Technology

• Buffalo Skeleton Hard Disk turns file storage into living, moving art
• Want to see your data being read in real-time? This drive delivers it visually
• Not just storage, it’s a show - only 50 units available

To mark its 50th anniversary, Buffalo has introduced a special edition external HDD dubbed the Skeleton Hard Disk (HD-SKL). This drive reimagines the company’s 1998 skeleton model and offers a rare peek into a hard drive in action - something even the best SSD options can’t provide.

Through its transparent window, users can watch the magnetic head move as it reads and writes data, enhanced by a companion Windows app called "SeekWizard."

The software allows the drive to perform demonstration seek patterns - such as sequential and random seeks - transforming the HDD into a visual showcase of mechanical data retrieval.

A special edition to bring back memories

Founded in 1975 by Makoto Maki, Buffalo is celebrating its evolution from an audio-focused firm to a major player in PC peripherals. Its original Skeleton Hard Disk, released in 1998, had a 4.3GB capacity and featured a transparent cover.

The 2025 special edition is limited to just 50 units, and while the design nods to nostalgia, the HD-SKL features a high-end aluminum chassis, precisely milled and anodized in matte black, echoing the style of the 3533 yarn drive player Buffalo launched in the late 1970s.

Inside, the HD-SKL offers 4TB of storage and connects via USB 3.2 Gen 1, with backward compatibility down to USB 2.0. It also supports the Micro-B port.

The drive comes preformatted in exFAT for broad operating system support, though USB-C users will need to supply their own adapter.

Weighing around 1.5kg and measuring 126 × 185 × 115 mm, it’s bulkier than today’s sleek portable SSDs - but its appeal is clearly different.

The product is scheduled to ship in June 2025 for at 100,000 yen (about $688) following a lottery-based sale ending May 25.

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• QNX report claims robotics market will more than triple by 2030
• Automation and production are the most common applications
• Despite safety improvements, many report having experienced safety issues

New research from QNX claims over three-quarters (77%) of global tech leaders trust robotics for essential workplace functions, and the future of the workplace could soon be more automated.

The report predicts one-fifth of the workforce could be automated via robotics within the next decade, with 71% of organizations already using or planning to adopt robotics soon.

As a result, the global robotics market is projected to grow to $163.9 billion by the end of this decade, up from $51 billion in 2024.

Your job might soon involve more robotics

The report added managers note safety and risk mitigation and reliability and performance as key drivers of trust in robotics, with automation emerging as the most common use case (50%), next to production (46%), support (36%) and high-risk tasks (28%).

However, QNX highlighted varying levels of comfort for executives working alongside robots.

Assembly (77%), material handling (73%) and logistics/delivery (70%) are areas where managers are happy to introduce automation, however fewer are comfortable with robotics in medical procedures (51%), customer service (55%) and maintenance (63%).

Additionally, one in three (32%) say that workplaces are not prepared for robotics, with 29% having already experienced a robotics-related safety incident. Three in five (58%) also expressed security concerns.

"Trust is fragile and can easily be broken if robotics are built and deployed without the necessary foundational software to make them performant, safe, secure and reliable," explained QNX VP of General Embedded Markets Jim Hirsch.

However, despite the hesitation, it's clear there's a hunger for more robotics adoption, with 90% noting advancements in technology and 86% adding that improved safety are driving them forward.

Looking ahead, and with artificial intelligence already teaching us lessons about mixing new technologies with humans, 92% feel that employees need to be involved in discussions surrounding robotics integration.

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Here are hints and the answer for today's Wordle No. 1,418 for May 7.

Hints and answers for Connections for May 7, #696.

• Off-road giant Jeep wants to continue growing in Europe
• Gas-guzzling SUVs have been replaced by hybrid and electric
• New Compass is set to be the most capable car in its class

Despite Jeep being about as American as peanut-butter-and-jelly sandwiches, the Stellantis-owned manufacturer is making waves in Europe with its line-up of electrified SUVs.

The smaller Avenger model, which is available in fully electric, hybrid and petrol versions, has already proven a success story, blending the brand’s renowned off-road prowess with a compact and practical everyday crossover vehicle.

Now the new Compass hopes to build on these successes with all-new looks and a highly electrified selection of powertrains. It will compete in the growing C-SUV segment in Europe, which Autocar claims is expected to be 90% electrified by the end of 2026.

Turning its back on the gas-guzzling image that chunky models like the Wrangler and Gladiator bring to mind, the new Compass is built on the same Stellantis STLA Medium architecture as Peugeot, Vauxhall and Citroen mid-sized SUVs – many of which sport highly electrified powertrains.

