Some hardware pieces disappear after a while of emergence but some serve PC needs for years, always appearing in new incarnations. The latter is true about Mugen series of CPU coolers from Scythe. The success of the very first model, Scythe Mugen, gave rise to the appearance of an updated second version, then the third one, and, finally, the fourth one – Scythe Mugen 4. This cooler is distinguished initially by its universality, supporting all actual CPU sockets (Intel- and AMD-based). For sure, this is not the mere advantage, since it is able to offer much more.



Delivery Kit


Mugen 4 is delivered in a compact-size cardbox, containing a large amount of information about the cooler. The contents will give a buzz to all consumers, due to a list of useful components. Here one might find: a brand mounting kit Hyper Precision Mounting System (H.P.M.S.) that includes a kit of screws, plastic gaskets, a metallic backplate, mounting plates, a clamping plate, four wiry clinches for …

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 …

Gigabyte has surfaced a budget-oriented mini-PC of Brix series, entitled Brix GB-BPCE-3350. The new-comer is designed on Intel Apollo Lake CPU (14 nm) and an integrated Intel HD Graphics 500 graphics core. The Intel Celeron N3350 operates at 1.1 GHz frequency but might be overclocked up to 2.4 GHz (TDP – 6 W). The GPU runs at 200-650 MHz frequency.



Gigabyte Brix GB-BPCE-3350 comes with a pair of SO-DIMM DDR3L memory modules which operate at 1866 MHz frequency (maximum of 8 GB). Storage subsystem is introduced by a single SATA III port and microSD card-reader. The availability of a single M.2 2230 slot ensures the model’s expansion facilities. Initially, this slot is occupied by Wi-Fi + Bluetooth adapter (Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 3168).


To continue, this mini-PC employs a couple of controllers – Realtek ALC255 & Realtek RTL8111HD – which take care of audio and network subsystems. The front I/O panel offers a pair of USB 3.0 ports, one D-Sub port and one 3.5-mm …