m co
te
i pu c e sp
Tech in
x 11 20
a
l
BRINGING INNOVATIONS TO LIFE
reach out to a new dimension Meet the incredible new Eee Pad MeMO 3D with 7" glassless 3D display
five years of gaming firsts Take a tour through a
half decade of Republic of Gamers innovations
the ultimate all-in-one The incredible ET2700XVT 27" desktop PC unveiled
tablet or smartphone..? How one concept device might shape the future
Computex 2011 Special www.techinstyle.tv
Is this the smartph of the future? ASUS Padfone
By combining smartphone and tablet technology, the ASUS Padfone offers the best of both devices — and there’s only one mobile broadband contract to pay for
I
nnovation is at the heart of ASUS and its R&D teams are constantly looking at new ways to exploit existing technology. The Padfone is just one example of this, showing how the current trend for tablet computers and powerful smartphones might converge into one combination device. On the surface, the Padfone is a tablet much like a model from the current Eee Pad series — slim, stylish and highly portable. The problem with tablets, however, is that they really need built-in 3G to be truly mobile, but it makes little sense for users to pay for a second mobile broadband contract alongside one for their smartphone. The Padfone solves this problem by using the existing 3G connection of a smartphone, but not by mere tethering. Instead, the ASUS Smartphone docks inside its specially designed counterpart, the Pad, to create a single device. The Smartphone can then recharge from the Pad’s much larger battery, while the Pad can make use of the Smartphone’s 3G connection. The Padfone can also be used for hands-free calls in this mode using a Bluetooth headset. Better still, the Android operating system, software and data are seamlessly shared across both devices. So, whatever you were doing on the smartphone’s small screen can now be resumed on the big screen — you can even carry on watching a movie from where it was last paused or continue an email you were working on. The user interface is designed to seamlessly adapt to both sizes of display, too. ASUS’ Eee Pad Transformer, which blends netbook and tablet design, has already proved a great success. The Padfone is set to combine smartphone and tablet technology in much the same way.
2
| computex 2011 special
ASUS recommends Windows速 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
hone
computex 2011 special |
3
僅Logo與年份
Transform your tablet Eee Pad Transformer TF101
Providing the ultimate in versatility, the Eee Pad Transformer can change from a tablet to an ultraportable in one easy step
T
ablet computers are a perfect way to consume content, whether it’s at home or on the move. Thin, light and with a long battery life, their big screens make everything from movies to websites look great. Not everyone wants to use an on-screen virtual keyboard for typing, though — but the Eee Pad Transformer TF101 has got this problem cracked. The Eee Pad Transformer TF101is a slim and stylish
4
| computex 2011 special
tablet with a 10.1" screen that’s made from tough Corning® Gorilla® glass, so there’s no need to worry about it getting damaged when used on the move. The IPS screen’s wide viewing angle and widescreen HD resolution make the Transformer perfect for sitting back to watch a movie too, but flip it into portrait mode and the screen is the perfect way to read long pages of text on a website or in an ebook. The Android 3.1 ‘Honeycomb’ operating system (upgradeable FOTA ) elevates the Transformer to new levels of productivity. The new and improved web browser, for example, has a tabbed interface and full support for Adobe® Flash®, and can import settings and bookmarks from a desktop or laptop PC. Unlimited ASUS WebStorage1 also gives access to data from anywhere with a Wi-Fi internet connection for the perfect combination of flexibility and data security. Rounding off both tablets is a comprehensive suite of ASUS services, including MyLibrary for access to ebooks and other publications, MyCloud wireless media streaming between two devices and ASUS Sync for easy data synchronisation between devices. If you’re wondering what makes this terrific-looking tablet stand out for people who need to type, though, then here it is — the Eee Station. This optional dock clips to the Transformer in landscape mode and effectively turns it into an ultraportable laptop, with the same full QWERTY
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
Eee Pad Transformer TF101 10.1" (1280 x 800) LED-backlit IPS display with 10-point multitouch NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 dual-core processor 16GB or 32GB storage with unlimited ASUS WebStorage (free for one year) Android 3.1 Honeycomb operating system 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR 1.2-megapixel front camera, 5-megapixel rear camera Accelerometers, ambient light sensor, gyroscopic sensor, digital compass, GPS Mini HDMI port, Micro SD card reader Eee Station - 2 x USB ports, SD card reader Up to 9.5 hours’ battery life; up to 16 hours’ with Mobile Dock 271 x 177 x 12.98 mm 680g
keyboard found on the 10" Eee PC netbook. There’s a well-proportioned trackpad, and a built-in battery that boosts mains-free use to up to 16 hours2. Providing you with expandability options are a SD card reader, 2 USB ports and a Mini HDMI port. Better still, with the Eee Station in place, the Transformer even folds up like a laptop, so there’s no need to carry a clumsy separate accessory around.
