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ASUS Announces Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C)
FREMONT, CA, Apr 22, 2024 – ASUS announced a new addition to the ASUS Chromebook family – the 14-inch ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C). Featuring the highly efficient MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor and an all-day battery life, this dynamic laptop is primed to boost productivity and fuel entertainment.
Style and flexibility, elevated
ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) embodies pure style, packaging a trendy look and feel in an attractive new Gravity Gray colorway. This creates a refined aesthetic and elegance that will fit any environment, be it for study, work, or relaxation. The laptop is also extremely versatile – featuring a 180˚ lay-flat hinge that makes it easy to share visuals and ideas when working with friends, colleagues, or clients.
Everyday hygiene is also a high priority for the CM14, with the keyboard, touchpad, and palm rest areas all protected by ASUS Antimicrobial Guard[i] . This factory-applied treatment is scientifically proven to inhibit bacterial growth by up to 99% over a 24-hour period, keeping the laptop cleaner and safer to promote overall wellbeing for the user. The keyboard is also spill-resistant[ii] and can cope with up to 405 cc of water without harm. In other words, minor spillages can be easily drained, cleaned, and dried.
Remote experiences, leveled up
ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) has been engineered for the expanding world of hybrid work and study and is therefore equipped with lots of features to help users communicate and stay safe beyond traditional work and learning environments. For example, Face Auto Exposure, or Face AE – a newly-integrated technology that provides fresh, uplifting experiences when taking pictures or video conferencing with the CM14’s integrated webcam – tracks the user’s face and adjusts the light according to the brightness of the environment to ensure clearer, sharper images. An integrated physical privacy shutter is also included, allowing users to cover the webcam for peace of mind.
Everyday productivity, boosted
Powered by the latest MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) delivers excellent performance for responsive experiences with favorite apps, from productivity tools to entertainment. Combined with the full capabilities of Google Workspace and other productivity apps found on Google Play, the laptop offers access to everything needed to get stuff done in the modern world.
Additionally, an energy-efficient design means that the CM14 has the stamina to empower on-the-go productivity up to 15 hours on a single charge[iii] – enough for a full workday and beyond. It’s also primed for connection perfection, with integrated dual-band WiFi 6 to ensure stable signals and superfast speeds that will load online content in the blink of an eye. This desirable connectivity capability is further boosted by exclusive ASUS technologies, including the ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS[iv] , to ensure greater speed, stability, and range.
The best of ChromeOS
ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) benefits from out-of-the-box access to Google Play, complete with its rich library of apps, games, music, movies, TV, books, and more. The laptop also enables uninterrupted automatic updates [v] and benefits from built-in virus protection, seamlessly keeping users safe, secure, and always up to date.
Each purchase of a CM14 carries an offer to redeem a 12-month Google One[vi] subscription. The membership includes 100 GB of cloud storage to use across Google Drive, Gmail, Google Photos, and many other benefits – all in one shareable family plan.
Military-grade strength
With structural reinforcements to boost chassis strength, ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) is solidly built to provide durability – meeting the rigorous MIL-STD 810H US military standard[vii] . Additionally, the laptop undergoes stringent in-house testing by ASUS – including panel-pressure, shock and drop tests –to ensure maximal toughness, so there’s no need to worry about everyday knocks and bumps. Sustainability is also embraced, with the inclusion of multiple recycled materials to create a product that is more eco-conscious overall.
Availability & Pricing
ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402C) is now available starting MSRP $299.00 on the ASUS Store and Best Buy. Please contact your local ASUS representative for further information.
