Zalman is considered to be a key player in PC hardware field mainly due to a perfect combination of quality, functionality and price tags. CPU coolers are not an exception, since they ensure efficient and low-noise cooling of hard-hitting processors. The company’s latest CNPS8X Optima cooler is all about innovation that turns it around. Improved framework makes the model compatible with practically all platforms from Intel and AMD, save for Intel Socket LGA 2011/2011-v3/1366.



Zalman CNPS8x Optima employs a large heatsink, three copper heatpipes, and a single 92 mm fan. The latter is based on long-life bearing and features 4-contact connector. It is able to rotate at about 1200 RPM, producing not more than 30 dB noise.


The list of innovative technologies integrated into the cooler includes:


— Direct Touch Heatpipe (DTH) technology wherein all three heatpipes are in direct touch with a heatspreader. This accelerates heat dissipation process, enhancing overall …

The Beelink BT7 mini PC’s successor is the Beelink AP42 model, which possesses the same low case, though is based on an updated platform. At present the PC is operated by the 4-core Intel Pentium N4200 CPU, representing the modern Apollo Lake generation.



Pentium N4200 includes four processor cores, featuring the 2.5 GHz frequency and the GPU HD Graphics 505. The motherboard is meant for the 4 GB DDR3 memory, however, there is a prospect for larger volumes. Due to the presence of an M.2 socket users can add a fully functional SSD to the customary 64 GB eMMC module.


The Gigabit Ethernet network port is enhanced with a two-band Wi-Fi 802.11ac adapter, which estimated capacity is equal to 1,167 Mbps. Among other Beelink AP42 interface details one can pick out three USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI 1.4 video output, a headset connector, as well as an SD memory card slot.


The mini PC will be available this month at the rough price of $210.

ASRock has replenished its series of Intel NUC mini-PCs with a new model – the BeeBox. Its key peculiarity is the support for USB Type-C interface. The model features 118.5x110x46 mm dimensions, satisfying basic corporate and home entertainment needs. In addition, it boasts low power consumption level combined with a strong performance.



ASRock BeeBox will be available in three versions: as a barebone PC, a full-blown system without OS and a full-blown system with OS. Each version will be housed either in a classic black, a stylish gold or a pure white chassis.


The heart of the model is Intel Braswell platform (64-bit, 14 nm) equipped with a two-core Celeron N3000 CPU, running at 1.04/2.08 GHz frequency (basic/dynamic). There will be versions with a four-core Celeron N3150 CPU. Both processors feature 4/6 TDP only. Besides, all computers come with an integrated Intel HD graphics.


The platform is also furnished with 2.4 GB of DDR3L-1600 MHz RAM (maximum up to 16 GB …