1
Unlimited ASUS WebStorage is free for 1 year.
2
Battery life test: keyboard dock and tablet; 720p video playback, Flight mode enabled, 60nits display brightness (SPWG spec).
computex 2011 special |
5
Eee Pad MeMO 3D
Eee Pad Slider SL101
Find your partner
perfect
These two ASUS tablets meet two very different mobile needs. Which one is right for you?
S
ince one type of tablet isn’t suitable for everyone, ASUS is introducing a third option to sit alongside its 10.1" Eee Pad Transformer and Slider models. It’s called the Eee Pad MeMO ME-173 and, with its 7" display, it’s the perfect size for mobile users who like to travel light. Although it uses the same Android Honeycomb OS as the Transformer and Slider, the MeMO is designed to be used differently. Its 10-point multitouch screen still works brilliantly with fingertips, but the portrait orientation means it can be used like a notepad, too. So, just slip the stylus from the built-in holder and you can write on the MeMO’s screen using the custom suite of pen-driven software. The MeMO is the perfect partner for entertainment, too. The dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor plays HD video with silky smoothness and, when flipped into landscape mode, the screen switches to an innovative glassless 3D display that works even with 2D content and can be viewed without using special glasses. Add in quad-band HSPA+ support, up to eight hours’ battery life, 32GB of onboard storage and a complete array of digital sensors, and MeMO is the ideal compact tablet for travellers who need to work and play on the move.
Eee Pad Slider SL101
The Eee Pad Transformer is one way to combine a tablet computer with a keyboard for people who like to feel a real key under their fingers for typing — the Eee Pad Slider SL101 is another. The Slider is a slim and stylish tablet too, but the difference here is that the keyboard is built in and hidden beneath the 10.1" screen until needed. So, on one hand the Eee Pad Slider SL101 Eee Pad Slider is a gorgeous slice of tablet 10.1" (1280 x 800) LED-backlit IPS display with ten-point multitouch technology for easy touchscreen use, on NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 dual-core processor the other, it’s a compact laptop that’s 16GB or 32GB storage with unlimited ASUS suitable for long typing sessions WebStorage (free for one year) — how’s that for versatility? Android Honeycomb operating system Just like the Eee Pad Transformer, 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 2.1 + EDR the Slider has a 10.1" LED-backlit screen that’s 1.2-megapixel front camera, 5-megapixel protected with a layer of tough, scratch-resistant rear camera Corning® Gorilla® glass and a wide aspect-ratio screen with Accelerometer, ambient light sensor, gyroscopic sensor, digital compass, GPS 1280 x 800 resolution. The NVIDIA® Tegra™ 2 dual-core processor Mini HDMI, 1 x USB port and micro SD card provides plenty of power for HD movie playback and Flash applications, while a mini reader HDMI port also means you can connect an HDTV for big-screen entertainment. 273 x 180.3 x 17.3~18.3mm 960g
6
| computex 2011 special
ASUS recommends Windows速 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv MeMIC: The bundled MeMIC headset can be used for both music and mobile calls, making it the perfect travel companion.
Eee Pad MeMO 3D 7" screen with 3D technology Qualcomm Snapdragon 8260 processor (1.2GHz) Android Honeycomb 32GB onboard storage WLAN 802.11b/g/n; Bluetooth 2.1 Quad-band GSM; HSPA+ (I, II, V, VIII)
1.2MP front camera, 5MP rear camera with LED flash Accelerometer, ambient light sensor, gyroscopic sensor, digital compass, GPS
Mini HDMI, 1 x micro USB port, micro card reader, SIM card reader 201 x 118 x 13.37mm 425g
computex 2011 special |
7
N Series
A laptop that’s to your ears
music
With state-of-the-art SonicMaster technology, the N Series gives users the ultimate in audio pleasure. Oh, and it looks good, too!