Specifications[Viii]
| ASUS Chromebook CM14 (CM1402CM2A) | ||
| Operating system | ChromeOS | |
| Processor | MediaTek Kompanio 520 | |
| Graphics | Arm Mali G52 MC2 @ 800MHz | |
| Memory | 4 GB LPDDR4X 8 GB LPDDR4X |
|
| Storage | 64 GB eMMC | |
| Display | 14.0″ FHD (1920 x 1080), LCD, 16:9, TN, anti-glare, 220 nits, 77% screen-to-body ratio, 45% NTSC | |
| I/O ports | 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (Full-function, support PD + Alt. mode) | |
| 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, | ||
| 1 x microSD card reader | ||
| 1 x 3.5 mm audio combo jack | ||
| 1 x Nano Kensington lock | ||
| Video camera | 720p HD camera, webcam shutter | |
| Wireless | Dual-band 2×2 WiFi 6 (802.11ax) + Bluetooth 5 | |
| Audio | 2 x built-in speakers | |
| 2 x multi-array microphones | ||
| Weight | 3.2 lbs | |
| Dimensions | 12.78 x 8.93 x 0.72 inch (32.46 x 22.67 x 1.83 cm) | |
| AC adapter | USB Type-C 45W; Output: 15V DC, 3A, 45W; Input: 100-240V AC 50/60Hz universal | |
| Battery | 42 Wh, 2-cell | |
| Keyboard & touchpad | Full-size backlit keyboard with 1.5 mm key travel; spill-resistant to 405cc* *Quantity used during testing, with duration of 3 minutes |
|
| NumberPad | N/A | |
| Security | Titan C security chip | |
| Webcam shutter | ||
| Kensington lock slot | ||
| Certificates | ENERGY STAR | |
About ASUS
ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components, and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, ASUS is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies for tomorrow, garners more than 11 awards every day for quality, innovation, and design, and is ranked among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies.
[i] The antimicrobial treatment is tested by an independent third-party laboratory according to the ISO 22196 standard (measurement of antimicrobial activity on plastics and other non-porous surfaces), using bacterial cultures that include Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with antimicrobial activity (R) result of R > 2. R = 2 indicates a 99% reduction in bacterial activity compared to an untreated surface. The antimicrobial treatment is registered by the U.S. EPA and authorized under EU BPR.
[ii] The ASUS Chromebook CM14 series keyboard is spill-resistant, not waterproof. Water damage is possible if the product is submerged or exposed to large amounts of liquids for long periods of time. ASUS standard limited warranty does not cover problems resulting from accidents such as water damage. To prevent water damage resulting from large spills or other accidents, ASUS recommends turning off the notebook, then tilting the laptop to drain away the excess liquid, wipe it off and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
[iii] Based on Chromium OS power Load Test. Battery performance is based on a mix of standby, web browsing and other use. Charging time requires the battery to be at least 5% charged, with the device inactive and using the included charger. Actual battery life depends on usage, specifications, applications, and environment, among other factors.
[iv] ASUS Chromebook CM14 series is certified with ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS. Devices certified with ASUS WiFi Master for ChromeOS feature WiFi 6 and offer enhanced WiFi stability when USB 3.2 Gen 2 interference is present, allowing users to stream smoothly when they are up to 225 meters away or more from a router.
[v] Auto-updates and auto-backup require an internet connection. Chromebook software updates generally arrive every 4-6 weeks but are occasionally delayed to ensure optimal user experience upon rollout.
[vi] Google One availability varies according to country. Please check with your local ASUS retailer for details.
[vii] The testing regime includes the requirements of military-grade standards and varies depending on device. MIL-STD-810 testing is conducted on selected ASUS products only. Note that the MIL-STD-810 testing helps to ensure the quality of ASUS products but does not indicate a particular fitness for military use. The test is performed under laboratory conditions. Any damage caused by attempts to replicate these test conditions would be considered accidental and would not be covered by the standard ASUS warranty. Additional coverage is available with ASUS Premium Care.
[viii] Specifications, content, and product availability are all subject to change without notice and may differ from country to country. Actual performance may vary depending on applications, usage, environment, and other factors. Full specifications are available at http://www.asus.com.
Jabra Extends Partnership with PTC
Jabra, which is part of the global GN Group, has extended its long-term relationship with Reading-based PTC to ensure that its engineering team can continue to turn designers’ sketches into finished products that are used by hundreds of thousands of consumers in the office, home, and music studio every year.
The digital transformation’s specialist software has been the preferred CAD tool for more than five years and this is being driven by industry-leading surface modelling features.
“Once upon a time, a headset was a relatively simple design that was straightforward for both designer and engineer,” said Claus Ellegaard Madsen, senior mechanical engineer at GN, the company behind the Jabra brand.
“Today, the story is different, with modern headsets being based on highly complex, organic designs to ensure the best possible user experience.”
He continued: “As you would expect, our design requirements are increasing all the time, and we wouldn’t be able to do these extremely complex organic designs without the help of Creo and the possibilities it offers in terms of, for example, very complex surface modelling.”
