Take-Down of Thermaltake’s Engineering & Marketing

Thermaltake doesn’t get anymore chances to improve its marketing or basic design flaws. We’ve been trying to privately inform Thermaltake how to improve for years, but they haven’t listened. Sponsor: Buy Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut on Amazon (https://geni.us/1D8Eeq) or Hydronaut paste (https://geni.us/Fsray) Thermaltake’s latest virtual Computex showcase featured the Tower 100 mini-ITX case, the Divider 300 TG ARGB, new power supplies, and the Floe RC. Some of these products are actually promising, but Thermaltake frustratingly botches the final stretch of details that would take it from “almost really good” to “actually really good.” We’re tired of trying to help Thermaltake improve its products via emails and discussions at tradeshows, so hopefully this will help the company wake up to some of its frustrating, repeat shortcomings and mistakes. We want Thermaltake to get better. Good people work at the company, but word isn’t making it high enough up the chain. The products are so consistently close to competitive that it’s painful to see them miss on often easily fixed issues or quality control problems.

Dell G5 5000 PC: Garbage Parts & Hidden Charges

Our Dell G5 5000 pre-built gaming computer review looks at quality & Dell’s shady billing practices. One video won’t be enough to contain all the issues we had with Dell’s prebuilt.

Helpful apps for gamers

  • WARNING: Beware of using monitoring apps such as HwInfo listed below and others such as SideBar when using NZXT CAM or Corsair iCue software as it can occupy or interfere with the sensors and prevent your system from being cooled properly.
  • HWInfo Download
    For testing / temp monitoring
  • FrameView Download
    For testing / temp monitoring
  • CPU-Z Download
    For CPU and RAM identification
  • GPU-Z Download
    For GPU identification
  • DDU Download
    For display driver removal
This video talks about what to do with your PC after it’s been built. We talk about how to check CPU & GPU temperatures, bottlenecks, and our top programs for your PC (old or new!).

50 PC Build Tips in Under 10 Minutes

  1. Don’t overthink thermal paste, recommend Thermal Grizzly Conductonaut for K / X, Hydronaut for non-K / non-X.
  2. 6-cores is the sweet spot for gaming, spare cash is better spent on GPU, or another component.
  3. Stream using NVENC, it’s way more efficient than X.264 with no FPS impact.
  4. Don’t overtighten.
  5. Mounting pressure on CPU matters.
  6. PCPartPicker.com is your best friend.
  7. PC assembly order matters.
  8. Avoid water pumps in the top position.
  9. Always keep the pump fed in a custom loop and use minimum pump speed without negatively impacting thermals e.g. 20%
  10. Easy soft tube installation method
  11. Always leak test your loop
  12. Lower GPU utilization at lower resolution
  13. Invest in a proper toolkit with a PH2 to prevent stripping
  14. Always prepare a fresh windows installer the day of build to avoid wasting time on updates. See How to wipe and reload windows
  15. Avoid sharing boot drives or reusing old installs
  16. Update BIOS and enable XMP
  17. Improve memory compatibility with voltage and frequency
  18. SLI and crossfire are dead, do not buy multiple GPUs
  19. ITX cases can house epic gaming builds
  20. Graphics card cooling differences
  21. Stick to one RGB ecosystem
  22. Improved Fan & RGB Control for Gamers
  23. Ready up drivers on a USB
  24. Avoid common motherboard bloatware
  25. Correct DRAM DIMM slot installation, typically 2 and 4
  26. Clean your GPU drivers with DDU
  27. Aim for balanced PC case airflow
  28. Negative pressure generally works better for ITX, positive for ATX
  29. Skip Nvidia’s 12VHPWR adapter
  30. Use a coolant sensor if custom loop watercooling
  31. Overclocking sucks in 2023
  32. lower temps = higher clocks
  33. Avoid premium coolers on budget GPUs
  34. toggle off startup apps for a cleaner launch
  35. Disable windows mouse acceleration
  36. Choosing the right PSU for your build
  37. Do not overspend on motherboard
  38. Noctua NF-A12x25 = king 120mm fan, Arctic P12 PWM same noise and performance for much better value
  39. Air vs. liquid coolers
  40. Plug in cables before mounting large air cooler
  41. Avoid PCI gen 3 risers for gen 4 cards
  42. CableMod ModMesh cables are worth it
  43. Do not mix cables between power supplies
  44. Intel i5 14400 = midrange gaming king
  45. GPU undervolting for lower temps & noise
  46. HWinfo = ultimate PC monitoring
  47. Generally avoid DDR kits >3600MHz for Ryzen AM4
  48. RAM sweet spot in 2021
  49. CPU stock coolers are limiting
  50. Choose M.2 nVMe drives, avoid SATA

