Date: 2024-05-02 12:23 | Last update:


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AMD Prepares to Launch Zen 5 CPUs: Key Details and Release Timeline

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 5

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Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has confirmed the upcoming release of its Zen 5 architecture-based CPUs, targeted for deployment by the end of this year. During its recent quarterly earnings conference, AMD outlined its strategic initiatives for 2024, which include the expansion of its processor lineup across various sectors. AMD's CEO, Lisa Su, elaborated on the company's focus for the year, which involves increasing its presence in the data center market. This includes scaling the production of Instinct GPUs and boosting the market penetration of EPYC processors. Concurrently, AMD is set to introduce its next-generation Zen 5 processors for both PCs and servers. In preparation for the rollout, AMD has started the distribution of test samples of its new CPUs to industry partners. This early phase of deployment involves sharing Zen 5-based EPYC Turin server processors with partners, such as cloud service providers and server manufacturers. Full commercial availability of the EPYC Turin platform is anticipated in 2025, following its initial launch in the latter half of 2024.
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AMD Gaming Revenue Declines in 2024 and Future Outlook

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 8

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In the first quarter of 2024, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) reported a significant 48% decrease in gaming revenue compared to the previous year, totaling $922 million, down from $1.757 billion. This downturn was primarily driven by reduced processor sales for gaming consoles like Sony's PlayStation and Microsoft's Xbox, as well as a decrease in demand for the company's Radeon discrete graphics cards. AMD forecasts further declines in gaming revenue for the remainder of 2024, with expectations for recovery only by 2025. During a recent conference call, AMD's CFO Jean Hu highlighted the decline in semi-custom System on Chip (SoC) sales, aligning with projections for the fifth year of the current console cycle. This maturation in the console market has led to decreased orders from console manufacturers. Additionally, the sales of Radeon discrete graphics processing units (GPUs) for desktops typically experience a seasonal decrease in the first quarter, further impacting revenue. Despite a market share gain to 19% in the final quarter of 2023, the overall volume of desktop GPU sales dropped in the following quarter.
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Microsoft Windows Security Update Breaks VPN Functionality

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 3

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Microsoft has confirmed that the latest security updates released for Windows in April have adversely affected VPN services across various versions of the operating system. This issue was reported on Microsoft's release health dashboard, highlighting that Windows devices might experience failures when attempting to establish VPN connections. However, it remains unclear if this issue affects all users or only a subset. The problematic updates influence several versions of the Windows operating system. Affected client versions include Windows 11 versions 23H2, 22H2, and 21H2, along with Windows 10 versions 22H2 and 21H2. On the server side, impacted versions include Windows Server 2022, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2012, Windows Server 2008 R2, and Windows Server 2008.
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16-Pin Power Connector Failure with RTX 4090 Running 75% power

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 11

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In a recent incident reported on the Korean Quasar Zone forums, an owner of an MSI GeForce RTX 4090 Suprim X 24G graphics card experienced a simultaneous meltdown of the 16-pin power connector on both the graphics card and power supply sides. This event is noteworthy because it occurred even though the power draw was intentionally limited to 75%, suggesting that power restrictions might not reliably prevent such failures. The 16-pin power connector, also known as the 12VHPWR connector, has been a focal point for issues since the RTX 4090's release in October 2022. Numerous users worldwide have reported meltdowns, prompting investigations into the causes, which range from connector design to material quality and the physical configuration of the power cable. Despite a revised connector design introduced by the PCI-SIG, confidence in the modifications remains low among many users.
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Intel Core Ultra 2 Series Processors: Potential Changes in Naming

