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Advertorial, Feature

[SPONSORED] Make Classrooms a JOI to Learn in with the JOI Smartboard

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This article is Sponsored by SNS Networks Sdn Bhd

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The modern classroom is no longer a space that is confined by its four walls. With access to the internet, online experiences and learning tools have become commonplace. However, in many learning environments and institutions, the pedagogical norms have yet to embrace these tools and experiences. This can be mainly attributed to a lack of access to the tools to bring them into the classroom. The JOI Smartboard is one tool that is available to bridge that gap and empower educators to engage students in learning more actively.

Built for Engaged, Collaborative Learning in All Spaces

The JOI Smartboard is a brand-new tool that is made to revolutionize learning spaces. It brings together the familiarity of a whiteboard and projector with the modern technology of a computer. In a space where learners are constantly being distracted by smartphones, tablets and computer screens, the JOI Smartboard allows educators to deliver lessons in a more engaging way. This will allow educators to not only prepare their lessons and sessions in a more interactive way but also deliver them while better engaging with the learners.

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As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.”. Engaged learners are better able to understand and appreciate lessons that are delivered. They are in the thick of it when it comes to learning. Tools like the JOI Smartboard allow educators to look beyond the page and their own capabilities to be artistic or creative and leverage the largest resource we have – the internet. With the JOI Smartboard, they are able to incorporate multimedia elements for visual and auditory learners and also interactive activities for kinesthetic learners. The ability to cater to all learners will ensure better outcomes for the learners. After all, interactive teaching styles have been shown to deliver better outcomes[1].

The JOI Smartboard is built for interactive learning. It runs on a 10th Generation Intel Core processor. This gives you the flexibility to not only use a familiar Windows interface to educate but also build robust learning experiences. With features like Wireless screenshare, you’ve got a dynamic learning surface that educators can use to deliver lessons as well as empower learners to take a more active role in their learning. Presentations and even interactive activities should be a breeze with screen sharing. Remote learning is should also be a breeze with the element microphone array and easily accessible USB ports.

High-Performance Visuals & Features for Collaborative Learning No Matter the Mode

With the integration of digital resources and activities into learning. There needs to be a rich, engaging visual experience. The JOI Smartboard is able to deliver this with up to sizes ranging from 65-inches to 86-inches with 4K UHD resolution. The large size not only allows learners at the far back of the space to see things with clarity, it also allows them to be engaged in the lessons.

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The JOI Smartboard takes engagement a step further with connectivity features. It will be able to connect to the internet through an ethernet connection. This will allow educators to be able to deliver their lessons in an engaging way no matter the mode of learning. The JOI Smartboard’s feature-rich writing software allows educators to bridge the familiarity of writing on a whiteboard with the advanced technology of a touch screen and stylus. Enhanced with high-precision IR Touch technology, it also allows for interactive activities with learners.

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On the smaller variants of the JOI Smartboard, educators will be able to engage over the internet with the built-in 13-megapixel camera and microphone. Using software like Google’s classroom platform or Microsoft’s Classroom tools will be as easy as using a whiteboard in the classroom. The ease of teaching online makes it easier for educators to prepare for any situation that may arise. It also makes it easier to create online repositories of classes and lessons for learners to access.

A Small Investment to Be Ahead of the Curve and Foster Learning

The JOI Smartboard isn’t just feature-packed, it’s breaking boundaries when it comes to affordability. While other brands would charge a premium for these features, the JOI Smartboard comes in as low as RM6,999. This makes the smartboard one of the most affordable on the market.

JOI Smartboard Mar Apr24

The JOI Smartboard isn’t a one-size-fits-all device either. The sizes start at 65 inches and scales go all the way to 85 inches allowing teachers and institutions to get one that fits their needs the best. SNS Network Sdn Bhd is also making it even more accessible with monthly payments that start as low as RM209* ensuring no classroom is left behind.

A Tool for Educators to Make a Lasting Impact on Learners and Foster the Love of Learning

All in all, the JOI Smartboard is a tool that not only makes an impact on how educators educate but also how learners learn. It makes engagement a non-issue both in-person and over the internet. It’s also future-proof with integrations with upcoming AI tools like Microsoft’s Copilot built-in thanks to its flexible OS and operating environments. Be ahead of the curve and head on down to the official JOI Smartboard website to find out more about the device.

[1] Anderson, J. (2014) “The Benefit of Interactive Learning” Available at: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/news/14/11/benefit-interactive-learning (Accessed: 20 April 2024)

Business

US Revokes Chip Sales Licenses for Huawei Escalating Tech Tensions

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The ongoing tech war between the United States and China has intensified with the recent revocation of export licenses for chip sales to Huawei. This move by the US Department of Commerce restricts American companies like Intel and Qualcomm from supplying certain chips to the Chinese telecommunications giant.

The US government cites national security concerns as the primary motivation behind this decision. Specifically, they allege that Huawei’s close ties to the Chinese government pose potential risks, as the technology could be used for espionage purposes. Huawei has vehemently denied these accusations.

