Up-to-date SSD manufacturers are inclined to employ MLC flash-memory with synchronous interface in their product lines. The implementation of exactly such memory interface allows balancing the advanced performance with moderate price. This is especially vital for SSDs with SATA 3 6Gb/sec interface. Nevertheless, some producers take the challenge to implement flash-memory with asynchronous interface in their drives. As a result, the final products go at more attractive price but with more modest speed characteristics. OCZ dared to overcome this speed drawback by releasing SSD Agility 4 series. The models included in the series are based on asynchronous flash-memory interface and, according to the company's words, prove to show quite decent speed index.



Chief Peculiarities


Despite the prevalence of SandForce controllers implemented in SSDs, OCZ decided to use quite different platform for its new series. Agility 4 employs Indilinx Everest 2 controllers which, in some way, …

Iiyama Corp., a well-known Japanese visual solutions developer, is going to release a new 24-inch PC monitor from ProLite series. Entitled ProLite GB2488HSU, it features Full HD resolution and is targeting inveterate gamers. The model will be available in the European market already in mid-March for the recommended price tag of €319. In order to certify the product’s high standards and reliability, the manufacturer backs it with 3-year’s limited warranty.



Iiyama ProLite GB2488HSU is based on TN panel with LED backlight. It features a sleek design with a black glossy display case and sharp edges. The new-comer supports 144 Hz refresh rate and 1 ms response time in G-t-G environment. The incorporated panel demonstrates 1000:1 static contrast and up to 5M: 1 dynamic contrast, 300 cd/m2 brightness index, as well as 170/160 degrees H/V viewing angles.


The model comes with two in-built speakers (2.5 W each), a dedicated socket for VESA bracket, two-port USB 2.0 hub, 3.5 …

Zalman is well-known for designing affordable PC components. Their budget-oriented nature implies stable but medium efficiency. Things are different with the company’s latest PSU, entitled ZM1200-EBT: it is in stark contrast to the other solutions, due to high wattage and decent performance. The model yields 1200 W power, whereas its efficiency level achieves 92%. Due to this, the unit was conferred 80Plus Gold certificate.



Gaming- & overclocking-targeting Zalman ZM1200-EBT employs a single +12V design. Its output capability is able to reach 100 A. This PSU supports Intel ATX 12V 2.3 and EPS 12V 2.92 standards. The hardware base incorporates Japanese capacitors with 105C temperature grade as well as high-quality DC-DC converters.


To continue, the greenhorn features modular cabling system. Upon the whole, the case accommodates 15 sockets for the connection of targeted wires: 8x 8-pin sockets for CPU & GPU, 2x 18-pin and 10-pin items for the motherboard, 5x 6-pin items …