD: Kingston HyperX 120GB
• VGA: Asus HD 7970 Direct CU II
• Power Supply: Corsair AX 1200W
• Table: Table test Dimastech
• 64-Bit Windows Seven

Overclocking AirCooling

To test the overclocking potential of our Core i7-3770k benchmark we used in wPrime 1024M. This software multithreaded stress the CPU to 100% for a period of a few minutes. We also used the software Asus Sensor Recoder (AI SUITE II) to monitor CPU temperature during wPrime 1024M.

Here are the  VGP-BPS13 screenshots temperature readings and Vcore required to pass wPrime 1024M in aircooling 4 Ghz to 4.8 Ghz.

Compared to these results, we are a little disappointed 3770k overclocking potential in aircooling because you should know that Core i7-2600K previous generation could climb from 4.8 Ghz to 5.5 Ghz. Here we could run wPrime 1024M by 5 Ghz and without risking the CPU temperature exceeds 100 ° C. Fortunately, we can see that it takes only 1.32 3770k V to be stabilized at 4.8 GHz and only 1.05 V to 4 Ghz, which allows the Cooler Master 612S to keep below 40 ° C.

Here's a little graph summarizing our results better overclocking 4 Ghz to 4.8 Ghz.

By mounting the Vcore to 1.4 V, the 3770k can reach to the VGP-BPS12 Battery frequency of 5268 MHz frequency at which the processor was just enough to make a stable CPUZ validation.

Intel will undoubtedly improve the etching process Tri-Gate 22nm as he had done with Nehalem (i7 920, ..., 975xe) through the revision C1 D0 revision.

New side ratios memory

Passion overclocking memory and bandwidth outside the norm, the Z77 platform / Ivy Bridge offers some novelty about the timing of DDR3. Taking advantage of a memory controller more swift than Sandy Bridge, Ivy Bridge will not be stable difficulty with memory overclocked to over 2800 Mhz aircooling or more 3200 MHz with a cooling system below 0 °.

Here is a screenshot of the BIOS Maximus Gene V where you can choose from no less than 17 desynchronizations memory. The Ivy Bridge can use the value bases 100 and 133 for its various memory frequencies, thus sony vgp-bps11  supports a wider range of ratios than Sandy Bridge.

Here are some screenshots within the bandwidth in MB / s and latency in ns with the overclocked DDR3 2000 Mhz to 2800 Mhz.
With hp pavilion dv6 DDR3 2800 MHz CL11 in the AIDA software is memory bandwidth reading of 25,138 MB / s with latency of 30.1 ns compared to 20,295 MB / s and 37.1 ns at 2 Ghz.

Aircooling finished laughing, let's get cold!

Core i7 3770k under liquid nitrogen

To start the game extreme overclocking of this article, here are some photos of the insulation configuration.

Configuration used in liquid nitrogen

• Motherboard: Asus Maximus Gene V
• Processor: Intel Core i7 3770k
• Cooling CPU: Bucket and 3D SSD LN2
• Memory: G.SKILL Flares (test was done before the release of TridentX)
• SSD: Kingston HyperX 120GB
• VGA: Asus HD 7970 Direct CU II
• Power Supply: Corsair AX 1200W
• Table: Table test Dimastech
• 64-Bit Windows Seven

Even if Ivy Bridge overclocking is a bit disappointing aircooling the Pavilion DV5 Battery performance "clock to clock" are on the rise compared to Sandy Bridge. These Ivy Bridge will be the greatest happiness of all extreme overclockers will fall all the world records in 2D but also in 3D a lot in the weeks to come.

Under liquid nitrogen, the difference between Ivy Bridge and Sandy Bridge is like day and night. On one side a processor that overclocks better aircooling but that only takes 100 or 200 Mhz more under cold and the other side a processor that has trouble with 5 Ghz aircooling but easily takes 6.5 LN2 Ghz ...

Since the E8600 and some Clarkdale as Core i5 670 and 655K, Intel were abominable to overclock under liquid nitrogen. That is to say, they really could not stand the cold, and when a certain negative temperature was reached, the system refused to boot. What is called the "Cold Boot Bug." Could be circumvented by booting slightly higher temperature. But the HP 484170-001 system instantly spat when reaching a certain temperature. What is called the "Cold Bug," and there could not do anything but strictly control the temperature of the bucket to the nearest degree. This cold bug was located on Sandy Bridge between -5 ° and -50 °.