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This move by the US government could significantly disrupt Huawei’s supply chain. The company heavily relies on American-made chips for its smartphones and other electronic devices. Limited access to these crucial components could hinder Huawei’s ability to manufacture new products and maintain its market competitiveness. Up until now, Huawei has had very restricted access to chips for its product lineups. Even with access, the components have left the Chinese company at a handicap without key technologies like 5G. However, given Huawei’s recent progress in creating its own 5G chips with the Kirin 9010 leaves the impact of the restrictions questionable at best.

The implications of this decision extend beyond Huawei. The uncertainty surrounding chip sales to China could create ripples throughout the global tech industry. Other Chinese tech companies might face similar restrictions, potentially impacting international collaborations and innovation in the semiconductor sector.

The future path of this conflict remains unclear. The possibility of further US restrictions on Chinese tech companies exists, while the potential for negotiations and a resolution cannot be ruled out. For now, the global tech industry grapples with the immediate consequences of this decision and the potential long-term ramifications.

Computers

Huawei’s MateBook X Pro Pre-orders Kick Off in Malaysia

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With the impending launch of the Huawei Matebook X Pro just round the corner, Malaysian consumers are now able to pre-order Huawei’s flagship laptop. The laptop boasts impressive performance packed into a remarkably lightweight design, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals and those who prioritize portability.

Ahead of the launch, Huawei is opening pre-orders for the laptop. The blind pre-orders kick off on May 8th and runs until May 12th, 2024. To secure a unit, you can place a deposit of just RM70. When you do, you will also be eligible for a whole bunch of freebies valued at up to RM4,582 with each early booking.

Marrying Cutting Edge Technology with Minimalist Durability

The MateBook X Pro is one of Huawei’s best looking laptops yet. It come with a sleek chassis, constructed from a lightweight yet durable magnesium. Huawei isn’t holding back when it comes to the display either, the MateBook X Pro comes with a stunning, near-borderless Flexible OLED display. It’s also a mere 13.5mm thin.

IMAGE 1 HUAWEI MateBook X Pro Early Booking

Despite its deceptively slim design, the MateBook X Pro packs a serious punch. It comes with the Intel® Core™ Ultra 9 Processor ensures smooth operation and responsiveness. It has up to 32GB RAM and 2TB storage provide ample resources for demanding tasks. Also coming along for the ride is a whole bevvy of AI features including AI noise cancellation, AI camera enhancements, and AI search. The MateBook X Pro also comes with effortless connectivity with other Huawei devices. Huawei is also touting hours of battery life and fast charging with 90W Huawei SuperCharge technology. The Dual Shark Fin fan system ensures efficient heat dissipation for optimal performance.

Early booking can be done through the Huawei Official Website, Huawei Official Store on Shopee, or the Huawei Flagship Store on Lazada. Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Huawei Official Website, Facebook page, or Instagram.

Business, Contributed

Work With What You’ve Got To Streamline Operations

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This article is contributed by Varinderjit Singh, General Manager at Lenovo Malaysia.

Those of us in the manufacturing industry have already come to terms with a difficult truth: manufacturing output is set to shrink by 3.2% this year. Stringent regulations and decreased consumer demand are proving very trying in a recessionary environment.

And many manufacturers still find themselves short-staffed. They are tasked with doing more with less. Upping output without the talent and financial resources they relied on in the past.

I see only one way forward: doing whatever we possibly can to create a streamlined working environment. Organizations that get hung up on what they don’t have will fall behind. Smart organizations think laterally. They understand that they have the means to effect change on their environments. And that seemingly small changes quickly add up.

Creating a streamlined, productive environment is the way forward. Increasing operational efficiency has never been as crucial as it is at this moment in time. Organizations that take action to create this kind of environment now will reap the rewards and come out stronger.

The three building blocks of an efficient environment

1.    Making the most of your assets with IT and OT convergence

As a reminder, IT is Information Technology, tools that process data. OT is Operational Technology, tools for managing physical assets. IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) technology can bring IT and OT together. With IIoT tools like smart sensors, digital twins, and machine learning, physical assets come to life in the IT space. When leadership can see crucial data and insights on how machines are doing, they can ensure that they make the most of them. A great example of a product that can assist with making the most of your assets through IT convergence is the ThinkPad® X1 Carbon Gen 11, powered by Intel® Core™ i5-1335U processor (13th Gen), built for what IT needs and users want.

Lenovo byline Work with What you Have

Utility consumption monitoring is a great example of the benefits of converged IT and OT. Electricity, water, and gas make up a significant part of any manufacturer’s budget. Sensors on the factory floor can detect when a process consumes more power than necessary. This data is then acted on in real time – and the process is automatically adjusted until it’s optimal. For example, temperature and water use can automatically be controlled to create an environment that supports efficient energy use. Where equipment needs to be warmer to operate, they can automatically be switched on when the time’s exactly right – eliminating the wastage that comes with guessing the wrong timing. Sensors that detect compressed-air leaks allows leadership to act before more energy goes to waste.