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 1

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Intel's desktop processor lineup, specifically the Intel Core Ultra 2 series codenamed Arrow Lake-S, may undergo changes in naming conventions, according to a report from @OneRaichu as the source. The proposed changes suggest a shift in the numerical designations for the K-series processors within the Intel Core Ultra 2 lineup. Unlike the current models ending in "90", "70", and "60", future models are expected to adopt "85", "65", and "45" as their new endings. This aligns the desktop processors' naming convention with that of Intel’s laptop processor series. The new naming format will likely introduce processors such as the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, Intel Core Ultra 7 265K, and Intel Core Ultra 5 245K. This change suggests a standardization across different device platforms, mirroring the nomenclature used in the Meteor Lake series, where the Intel Core Ultra 9 185H is currently the highest-end laptop processor.
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Newly Released CopprLink Cable Specifications by PCI-SIG

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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PCI-SIG, the consortium that defines standards for the Peripheral Component Interconnect Express (PCIe), has recently announced the introduction of the CopprLink Internal and External Cable specifications. These specifications enable signaling at rates of 32.0 and 64.0 gigatransfers per second (GT/s) and are compatible with established industry-standard connector form factors overseen by the Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA). The new specifications are designed to integrate with the existing PCIe electrical base specification seamlessly. They extend the operational range of PCIe connections and provide increased flexibility in system topology. This integration supports current PCIe generations 5.0 and 6.0, and has been developed with future scalability in mind, ensuring adaptability with forthcoming PCIe versions.
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CrystalDiskInfo 9.3.0 Download

Generic Utilities 107 Updated by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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Download CrystalDiskInfo - CrystalDiskInfo is a simple tool designed to check the condition of your hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and some external drives. It's a free program that helps you understand more about your computer's storage devices, focusing on their health and efficiency.

MSI releases MAG 274URFW 27-Inch all White 4K / 160 Hz Gaming Monitor

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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The MSI MAG 274URFW is a 27-inch gaming monitor that combines a 4K resolution with advanced performance features suitable for high-demand gaming applications. Introduced by Micro-Star International Co., Ltd. (MSI), based in Taiwan, this model emphasizes high-speed display capabilities, integrated with state-of-the-art gaming technologies. Released on April 30, 2024, the MAG 274URFW supports a refresh rate of 160Hz and a response time as rapid as 0.5 milliseconds, ensuring smooth and responsive gameplay. The monitor is designed using Rapid IPS technology, which enhances the speed and clarity of the display, making it an ideal choice for dynamic gaming scenarios. This model adheres to VESA's DisplayHDR 400 standard, offering enhanced brightness and contrast that bring out detailed visuals in HDR-enabled games. The screen achieves a peak brightness of 400 nits and maintains a contrast ratio of 1,000:1, which, combined with its HDR capability, provides a vivid and immersive viewing experience. 
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Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 QD OLED 49-inch QD OLED Curved Gaming Monitor

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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Philips monitors, has introduced the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900, a 49-inch QD OLED curved gaming monitor. This product marks a significant advancement in the gaming monitor sector by incorporating a blend of OLED and quantum dot technology. It is designed to cater to a broad range of gamers, from casual to professional levels, enhancing their gaming experience through technological innovations and ergonomic features. The monitor features a cutting-edge QD OLED panel, which integrates the self-luminous properties of OLED with the color-enhancing capabilities of quantum dots. This combination provides superior contrast, enriched blacks, and vivid colors, ensuring high visual fidelity and detailed imagery. The expansive 49-inch display offers a dual QHD resolution of 5120x1440 and an aspect ratio of 32:9, supported by an 1800R curvature that envelops the user, creating a highly immersive visual experience. In terms of performance, the Philips Evnia 49M2C8900 excels with a groundbreaking 0.03 ms gray-to-gray (GtG) response time and a 240 Hz refresh rate.
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NVIDIA RTX Remix Gets DLSS 3.5 With Ray Reconstruction