T
he ASUS NX90 set a new audio benchmark for portable PCs in 2010, but ASUS appreciates that this premium 18.4" desktop replacement isn’t for everyone. Its SonicMaster technology, however, is now spreading across the rest of the new models in the N Series. Developed in conjunction with internationally renowned industrial designer David Lewis, the N Series is the epitome of understated style. When closed, the slim, glossy black exterior calls to mind a slab of the purest polished onyx, framed by a discreet band of silver. Lift the lid and the same simple aesthetic is reflected on the interior, where the silver keyboard and speaker grille contrast sharply with the matte black finish. That large speaker grille is where your superlative listening experience starts. Co-developed by ASUS and Bang & Olufsen ICEpower, SonicMaster is a new audio standard that combines several key audio ingredients, including larger-than-normal loudspeakers, a powerful audio amplifier and professionalgrade sound-processing components. With the addition of a dedicated external subwoofer for deep bass extension that would otherwise be impossible on a notebook, the result is clean and authentic sound reproduction for all kinds of listening material. ASUS Music Now! software is also music accessible within just eight
8
| computex 2011 special
The new N Series delivers impressive bass with an external subwoofer
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
ASUS NX90
Laptops are a popular choice for anyone who doesn’t want their computer to dominate the room it’s in, but ASUS approached the design of the new NX90 homeentertainment laptop from a completely different perspective. Developed together with awardwinning industrial designer David Lewis, the stunning NX90 has a high-end allure that makes it the focal point of any living space. The beauty of the NX90 is more than skin deep, though; after all, shouldn’t a premium laptop like this sound every bit as good as it looks? Thanks to the audio expertise of the Bang & Olufsen ICEpower team and ASUS, the NX90 achieves exactly that. Externally, the largest speakers of any laptop flank the NX90’s screen, while internally, ASUS SonicMaster technology ensures that they’re driven by sound of superlative quality. A perfect blend of style and sonority, the ASUS NX90 not only sets a new standard for laptop audio quality, but for home-entertainment laptop design across the board.
seconds of switching on the notebook, without the need to boot the full operating system — two clicks is all it takes. Of course the N Series delivers more than just unmatched audio quality. Powered by 2nd-generation Intel® Core™ mobile processors with Smart Performance enhancements and Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, this notebook really performs. ASUS Video Magic technology delivers the best possible image on the Full HD 1080p high-brightness display, while two USB 3.0 ports ensure ultra-fast data transfers with compatible devices and quick charging of peripherals, even when the notebook is switched off.
computex 2011 special |
9
ASUS U46
Light, but no
hey, goodlooking…
The new ASUS U31 and U41 are ultraportables for everyone who appreciates the finer things in life. Their low-profile design combines an elegant textured finish with a contemporary colour scheme that will appeal to any urban sophisticate, while the all-day battery life and award-winning chiclet keyboard cater for more practical considerations. Slim, yes; stylish, certainly, but the 13.3" ASUS U31 and 14" U41 pack plenty of power too, thanks to 2nd-generation Intel® Core™ processors and NVIDIA® Fermi graphics with Optimus technology.