With Ivy Bridge, everything is different! The cold boot bug almost disappeared, according to some reports, some CPUs are still struggling to boot below -150 °, but the cold bug itself has completely disappeared as the latest AMD processors. It is therefore possible to run it with the bucket filled and -196 ° C to probe!

Here are some screenshots of Super Pi 1M and PiFast to 6600Mhz

Unlike Zenbook Prime (UX31A) which reproduces the essential features, this Asus Ultrabook takes a dedicated GPU (GeForce GT 620M) and a hybrid storage system. A little thicker and heavier, it is also (and especially) less...

If you are Ultrabooks eye and you regularly read PCWorld.fr, you've probably scoured our tests Zenbook UX31E (first generation Asus Ultrabook) and more recently, the Zenbook UX31A model of high- range, updated with success, which earned him receive 5 stars. Today, it is a test Zenbook UX32VD we offer, providing an additional alternative in the range Zenbook second generation.

Needless to resume presentations from the beginning, as we focus on what differentiates these two models, to see which of UX31A or UX32VD deserves more your interest. As we have said, the Prime Zenbook is a great product, but it is expensive. In its high-end, one we tested with Intel Ivy Bridge Core i7-3517U and 256 GB SSD, it is proposed in the vicinity of € 1,450 list price. A € 1,169, the Zenbook UX32VD adopts the same CPU, same amount of RAM (4GB) and even adds a dedicated graphics card to a GeForce GT 620M know with Optimus technology (to automatically switch on the HD 4000 iGPU to any task not worthy to use the GeForce, and thus make valuable savings).

However, it must settle for a hybrid storage system. Farewell performance 256 GB SSD, here it comes coupled to a disk 500GB platters spinning at 5,400 rpm with 24 GB of NAND flash soldered to the motherboard, all managed by the Intel RST. Of 441-332 MB / s read and write in CrystalDiskMark (incompressible data), so it descends to earth with speeds of the order of 106-108 MB / s. And if the SSD cache to load Windows in less than 25 seconds cold, while accelerating the application load the busiest, the machine is necessarily less reactive, which is affected also the results of some practical tests.

Screen and finishing copies

This point on the storage back to the machine that benefit once again a great aluminum frame. Input Dell DFNCH Battery attributes are almost perfect (nice backlit keyboard and touchpad responsive and accurate wide), while the integrated display is the same: a matte IPS panel impressive 1920 x 1080 pixels, perfectly readable, offering a Delta base color average of 3.2, with a measured maximum brightness at 358 cd / m². The contrast is striking, although of course we can do better (and less bright) after application of a suitable calibration profile.

After manipulation, we realize that the chassis is not exactly the same. Indeed, the difference is difficult to detect in the first manipulation, but UX32VD is a little thicker, the lower shell is more rounded. It is played with a few millimeters, since the Prime Zenbook between 3 and 17 mm thick at thinnest point thicker profile, while this UX32VD ranges from 5.5 to 18 mm, taking a more rounded shape. Nothing serious, however, the Zenbook is thin and nice to handle. Fortunately, this overweight is confirmed on a scale almost negligible difference of 65 grams, 1.48 Kg Power supply socket on which can deliver up to 65W is still small, and practice.

The analysis of all components of the machine made, there are a few other differences were invited to the party. The BATEL80L6 Battery  is slightly smaller (46 Wh 49 Wh against), and the connection is different. The micro-HDMI gives way to an HDMI output and classical entitled to three USB 3.0 ports (two on the Zenbook against Prime). For the rest, there is always the mini-VGA adapter included with the Combo 3.5mm jack port and memory cards.

Best in the game, less reactive, a little less self-

Furthermore the reactivity and storage size, what are the differences between these two machines broadly similar recorded in our synthetic tests and practices? The conclusions are logical: the Prime Zenbook UX31A advantage of its SSD to scrape a few seconds all the common tasks and calculation, while UX32VD leverages its dedicated GPU to stand out in the game, at the cost of autonomy a hair down, even when the GeForce is not requested (see battery size). We did not test to compare the autonomy of portable game, but we find that in Diablo 3, the battery drains in less than 2 hours away from a power outlet.

Given these parameters, it is better to opt for a UX32VD or UX31A? It may be silly to say, but the daily handling, line a little more svelte and the Prime Zenbook responsiveness give an advantage to the mobile worker. However, draw on the finishes that are copies of the entire range. As for what the game will get the UX32VD preference of those who would gain some FPS, priced at longer loads. It is rather disappointing that level since opting for a GeForce GT 620M is not really a wise choice. Compared to the 4P887 Battery integrated in the processor, it can certainly earn on average 50% performance in games, and make it playable titles old enough under the best conditions, but still no launch Crysis 2 DirectX 11 smoothly (especially not in native resolution). Given the resolution of the screen, Asus should provide a configuration-based GeForce GT 640M new generation already more efficient (see Test Acer Aspire M5).