The combustion-powered Compass will have the option of "mild hybrid" and plug-in variants, which predominantly use the engine to power the car but either increases overall efficiency (mild hybrid) or adds all-electric driving options for a short distance (plug-in).

But Jeep says the pure electric version comes with either a 211bhp or 229bhp motor mounted to the front axle, offering 311 miles of range from a smaller 73kWh battery or up to 404 miles from a range-topping 96kWh pack.

(Image credit: Jeep)

The most expensive all-electric models, badged 4xe, arrive with an additional motor on the rear axle, delivering Jeep’s famous Selec-Terrain all-wheel-drive and offering up to 370bhp and a staggering 3100Nm available at the rear wheels thanks to a 14:1 rear reducer.

This allows the Compass to climb a 20% slope, Jeep says, even with zero traction on the front wheels, as the sheer grunt from the rear wheels can handle the heavy lifting.

Charging rates are up to 160kW, allowing for a 10-to-80% recharge in 30 minutes, and the battery electric range is touted to be in excess of 400 miles.

The 4xe model also receives improved ground clearance thanks to a 100mm increase in suspension height and a number of off-road-specific touches, such as knobbly tires and a more aggressive, scuff-resistant body kit.

First Edition versions of the Compass, which feature all of the previously mentioned range-topping kit, are available to order now, with first deliveries expected at the end of the year in Europe. Further markets are expected to follow suit thereafter.

Tough cars are the toughest sell

(Image credit: Jeep)

Most automakers are having a rough time getting onboard with the electric revolution, not only persuading customers that it is a good idea, but also making the entire expensive endeavor profitable.

However, there are a number of brands that will naturally find it harder than most, with Jeep mentioned in the same breath as Ferrari, Lamborghini and a handful of performance car-makers struggling to convince customers that electrification is the answer.

After all, Jeep has forged a reputation over the past 80 years for producing highly capable, combustion-powered off-roaders that can go anywhere.

By its very nature, the electric vehicle can’t exactly “go anywhere”. Well, not until someone invents a Jerry Can-sized portable battery that’s capable of adding at least 300 miles of range and can be topped up in a matter of minutes from any, easily accessible charging station.

But Jeep knows that the only way to make money is to chase the most popular sectors, with the Avenger already proving a sales success in the compact SUV sector, shifting more than 2.5 million units worldwide.

The company hopes it will achieve similar results with Compass in Europe and further afield.

Although reassuring the North American market that battery electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains are a good alternative to the 3.6-liter V6 currently found in Gladiator models will be a much tougher task.

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• Puget System reveals 5-node 6U Rackstation for creative and testing workflows
• Each chassis packs five systems with up to 192GB RAM capacity
• Supports Ryzen 9000 and unreleased Zen 5-based EPYC 4005 processors

Puget Systems has announced a new 5-Node 6U Rackstation built with game developers in mind. The new 5-Node 6U Rackstation reportedly offers an efficient, space-saving solution for studios needing flexible and powerful systems.

Each chassis fits five individual workstations in the footprint of a large desktop, with up to 35 systems in a standard 42U rack.

What’s interesting is that if you click here you’ll see the Ryzen 5-Node R550-6U entry in the middle of the page. Underneath this, it lists the AMD options - Ryzen 9000 and EPYC 4005.

EPYC 4005

Puget notes, “It can also be a great solution for multi-screen installations, saving space compared to five desktop towers or even 2U / 3U size systems.”

Designed for tasks like 3D modeling or automated testing, each node supports the latest Ryzen CPUs (more on that in a minute) and top-tier GPUs. Nodes are individually serviceable, allowing for minimal downtime.

Puget says artists can access systems remotely through tools like Parsec, while QA teams benefit from a versatile testbed. This setup gives teams more performance per rack without sacrificing flexibility or ease of management.

The Zen 5-based EPYC 4005, codenamed Grado, is the follow-up to last year’s Raphael-based EPYC 4004 processors (AM5).

We’ve seen leaks mentioning it before, as Tom’s Hardware notes, “Manufacturers are already preparing their motherboards for support,” and other leakers have uncovered references to it elsewhere, but it’s interesting to see it officially making an appearance in Puget’s new 5-Node 6U Rackstation.

The entry notes that the Ryzen 5-Node R550-6U has five individual nodes, one GPU, and supports up to 192GB of RAM, but there are no other details regarding the EPYC 4005.

AMD is expected to showcase it at Computex 2025 however, and with that being held from May 20 to May 23, 2025, we don’t have too long to wait.

