From Tom's Hardware · 40 stories
Costco shopper scores $1,140 discount on iBuyPower 9800X3D gaming PC
A Costco shopper purchased an iBuyPower gaming PC for $1,140, reduced from $1,899.99. The PC features an AMD Ryzen 7 9800X3D, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD, and Nvidia RTX 5070, making it suitable for gaming at 1440p and some 4K settings. Such display unit discounts are rare and depend on store inventory.
Developer ports The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time to iOS natively using AI
Developer Chris Sotraidis created HarkinianPad, a native iOS and iPadOS port of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, utilizing OpenAI's Codex and GPT-5.6 Sol to adapt existing decompiled C code. This allows the classic game to run with modern features like widescreen support and 60 FPS without emulation, requiring users to provide their own game ROM.
Neo Geo AES+ Retro Console Now Available for Pre-Order Starting at $249
SNK has opened pre-orders for the Neo Geo AES+ home console and ten re-released game cartridges on Amazon. The console is a silicon-level recreation of the original hardware, and individual game cartridges cost $90 each.
Developer Runs Doom Using Regular Expressions, Achieving 180 Seconds Per Frame
Artem Lytkin successfully implemented Doom to run entirely within regular expressions, a text-matching utility. This achievement demonstrates the Turing completeness of regular expressions, albeit with extremely slow performance, rendering one frame every 180 seconds.
Gamer creates booby-trapped Steam Deck with 3D-printed spikes and taser to deter family
A Steam Deck owner modified their device with a 3D-printed spiky case, a Raspberry Pi-powered camera, speaker, and taser to prevent family members from using it and draining its battery. The modifications successfully stopped others from touching the handheld without permission. This DIY project demonstrates an extreme solution to a common personal tech sharing issue.
Michigan Residents Sue AI Data Center Over Constant Noise, Company Offers to Buy Homes
Residents in Dowagiac, Michigan, filed a lawsuit against Alliance Cloud Services LLC, a subsidiary of Hyperscale Data, due to continuous high-pitched noise from its data center, which recently pivoted from cryptocurrency mining to AI computing. The city has fined the data center for violating a new industrial noise ordinance, while the company has offered to purchase homes from affected residents.
Physicists develop liquid computer using chaotic particle orbits for forecasting and anomaly detection
Physicists from the Universities of Konstanz and Stuttgart have demonstrated a liquid-based computing system using 400 microscopic particles in chaotic orbits to perform chaotic-signal forecasting and anomaly detection. This system, while less accurate than memristor-based alternatives, shows a novel approach to physical reservoir computing.
FPGA Recreation of F-14 Tomcat's CADC, Featuring MP944 Microprocessor, Released Open Source
Alan Taylor has recreated the F-14 Tomcat's Central Air Data Computer (CADC), including the MP944 microprocessor, in an FPGA and released the VHDL source code as open source. This project allows for the study and testing of the historically significant MP944 chip, which some argue predates Intel's 4004 as the first microprocessor, and its role in controlling the F-14's sweep-wing system.
Enthusiast Integrates Nvidia Tesla V100 into Gaming PC for LLM Inference
An enthusiast added a used Nvidia Tesla V100 GPU to a gaming PC, increasing total VRAM to 32GB for $266, enabling local inference of a 27 billion parameter LLM at 32 tokens per second. This modification demonstrates a cost-effective method for enhancing local AI model processing capabilities using older enterprise hardware.
Printed Solid Rebrands to Prusa USA, Expanding US 3D Printer and Filament Production
Printed Solid, a US-based filament manufacturer acquired by Prusa Research in 2022, has rebranded to Prusa USA, Inc. This change formalizes Prusa Research's expanded US presence, including 3D printer and filament production in Delaware, to better serve the American market and address supply chain challenges.
Game Compressor Utility Updated to Leverage Windows LZX Compression for Game Storage Savings
The Game Compressor utility has been updated to help users save disk space by transparently compressing installed games using Windows' built-in LZX compression. This tool addresses the rising cost of SSDs and the increasing size of game installations, offering a way to fit more games on existing storage.
Two individuals arrested in China for stealing 16 RAM sticks from eSports hotel PCs
Two men, Li and Cheng, were arrested in China for stealing 16 RAM sticks from gaming PCs in eSports hotels, selling them for approximately $1,950. The thefts led to hotel guests complaining about non-functional computers, prompting police investigation.
EA announces FC 27 with a $149.99 Ultimate Plus Edition, drawing player criticism
EA has announced FC 27, the latest installment in its annual soccer franchise, which includes a $149.99 Ultimate Plus Edition. This pricing has generated significant backlash from players, who compare it unfavorably to other game releases and question the value of annual updates. The controversy highlights ongoing player concerns about the pricing and value proposition of yearly sports game releases.