The cumulative savings tend to make a profound difference to utility bills. Even better: IIoT helps manufacturers get closer to their ESG goals and safeguard the environment.

2. Staying a step ahead with predictive maintenance

The technological advances in predictive maintenance are some of the most exciting I’ve seen in my career. Instead of waiting for machines to break down, we can now proactively prevent them from reaching a state of disrepair. There’s now no reason for manufacturers to be wrong-footed by ‘cranky’ or ‘moody’ machinery.

In order to reap the benefits of predictive maintenance, manufacturers need to have the right solutions in place. High-quality sensors, reliable and fast connectivity, and servers that can process asset data and allow it to be analyzed, fast.

Naturally, I’m a big advocate of Lenovo’s ThinkEdge servers, powered by Intel® and enabled by AI. These servers have the processing power required to make quick work of asset data. They are rugged and sturdy and can withstand extreme temperatures, dust, and vibration. My clients store these servers on the floor, close to where data is generated. This reduces latency between data collection and a resulting insight – allowing leadership to act fast when an AI alerts them of a potential issue or a worrisome trend.

3. Keep quality high with virtual inspection

In manufacturing, high-quality products are what we live for, and inspection is a crucial process for any manufacturer. More and more, I’m seeing manual quality assurance become a thing of the past.

Continuous, virtual inspection means that manufacturers can track every process, part, and final product. If a quality issue arises on the floor, IIoT technology means that a real-time notification will trigger necessary corrective actions for related processes or down-the-line tasks – including dynamically adjusting product runs.

This kind of intelligent inspection leads to time and money saved. Fixing potential issues before they lead to defective products is obviously much less costly than tossing out goods that are not up to standard. But it’s more than that: a smart factory floor with integrated IT and OT means that AI is continuously learning to improve and streamline processes. This allows manufacturers to create products they can be proud of, keeping their customer experiences high while boosting their productivity. It’s a win-win.

Computers, News

Lenovo’s ThinkPad & ThinkBook Laptops Get Infused with AI Technology

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Lenovo is showing off its latest line up of laptops at MWC 2024! The new laptops come equipped with Intel’s latest generation Core Ultra processors which not only promise top notch performance but also long battery life. The newly refreshed Lenovo ThinkPad T Series, the Think Pad X12 and the ThinkBook 14 are bringing more than just a hardware refresh this year. Together with an updated CPUs, it’s going to be coming with a whole slew of AI-powered features that will utilise the dedicated NPU in Intel’s new Core Ultra processors.

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Lenovo ThinkPad T Series

The ThinkPad T series will be coming with new entries into the ThinkPad T14, T14s and T16 lineups. These laptops are built for business users who are looking for reliable, durable devices with some of the latest features for enhanced productivity. The new updates come with a Communications Bar which houses a 5-megapixel webcam and microphones. These laptops also adopt a simple one-handed lip for easy opening and closing of the device. The laptops will also make things a little more accessible with tactile markings making it easier for the visually impaired to navigate the keyboard. These markings were first introduced with the ThinkPad X1 Carbon 2-in-1 Gen 9 and the X1 Carbon Gen 12.

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Repairability and sustainability have become core tenets of Lenovo’s product lineup. The new ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 and T16 Gen 3 have been designed to be repair-friendly. Lenovo did this with insights from iFixit Solutions team. These laptops feature a battery without cable connectors, a fully socketed DIMM design and replaceable SSD and WWAN cards. The laptops also have visual indicators to ease the repair process.

Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2 & ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4

The Lenovo ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2 is designed to be a sleek productivity partner for life on the move. With a durable 3:2 display, powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra U series processors and an integrated AI engine, it effortlessly adapts to your needs. With up to 32GB Dual Channel LPDDR5x memory, multitasking becomes a breeze. The detachable folio keyboard, three-button TrackPad, and optional magnetic pen enhance versatility for professionals on the go. It comes with a 5-megapixel camera with an Infrared sensor that allows you to sign in to Windows with Windows Hello and an 8MP World-facing camera so you can capture and scan documents. It also comes with CAT16 4G WWAN support.

Lenovo’s ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 redefines portable computing with its sleek design and intelligent features. The innovative drop hinge design, measuring just 16.85mm in thickness and weighing 1.64kg, sets a new standard for portability. The 14-inch display, with a four-side narrow bezel, achieves an impressive 90% screen-to-body ratio, delivering an immersive visual experience. Enhancements like a 1.5mm key travel on the keyboard and a glass-like Mylar touchpad contribute to comfortable and precise user interaction. The Magnetic Slim Pen adds a touch of convenience, while security features like the Match-on-Chip fingerprint reader and optional Infrared camera ensure data safety. Intelligent computing is at the forefront with features like Smart Power for balanced performance and Smart Meeting for improved conferencing. Lenovo’s commitment to sustainability is evident through the use of recycled aluminium and Post Consumer Content plastic materials. The ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4 seamlessly blends powerful performance with a thoughtful and eco-friendly design.