ASUS U31 Intel® Core™ i5-2410M/ i3-2310M processor NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 520M graphics, 1G DDR3 VRAM 13.3" HD (1366 x 768) LED-backlit screen 328 x 232.8 x 25.4~ 28.5mm From 1.78kg
ASUS U41 Intel® Core™ i5-2410M/ i3-2310M processor NVIDIA® GeForce® GT 540M graphics, 1G DDR3 VRAM 14" HD (1366 x 768) LED-backlit screen 338 x 250 x 25.4~ 27.6mm From 2kg
10
ASUS U31/41
| computex 2011 special
lightw Ultraportable but highly powerful, the ASUS U46 crams a host of impressive features into a package less than an inch thick
T
he thinnest and lightest ultraportables usually sacrifice performance for the sake of portability, thanks to their need to use low-power processors in a small chassis with limited cooling capacity. That’s not the case with the new ASUS U46. Despite being less than one inch thick, this brushed aluminium beauty packs a standard-voltage 2nd-generation Intel® Core™ processor that provides incredible performance, along with unparalleled energy efficiency, for a battery life of up to ten hours. The clever design of the ASUS U46 also means that while it has the desktop footprint of a typical 13" notebook, it actually packs a 14" LED-backlit screen that’s just 5.5mm thick. Better yet, the screen sits forward on a hinge that’s designed for ease of use in tight spaces, making this one of the few laptops that can be used comfortably in the narrow confines of an aircraft seat. The U46 doesn’t skimp on other standard notebook features, either — USB 3.0 is standard issue for speedy data transfers from compatible devices and the internal DVD writer means there’s no need to pack a separate external drive. Best of all, the whole thing weighs in at under 2kg, making the U46 the perfect travelling companion for the discerning mobile professional.
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
eight
ASUS U46 Intel® Core™ i5-2410M processor Intel® GMA HD3000 & NVIDIA GeForce GT 540M graphics 14.0" (1366 x 768) LED-backlit screen 333 x 245 x 24.6~26.2 mm From 2kg
computex 2011 special |
11
Eee PC X101 Eee PC 1025 Series
Netbook Designed for people who live, work and play online, the next generation of netbook has arrived — meet the innovative new Eee PC X101
I
t’s almost four years since ASUS brought new life to the notebook market with the original, groundbreaking Eee PC netbook. In 2011, ASUS is set to shake up the mobile world all over again with the innovative new Eee PC X101. Available in two different configurations to suit different users’ needs, the Eee PC X101 is designed from the ground up to meet the requirements of the modern mobile user who lives, works and plays online. Less than 18mm thick and weighing less than 950g, the Eee PC X101 is small and light enough to slip into a bag and take anywhere, but this is no cut-down portable computer. Its frame may be
12
| computex 2011 special
slender, but it still packs a 10.1” screen, QWERTY keyboard and the latest Intel® Atom™ N435 processor. Connect to the internet with 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and the Eee PC X101 really comes into its own. The streamlined and easy-to-use Intel® MeeGo operating system has full support for a wide range of social-networking services and has a raft of productivity tools built in, making this a netbook that’s ready to roll the moment it’s taken from the box. The ASUS App store offers easy access to a wide range of additional software too, while ASUS @ vibe provides a cloud-based media store for one-stop shopping.
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
Eee PC 1025 Series This year sees a new Eee PC join the ASUS lineup — the Eee PC 1025 Series, a redesign of the successful Eee PC Seashell 1005 and 1015 Series. The 10.1" Eee PC 1025 Series combines the new dual-core Intel® Atom™ processor with long battery life and an astonishing three weeks of standby time for incredible mains-free performance. Instant On technology means no waiting around for the operating system to load before you can get on with things too, while the streamlined case design with its gorgeous metallic finish means the Eee PC 1025 Series will turn heads wherever they go.
ASUS Eee PC 1025 Series Intel® Atom™ dual-core processor 10.1" (1024 x 600) LED-backlit screen 1GB or 2GB DDR3 RAM Up to 500GB hard drive 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi with optional Bluetooth 3.0 HDMI output and HD video playback 262 x 178 x 20.7~34.4mm 1.25kg
computex 2011 special |
13
WAVI Xtion
Welcome to the New Wave to the T Welcome
Why tie yourself to a computer to play games, send emails or watch videos? The WAVI Xtion lets you do it all with your TV screen and the wave of a hand
Through the Xtion Browser you can surf the web directly he PC is an extremely capable tool for home from your TV. With an on-screen keyboard you can browse your entertainment, but not everyone wants to sit at a desk to favourite sites, check email, catch up with friends on social play a game, or drag a desktop computer into the living media sites, watch YouTube videos or go online shopping, all room just to enjoy some multimedia on an HDTV. Plug the ASUS with a wave of your hand. Easy navigation WAVI into your home-entertainment set-up, with big fonts and big buttons, and the though, and you can solve both of these zoom-and-pan function. problems in a matter of minutes. Xtion Portal also turns an HDTV into a The WAVI Xtion package provides full complete PC entertainment centre, with gesture-based control for the PC content on complete access to a remotely stored your TV for the very first time, which means multimedia collection. So, you can view your you can play music, browse the web and digital photos, listen to music and access enjoy a new generation of interactive games other applications, all from a slick user with the sweep of a hand. The exclusive Xtion interface designed to work flawlessly with a Engine lets you take control over existing Extend mode: Connect a keyboard and mouse big screen and motion control. Thanks to the software by mapping motions to keyboard to the receiver’s two USB ports and the Wavi ASUS WAVI Xtion, the humble PC has never commands, so you can play all your PC can take complete remote control of a PC, with full access to its installed software. been so much fun! games with a wave of hands and body.