RTX 3090 and RTX 3050 achieve 144 FPS at 4K using Lossless Scaling for frame generation
A gaming enthusiast combined an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090 and an RTX 3050 with Lossless Scaling software to reach 144 FPS at 4K resolution. The setup offloads frame generation to the secondary RTX 3050, allowing the RTX 3090 to focus on rendering, effectively doubling the frame rate.
Oregon to Implement New Fees for Undersea Cables, Funding State Schools
Oregon will begin charging service providers for undersea cables installed along its coast, moving from a one-time application fee to a per-linear-foot charge. This change aims to generate millions in revenue over time, which will be directed to the state's Common School Fund.
Engineering student showcases music created from coil whine noise
An engineering student demonstrated how coil whine can produce music by using a toroidal inductor. This unique approach highlights coil whine's potential to be perceived positively rather than as a nuisance, although it remains primarily an unwanted artifact in high-performance computing environments.
RTX 3080 Mod with 11 Fans Drops Temp Significantly but Yields Minor FPS Gain
TrashBench conducted an experiment adding 11 fans and a 360mm AIO cooler to an RTX 3080, achieving a temperature drop to 41°C. However, the modifications resulted in only a minimal performance boost, demonstrating the limited impact of cooling on frame rates.
Hashcat password cracker ported to Gameboy Advance at 727 hashes per second
A security engineer has ported the hashcat password cracking utility to the Gameboy Advance, achieving 727 hashes per second. This version, called gba-hashcat, utilizes the GBA's limited hardware resources, but significantly lags behind modern systems, performing 30 million times slower than today's powerful GPUs.
PC Gamer Develops Steam Game Cartridge System Using 2.5-inch SSDs
A new Steam Game Cartridge system was demonstrated by a PC gamer using 128GB SSDs to store games. The system automates game launching through a Linux setup that detects and executes scripts from the cartridges, integrating retro convenience into modern gaming.
64BITDOCK for Nintendo Switch mimics N64 design, starts at $89
The 64BITDOCK accessory transforms the original Nintendo Switch dock into a design reminiscent of the Nintendo 64. It includes an optional Game Card holder and is available for purchase on Etsy starting at $89, although it offers no additional docking hardware.
Father Repairs Dead RTX 3070 Using Salvaged Capacitor, Saves $120
A father fixed a broken RTX 3070 graphics card using a salvaged capacitor from an old radio, saving his son $120 on repair costs. This improvised fix, while temporary, highlights resourcefulness and engineering skills in practical repairs within the gaming community.
Steam Machine's 'Red Line of Death' Fixed by Clearing CMOS
Users reported GPU failures in the new Steam Machine, described as a 'red line of death', reminiscent of Xbox 360's issues. Valve provided a solution: clearing the CMOS restores functionality. This update addresses concerns about early device reliability.
Ugreen offers 10-port PoE+ switch at record-low price of $37.97
Ugreen has reduced the price of its 10-port PoE+ switch to $37.97, a record low. This switch provides eight PoE+ ports with up to 30W of power per port, making it suitable for smart home devices like cameras and Wi-Fi extenders.
DIY USB drive uses Apollo-era magnetic core memory for 64-bit storage
Polymatt has created a USB drive using hand-threaded magnetic core memory, salvaging parts from an old Russian computer. This device represents a DIY response to the current semiconductor shortage, showcasing an ancient memory technology.
Turtle Beach Releases KP7 Keypad and KB7 Keyboard with Novel Features
Turtle Beach has launched the KP7 modular keypad and KB7 keyboard, retailing at $99.99 and $199.99 respectively. The KP7 functions as both a standalone numberpad and gaming keypad but has integration issues with the KB7 keyboard. The KB7, featuring a 4.3-inch touchscreen, demands significant power and improved software to reach its potential.
Steam Summer Sale Simulator Offers Fake Game Shopping Experience
Mike Wang created the Steam Summer Sale simulator, allowing users to simulate adding games to a virtual wallet. The site provides an illusion of purchasing games without real costs, appealing to those who enjoy the buying process.
PC concealed in Dreo fan using 3D-printed components for cooling
Zac Builds created a hidden mini-PC using a Dreo tower fan, integrating the AtomMan G7 within. The setup improves cooling with airflow reaching 28 feet per second while maintaining a discreet appearance in the living room.