AI-Imbued for Maximum Battery Life and Productivity

Powered by the latest Intel Core Ultra processors and equipped with Windows 11, these laptops create an advanced AI ecosystem. They prioritize security, energy efficiency, and immersive user experiences, seamlessly integrating with a variety of software applications leveraging dedicated AI acceleration support. Notable features include Copilot in Windows and a physical Copilot key, optimizing daily tasks for unparalleled ease and speed.

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This marks a significant step in the AI PC revolution, showcasing Lenovo’s commitment to delivering tailored AI solutions. The laptops redefine personalized PC experiences, elevating collaboration, customer interactions, and data analysis. With AI-enabled software tools, these ThinkPad and ThinkBook laptops set a new standard, enhancing creativity and efficiency across diverse workflows. Lenovo’s innovation reflects a transformative approach, ushering in a new era of intelligent and engaging computing solutions.

Pricing & Availability

The new slate of Lenovo laptops will be available starting from March 2024. The ThinkPad T14 will also be available with AMD’s Ryzen 8040 series processors with Ryzen AI.

ModelAvailabilityStarting Price (USD$)Starting Price (RM)*
ThinkPad T14 i Gen 5Starting April 2024$1,199RM5,727.51
ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 AMDStarting May 2024$949RM4,533.28
ThinkPad T14s Gen 5Starting April 2024$1,399RM6,683.13
ThinkPad T16 Gen 3Starting April 2024$1,219RM5,823.25
ThinkPad X12 Detachable Gen 2Starting April 2024$1,399RM6,683.13
ThinkBook 14 2-in-1 Gen 4Starting March 2024$1,169RM5,584.40
*Pricing in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) is estimated based on conversion rates on XE.com on 26 February 2024 [USD$1 : RM4.7771]
First Look, Unboxing, Video

Acer Swift X 14 First Look & Unboxing

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Transcript

Acer’s Swift series has always been about being thin and light. Just recently, however, that formula is getting a supercharge with the Swift X lineup. The new Swift X series is marrying both portability and performance. You know the saying “X marks the spot”? Well, that might just be the case with this laptop.

So, the Acer Swift X 14 is a laptop that is bringing performance to the thin and light form factor. It’s not a brand new concept to Acer, in fact, this particular version is a refresh of the first-ever Swift X.

This version comes with a 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i7-13700H with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. It’s also got an NVIDIA RTX4050 Laptop GPU. This setup gives it enough power to do everyday computing tasks like Word processing, excel, PowerPoint without hassle.

Let’s not be coy about it, it’ll power through those tasks and then some. But where it will shine is when you jump into creative work like video editing, using the Adobe Suite or even rendering things on apps like Blender or AutoCAD. Thanks to the RTX4050 Laptop GPU inside, it’s able to run these graphically intense tasks smoothly. You’ll also be able to take advantage of things like DLSS and RayTracing. Another plus is that this laptop comes with NVIDIA® Studio drivers which provides more stability and access to tools that will make content creation easier.

Of course, the GPU and processor are nothing if you don’t have the correct display to use it with. This laptop has one of the best OLED displays I’ve seen on a laptop. The screen is a 14-inch 2.8K OLED with a 120Hz refresh rate. It’s also colour accurate with a 100% coverage of the DCI-P3 colour gamut and it also has a VESA DisplayHDR True Black 500 certification.

I know that seems like a lot of jargon. But essentially, what it means, is that the screen can produce deep blacks. On top of that, it will be able to reproduce colour more accurately and on a wider spectrum making it perfect for people who create content.

Of course, when it comes to content creation, we need our ports. The Swift X 14 has a full array of ports despite its thin form factor. It comes with two  USB-C ports that support charging, it charges at 5V; and 3A. So, you should be able to charge it with a 65W GaN charger in a pinch. Additionally, Thunderbolt 4 also supports high-resolution displays and up to 40Gbps high-speed data transfer.

When it comes to wireless connectivity the laptop supports WiFi 6E which should give you ample speed for uploading and working off the cloud. It’s also got Bluetooth 5.1 for fast file transfers or even connecting wirelessly to your smartphone or noise-cancelling headphones. It also comes with an FHD Webcam with Temporal Noise Reduction for your video conferences and presentations.

Acer claims that it has up to 10 hours of battery life on a single charge. Now we’ve got the specs out of the way, let’s talk about the build. It’s clearly a very pretty laptop. I’m definitely a fan of the finish Acer has given this laptop. It feels premium and sturdy. The aluminium chassis is definitely a plus here.

But one thing that I like about this off the bat, is that the premium feel of the laptop is also thanks to a significant amount of recycled materials being incorporated into the laptop.

And that’s the Acer Swift X 14. What are your thoughts on this laptop? Let us know in the comments below.