14
| computex 2011 special
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
The exclusive Xtion Portal offers a friendly user interface which allows you to enjoy music, videos, photos, games and online services on the living room TV with your hands and body.
In addition to bundled controller-free games like Beat Booster and MayaFit™, the innovative Xtion Engine turns popular PC games into controllerfree games by mapping hot keys with gestures. Be a part of your game and put aside your keyboard, mouse and controllers.
The ASUS WAVI consists of two boxes — a transmitter that connects to the HDMI and USB ports on a PC, and a receiver that connects to the HDMI port of an HDTV. The wireless transmission between two WAVI boxes is instant and automatic and turns your HDTV as a second monitor.
Put off by complicated controllers? Say goodbye to fumbling with buttons! The only thing you need is your body in the most natural way to control and interact with multimedia content on the big screen.
MayaFit™ developed by Respondesign® , TM & © 2004-2011 Respondesign, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Beat Booster developed by CurrentCircus®, TM & © CurrebtCircus Inc. All Rights Reserved.
computex 2011 special |
15
Big is beaut ET2700XVT
Combining a Windows® 7 PC and stunning 27" HD display, the ET2700XVT will take your breath away
I
16
f you don’t want a separate HDTV and desktop computer in your home, ASUS has the perfect solution. The ET2700XVT all-in-one offers the best of both worlds — a stunning 27" HD display combined with a powerful PC with the very latest technology. The sleek, slimline design of the ET2700XVT blends into any room, whether it’s used on its integral desktop stand or wall-mounted. The brilliant HD screen has an ultrawide 178-degree viewing angle that everyone will appreciate, plus HDMI in and out ports for the ultimate in display flexibility. Add in a digital TV tuner, ASUS SonicMaster audio technology with high-quality integrated speakers and an external subwoofer, and the result is the ultimate in self-contained luxury. The ET2700XVT isn’t just about passive entertainment, of course. It’s also a full-power Windows® 7 PC , with USB 3.0, NVIDIA® 3D Vision and optional ten-point multitouch — home entertainment has never been so high-tech!
| computex 2011 special
ASUS recommends Windows速 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
iful
computex 2011 special |
17
Forever the choice of
Champions Five years after its inception, the Republic of Gamers goes from strength to strength. Here’s a look back at some of its most memorable innovations
I
t’s incredible to think that one of the biggest brands in PC hardware is already five years old. Since its foundation, the ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) team has worked long and hard at designing the ultimate high-performance hardware that’s expressly tailored for PC gamers and overclocking enthusiasts. While other notable gaming brands have come and gone, ROG is still going strong and anyone with more than a passing interest in gaming hardware will recognise the innovations detailed across these pages.
July 2006
ASUS LCD poster makes it easier to trace hardware problems. Device issues are detected during POST and reported on an LCD screen.
July 2007
ROG develops the world’s first Fusion Block for the easy installation of a water-cooling system, prized by overclockers for its extreme efficiency and near-silent operation.
The ROG philosophy has always been based on performance and innovation leadership, with a strong personal style that appeals to both gamers and modders alike. This is still very much the brand focus and, over the years, ROG has been an active participant in the gaming industry by sponsoring events like QuakeCon, Dreamhack and BlizzCon. As recognition of its hardware achievements, Blizzard even selected ROG to be its official hardware sponsor for two years running.
December 2007
ROG brings one-click overclocking within easy reach — the motherboard takes care of everything else.