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 14

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NVIDIA RTX Remix enables modders to reimagine classic games with full ray tracing, also known as path tracing, and to update models and textures with modern rendering features that work hand in hand with ray-traced effects to deliver the level of graphical fidelity seen in Portal with RTX, our ray-traced reimagining of Valve's classic game. And with a few additional clicks, support for NVIDIA DLSS and NVIDIA Reflex can be introduced, accelerating performance and making gameplay even more responsive. Following the launch of the RTX Remix Open Beta in January, we're today introducing new features and optimizations, headlined by the addition of NVIDIA DLSS 3.5 with Ray Reconstruction, an AI model that creates higher quality ray-traced images for intensive ray-traced games and apps. Additionally, we're taking a look at some work in progress RTX Remix mods, and checking in with Half-Life 2 RTX: An RTX Remix Project, to demonstrate the toolkit's capabilities.
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ASRock Launches Z790 Riptide WiFi Motherboard Featuring Wi-Fi 7 with Server Grade PCB

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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This motherboard, which incorporates the Intel Z790 chipset, will be available for purchase starting May 2, 2024. The product is priced at approximately 309 USD. The Z790 Riptide WiFi is part of the Phantom Gaming series and is designed to cater to gamers while offering robust features typical of higher-end models. It positions itself just below the Z790 NOVA WiFi, a previously reviewed high-end model from ASRock. The Z790 Riptide WiFi includes enhancements such as a robust power supply circuit and support for the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology, ensuring faster and more reliable wireless connectivity. Key specifications of the Z790 Riptide WiFi include four DDR5 memory slots supporting speeds up to 8000+ MHz and a maximum capacity of 192GB. For storage, it provides one Blazing M.2 slot and four Hyper M.2 slots, along with eight SATA 3.0 ports. The Hyper M.2 slots include standard aluminum heatsinks to improve heat dissipation.
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XFX Releases Radeon RX 7900 XTX Phoenix Nirvana with Phase-Change Thermal Pad

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 9

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XFX recently introduced the Radeon RX 7900 XTX Phoenix Nirvana graphics card, notable for its innovative cooling design. This card incorporates a 3.5-slot cooling system and a phase-change material (PCM) thermal pad, which aims to enhance thermal management significantly. The Radeon RX 7900 XTX Phoenix Nirvana features a robust 17-phase digital voltage regulating module and is supported by three eight-pin auxiliary PCIe power connectors. These connectors are designed to supply up to 450W of power, enhancing the card's capacity for overclocking. With such a setup, users can push the graphics processor beyond its standard operational limits, potentially improving performance in demanding applications and gaming. The cooling system on this new model is extensive, featuring a vapor chamber, eight 6-mm heat pipes, and 216 aluminum fins, all integrated into its 3.5-slot design. A standout component of this system is the Honeywell PTM7950 thermal pad. Made from a phase-change material, this pad is engineered to provide superior thermal conductivity, effectively transferring heat away from the GPU to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
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Intel Investigates ongoing Core i9 Stability Issues even after BIOS Setting Recommendations

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 21

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Intel (again) has issued new BIOS setting guidelines to its motherboard partners to mitigate stability problems reported by users of its 13th and 14th Generation Core i9 processors. These stability issues have persisted since the release of the Core i9-13900K in late 2022, with reports intensifying over recent months particularly concerning in-game instability in Unreal Engine 5 titles. The company's guidance to its board partners includes a range of recommended BIOS settings designed to enhance system stability "out of the box". These settings advocate for enabling several Intel-specific technologies such as Current Excursion Protection (CEP), Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost, Thermal Velocity Boost, and C-states. Intel also advises setting the ICCMax Unlimited Bit to disabled by default and maintaining a TjMax offset at 0.
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Corsair Introduces RS MAX Series 30mm-Thick PC Cooling Fans

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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Corsair unveiled its RS MAX Series on May 1, 2024, marking its first foray into 30mm-thick PC cooling fans, designed to enhance performance in high-demand computing environments. These fans utilize Liquid Crystal Polymer for durability, and feature larger blades equipped with AirGuide technology to optimize airflow and cooling efficiency. The RS MAX Series fans connect through a standard 4-pin PWM header, allowing for precise speed control without the need for additional controllers. This feature facilitates easier adjustments and integration into existing PC setups. The 20% increase in fan thickness compared to standard models allows the RS MAX fans to operate at lower speeds while maintaining effective airflow, resulting in quieter operation. These fans are particularly suited for systems that require significant cooling capacity due to the higher static pressure they generate. This makes them well-suited for overcoming airflow obstructions and for use in high-performance liquid cooling systems where optimal heat dissipation is crucial.
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ASUS Introduces Chromebook CZ Series Tailored for K12 Education