Business, Contributed

Increase Productivity for Production and Manufacturing Processes

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This article is contributed by Varinderjit Singh, General Manager at Lenovo Malaysia

Production and manufacturing processes are becoming more complex and demanding as customers expect higher quality, lower cost, and faster delivery of products. To meet these challenges, manufacturers need to leverage the power of advanced technologies, such as high-performance computing (HPC), artificial intelligence (AI), and spatial computing. In this article, we will explore how a workstation can increase productivity for production and manufacturing processes by using spatial computing solutions, data science and client AI solutions, NVIDIA Omniverse, and remote workstation solutions. Examples of noteworthy workstation options include the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G2, Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tower and the Lenovo ThinkStation P620 Tower operating on Windows 11 Pro. Use Windows 11 Pro for Workstations to blaze through workloads with lag-free multitasking across your most demanding applications.

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Spatial Computing Solutions

Spatial computing is a technology that can digitize the spatial relationships between machines, people, objects, and environments, and enable and optimize their operations and interactions. Spatial computing can help manufacturers with product design, quality control, safety, and efficiency. For example, spatial computing can enable digital twins, which are virtual replicas of physical assets or processes that can be used for simulation, testing, and optimization. Spatial computing can also facilitate augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications, which can enhance the visualization and collaboration of design and engineering teams, as well as provide immersive training and guidance for workers. A workstation that can handle spatial computing tasks should have a powerful GPU, a large memory, and a high-resolution display. A possible choice is the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Mobile Workstation, which has an NVIDIA® RTX 5000 Ada graphics card, an Intel® Core™ i9-13950HX processor, and up to 192GB of memory.

Data Science and Client AI Solutions

Data science and client AI solutions can help manufacturers analyze and utilize the vast amounts of data generated by production and manufacturing processes, such as sensor data, quality data, customer data, and market data. Data science and client AI solutions can help manufacturers with demand forecasting, inventory management, process optimization, anomaly detection, predictive maintenance, and customer satisfaction. For example, data science and client AI solutions can help manufacturers create and fine-tune foundation models, which are large and versatile AI models that can perform multiple tasks, such as natural language processing, computer vision, speech recognition, and more. Data science and client AI solutions can also help manufacturers interact with and explore data through conversational interfaces, visualizations, and summarizations. A workstation that can handle data science and client AI tasks should have a fast and reliable processor, a large and expandable memory, and a flexible and scalable storage system. A possible choice is the Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tower Workstation, which has a 13th Gen Intel® Core™ processor, up to 128GB of memory, and up to 32TB of storage.

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NVIDIA Omniverse

NVIDIA Omniverse is a platform that enables the creation and operation of complex, AI-enabled virtual environments, or digital twins, for factory and warehouse design. These virtual replicas facilitate real-time collaboration among teams and are the key to unleashing operational efficiencies with predictive analysis and process automation. NVIDIA Omniverse allows manufacturers to import and export data from various sources, such as CAD tools, simulation software, and IoT devices, and create realistic and interactive simulations of production and manufacturing scenarios. NVIDIA Omniverse also supports ray tracing, physics, and sound rendering, which can enhance the quality and realism of the virtual environments. A workstation that can handle NVIDIA Omniverse tasks should have a powerful graphics card, a high-performance CPU, and a large memory. A possible choice is the Lenovo ThinkStation P620 Tower Workstation, which has up to 64 cores CPU, a 10Gb Ethernet port, and plenty of storage capabilities.

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Remote Workstation Solutions

Remote workstation solutions can help manufacturers access their physical workstations from virtually anywhere with rich graphics acceleration via leading remote visualization tools. Remote workstation solutions can help manufacturers with remote design, engineering, and collaboration, as well as reduce the cost and maintenance of physical workstations. Remote workstation solutions can also provide security and compliance features, such as encryption, authentication, and auditing. A workstation that can handle remote workstation tasks should have a low-latency frame encode, accelerated desktop capture, headless graphics support, and leading pro-ISV certifications, like the majority of the Workstations from Lenovo. The Lenovo remote TGX solution is the best way to connect to your Workstation cluster from anywhere in the world.

Wrap up

A workstation can increase productivity for production and manufacturing processes by using various technologies, such as spatial computing, data science and client AI, NVIDIA Omniverse, and remote workstation solutions. These technologies can help manufacturers improve their design, engineering, simulation, production, and collaboration workflows, as well as reduce their costs, risks, and environmental impact. A workstation that can support these technologies should have a combination of hardware and software features, such as a powerful GPU, a fast CPU, large memory, flexible storage, and a reliable network. Lenovo offers a range of workstation solutions that can meet the needs of different production and manufacturing scenarios, such as the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Intel (16″) Mobile Workstation, the Lenovo ThinkStation P3 Tower Workstation, the Lenovo ThinkStation P620 Tower Workstation, and the TGX Remote Workstation.

Computers, News

Acer Brings A New Generation of the Ultra Portable Swift Go 14 to Malaysia

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Acer’s Swift Series is expanding yet again with a new generation of the ultra-portable Swift Go 14. The latest entry into the Swift series comes equipped with the latest generation of Intel Ultra processors and a bevvy of cutting-edge AI-centric features.

