The line of products manufactured by Zalman has been just replenished with a new series of power supply units, codenamed Zalman LX. The series is currently represented by two models of 500 W and 600 W power: ZM500-LX and ZM600-LX. Both units employ an improved Dual Forward Converter Circuit design that ensures reliable and efficient functioning. They are also equipped with a single +12V rail and show compatibility with Intel ATX12V 2.31 standard.



Zalman LX PSUs utilize a couple of PCI Express sockets (one 6-contact and one 6+2-contact) for the connection with graphics cards, securing the support of AMD CrossFireX and Nvidia SLI technologies. Cooling of all internal components is ascribed to a low-noise fan of 120 mm dimensional type. Its operation is automatically monitored by Smart Fan Control system that provides for the achievement of an optimal balance between its efficiency and noise level.


The new-comers support a large amount of protective options that promote for …

Fractal Design approved itself as a reputable manufacturer of PC chassis long time ago. Nowadays, the company’s inventory embraces four lines of cases, intended for varied customer groups. Curiously enough, Arc series is a twin-brother of Define series in terms of framework, although it is differentiated by an improved ventilation. The Arc XL is a large-scale representative of the line, featuring a sleek design and offering huge integration facilities.



Basic Features


Fractal Design Arc XL is a full-tower chassis featuring 572x232x552 mm dimensions. The case is made of black steel with plastic inclusions. Its internal layout is ready to accommodate all types of motherboards, including the largest formats (XL-ATX, E-ATX, ATX, mini-ITX, micro-ATX). Storage section is rich in four 5.25-inch drive cages (external) and ten 3.5/2.5-inch cages (internal). The availability of nine expansion slots allows for the creation of various graphics and multimedia configurations.


A …

Along with other AMD partners, PowerColor has elaborated its own version of Radeon R9 270 adapter. The PowerColor Radeon R9 270 OC is differentiated from rival products by an improved cooling system and factory overclocked frequencies. Its release is scheduled for late November and the retail price won’t hit over $180.



To begin with, this graphics card is naturally based on AMD Curacao Pro GPU, developed under 28 nm technological process. It consists of 1280 current processors, 32 ROPs and 64 TMUs. The core runs at 930 MHz frequency and is able to gain 955 MHz frequency on overclocking. The incorporation of GDDR5 memory (2 GB) with 256-bit bus interface ensures some striking bandwidth of 180 Gb/sec; this provides for the support of gaming applications with high resolution. Memory chip operates at 1400 MHz nominal frequency but might gain the index of 5600 MHz of effective frequency on overclocking.


Cooling system, implemented within Radeon R9 270 OC, cannot be called …