FlexGate

About time: Class action lawsuit filed against Apple
5/9/2020

A class action lawsuit filed in Northern California federal court alleges that Apple knowingly sold MacBook Pros that contained display cables destined to fail, in what we and others termed “Flexgate”.

The suit also claims Apple intentionally responded with a limited display repair program response that only included a limited number of less-expensive MacBooks, and did not cover the issue with its AppleCare extended warranties.

The suit, filed by the Parris law firm of Lancaster, CA, includes in its proposed class anybody who bought a MacBook Pro in 2016 or later, and asks Apple to expand its free repair coverage to 15-inch models.

The filing contains a number of iFixit photos demonstrating the relatively short cables wrapped around the hinged display.
Read more about the lawsuit
Seems like Apple knew about Flexgate all along…
3/10/2019

Remember Flexgate? The design flaw causing certain MacBook Pros to fail after repeated opening and closing? Well, it looks like Apple just secretly plopped in a much longer flex cable to address the problem.
Read more
We investigated the design flaw behind “stage light”
1/26/2019

The Touch Bar generation of MacBook Pro has been experiencing a host of display issues, including the infamous “stage light” effect. We cracked open a 2016 MacBook Pro to get to the root of the problem (aka Flexgate).
> Read more about the iFixit Investigation

The FlexGate issue is typically over $500 to fix, which exceeds the system value due to overpriced display assemblies & depreciation.

It was so bad that they had to start a service program:
MacBook Pro Display Backlight Service Program

Sadly, it excludes 15-inch models with the same issue.

The program covers eligible MacBook Pro models for 5 years after the first retail sale of the unit or 3 years from the start date of the program, whichever is longer.

Under this program, you could have the display replaced for free anytime within 5 years of purchase .

If you are experiencing this issue, you may want to consider taking it to the apple store and showing them how it works fine if you don’t open the screen all the way. See video below.

I have observed Apple them continuing to support the program beyond its coverage period, leaving your system vulnerable to their decisions. Otherwise, the repair expenses outweigh the value, as you’re compelled to purchase an excessively priced display assembly for a simple cable issue.

Don’t want to deal with Apple? Mr. Robot offers concierge service for this issue, for more details, scroll past the videos.

Also see: Apple’s New FlexGate, Caused By Dust

Mr. Robot Warranty Concierge Service

Includes Contingency Guarantee (no fix = no charge)

Submit a ticket

iCue Sensor Configuration

By default my systems that feature Corsair water cooling are configured to follow the hottest running component which is usually the GPU–by far for gamers.

Should you encounter a CPU-only workload, you can change the cooling sensor from GPU to CPU.

Click the iCue icon in the bottom right hand corner of the screen near the clock as pictured below, then follow the video to change the sensor.

BEWARE: I set the sensor to follow the GPU because the system doesn’t get enough cooling when following the CPU while gaming, because it’s so cold. Changing the sensor to CPU is only good for non-gaming workloads and will cause overheating in games!

If you are a gamer, you should leave it on GPU!