The new Acer Swift Go 14 comes with the latest and greatest from Intel. Sporting either an Intel Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 5, the laptop is leveraging Intel’s AI Boost to unlock its AI-powered resources. The new processors from Intel also come with enhanced power efficiency. Intel’s Unison technology also allows the laptop to work seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices with integrated experiences for things like file transfers, calling, messaging and device management through a single interface.

Acer is also bringing a QHD 1440p webcam to the laptop. The hardware is complemented by Acer’s own AI powered features such as Acer PurifiedVoice and PurifiedView. The former eliminates background noises and focuses on the person in front of the camera. PurifiedView helps keep the focus on the presenter by blurring the background, keeping them in frame and corrects their gaze to ensure that they appear engaged. Acer is also introducing a new feature called AlterView that uses AI-generated depth maps to convert 2D images into animated wallpapers with 3D effects.

The Acer Swift Go 14 comes with a larger touchpad. Of course, it goes without saying that the touchpad is made of OceanGlass which utilises ocean bound plastics keeping them out of our waterways. AcerSense is also integrated with a dedicated button that allows users to access and manage performance, laptop maintenance and personalise their experiences.

Swift Go 14 Ai Pc PR Banner

In addition to the Intel Core Ultra processors, the Acer Swift Go 14 comes with 16GB of RAM and up to 1TB of internal storage. It comes with two USB-C ports that support fast charging of up to 100W. There is also an HDMI 2.1 and a microSD card slot. It also supports WiFi 6E, and Bluetooth LE Audio.

Pricing & Availability

The Acer Swift Go 14 is available in Malaysia through retailers and the Acer online store. It will be available in two variants. The Swift Go 14 with the Intel Core Ultra 5, 512GB of internal storage and 16GB of RAM is priced at RM3,599. The version with Intel Core Ultra 7, 1TB of internal storage and 16GB of RAM is priced RM4,299.

Computers, News

Dell’s XPS Line-Up Refreshed with Focus on AI

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Dell’s XPS lineup has been at the forefront of the company’s portfolio for the better part of two decades. The line has always been about pushing boundaries when it comes to performance, work and design. This year is no different, the XPS lineup continues its legacy as one of the best laptops that Dell has to offer.

XPS Expanded and Better than Ever

The new Dell XPS line is expanded. Where we had the XPS and XPS 15, there are now 3 entries: the XPS 13, XPS 14 and the XPS 16. Each laptop takes Dell’s thin and light flagship and caters it to different needs. However, they do share a similar design – one that Dell debuted with the XPS 13 Plus. The sleek design consists of tone-on-tone colours and CNC-machined aluminium. The biggest change is the inclusion of touch-enabled function buttons which line the top of the haptic trackpad. These buttons seamlessly switch between media and function keys when needed. The keyboard on the laptops is also larger with larger keycaps for a more coherent and comfortable typing experience.

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Source: Dell Technologies

The XPS lineup continues to feature the InfinityEdge panels with options for OLED touch, variable refresh rate and high resolution. This year brings improvements to the audio experience with a new quad speaker design that supports Dolby Atmos, and 3D stereo surround from MaxxAudio Pro by Waves. The XPS lineup will also feature a 1080p FHD webcam.

New Intel Processors with a Focus on Bringing AI Mainstream

The New XPS lineup will be coming fully equipped with the latest Intel Core Ultra processors. These processors features an additional NPU (neural processing unit) that Dell is leveraging to bring impactful AI-powered features to its XPS line up. That isn’t the only thing that’s changing with the NPU; these laptops will be able to leverage the NPU to speed up features that rely on AI. This also frees up CPU and GPU resources which can be better mobilised to undertake non-AI focused tasks.

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Source: Dell Technologies
Dell XPS CES 2024 3
Source: Dell Technologies

In addition, the XPS line up will be coming with configurations supporting the Intel Core Ultra 7 on the Dell XPS 13 and XPS 14. While the XPS 16 supports configurations with up to the Intel Core Ultra 9. These configurations are supplemented with up to 64GB of RAM across the board and up to 4TB of PCIe 4 SSD memory. This combination alone should give you enough performance on the go for most tasks.

The XPS 14 and XPS 16, however, come with NVIDIA’s RTX Studio certification. The XPS 14 comes with a configuration supporting the NVIDIA RTX 4050. On the other hand, the XPS 16 continues to be the powerhouse of the line up with configurations supporting the RTX 4060 and RTX 4080 as well as the RTX 4050. These laptops come with support for NVIDIA’s Studio drivers out of the box and are primed for content creation on the go. They can even handle 3D rendering when you’re out and about.

Specc’d to Kill

The XPS series continues its legacy of being a top performer with more than just processors though. The line up comes with a bevvy of displays including high resolution touch displays. The XPS 13 caps out at a 3K OLED touch display while the XPS 14 pushes the boundaries a little bit more with a 3.2K OLED touch display. The XPS 16, on the other hand, caps out at a 4K OLED touch display.