Yet if one is satisfied with a strict price / performance ratio, indicators tend to turn to for this UX32VD. To see what everyone prefers to focus: a few more FPS in games or a faster disk. Outsider, it must also reckon with the Prime Zenbook UX31A equipped with a 128GB SSD and a Core i5-3317U. An interesting compromise to 1149 €. In all cases, it is impossible to make a bad choice with this range Zenbook really successful.

A hair thicker and heavier, a little less autonomous, but slightly better in game and especially cheaper, UX32VD Zenbook is an excellent choice in the world of Ultrabook, since aluminum frame has a very successful , a display of the highest quality and top finishes.

 Introduction

As its name suggests it, the Xperia T is an Android smartphone used by Daniel Craig in the James Bond film "Skyfall." On the menu: dual processor heart, 720p HD screen and onboard memory 16GB smartphone is it full of gadgets? What is the T Xperia compete? This is what we see at the end of this test!

Design and components back to overview

The smartphone sports a unique design. Concave rear hull rowing against the current competition which opts instead for back sections. The upper and lower allowances will appeal not maybe not everyone. Fortunately, taking hands remain comfortable, and the thickness (9.35 mm) is controlled. The slightly porous surface that prevents slipping of the mobile hands is not unpleasant, but this material is relatively messy. Wherever possible, prefer the black version. Significant point: the terminal gives an impression of lightness (139 grams). The front end is dominated by a large screen HD with a definition of 1280 x 720 pixels. The viewing angle is excellent, but automatic brightness with backlight at 50%, the colors are a bit of punch. The graphics engine catches up without Bravia Engine when displaying an image, a movie or a game

The mobile is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Krait SoC MSM8260-A double heart 1.5GHz. We do not complain: it is a chip that offers the best compromise between power and autonomy. However, compared to its counterpart MSM8960 which equips the Lumia 820, we still regret the lack of support for 4G. For 500 Euros without subscription, Sony could avoid deadlock on mobile broadband. RAM is capped at 1 GB, and 16 GB are available for internal storage. Good point: Sony can expand this volume with a micro SD slot (up to 32GB). This delicate attention is increasingly rare - including Android - deserves to be highlighted. However, we would appreciate to have Jelly Bean out of the box. For the latest update system, it was not until the first quarter of 2013.

Sony Interface

Side interface, in addition to the three touch buttons on the screen clean system Android (4.0 and above) along with key "Power" and "Volume", Sony makes an effort to add a dedicated button on the camera. A Dell A2990667 second excellent initiative that is appreciated at its true value.  A word about the connectors: the micro USB compatible MHL. In other words, through the use of an adapter (count twenty Euros), the mobile can be connected via HDMI to a TV (or other compatible device). On wireless interfaces, the usual range Wi-Fi (i802.11b/g/n), Bluetooth 3.1, GPS is complemented by a circuit NFC.

James Bond gadgets back to overview

No, the Xperia T is unfortunately not equipped with a communication jammer accompanied by an infrared camera and whatnot gender. This section reports on the additions to the software and hardware features that characterize this Xperia T. Firstly, the TimeScape overlay offers some features related to Facebook and Twitter. For example, RSS Timescape aggregates all posts published on these community sites. Note that many other plug-ins can be downloaded via the Play Store in submitting the query "Timescape".

Timescape Timescape and plug-ins

NFC Smart Tag utility is available from the menu widgets. The Dell 0RU033 Battery program always gives the possibility to automatically execute one or more actions on the phone when it is close to an NFC chip (count 15 euros for 4 pellets Smart Tag). For example, you can touch a tag placed near the bed to automatically switch to vibrate and / or disable the wireless interfaces.

Smart Tags

The mobile is also PlayStation certified. If the brand will retain its home console or portable, there is really no need to climb curtain smartphone. Forget the Devil May Cry and other Uncharted: it is simply a download kiosk usually limited to a handful of small games with no real added value to the Android Market.

PlayStation Store an empty shell?

In addition, the system is sprinkled with graphical animations rather successful. Thus, the expansion and reduction of the windows operating with an effect reminiscent Aero on Windows 7. When moving quickly to place a widget on the desktop, the thumbnail preview is deformed as if the object was soft, reminiscent Compiz on Linux.