Top 5 Build Mistakes

  1. Thermally Constrained Case
    • If it looks thermally constrained, it is and should be avoided.
    • Many cases on the market are subpar, subjecting your components to excessive heat and potentially shortening their lifespan or even causing system crashes.
    • Avoid cases lacking an open mesh front panel to ensure adequate airflow. The prevalence of early component failures in gaming desktops often stems from inadequate ventilation due to closed-off or glass front panels.
  2. Inadequate CPU Cooler
    • If the CPU is locked (AMD non-X or Intel non-K) then low end air cooling is all that is required. The stock cooler is sufficient.
      • For quieter operation, recommend upgrading the cooler.
    • If the CPU is unlocked (AMD X or Intel K) then water cooling is recommended, and your highest attainable clocks will be limited by the cooler chosen.
      • High-end air cooling also works well, however it lowers the gap required for age induced performance degradation, which is an inevitable development.
      • If budget constrained, choose a less critical important component to reduce budget on or get a locked processor.
      • Unlocking CPUs demands more than just paying their premium price; it necessitates additional investment in adequate cooling, airflow, and power.
        • Unless gamers are ready to allocate resources for these essentials, opting for locked CPUs is often a more practical choice.
        • Doing so also frees up your parts budget for more impactful choices like a better GPU or larger SSD.
    • Having an over-spec CPU cooler means you can run the fans on a much quieter fan curve, and allows for a full fan stop at idle to minimize dust collection, which is not possible with air cooling.
    • The trusted brands are Arctic and Corsair
      • Except NZXT M22 or any pump-in-rad designs.
      • Most inexpensive AIO brands have reliability issues, slow (1-2 month) warranty service time, and should be avoided.
      • Water cooling also has the advantage of significantly higher thermal mass as well as dispersion of heat away the other hot neighboring components.
      • Budget $100-$200 for a good 280/360/420 AIO.
  3. Inadequate Case Fan Quantity and/or Orientation
  4. Improperly Wired GPU
    • Your power supply includes at least two PCIE power cables.
    • Use one entire cable for each power connector on your GPU.
    • Do not use the pigtail connector on each PCIE power cable.
      • See photo below for example.

  5. Improperly Installed M.2 SSD
    • Your motherboard includes the standoffs and screws needed to fasten your M.2 style SSD(s) to the board in the original box. The standoffs and/or screws usually do not come affixed to the board.
    • Don’t remove the SSD stand-off and use it as a way to fasten it to the board. This is a very common mistake and can cause the board, SSD, or both to short out including loss of data.

      ⚠️Never install a SSD like this.

    • The SSD must also have a heatsink attached. If your board didn’t include one then buy one or your drive with throttle, have a decreased lifespan, or short out against the motherboard.

For comprehensive build guidance, visit robotatx.com/builds

AMD: A History of Advanced Marketing Deception

AMD: A History of Advanced Marketing Deception

Buyer beware

In the competitive landscape of computer hardware, Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has had its fair share of setbacks.

In this retrospective, we delve into AMD’s history of product failures, examining the lessons learned and the implications for the industry, including why Mr. Robot and many other expert builders do not offer AMD builds.

While AMD has made significant strides in innovation and market competitiveness, its journey is also marked by notable product failures that have left lasting impacts on the company and its reputation.

AMD has a long history of litigation with former (and current) partner and x86 creator Intel.[290][291][292]