Dell XPS CES 2024
Source: Dell Technologies

Of course, connectivity on the go is important for the XPS line up. Dell has decided to leverage WiFi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 on the XPS 13 and XPS 16 while the XPS 14 has WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.

Pricing & Availability

The XPS lineup will be available starting in Q1 2024. Malaysia, in particular, will see the laptops in stores starting end of February 2024.

ModelBase SpecificationsPricing (US)Pricing (MY)
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Computers, Reviews

Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i Carbon (GEN 8) In-Depth Review: Putting the Light in Thin & Light

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Lenovo’s YOGA lineup has always been one where innovation takes the centerstage. Having already changed the way we use our laptops with multimode laptops nearly a decade ago, the company is still turning up the volume when it comes to laptops in the lineup. From design to functionality, the YOGA series of laptops is keeping us on the edge.

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The new YOGA Slim 7i Carbon is in a league of its own when it comes down to it. Well, not exactly on its own. Only because it’s bringing some of the killer features from Lenovo’s ThinkPad line to the YOGA series. The YOGA Slim 7i brings the durability of the ThinkPad X1 Carbon to a more affordable price point and it also brings some of the most striking design cues we’ve seen in the YOGA Slim to date.

But, we’re not here for all the dancing lights and fancy features. We’re looking to answer the questions: “Is this laptop worth the money?”, “Does it have the features you need for productivity?”, “Can it serve my needs?”. You’ll have to keep reading to find out in our in-depth review of the Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i Carbon.

Design

Let’s not beat around the bush, if anything, the Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Carbon lives up to its name. It’s one of the slimmest laptops available on the market right now. Coming in at only 14.25mm thick. Together with its 0.966 kg weight, the laptop is the epitome of thin and light.

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It’s also the sleekest when it comes to design. Lenovo has opted to mellow out the hard edges of the YOGA lineup with sleek, curved lines that bring a softness to the laptop lineup. With premium carbon fibre build – yes, that’s where the “Carbon” comes from – the laptop isn’t sacrificing anything to become the thinnest YOGA to date.

The YOGA Slim 7i Carbon isn’t sacrificing sturdiness with its carbon fibre build. The laptop can take a beating – of course, we don’t recommend it. It does come with MIL-STD810H certification which means that you can actually toss it around without damaging it much. The laptop is also pretty dense, it feels a lot heavier than it is. This and the build quality make the Slim 7i a go-to for those needing a thin and light option.

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The laptop comes in a stunning white finish. One that left us gawking at it for a good long few minutes. The sleek, slender build is accentuated by the glowing Moon White colourway. You get to experience the Slim 7i in all its glory complete with Intel IRIS Xe Graphi and a comparatively compact power bring. However, it’ll be nice to see this get pushed a bit harder when it comes to graphical prowess.

Hardware

The Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i isn’t just about the aesthetics, it’s built for productivity. To achieve this, Lenovo has packed the laptop with insides that put productivity first without sacrificing aesthetics.

Specifications

LENOVO YOGA SLIM 7i CARBONAs tested
Processor (clock)Intel® Core™ i7-1360P processor 2.80 GHz quad-core with Turbo Boost (up to 4.70GHz) and 12MB cache
GPUIntel® Iris® Xe Graphics
Display13.3″ IPS 2.5K (2560 x 1600) 90Hz, 16:10 400 nits, ΔE<1 (Average) Hardware-calibrated 100% sRGB Dolby Vision® TÜV Low Blue Light Certification Matte
MemoryRAM: 16 GB 4800 MHz,  Dual Channel, On-board memory: 512GB PCIe 4.0 M.2 SSD
Networking and ConnectionsIntel WiFi 6E Bluetooth 5.1   1Thunderbolt™ 4 USB-C® 1 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C
Audio Combo Jack
Battery50Wh lithium-polymer battery Up to 10 hours of battery life   65W Type-C power adapter
Operating SystemWindows 11 Pro 64-bit
MiscellaneousHD camera IR Camera Camera Shutter Backlit Keyboard 2 x 2W Harman Kardon® Speakers Dolby Atmos® Audio
Dual Microphones DisplayPort over USB-C Thunderbolt 4
MIL-STD 810H Certified

Features

It would seem like the only highlight of the Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i is its design and build. However, Lenovo did spend some time bringing features that complement the lightweight productivity house. It comes with features like Lenovo AI+ that give it a mind of its own and seamlessly optimises the laptop in the background for the best performance and battery life.

Built for Wireless Work

Lenovo’s YOGA Slim 7i is undoubtedly built for working from anywhere. It’s thin and light and is equipped with all the essentials you’ll need for a nomadic life. It supports WiFi 6E for high-speed wireless internet. WiFi 6E is a step above WiFi 6 in that it provides a larger number of bands for higher data transfer speeds.

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Complementing this is Bluetooth 5.1 which allows you to connect to a myriad of accessories. Mouses, keyboards or even your phone for wireless connectivity or to utilise Windows features like Phone Link. Phone Link is perhaps one of the best Windows complements to Bluetooth 5.1. It allows you to seamlessly message, use apps and even view pictures on your connected device.