Sony's shift to all-digital PlayStation sparks satirical response from brands
Sony announced plans to stop producing physical discs for PlayStation games by 2028. In response, brands like Domino's and KFC have humorously mimicked this decision with mock announcements about ceasing physical products, highlighting the absurdity of a fully digital future. This trend reflects broader industry concerns about the shift to digital consumption.
HP Offers Major Discounts on Omen Gaming PCs During July 4 Sale
HP has slashed prices on its Omen gaming PC series, with a notable discount of $1,075 on the Omen 35L, dropping the price to $1,724. This discount is part of a broader July 4 sales event, offering up to 71% off on gaming desktops, laptops, and accessories. These deals enhance the affordability of high-spec PCs in the current market.
Jensen Huang's signed leather jacket to auction for up to $60,000 at Sotheby's
Jensen Huang's black leather jacket, authenticated and worn at a 2023 Foxconn event, is up for auction. Bidding is expected to reach between $40,000 and $60,000, reflecting two years' worth of Huang's influence in technology.
Ocypus Sigma L36 Pro AIO Cooler Offers Detachable 3.5-inch IPS Display at Low Price
The Ocypus Sigma L36 Pro is a new all-in-one (AIO) liquid cooler featuring a detachable 3.5-inch IPS display and strong thermal performance for $139. This product offers a large screen and high static pressure fans at a lower price point than many competitors.
Scythe Magoroku CPU Cooler Offers Strong RAM Thermals But Underperforms on CPU Cooling
The Scythe Magoroku, a new dual-tower CPU cooler, effectively cools RAM but shows unimpressive CPU thermal performance, particularly with AMD's Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This limits its overall utility as a primary CPU cooling solution despite its RAM cooling capabilities.
Geekom IT13 Max 2026 Mini PC Reviewed: Core Ultra 9 185H for $799
Geekom's IT13 Max 2026 mini PC, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor, 24GB RAM, and a 500GB SSD, is available for $799. This device offers a balance of performance and budget, utilizing last-generation laptop components in a compact design.
Maxsun Terminator B850M Pro II Motherboard Review: Competent but overpriced in the US
The Maxsun Terminator B850M Pro II is a budget AM5 motherboard with a solid feature set and average performance, but its current US pricing makes it a less competitive option. While it supports flagship processors and includes Wi-Fi 7, its performance in multi-threaded tasks is slower than other boards, and its price point exceeds that of better alternatives.
JSAUX FlipGo Horizon Pro dual-screen portable monitor reviewed for versatility
The JSAUX FlipGo Horizon Pro, a dual-screen portable monitor, was reviewed, highlighting its versatile display configurations and integrated hub with USB-A and Gigabit Ethernet ports. While praised for its build quality and multiple modes, the review noted its significant weight, average display quality, and high price compared to competitors.
QIDI Plus5 3D Printer Reviewed: Increased Build Volume and Higher Nozzle Temperature
The QIDI Plus5 3D printer has been reviewed, highlighting its suitability for large-scale prints with high-temperature filaments due to its heated chamber and increased build volume. The printer offers a competitive price point compared to similar models, making it a notable option for practical 3D printing.
GMKtec Evo-T2 Mini PC Reviewed: Panther Lake Performance at a High Price
The GMKtec Evo-T2 mini PC features Intel's Panther Lake processor with B390 integrated graphics and 64GB of DDR5 RAM, offering quiet operation and low power consumption. However, its nearly $2,000 price point and plastic build quality are noted as drawbacks compared to competitors.
Samsung PCIe Gen 5 SSDs See Price Reductions on 2TB and 4TB Models
Samsung's 2TB 9100 Pro NVMe SSD is available for $302.99 on Amazon, its lowest price since February 2026, while the 4TB 9910 Pro SSD is priced at $619.99 on Woot, a $348 reduction. Both models support PCIe Gen 5, offering faster theoretical speeds compared to previous generations, making high-capacity, high-speed storage more accessible.
DeepCool Releases Second-Generation AK400 G2 and AK620 G2 CPU Air Coolers
DeepCool has launched its second-generation AK series CPU air coolers, the AK400 G2 and AK620 G2, which feature updated designs and fan configurations. These coolers offer aesthetic options including woodgrain top covers or digital displays, and are available in black or white.
Turtle Beach KB5 Keyboard Integrates Touchscreen and Numberpad for $149.99
Turtle Beach released the KB5, a full-size wired mechanical keyboard featuring low-profile switches, an 8,000 Hz polling rate, and a built-in 2.4-inch touchscreen that functions as a mini macro pad. This keyboard offers a combined numberpad and macro pad functionality at a lower price point compared to similar products.