July 2008
Hands-on overclocking is simple with ROG’s easy-to-use controls. TweakIt adds a new dimension to hardware teaching and highperformance PCs.
Motherboard innovations July 2007
Brand milestones July 2006
The ROG brand is launched with its first gaming motherboard, the Crosshair.
18
| computex 2011 special
December 2006
The ROG Commando motherboard is launched and is used to break the CPU overclocking world record.
ROG sees yet another motherboard breakthrough with the launch of CrossLinx technology for improved ATI® CrossFire performance.
December 2007
A new ROG gaming notebook range is launched with the G1 and G2.
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
ROG G74Sx Powered by an Intel® Core™ i5 or i7 ‘Huron River’ processor with NVIDIA® GTX 560M graphics, the ROG G74Sx gaming notebook offers extreme levels of 3D gaming performance. Blistering speed doesn’t mean blistering temperatures, though, as its innovative thermal management system keeps the ROG G74Sx cool to the touch. The full-size, backlit keyboard has a separate numeric keypad, while the 17" screen sits on a solid, wobble-free
July 2010
ROG iDirect and RC Bluetooth makes the arduous task of overclocking more convenient for users by allowing them to monitor and adjust hardware parameters through external devices like smartphones and tablet PCs.
August 2010
ROG launches another high-performance motherboard innovation — the Rampage III Formula with GameFirst bandwidth optimisation for lag-free network gaming.
hinge. The ROG G74Sx is designed for easy internal upgrades, with dual hard-drive bays and support for up to 16GB RAM. Wrap the whole thing up in a sleek and stealthy matteblack case and you get the gamers’ ultimate secret weapon — the ROG G74Sx.
September 2010
The ROG Crosshair IV Extreme is launched with groundbreaking ROG iDirect remote overclocking control via an iPhone and iPad app.
March 2011
The Rampage III Black Edition adds the Thunderbolt expansion card with dedicated processors that enhance network and audio performance.
March 2010
The high-performance ROG Rampage III Extreme is launched, built for both gamers and overclockers alike with its host of performance-enhancing options.
July 2010
ROG rolls out the Rampage III Gene — a highperformance motherboard with comprehensive overclocking features, all packed into a compact microATX form factor.
December 2010 The Maximus IV Extreme continues the ROG tradition of extreme performance and versatility, with the latest PC technologies like USB 3.0 and SATA6 GB/s.
July 2009
ROG Connect makes overclocking easier by allowing users to monitor and adjust the status of their desktop hardware in real time using a notebook PC.
July 2008
ROG launches another new product range, MATRIX graphics cards.
October 2009
The ROG Maximus III Formula motherboard with ROG Connect allows hardware overclocking in real time.
October 2009 ROG launches the world’s first 3D gaming notebook, the G53J 3D.
March 2010
The ROG Rampage III Extreme motherboard attracts global attention with its extreme performance and overclocking features.
July 2010
ROG launches the world’s fastest graphics card — the ARES.
March 2011
The first ever Black Edition is released, setting new world records in overclocking and gaming. It’s the first ROG motherboard in an entirely black design and comes with an innovative new audio/LAN combo card, called ThunderBolt.
computex 2011 special |
19
Crosshair V Formula Maximus IV GENE-Z MATRIX GTX 580 Vulcan ANC
n i a t n o c n a c g n i h t o N this level of
! e m o s e w A
to four new Republic of s nk tha , se en int re mo en ev t go t Hardcore gaming jus cessories from ASUS Gamers (ROG) components and ac
F
ive years ago, ASUS founded the ROG brand to deliver the best possible hardware to hardcore gamers looking to gain an extra edge. Today, the name is recognised around the world as a purveyor of premium PC components, notebooks and accessories, and the impressive line-up continues to grow. So, read on to learn more about four more new ROG products set to continue the success in 2011.