Back to index multimedia

This is especially the multimedia Sony tries to stand out from the competition. First, the video player "Film" includes a library manager can automatically download the cover and the synopsis (in English) on the Gracenote database. A feature usually reserved for HD multimedia boxes.

Playing a video clip on the reader board.

 We expected a lot of the DLNA function called Throw. If everything works out for the best with the music, reading our test videos MP4 H264 (which operate locally) remains uncertain. Windows, Media Play manages to receive the audio / video stream without worries. However, on a Samsung TV (40C720), reading results in an error message. Yet this same TV works perfectly with a Lumia 800 with the Nokia DLNA application called "Play On."

Problems with video playback Throw (DLNA)?

 A word also about the kiosk Video Unlimited. For the latter, some 1500 films are available for download or rental. For a novelty, it takes about 15 euros to buy or 5 euros in rent (SD in both cases). On the audio side, Music Unlimited boasts 15 million songs. Access to this service is done through basic subscription (fewer titles, 4 € / month) or premium (10 € / month).

Video and Music Unlimited

On multimedia, it is ultimately the audio layer-ear accompanied by a quality that manages to hold its own game! Coupled to the headset, the application produces a Walkman made generally flattering. The Xperia T delivers a rich bass without neglecting the rest of the spectrum. We appreciate it!

Walkman audio player

In addition, the program will not carry less than 8 EQ profiles classified by genre (Pop, Jazz, Soul, etc.). Accompanied by a bass booster. If necessary, each of the 5 curves can be changed manually. This is complemented by various effects "Surround" much less convincing (it quickly returns to the original). It's missing a real remote control with remote volume on the headset so that everything is perfect. Earbud with rubber tips of different sizes: sound convincing, but still no remote deported.

Capture photos and video back to overview

The Xperia T is equipped with a camera sensor Exmor R with a resolution of 13 megapixels. With the default settings, the pictures are slightly overexposed. The advantage is that we gain in brightness when the scene is dimly lit. Disadvantage: the colors are distorted and the result is not realistic. If necessary, the exposure can be adjusted manually. For its part, the white balance tends to pull red when the scene mode is disabled. Other settings are available, but the preview screen is not necessarily the final adjustment. It would have been preferable to propose a more accurate default.

Download photos we made with the Xperia T

The chromatic noise, which is present, is particularly visible on dark solids (see comparison photos). Finally, Sony applies a treatment to smooth the image. The result is convincing when displaying the picture as a whole. However, as soon as zooms, we see that the image is grainy.

Facing Xperia T VS iPhone 4S

What happens in the end? Despite some flaws mentioned above, the Xperia T is still a very good level. In contrast, 13 Megapixels argument is a selling point than anything else. While the Dell 451-10702  is a good "cameraphone", it fails to outperform the tenors (Galaxy S2, 3, 5 and iPhone 4S) yet equipped with 8 megapixel sensor.

Download original video captures

Performance and autonomy back to overview

The Xperia T is equipped with a dual heart Snapdragon Krait S4 type 1.5 GHz. See how does the Sony smartphone to compete. Start with the processor...

LINPAC

Linpack is a benchmark that evaluates the raw power of the processor. The result is expressed in millions of floating point operations per second (MFLOPS). Compared to Benchmark Pi, the main advantage lies in the possibility to test multithreaded (if multiple cores processor). Here, T Xperia heels the One HTC S but failed to reach it. However, the HTC mobile is equipped with an identical SoC (dual S4 @ 1.5 GHz).

Linpack multi thread (the largest result is best)

GeekBench 2

Geekbench 2 performs several tests on the processor (integer and floating point) as well as memory. It delivers an overall score that we take in our chart, as well as individual scores for each test. This time, Xperia slightly above the T HTC S. One the leading trio remains dominated by two quad-core (4 Nexus and Galaxy S3), as well as the iPhone 5.

Geekbench 2 (the largest result is best)

Quadrant

Quadrant is a benchmark that performs a series of five consecutive tests for evaluating the CPU power, speed, memory, input / output as well as the performance of the 2D and 3D display. In the end benchmark, we obtain an overall score. Quadrant also displays the scores for each test. Attention, the overall score is not obtained by simple addition of scores in each event. This time, Xperia T tops the ranking, even managing to outperform quad core. The Apple iPhone is not represented: This test is not available in iOS.

SunSpider

Web site with SunSpider, the authors of the benchmark JavaScript HTML rendering engine Webkit (Safari, Chrome ...). Here, Qualcomm processors not seem to be favored. With the A6 with iOS 6, iPhone 5 Apple trumps to all competitors. It is closely followed by the Razr i has its intel X86 SoC. The Xperia T stands between S and HTC One Optimus 4X HD (Tegra 3).