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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ASUS has recently unveiled its new Chromebook CZ series, specifically engineered for K12 students. This series is designed to accommodate the dynamic learning environments students encounter, whether in the classroom or at home. The Chromebook CZ series provides a robust and flexible solution for education with its durable design and versatile viewing modes. These laptops are available in two display sizes: 11.6 inches (CZ1104C/F) and 12.2 inches (CZ1204C/F), each featuring a 16:10 WUXGA display which can be a standard screen or a touchscreen variant. The displays are enhanced with TÜV-certified eye-care technology, aiming to reduce eye strain during prolonged use. This commitment to visual health is part of ASUS's broader focus on creating user-friendly educational devices. Durability is a critical aspect of the Chromebook CZ series, which includes an all-around rubber bumper to protect against daily wear and tear typical in a school environment. The laptops are built to meet or exceed the rigorous MIL-STD-810H US military standard, indicating a high level of resistance to harsh handling. The screens are protected by tough Corning Gorilla Glass to prevent scratches, and the keyboards are designed to resist minor spills, making maintenance straightforward and swift.
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SteelSeries Introduces White Arctis Nova Pro Series Headphones with Advanced Features

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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SteelSeries announced the launch of a new white variant of the Arctis Nova Pro series headphones. This release coincides with the emerging trend identified by Fashionista Magazine, predicting white as the dominant color for Spring 2024. The introduction of this color option follows the significant impact of the Arctis Nova Pro series, which debuted in 2022 to critical acclaim and set a new standard in the premium gaming headphone category. The Arctis Nova Pro series is engineered for elite performance, designed to mimic the acoustic environment of an audiophile listening room. This series is equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) using an advanced 4-mic hybrid system that effectively eliminates external noise while optimizing audio clarity. The headphones also feature a Transparency Mode, which allows users to adjust ambient sound levels with the press of a button. Key to the Arctis Nova Pro's appeal is its versatility in connectivity and u
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Razer Has to Refund $1.1 Million for Misleading N95 Claims on Zephyr Face Masks

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 8

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Raze has agreed to pay over $1.1 million in refunds to consumers in the United States who purchased its Zephyr face masks. This payment comes as part of a settlement with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) following allegations that the company falsely advertised the masks as having N95-grade filters. In addition to the refunds, Razer will also pay a civil penalty of $100,000. The FTC’s complaint centers on Razer’s claims that the Zephyr masks met the N95 standard, which implies that the mask can filter at least 95% of airborne particles. However, the FTC found that Razer had never submitted the masks for certification by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), nor did the masks receive any form of N95 certification.
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Sharkoon Launches Rebel C20 ITX Case: A Versatile Solution for Compact High-Performance PC Builds

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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Sharkoon Technologies, known for its production of high-performance PC components and peripherals, has introduced a new product to its portfolio, the Rebel C20 ITX case. This compact chassis is engineered to support Mini-ITX motherboards and SFX or SFX-L power supply units (PSUs), and it is adept at housing the latest large-scale graphics cards and extensive cooling systems. The Rebel C20 ITX case measures 45.7 x 20.8 x 30.1 centimeters and is designed to accommodate even the most sizeable modern graphics cards, including those in the RTX 4090 series, as well as radiators up to 360 millimeters in size. Its versatile design allows for both vertical and horizontal placement, making it suitable for various environments, whether as part of a high-end gaming setup or as a discreet addition to a living room or home office.
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Corsair Utility Engine Download (iCUE) Download v5.14.93

Software Updates 23 Updated by Hilbert Hagedoorn 0

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Here you can download the new Unified Corsair Utility Engine application (iCUE). You get to use options like configure both the lighting portions of your keyboard and mouse as well as create powerful actions such as double macros, re-mappable key assignments, timer countdowns, dpi adjustments, and more.