  • 1986 Intel broke an agreement it had with AMD to allow them to produce Intel’s micro-chips for IBM; AMD filed for arbitration in 1987 and the arbitrator decided in AMD’s favor in 1992. Intel disputed this, and the case ended up in the Supreme Court of California. In 1994, that court upheld the arbitrator’s decision and awarded damages for breach of contract.
  • 1990 Intel brought a copyright infringement action alleging illegal use of its 287 microcode. The case ended in 1994 with a jury finding for AMD and its right to use Intel’s microcode in its microprocessors through the 486 generation.
  • AMD K5 and K6 Processors:
    • In the mid-1990s, AMD aimed to challenge Intel’s dominance in the CPU market with its K5 and K6 processor lines.
    • Despite initial promise, the K5 and K6 processors faced performance and compatibility issues, failing to gain widespread adoption.
    • These setbacks hindered AMD’s competitiveness in the CPU market and led to financial losses for the company.
  • 1997 Intel filed suit against AMD and Cyrix Corp. for misuse of the term MMX. AMD and Intel settled, with AMD acknowledging MMX as a trademark owned by Intel, and with Intel granting AMD rights to market the AMD K6 MMX processor.
  • 2005 following an investigation, the Japan Federal Trade Commission found Intel guilty of a number of violations. On June 27, 2005, AMD won an antitrust suit against Intel in Japan, and on the same day, AMD filed a broad antitrust complaint against Intel in the U.S. Federal District Court in Delaware. The complaint alleges systematic use of secret rebates, special discounts, threats, and other means used by Intel to lock AMD processors out of the global market. Since the start of this action, the court has issued subpoenas to major computer manufacturers including AcerDellLenovoHP and Toshiba.
  • 2009 Intel agreed to pay AMD $1.25bn and renew a five-year patent cross-licensing agreement as part of a deal to settle all outstanding legal disputes between them.[293]
  • AMD Bulldozer Architecture:
    • In the early 2010s, AMD introduced the Bulldozer microarchitecture, aiming to compete with Intel’s Core series processors.
    • Bulldozer processors, including FX and Opteron variants, suffered from underwhelming performance and high power consumption compared to Intel’s offerings.
    • The Bulldozer architecture failed to meet the performance expectations of consumers and enthusiasts, resulting in market disappointment and criticism.
  • 2015 Deceptive Advertising Class Action Lawsuit Filed Against AMD
  • 2017 AMD Radeon RX Vega GPUs:
    • AMD’s Radeon RX Vega graphics cards, launched in 2017, aimed to challenge Nvidia’s dominance in the high-end GPU market.
    • Despite competitive pricing and innovative features, RX Vega GPUs faced issues such as high power consumption, heat output, performance inconsistencies, and high failure rates.
    • These shortcomings limited the appeal of RX Vega GPUs among gamers and content creators, leading to disappointing sales and market reception.
  • 2019 AMD to pay out $12.1 million in false advertising class action suit over Bulldozer chips

2012-2021 AMD vs Intel: Gaming performance AMD Claimed vs. Reality

Intel were unchallenged until 2020 when AMD claimed the lead.

SEE MORE COMPARISONS
  • 2021 AMD Ryzen 5000 Series CPUs:
    • While AMD’s Ryzen CPUs have generally received praise for their performance and value proposition, the Ryzen 5000 series faced criticism for limited availability and compatibility issues at launch.
    • Some early adopters reported issues such as USB connectivity problems and memory compatibility issues, tarnishing the initial rollout of the Ryzen 5000 series.
    • Mr. Robot has encountered hundreds of dead Ryzen 5000 series CPUs in 2021, mostly launch purchases, tarnishing the initial rollout of the Ryzen 5000 series.
    • Mr. Robot has also encountered fried memory modules specifically only with AMD systems, due to Ryzen overvolting them +20% over SET, on AM3, AM4, and AM5 platforms. SET vs. GET Overvolt confirmed with Fluke Digital Circuitry Test Tools.


    • The Ryzen 5600 at $139 is a budget alternative option for someone who already has an AM4 platform, as it avoids the AM5 or LGA1700 platform entry cost.

      However the Intel 13100F is 20% faster & 15% less money and is a better choice for new builds.
    • The 5600X3D at $229 is the best value 3D cache CPU in the AMD lineup for gamers that already have an AM4 platform and play titles that benefit from the large 3D cache, otherwise it has performance regression vs. non-X3D in titles that do not benefit from it due to the lower clocks.

      However, the Intel 13400F is 15% faster & 10% less money and is a better choice for new builds.
    • The 5800X3D at $299 is a more expensive X3D option for someone who already has an AM4 platform, as it avoids the AM5 or LGA1700 platform entry cost.