SunSpider (the lesser the better)

GL Benchmark (Off Screen)

GL Benchmark evaluates the performance of the graphics terminal. Part GPU Snapdragon S4 is provided by an Adreno 225. Not surprisingly, the Xperia T plays an equal footing with the Motorola Razr HD and the Asus Padfone, these two terminals are equipped with the same processor. Different definition of the Padfone is not taken into account insofar as we opted to test GL Benckmark Off Screen. The difference between these three terminals Nexus 4 (Adreno 320) and iPhone 5 is very important.

Autonomy

Our test of independence does not really honor the Xperia T. It is far from HTC One S which offered a power / autonomy amazing. Should we blame the overlay of Sony or the screen? Difficult to know. One could argue that the resolution of the Xperia T is greater than the S HTC One, but the battery of 1850 mAh, 1650 mAh side against HTC should largely compensate for this difference. And what if we compare the best mobile Xperia T? The Razr HD Xperia T exceeds more than 5 hours of video playback.

Autonomy support (uses video)

 However, it is necessary to differentiate the test of practical use. Paradoxically, in typical use, the Xperia T is doing pretty well. After 11 hours of operation without loads (standby), the mobile still about 90% Dell 312-0917 Battery. Finally, with moderate use, you can count into the two days between charges, which is still in a high end smartphone. In addition, to improve these scores, Sony provides a utility for saving energy. The tool provides off data traffic when the screen is off. What further improve a standby that was already pretty good?

Back to top Conclusion

James Bond marketing campaign aside, this Xperia T does not offer special features compared to other smartphones of the brand. Sony delivers a mobile builds on the strengths - but also a few gaps - other mobile Xperia upscale. Among the positives, we appreciate the finish and design effort (even if it will not necessarily unanimity). On components, dual processor clocked at heart S4 1.5 Ghz is a choice of reason. The power delivered is an excellent system flexibility, and allows you to indulge in heavy activities (web, games, video capture) without fear of possible slowdowns and other jerks. We also appreciate the measurements and the fineness of the HD screen (1280 x 720 pixels).

Finally, even if the camera 13 megapixel not widen the gap with market best smartphones (iPhone 5, Galaxy S3), quality photo, or video capture are still at a very good level. Side multimedia software enhancements made by Sony are numerous in the area of ​​video and audio playback. Despite this, only the Walkman branded music player manages to stand out. The Galaxy S3 maintains a wide lead in video playback with DivX certification, DLNA and its module which shows much more convincing than Xperia T. Another regret: it will take for the first quarter of 2013 have Jelly Bean while the Galaxy S3, or ghostly Nexus 4 are already equipped.

In the list of other positives, Sony does not forget the micro SD slot and USB compatible MHL output (HDMI USB via optional adapter). Finally, the Xperia T is a good smartphone that combines functionality and finish. However, excluding pack operator, unless refractory Samsung, or the design of its spearhead, he may prefer the Galaxy S3 sold about 30 Euros less.

 Zotac succumbs to the charms of the Nvidia GTX 650 Ti offering its latest video card GeForce GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition. Umpteenth variation provided by Nvidia, the GTX 650 Ti is required from entry-level models for demanding gamers. It is still part of the family engraved in 28nm Kepler GK106 and based on the GTX 660 specifications revises down on the number of unit’s calculations, ROPS and on the frequency. For memory, 2GB found on a bus also reduced.

The GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition allows you to benefit from the latest technologies, some of which are exclusive to Nvidia. The PCI Express 3.0 is supported; the Nvidia Adaptive Vertical Sync improves fluidity and avoids the effects of saccades, the multi screens up to four monitors and the new filtering mode Dell RU028 Battery . But unlike other chips of the founder, the GTX 650 Ti has no right to the very controversial Turbo Boost to exceed the nominal frequency as the temperature limits and TDP are met. With these features already promising Zotac wish to distinguish themselves from other brands by overclocking the card and equipping an improved cooling system. In addition, the GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition has a significant advantage, its length smaller it will take place in the most compact housings. GTX 650 Ti then the AMP! Edition will she be as interesting as the more efficient models like the GTX 660Ti with a value for money even better for conditions of use a little less demanding? The cooling systems will he effective and discreet and better than its direct competitors GTX 650 Ti equipped?