Modders Integrate Coffee Machine (and grinder) into Custom PC Build

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 23

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In a unique fusion of technology and lifestyle, the creators at the YouTube channel Nerdforge have engineered a custom-built PC that not only manages high-performance tasks but also brews coffee. This project involves incorporating a full coffee roaster and grinder within the PC's chassis, making it a standout piece for both tech enthusiasts and coffee lovers. The project was undertaken by Martina and Hansi, Norwegian creators recognized for their complex and visually appealing projects. They spent the majority of April on this endeavor, facing challenges primarily related to integrating the coffee system into the PC build. The duo opted for a high-grade Corsair 1000D case as the foundation of their build, prioritizing the installation of the coffee components from the start.
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SPARKLE Releases Intel Arc ROC LUNA Series Graphics Cards with Dual Fan Coolers

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 6

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SPARKLE introduced their latest series of Intel Arc graphics cards, named the ROC LUNA series. These new graphics cards are notable for their incorporation of a white dual fan cooling system designed to enhance thermal management and performance stability. The ROC LUNA series graphics cards are constructed with a 2.5 slot VGA cooler that includes a 100mm dual ball bearing fan, which provides efficient airflow while maintaining lower noise levels during operation. The graphics cards also feature a white metal backplate that complements the cooler cover, contributing to a unified aesthetic design and additional structural rigidity.
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Thermaltake Unveils ASTRIA 600 ARGB: A Twin-Tower CPU Cooler with Meteor Shower-Inspired LED

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 1

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Thermaltake introduced its latest CPU cooler, the ASTRIA 600 ARGB. This advanced cooling solution is characterized by its twin-tower, side-flow design and features a visually striking LED cover that draws inspiration from meteor showers. The ASTRIA 600 ARGB is designed to address the thermal needs of high-performance CPUs, supporting a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of up to 265W. This makes it well-suited for handling the rigorous demands of high-end processors under boost conditions. The cooler incorporates a copper base plate connected to six 6mm heat pipes that efficiently transfer heat away from the CPU to the heat sinks. This heat is then expelled by two 120mm fans, ensuring effective temperature management even under extreme operational conditions.
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ASUS Updates BIOS for AM5 Motherboards to Support Latest AMD Ryzen 8000 series Processors

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 1

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And they mention the unannounced Ryzen 8000 series in the press release. ASUS announced the release of BIOS updates for its AM5 series motherboards, enhancing compatibility with the upcoming generation of AMD Ryzen processors. The updated BIOS versions now support not only the current Ryzen processors but also the new 8000 series. The BIOS updates are applicable to a range of ASUS motherboards featuring the X670, B650, and A620 chipsets. Users can download the necessary updates from the ASUS BIOS Update page. The updates aim to enhance system stability and ensure optimal performance with the newly supported processors. The updated BIOS versions cover various models across multiple ASUS series, including ROG, ROG Strix, TUF Gaming, Pro Art, PRIME, and others. Notably, the ROG series updates include the ROG CROSSHAIR X670E EXTREME, HERO, and GENE models, all receiving the 2007 BIOS version. Similarly, the ROG STRIX models, like the X670E-E GAMING WIFI, are updated to version 2007, reflecting ASUS's commitment to maintaining cutting-edge performance in its gaming-optimized motherboards.
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Rambus Introduces New DDR5 PMICs for Enhanced Data Center Memory Modules

Published by Hilbert Hagedoorn 1

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Rambus announced today the release of a new series of DDR5 server Power Management ICs (PMICs). These PMICs are designed to support advanced DDR5 RDIMM memory interfaces used in data centers, enhancing both the performance and efficiency of server applications, including those leveraging generative AI. The newly launched DDR5 server PMICs by Rambus include the PMIC5020, engineered for extreme current applications, PMIC5000 for high current requirements, and PMIC5010 for lower current needs. These components are critical in supporting the expanded memory channels, higher capacity modules, and increased bandwidth that the next generation of server architectures demands.
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