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• Kingdel PHX18/K3 mini PC design sounds smart, but it's more of a gimmick
• Ryzen chip brings power, but not enough ports to justify its price
• Offers USB4, 8K video and three simultaneously connected displays

Modular computing devices are meant to offer flexibility, but the new Kingdel PHX18/K3 mini PC seems to prioritize form over function.

The device offers respectable performance and some versatility, thanks to its two-piece magnetic design and AMD Ryzen processors. The base model includes an AMD Ryzen 5 6600U, a 6-core chip with integrated Radeon graphics. A more powerful configuration features the Ryzen 7 7840U with RDNA3 graphics.

It comes with up to 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and storage starts with a 512GB NVMe SSD, expandable via a second M.2 slot in the modular base - up to 8TB in total.

Novel modular design, but needs more work

The PHX18/K3 separates the main computing unit from its base, allowing users to run the PC standalone via USB-C or attach the lower section for more ports and additional storage.

While the modular design is novel, it raises questions. Why separate access to key connectors? Even with the base attached, it doesn’t offer much more than most integrated systems. Since the split doesn’t result in major savings or expanded functionality, the design feels like a solution in search of a problem.

Connectivity includes USB4, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, dual 2.5G LAN ports, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. The system supports 8K video output at 60Hz with HDR and can drive up to three displays at once.

That sounds impressive and suggests potential as a compact media or content workstation. But the PHX18/K3 struggles to justify its price. Starting at $329 for a barebones model, it's more expensive than alternatives that offer similar performance with integrated ports.

The device ships with Windows 11 Pro but also supports Linux. It targets business users with niche needs for portability, modularity, and storage expansion.

Outside of those edge cases, though, it's hard to see a compelling reason to choose it over more conventional, better-connected systems at lower prices.

Via Androidpctv

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• Chuwi MiniBook X folds like a tablet, weighs under 1 kg, and still has 12 GB of RAM
• Includes 512 GB user-replaceable SSD - rare for small laptops
• Intel N150 chip limits performance but handles everyday tasks

A new iteration of Chuwi’s MiniBook X, a lightweight 10.5-inch convertible laptop, has been released, bringing back some of the charm once associated with netbooks - tiny, practical, and highly portable.

Powered by an Intel N150 processor paired with 12th Gen Intel UHD Graphics, its performance is limited compared to mainstream CPUs. However, the inclusion of 12GB of DDR5 RAM and a 512GB user-replaceable SSD gives it enough capability for basic computing tasks.

Measuring just 17.2mm thick and weighing 920g, the MiniBook X is a small Windows 11 Home laptop. It features a space gray chassis and a 10.51-inch IPS display with a 1920×1200 resolution and a 16:10 aspect ratio.

A portable laptop for basic tasks

One of the lightest laptops on the market, it features a 360-degree hinge that allows users to fold the screen behind the keyboard for tablet-style use.

It supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax1) and Bluetooth 5.2 and includes two Type-C ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and M.2 expansion slots. However, the absence of USB-A ports may limit compatibility with some accessories.

Power is delivered via USB-C at up to 36W, and the internal battery is rated at nearly 29Wh.

While the processor limits overall performance, the MiniBook X’s compact size, full keyboard, and touchscreen provide flexibility. It may appeal to those looking for a budget-friendly laptop for note-taking and document editing - such as students or mobile professionals.

The MiniBook X is priced at $352 through Chuwi’s online store, but a promotional discount running through May 7, 2025, brings the price down to approximately $314.

Via Notebookcheck

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• Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff claims Microsoft did "horrible things" to Slack before its acquisition
• Benioff accused Microsoft of running its own playbook
• The OpenAI partnership could be turning into a competition

Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff has criticized Microsoft's history with Slack, warning it may repeat its anticompetitive tactics used against the online collaboration platform in its partnership with OpenAI.

Benioff declared Microsoft had done "horrible things" to Slack before Salesforce acquired it in 2020, referring to a "playbook" of things it could reopen to the detriment of OpenAI.

Slack submitted a complaint against Microsoft for its bundling of Teams into the Microsoft 365 suite – which was undone in 2024 – but that clearly hasn't stopped Benioff from wanting to get the last word.

Salesforce's fight with Microsoft continues

Speaking to SaaStr CEO Jason Lemkin in a recent video podcast, Benioff explained: "You can see the horrible things that Microsoft did to Slack before we bought it."

"That was pretty bad and they were running their playbook and did a lot of dark stuff," he added... "That playbook should get ripped up and thrown away."

Benioff also drew parallel to Microsoft's behavior during the 1990s browser wards with Netscape.

He described Microsoft as a "company that wants to own it all, control it all," accusing Nadella's company of snapping up startups and executing its own playbook.