Presentation Zotac GTX 550 Ti Amp! Edition

Have succeeded this year in many Nividia graphics processors. We were able to discover the most powerful models, the GTX 680 and 670. Shortly after, it is the 660 (Ti) and now it is the turn of the 650 Ti to its input. This new chip called GK106 also engraved in 28nm is the same as that used by the GTX 660 but with certain characteristics downgraded. Features Dell PRRRF  remain the same for the whole range, namely the support of PCI Express 3.0, the management of four screens maximum integration of Nvidia Adaptive Vertical Sync and the new filter TXAA. If the number of transistors is always 2.54 billion GTX 650 Ti for the number of ROPS increased to 16 against 24 for the GTX 660 and the number of computing units 768 passes. It was 960 on the GTX 660.

These amputations are not alone because the frequency is also experiencing a decline. The GTX 650 Ti is clocked at 980MHz for 928MHz against GTX 660. Add to this the simple deletion of Nvidia Turbo Boost. She has been the subject of many setbacks allowed for this option to optimize the GPU based on certain parameters for each card. Specifically, two identical models of the same brand could get a different level of performance giving users a feeling of playing the lottery when buying them. However Zotac account well allow gamers to achieve a higher level of performance GTX 650 Ti as the AMP! Edition based on a factory overclocking. And goes directly to the chip is 105MHz 1033MHz additional. Memory also has the right to the same treatment as it rises to 1550MHz while Nvidia recommends only 1025MHz.

The GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition has a right to a cooling system more sophisticated and better equipped in terms of ventilation through an exclusive model for Zotac. The radiator uses heatpipes while air will be provided by a fan more efficient and quieter than the reference models. Zotac GTX 650 Ti The AMP! Edition strikes at first glance because of its very short length. Back, it could be confused with a sound card because of 15.5cm it measures. It is therefore particularly compact and owners of small boxes are delighted to be able to install it. The GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition requires two PCI slots due to a cooling system imposing. It is also protected by a black plastic shell and orange translucent fan colors perfectly match dear to the brand.

Front, four video outputs are available: two DVI and two HDMI and some vents are cut to facilitate heat dissipation. At the back of the GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition, there are a power connector contacts auxiliary hexagonal. Once the cooling system removed, the GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition shows a relatively bare matte black PCB on which course the Nvidia GTX 650 Ti GPU and three supply phases. We also note the presence of mouse pads rigid improving overall rigidity. If it is a small comfort care appreciated if you would prefer a maintenance system based for example on a backplate. Onboard memory GTX 650 Ti on the AMP! Edition is distributed on eight chipsets (qutre per side) and does not have any heat dissipation system. This Dell NM631 Battery choice does not interfere in any way with the performance and stability of the Zotac card because the growth over 1500MHz.

Cooling system

A fan with a diameter of 85mm with nine blades is responsible for translucent orange brought fresh air to the GPU. It is powered electrically by two son therefore its control will only be provided by the voltage. And yet the third connector usually present to recover the speed does not prevent the usual monitoring software to display the fan speed. The radiator 650 GTX Ti AMP! Edition reminds cooler comes with Intel with its spiral design. A small base made up of aluminum fins and curved dividing into two at each end. The Dell M5Y0X  brand does not usually have a point away as essential as cooling, the cooler GTX 650 Ti the AMP! Edition unequivocally indicates a low dissipation of the chip Nvidia GTX 650 Ti. It appears that without a quality luxurious, the cooling system of the card seems perfectly suited to guarantee low temperatures and silent operation greatly appreciated.

Unigine Heaven performance

Unigine Heaven synthetic test is our favorite because it is in our opinion the most representative benchmark video games that best reflects the performance of the latter. We set in Unigine Heaven DirectX 11 API and during our measurement mode low level of detail, we set the shaders "low" tessellation is "disabled", the anisotropy is 1 and the anti aliasing is on "off". In medium level of detail, shaders are "medium", the tessellation "normal", the anisotropy 8 and anti aliasing to 4. Finally in elevated mode, shaders are "high", the tessellation "extreme", the anisotropy at 16 and finally anti-aliasing is 8x. Our Dell KM965  series of measurements in Heaven highlights the quality of extreme filtering is expensive GTX 650 Ti to the AMP! Edition because it goes largely below the fateful 30 FPS. As filtering through, it validates the session until 1680x1050 but beyond saccades begin to make their appearance. Perhaps a slight additional overclocking will be saving.

Metro 2033 performance

At its output, Metro 2033 has put many graphics on knees partly due to effects requiring significant computing resources. We use the DirectX 11 API to benefit from the latest innovations in visual effects.