Maximus IV GENE-Z
Every gamer wants a kick-ass gaming rig, but not every gamer has the space for a full-size PC tower case to contain it. Enter the ROG Maximus IV GENE-Z. This Intel® Z68 motherboard may support the very latest desktop technology to make the latest games fly, but that’s not all — its microATX form factor means it can be used in the smallest of
20
| computex 2011 special
PC cases, not to mention custom case builds that a standard ATX motherboard just won’t suit. High-performance features include a graphical UEFI BIOS interface for quick and easy control over low-level system settings and comprehensive overclocking support via exclusive ROG Connect and ROG CPU-Z utilities. The Maximus IV GENE-Z also packs Lucid® Virtu™ virtualized GPU support to fully exploit the capabilities of both integrated Intel® processor graphics, and both AMD and NVIDIA® 3D graphics cards. Intel® Smart Response Technology mixes SSD performance with large hard-drive capacities and reduces energy consumption, while SupremeFX X-Fi 2 delivers fully immersive gaming audio.
Crosshair V Formula
The Maximus IV GENE-Z’s AMD-based sibling, the Crosshair V Formula, also launches this year. It’s the first ROG board not only with AM3+ CPU support, but it’s also the first ever AMD motherboard with a UEFI BIOS. This
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv
combination is designed specifically for upcoming AMD FX-series processors. That said, the usual ROG innovations such as ROG Connect and GPU Tweak are still present, but the intuitive UEFI interface brings with it the exclusive GPU.DIMM Post and other enthusiast tweaks. With 3-way NVIDIA® SLI or AMD Crossfire support, there’s plenty of graphics technology to play with, while SupremeFX X-Fi 2 delivers the most intense gaming audio experience. Highperformance Intel® Ethernet with GameFirst technology creates a LAN connection that’s fast enough to keep up with the pace of modern multiplayer gaming. To really make it the ultimate gaming motherboard, the ROG team has combined the Crosshair V Formula with the ThunderBolt audio/LAN PCI-Express combo card. With ASUS Xonar and Killer NIC NPU technology, this pushes the gaming edge still further to give users the ultimate experience.
ROG MATRIX GTX 580
Meet the ROG MATRIX GTX 580 — a high-performance graphics card for enthusiasts and gamers who demand the very best. The NVIDIA® GeForce GTX 580 GPU is combined with 19-Phase Super Alloy Power technology that enhances power efficiency and component durability.
Unlike graphics-card cooling systems used by other manufacturers, ASUS DirectCU II technology puts copper heatpipes in direct contact with the GPU core for ultra-efficient heat dissipation, while two huge fans suck through 600% more air than the reference design. Together with a comprehensive selection of overclocking tools, including TweakIt, ProbeIt, Safe Mode and a brand-new GPU Tweak utility, plus a five-level LED indicator that gives an ata-glance indication of the GPU load, the ROG MATRIX GTX 580 is the ultimate gaming enthusiasts’ graphics card.
ROG Vulcan ANC
Gaining the upper hand in a serious gaming session needs more than just top-quality visuals — the audio needs to be first-rate, too. As dedicated players know all too well, external speakers aren’t always ideal for pinpoint positioning in games, particularly in the noisy environment of a LAN party. The new ROG Vulcan ANC headset, on the other hand… Finished in hot red and black, the Vulcan ANC packs a host of clever technology to provide the ultimate listening experience. Active noise cancelling filters out ambient noise to ensure complete in-game immersion, while the noise-cancelling boom mic ensures crystal-clear voice communication to teammates. The lightweight design is comfortable to wear for long periods too, while the Japanese synthetic protein leather used for the memory foam ear pads is breathable for distraction-free gaming. Sounds like the perfect choice for hardcore gamers.