Microsoft's billions of dollars in investment into OpenAI put it in a good place for a partnership to use its GPT models, but more recently, a change to the partnership saw reduced exclusivity rights for Microsoft, which has also allegedly been exploring using different models to power Microsoft 365 Copilot – an unconfirmed move at this stage.

"In the case of OpenAI, a partnership is gonna become a competition," Benioff said.

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I recently had the opportunity to review the flagship model in the Epson’s new ‘Premium Residential’ Q Series of projectors, the QL7000. I had plenty to say in my Epson QL7000 review, but the highlight was undoubtedly its unmatched brightness.

You see, projectors generally provide low brightness compared to the best TVs, and any ambient room light will lessen the dynamic range of pictures, blunting the impact of highlights and raising black levels so that shadows end up lacking detail.

For most owners of the best projectors, watching a movie, TV news and sports means dimming the lights or darkening the room completely.

Home theater enthusiasts go to great lengths to create ‘blackout’ conditions for viewing, painting rooms a dark gray and adding treatments to walls and windows to prevent any stray light from reducing the contrast of the projected image.

Pricier examples of the best 4K projectors such as the JVC DLA-NZ800 and Sony Bravia Projector 8 top out at a relatively modest 2,700 lumens brightness.

The Epson QL7000, in contrast, has a specified 10,000 lumens brightness, a level that you typically see in professional projectors used for large entertainment venues.

Yes, the QL7000 is the brightest projector I’ve ever tested, and by a significant margin, with its projected image easily viewed in daylight. So surely it's a home run, right?

The benefits – and limits – of brightness

The Epson QL7000 (Image credit: Future)

As I noted in my review, “Even when watching in a bright room with light streaming in from windows, the crisp, clear 4K image beamed by the QL7000 had a true window-on-reality quality.”

That’s not something I’ve ever come close to being able to say about any other projector I’ve tested, and the QL7000’s stunning brightness made watching the NBA basketball playoffs on the big screen an incredible treat.

Bright as it may be, the Epson QL7000's black levels and shadow detail came up short in my testing. Although the projector’s powerful brightness elevated its contrast ratio to 68,000:1 (with its laser light output set to 30%) – a great result – shadows lacked the inky quality you can get from top home theater projectors, and that ultimately made movie watching less satisfying than sports viewing.

I haven’t personally reviewed the JVC DLA-NZ800 projector mentioned above. But I have seen it, plus its even more expensive NZ900 big brother demonstrated at trade shows, and the deep, well-defined shadows both models deliver set a very high home theater projector bar.

In TechRadar’s JVC NZ800 review, this section struck me as particularly apt: “Moving on to HDR, the NZ800 proves to be a stellar performer, delivering all the specular highlights of the sun-bleached desert landscapes of Dune Part Two, pulling out every detail in shadows during the nighttime action of The Crow, and reproducing the rich and saturated colours of La La Land, helping to replicate the Technicolor musicals to which it pays homage.”

Of course, if you were to watch those same movies on the NZ800 in a bright room rather than the fully optimized, blacked-out conditions I experienced it in, the picture would quickly lose the powerful contrast that brought out detail in blacks, and made La La Land’s colorful costumes pop on the screen. And sports? Forget it.

Picking nits Image 1 of 2

JVC DLA-NZ800 (Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2

Sony Bravia Projector 8 (Image credit: Future)

Brightness isn’t everything when it comes to picture quality – contrast and black detail are equally important.

The recent DCI (Digital Cinema Initiatives, a motion picture and theater industry trade group) HDR specification calls for theater projection systems to provide a peak brightness of 300 nits. That level is substantially less than what the Epson QL7000 is capable of (I measured 1,005 nits on a 10% white HDR pattern in Natural mode with 100% laser light output setting, and 1,340 nits in Dynamic mode).

If a movie theater projection system were to meet the DCI specification (many don’t), it would provide around the same peak brightness as top home theater projectors from Sony and JVC. So, even with a projector designed for home, you’re getting an equally bright, and in many cases brighter, image than what you get in a movie theater.

But brightness isn’t everything when it comes to picture quality – contrast and black detail are equally important.

In an optimized home theater setting, fastidiously controlling the environment allows for the light emanating from the projector to be the only source of light hitting the screen, which maximizes black levels and perceived contrast.

This gives home projectors another leg up on theater projection systems, where contrast is necessarily limited by the mandatory lighted exit signs located near the front of the room.

The Epson QL7000's super-bright picture makes it an impressive projector that's uniquely suited for daytime viewing of sports. However, for movie fans, contrast and shadow detail are arguably of greater value when it comes to getting the best overall picture quality.

And, given the right viewing conditions, even a projector with an average brightness level can get you pretty close to perfection.

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