Used for each of the resolutions, we always use three levels of detail distinct

Low: quality "Low" anti aliasing "NOAA" and texture filtering to 4.

Intermediate: quality "Medium" anti aliasing "AAX4" and texture filtering to 4.

High: quality "Very High" anti aliasing "AAX8" and texture filtering on 16.

Metro 2033 is not in half measures and for good reason, the minimum recorded show that players will face in rare cases to possible delays, a case that we observe even the most powerful graphics cards. But on average reassure us, in the middle level of detail framerates are fully satisfactory.

Performance Hard Reset

Our latest title is the latest we test: Hard Reset. We include in our tests because it has the characteristic to be optimized on the computational power required for anti aliasing and tessellation. For each of our three resolutions used, we find our details now classic levels: low, intermediate and high. On this basis, we disable anti aliasing as low tessellation mode, we set the anti aliasing x4 and tessellation normal mode through and finally, we push all options to their maximum Dell GP975 Battery for the test as demanding. Hard Reset for the benefit of well reflects the requirement of the current games ported over from consoles games. Even pushing the resolution as maximum quality, the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition shows its full potential.

Sniper Elite V2

Sniper Elite V2 is the latest benchmark out of the same studio that Alien vs. Predator: Rebellion. However, it is much more demanding in particular the anti-aliasing filter. Used for each of the resolutions, we always use three levels of detail distinct

Low: quality "Low" anti aliasing "NOAA" and texture filtering to 4.

Intermediate: quality "Medium" anti aliasing "AAX4" and texture filtering to 4.

High: quality "Very High" anti aliasing "AAX8" and texture filtering on 16.

We now include a new benchmark more in line with upcoming titles requiring ever more computing power. Note that Sniper Elite 2 developed by the same studio that AVP is very heavy filtering. While the GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition comes out barely medium level of detail in low resolution, it will tatillonner the options to find the right compromise.

Overclocking

Overclock a graphics card unfortunately does not multiply as much performance as processors of our Dell F805H PC. If for these gains can be significant and in many cases earn fifty percent performance easily GPUs rarely exceed ten percent. To achieve the maximum frequency of the map, we start by increasing the speed of the GPU and when we reached its limit, we do the same with the memory. Once we have validated their optimal frequencies, we add the two values ​​and GPU RAM so we ensure the stability test with 3DMark 2011 and another in 2033 with Metro to see the gains. The cooling system is not changed and the fan speed is set to auto mode. We also make sure not to exceed the temperature is too high so dangerous to the life of components.

Zotac GTX 650 Ti The AMP! Edition not integrating Turbo Boost frequencies thus remain fixed. The base voltage to 1.06V can be pushed to either 0.1V 1.16V needed to stabilize our frequencies. Clocked at 1032 MHz by default GPU card is capable of running at 1200 MHz or 170 MHz more.

On the ram, it also makes a damn good forward with an increase of 200 MHz. 3DMark, earnings statements are most interesting because it goes into high detail more than 1600 points. Low resolution, it is not far from 1000 points earned! It is therefore an average of 15% performance increase that is achieved Dell F586J Battery through our overclocking. In our practical measure in Metro 2033, it is interesting to see that the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition is approaching 30 FPS in high showing although conceding one or two graphics options, the map will provide a satisfying gaming comfort. Again, there is an average gain of 15%. In the end, Zotac GTX 650 overclock the Ti AMP! Edition is a good deal because if it is already factory overclocked, we can still go further evidence that the mark has expertise in this area.

Temperatures, noise & consumption

With just 134 watts nominal frequency of our test platform, the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition has a big advantage on the point of consumption. Null need here to request a feeding overkill and expensive. In a little more overclocking the card, it remains below 150 watts showing that the GTX 550 Ti is very economical for a card gamer. A base frequency, no complaints because the cooler Zotac GTX 650 for Ti AMP! Edition is most effective if the GPU TDP to a low for a map of this range. Temperatures are limited to 60 ° C.

Pushing the GPU to its limits, the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition reaches 75 ° C. Here too, no worries about the cooling provided by the couple perfectly radiator fan of this AMP! Edition. Another Dell C647H advantage of the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition, the fan will operate at very low speed because it is less than 25% of its maximum speed. Manual overclocking, it is even below 30%. But does he still say it is silent? Or the maximum speed it is extremely high and therefore low speed fan is already running quickly? The regulars know the brand, Zotac uses only the high performance coolers and silent. The GTX 550 Ti is no exception to the rule as to 25%, the card is at the limit of audible with a little more than 35dB. We believe that 36.5dB below the cards are silent.