computex 2011 special |
21
DIGI+ VRM with Dual Intelligent Processors 2 technology offers precision, digital control over overclocking parameters and PC power consumption
ASUS P8Z68-V PRO
The right design for Z68
The Intel® Z68 chipset demands a motherboard that can make the most of its powerful features. ASUS has the perfect partner
T
he Intel® Z68 chipset has the potential to take Second Generation Intel® Core™ processors to whole new levels of performance. If you’re thinking of using it in your next PC, though, you’ll need a motherboard that can fully exploit its exciting new features. Coming soon from ASUS, the P8Z68-V PRO will be just the model to suit. With native support for both CPU and GPU overclocking, the Intel® Z68 chipset is an overclocker’s dream come true and, as you might expect, ASUS has equipped the P8Z68-V PRO with every imaginable tool needed to make the most of it. Exclusive to ASUS motherboards, Dual Intelligent Processors 2 with DIGI+VRM offers incredible precision via its digital controls over factors such as overclocking and PC power consumption. This makes extreme performance gains possible with no power loss or reduction in overall stability, leading to easy, quick and, above all, safe overclocking. Complex BIOS set-up screens with awkward controls are a thing of the past with the P8Z68-V PRO. A true UEFI BIOS adds
22
| computex 2011 special
a straightforward graphical interface for easy access to system settings, with mouse control and drag-and-drop boot-order adjustment. BIOS settings can even be backed up onto a USB flash drive for added safety, or just to share optimum system settings with similarly equipped friends. Intel® has also introduced a capable new onboard graphics processor to complement the Z68 chipset, with hardwareaccelerated HD video encoding using Intel® Quick Sync video. The catch is that installing a dedicated 3D graphics card would usually disable such a feature, but that’s not a problem here, as all ASUS P8Z68 Series motherboards natively support Lucid Virtu, universal switchable graphics technology. Its GPU virtualisation technology seamlessly switches between onboard and discrete graphics on the fly as an application demands. That means not one drop of GPU processing power is wasted, no matter what the graphics configuration. Long waits while the operating system boots and slow application load times are also a thing of the past with the ASUS
ASUS recommends Windows® 7.
Find out more at www.techinstyle.tv Intel® Smart Response Technology caches frequently used data on an SSD to accelerate harddrive data access, which means faster boot and application load times
Lucid Virtu GPU virtualisation offers the best of integrated Intel® Z68 GPU and discrete AMD®/NVIDIA® graphics card worlds by switching between the two as applications demand
The UEFI BIOS offers an intuitive GUI with EZ Mode while mouse input throughout gives quick and easy control.
ASUS P8Z68-V PRO Socket LGA1155 for 2nd generation
P8Z68-V PRO. Intel® Smart Response Technology Intel® Core™ processors provides an optimised middle ground between Intel® Z68 chipset inexpensive, high-capacity, but relatively slow hard 4x DDR3 DIMM slots (32GB max) drive storage and costly, but ultra-fast SSD drives. 3x PCI x16 slots with Quad-GPU NVIDIA® SLI and Quad-GPU ATI® Solid-state storage is used to cache important and CrossFireX Support frequently accessed system files for near-instant 4x SATA 6Gb/s, 4x SATA 3Gb/s, 1x access, shaving precious seconds off hard-disk access eSATA times for an all-round performance boost. 4x USB 3.0, 12x USB 2.0, 2x FireWire So, if you’re all set to assemble your next PC, why use a motherboard that’s still stuck with obsolete technology and mediocre performance? Drop the ASUS P8Z68-V PRO into your next system and not only will you be able to fully exploit the power of Second Generation Intel® Core™ processors, but you can prolong the life of your PC with easy overclocking features, too.
ASUS dual intelligent processors 2 ASUS Dual Intelligent Processors 2 consists of two proprietary motherboard components that address two critical motherboard features: performance and power efficiency. The first is the TurboV Processing Unit, or TPU — a dedicated chip that provides a safe and stable way to overclock the processor when extra performance is required. Overclocking takes place in real time, within Windows, and the resulting performance increase can be equivalent to a processor upgrade. Typical PC use involves short bursts of high activity and relatively long periods of idle time at the system level, which means that a large amount of energy is wasted powering components that don’t have much to do. So the second component —the Energy Processing Unit, or EPU — intelligently monitors processor load and can reduce the power supplied to both it and other components to suit. This not only reduces power consumption, but also keeps a PC running cooler and so extends the lifespan of its other components.
computex 2011 special |
23
More choice, more inspiration, more creativity .Wouldn’t it be nice having an on-the-go pad which also offers the convenience of a laptop? The Asus Eee Pad Transformer with Eee Station satisfies all needs. Full QWERTY connectable keyboard connects my creativity to my multiple lifestyle. 16 hours battery life and a brilliant IPS screen, SRS 3D stereo sound plus HDMI output gives the best entertainment enjoyment. With the brilliant Eee Pad Transformer, I create more possibility for life.