      However the Intel 13500 is 20% faster for 20% less money AND the Intel 14600k is 30% faster for the same money and either is a better choice for new builds.
  • 2022 AMD Ryzen 7000 Series CPUs
    • Has an unusually thick integrated heat spreader leading to unusually high operating temperatures, due to a poor engineering choice by AMD of preserving AM4 cooler compatibility at the cost of product lifespan and performance potential.
    • For more info see here: Ryzen 7000 Delidding – Unreal Temperature improvement with Direct-Die Cooling
    • Bad CPU / cooler combinations can create performance degradation so extreme that a lower end processor would be faster just because the CPU cooler can keep up.
    • Has unusually high operating temperatures which will lead to decreased CPU lifespan.
    • AMD says the absurdly high temperatures are okay, but they only stand to make money by decreasing the lifespan of their products and blanket accepting abnormally high operating temperatures that make Intel’s seem tame.

      • If you choose to build AMD, go non-X or if getting the X then plan to de-lid.
        • See Thermal Management section for de-lid tool and contact frame in the Ordering Guide – Mr. Robot
          • X not recommended unless the processor is water cooled, and either de-lidded or kneecapped with custom PBO power limits to avoid overheating.

    • The energy cost and room heating difference between X and non-X is significant and merits careful consideration.
    • The 7600 is the current best value in the AMD lineup for gamers.

      However, the Intel 13400F is the same speed & 10% less money and is a better choice for new builds. Additionally, the Intel 13500 is 7% faster & 6% more money and is also a better choice for new builds.

  • 2023: Ryzen 7000X3D series CPUs
    • Have the same core architecture as the rest of the 7000 series but they have one group of eight “3D” cores with extra cache. The “3D” cores are priced higher but run at 10% lower clocks.
      • For most real-world tasks performance is comparable to the 7000X variants. Cache sensitive scenarios such as low res. canned game benchmarks with an RTX 4090 ($1,599) benefit at the cost of everything else.
      • Be wary of sponsored reviews with cherry picked games that showcase the wins, ignore frame drops and gloss over the losses.
      • Also watch out for AMD’s army of Neanderthal social media accounts on Reddit, Forums and YouTube, they will be singing their own praises as usual. AMD continues to develop “Advanced Marketing” relationships with select youtubers in the hope of compensating for second tier products with first tier marketing.
      • PC gamers considering any 7000X3D CPU need to work on their critical thinking skills: Influencers are paid handsomely to promote overpriced products.
      • Rational gamers have little reason to look further than the $285 Intel 14600KF which offers better real-world gaming and better desktop performance at a fraction of the price.

If you care about product lifespan, warranty coverage, or customer service then don’t even consider AMD. They regularly deny warranty service because if they didn’t, they would bankrupt.

  • AMD warranty becomes void with normal use, due to serial number becoming unreadable with normal operation. Intel does not have this problem and embeds a secondary serial on the substrate as a backup.

Intel has astronomically lower failure rates despite having over 4x higher market share.

  • If they cannot read any part on the IHS, you will be denied service.
  • AMD’s own writing in their warranty terms quoted below is quite revealing and should indicate to you something is off if this company is actively looking for a way to not be held accountable for their products overall poor reliability, and high failure rates.

    The following are common examples of the type of damage or mistreatment that will invalidate any AMD warranty: Scratches on substrates or lids. Any scratches on substrates, 2D code, or lids affecting marking legibility.
  • In other words, just by using the product you purchased will invalidate the warranty?

    Yes. See all the superficial cosmetic reasons why AMD will reject your warranty below:





Source: Mr. Robot (20 Years of Industry Experience)
Source: AMD Processors – Builds – Mr. Robot
Source: AMD – Litigation with Intel – Wikipedia
Source: AMD – Not Covered by Warranty
Source: Userbenchmark.com

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