Conclusion

Zotac shows us with its GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition that can perfectly play newer games in DirectX 11 high resolution with a large number of graphics options enabled at a price perfectly content. A hundred and sixty Euros, the Zotac GTX 650 Ti AMP! Edition is a great deal thanks to its many advantages. It will be appreciated in the first place an original aesthetic and a clean design far reference designs where austerity reigns. Moreover, thanks to its short length, it will find place in the most compact PC. And thanks to its unique cooling system, efficient and silent Zotac GTX 650 Ti the AMP! Edition convince players whose silence is a priority.

Our performance tests have shown in their entirety the Nvidia GTX 550 Ti GPU embarked enough computing power for most common games even if the filtering had a significant impact on the performance decreases. By demonstrating reasonable fluency will largely go to the most demanding titles but the titles released this year, we can easily put all the details up. Zotac GTX 650 as Ti AMP! Edition lends itself well to the game of overclocking, pushing the Dell A2990667 Battery card a little more compared to the frequencies already high by default, we gain a few more FPS easy. Note that the brand carries a five-year warranty Zotac GTX 650 for Ti AMP! Edition by simply registering on their website. One more argument in favor of proving the reliability of Zotac products. Noted finally that Nvidia offers a Bachelor of Assassin's Creed III is currently representing an additional saving of forty five Euros, another reason to crack in this holiday season.

 As each year Clubic, the return is accompanied by a comparative laptops. So we met 7 models from the best known manufacturers in order to provide an overview, albeit not exhaustive, but representative of the current market.

Three criteria have made this selection: first we wanted to combine in this versatile model comparison, which logically led us to a screen diagonal of 15.6 inches, both large enough to allow multimedia use, and small enough to not have to deal with a chassis too heavy and cumbersome. Damage in passing that no manufacturer has chosen to mount the definition beyond the endless 1366 by 768 pixels ...

We then attempted to represent a large number of manufacturers, each with its specificities. Despite our requests, neither Dell nor MSI could not provide us with test machines. Finally, we, like every year, set a price criterion. If we had climbed up to € 700 in our previous comparison, we restricted budget this time to 600 euros. A range of prices where supply is currently rich and seems consistent with a medium to long term investment that students achieve their entry into higher education, or consent to that which a family seeking to equip the first time, or including hardware, obsolete, should be replaced.

What do we have at this price? A computer that can be described as "versatile" So, not too heavy and has a relatively reasonable autonomy for mobile use, with a dedicated graphics card for a little game, in short, an interesting compromise (but not perfect, of course) between power and low fuel consumption. The generalized generation Intel Sandy Bridge or Ivy Bridge or AMD Trinity advent, succeeding the Llano solutions are of course essential levers in finding this balance. But no false promises here: these seven models are primarily intended for office use.

In addition to the synthetic tests and practices, we learn a little about the potential of different machines, will focus therefore of particular importance to the ergonomics of these phones: the use, the touchpad is it nice, the keyboard is it sufficiently ventilated, reflections on the screen they are not too annoying? All questions that should be asked before investing to find the notebook that suits you best.

Our selection of portable

Here are 7 laptops that have passed our selection criteria:

Acer Aspire One;

Asus EEE PC 701;

HP G6 Battery;
Compaq Presario CQ60;

Sony VGP-BPS8;

Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS;
Dell XPS M1530.
Note: Chose promise, chose due, we update this comparative latecomer adding Asus and R500VD.

Autonomy: test protocol

Autonomy is a criterion oh so important when it comes to laptops. This is why we decided to design a test-house, to overcome the weakness of software like Battery Eater, which can give a representative result of using a mobile phone. Simply because such software will solicit exaggerated all components of the PC. The results are greatly biased, especially for phones with a processor Core i7 as a gourmand, so that it does not consume so much more than the Core i3 rest ...

We have developed a tool capable of measuring more significantly the autonomy of our laptops. Our software will therefore:
start playback full screen video;
open a PDF file and navigate inside;
do the same with an RTF file (in Wordpad);
launch the compression and decompression (with Winrar) a file;
start playing an audio file;
ten tabs open Firefox Web pages stored on our servers (so that they do not vary).
All these operations are repeated in a loop until the computer's battery dies. All these tasks use different centers are vital in our phones and use more real what happens away from the adapter. Finally, note side settings, the Wi-Fi module is active, the brightness is set to 200 cd / m² and the volume at half power, while the PC is placed in power-saving mode.