Together with these, the laptop comes with an HD webcam for online meetings over Zoom or Microsoft Teams. The dual mics complement the camera with intelligent noise cancellation and crisp sound.

Lenovo AI Engine+

AI’s the word when it comes to laptops this year and beyond. With more companies integrating some form of AI automation and sensing to help users draw the most from their laptops. Lenovo’s AI Engine+ is the latest generation of AI automation to come to Lenovo laptops.

The AI Engine+ will keep an eye on your computer’s performance for you. It will intelligently optimize the settings on your laptop to make sure you get the best performance regardless of your battery level. In fact, this engine may be the reason behind the long battery life of the YOGA Slim 7i.

It may seem like a small thing to talk about, but these optimisations are key to having the best experience possible. Of course, it does come with a few quirks like sudden changes in screen brightness as it optimises your settings. That said, it’s a small trade-off for the extended battery life of the laptop.

Lenovo’s AI Engine+ is also behind some of the privacy features that come with the Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i Carbon. It uses things like the HD webcam and the IR camera to detect if you’re in front of the laptop. If you’re not, it will automatically lock your laptop to protect your data.

Light Weight Durability

Of course, the hallmark of the Lenovo Slim 7i is the durability that the carbon fibre brings to the laptop. The choice of materials allows you some peace of mind when carrying the laptop around as you go about business. It’s also lightweight, a very welcomed feature when it comes to people who work on the go as we don’t end up sacrificing our backs with the hefty laptops that are usually around.

The lightweight durability of the laptop is complemented by a flexible hinge that is able to give up to 180° of articulation. This means you’ll be able to lay the laptop absolutely flat if you ever need to. Of course, it goes without saying that this isn’t a multimode laptop so, please don’t go overextending this hinge… It will break!

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Slim 7i isn’t a slouch. While it’s not going to give your gaming laptops a run for their money, it’s packed with enough power to cater to larger workloads. With Intel’s 13th Generation i7 processor, the laptop can handle a little bit of heavy lifting. That said, it may not be able to handle things like video editing without breaking a sweat.

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During our review period with the Slim 7i, we were pushing the limits a little bit. Since the laptop was my personal on-the-go rig, I inevitably ended up using it for simple video edits and photo editing. While video editing on programs like Capcut, there were no issues with the laptop at all. However, heavier editing even on programs like Adobe Rush bogged the system down severely. Of course, this would be highly dependent on the resolution you’re editing in. During this period, I was primarily editing with source footage being either 1080p or 4K. The latter made the laptop struggle for its life. 100% would not recommend the workload – no cap.

However, with photos the laptop was able to cope pretty well. It was able to use a good selection of apps from the built-in Windows Photos app to Adobe Lightroom and even Adobe Photoshop without much hassle. It goes without saying that apps like Canva and Adobe Express have no issues running at all.

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Web browsing and multitasking were not much of an issue with the Slim 7i. I was able to use my Mozilla Firefox browser with about 30 tabs before it started bogging down the system noticeably. With Google Chrome it was affected with about 20 tabs open. That said, not many of us will have that many tabs open at once. Working on Excel sheets, PowerPoint and word processing is a breeze on the laptop.

If you really want to, you’ll be able to get away with gaming on the YOGA Slim 7i. It will be able to handle light games like Lords of Water Deep or even This War of Mine should run without issue. I was able to play Final Fantasy VIII remastered without much issue. However, don’t expect the laptop to be able to handle games like No Man’s Sky.

Battery life on the 7i Carbon is very, very, very good. On a regular day with simple word processing, emails and browsing, I was able to get at least 8 hours of battery life easily. With heavier workloads, the battery life dwindled to about 5 hours. However, it was easy to top up the charge with a GaN charger even when the original charger wasn’t around thanks to USB-PD.

Display

The 2.5K resolution display of the laptop is a highlight no matter how you slice it. The screen is vibrant with accurate colour reproduction. But, more importantly, it gives you sizeable pixel real estate to multitask. Of course, this will be limited by your eye’s health thanks to the smaller 13.3-inch size.

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That said, thanks to low blue light emittance, I found my eyes less strained. I also set the display size to about 125% so that it was more legible. However, thanks to the number of pixels, I was able to read more at a glance. This made reading and writing a tad bit easier. Editing videos and photos was also easier to do thanks to the colour calibration of the laptops.

Where the display really shone was when used to view videos. The deep blacks and vibrant colours allow for a really immersive experience second only to a proper OLED TV. The display was, of course, complemented by the Harman Kardon speakers that come built-in for a commendable sound experience.

Thin and Light Never Looked So Good

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The Lenovo YOGA Slim 7i is a contender for anyone looking for a thin and light laptop. Especially if you’re looking for a light laptop. The carbon fibre used in its build lends itself to the overall reduction of weight which many other laptops are undoubtedly going to vie for. However, it doesn’t compromise on durability. It comes with a dense, sturdy overall build with insides that cater to nearly all workloads. It’s also a real looker when it comes to design.