One of Jabra’s overall design philosophies is to have a master model that contains almost all the components in the Jabra universe. This makes it easier for the company to collaborate across the organization, as all departments refer to the same master and the same data.
“It helps us in the sense that we can further develop on the foundation we already have and reuse the design elements that work well for us – both in terms of optimizing the individual designs and minimizing the risk of errors,” said Claus.
PTC’s Elliot Clarke added his support: “With ever-increasing customer demands and, therefore an increased focus on design, Creo plays an important role in Jabra’s design phase. The ISDX module in Creo allows design engineers to control everything about surfaces.
“They start with curves, they build surfaces on those curves, and they can really control the flow and curvature of the surfaces as they connect. It’s great to see Jabra utilizing these technologies to deliver a best-in-class audio experience to their customers and we look forward to working with them in the future.”
Just a few months ago, Jabra launched its new generation of Elite series of wireless earphones called Jabra Elite 8 Active and Jabra Elite 10.
About PTC
PTC drives industry innovation with proven, award-winning solutions that enable companies to differentiate their products and services, achieve operational excellence and improve employee productivity.
With PTC and its ecosystem of partners, manufacturers can leverage the promise of new technologies to drive their digital transformation – on-premises, in the cloud or via a pure SaaS approach.
For further information, please visit www.PTC.com or www.jabra.co.uk.
Faraday Partners with Arm
HSINCHU, Taiwan, Apr 22, 2024 – Faraday Technology Corp., a leading provider of ASIC design services and IP solutions, announced it is leveraging the latest Arm Automotive Enhanced (AE) technology, licensing the Cortex-A720AE IP to drive the development of AI-enabled vehicles ASICs, with a focus on safety, efficiency, and quality.
Since 2002, Faraday has been a global Arm licensee and has now become a key design partner of the Arm automotive ecosystem in addition to being a key partner in the Arm Total Design ecosystem. With over 20 years of expertise in Arm-based SoC design and subsystem integration, Faraday has built a portfolio of hundreds of successful projects, demonstrating proficiency in hardening and performance optimization of Arm-based SoCs.
Furthermore, Faraday not only has its own IP portfolio but also possesses extensive expertise in IP integration, enabling the swift utilization of third-party IPs for SoC design. The company also provides robust design implementation services across major foundries, covering mature processes to the most advanced FinFET process nodes. With flexible business models, Faraday is committed to providing tailor-made, high-standard, and high-quality ASIC chips to meet diverse customer needs.
“We are excited to be part of the Arm automotive ecosystem,” said Flash Lin, COO of Faraday. “As the first ASIC design service provider certified for ISO26262 and offering ultra-low DPPM quality in mass production for automotive chips, Faraday now utilizes Arm’s AE technology to meet the demanding requirements of next-generation automotive ICs in advanced nodes, catering to the specific needs of our customers.”
“Keeping up with the automotive industry’s profound transformation requires balancing the need for higher compute performance with leading-edge safety and efficiency,” said Dipti Vachani, senior vice president and general manager, Automotive Line of Business, Arm. “By joining the Arm automotive ecosystem, Faraday continues to drive innovation by leveraging the first high performance Armv9 A-class CPU for automotive, the Cortex-A720AE, to address the demands of software-defined vehicles.
About Faraday Technology Corp.
Faraday Technology Corp. is dedicated to the mission of benefiting humanity and upholding sustainable values in every IC it handles. The company offers a comprehensive range of ASIC solutions, including total 3DIC packaging, Neoverse CSS design, FPGA-Go-ASIC, and design implementation services. Furthermore, its extensive silicon IP portfolio encompasses a wide array of offerings, such as I/O, Cell Library, Memory Compiler, ARM-compliant CPUs, LPDDR4/4X, DDR4/3, MIPI D-PHY, V-by-One, USB 3.1/2.0, 10/100 Ethernet, Giga Ethernet, SATA3/2, PCIe Gen4/3, and SerDes.
For further details, visit www.faraday-tech.com.
Efabless Releases OpenLane v2
PALO ALTO, CA, Apr 22, 2024 – Efabless Corp., the creator platform for chips, has announced the release of OpenLane version 2, a major step forward in the evolution of open-source electronic design automation tools. OpenLane 2 is not merely an update; it is a re-envisioned infrastructure that opens new possibilities for development engineers and EDA tool developers to create custom flows, including highly specialized steps that were previously unattainable in the industry.
A Brief Overview of OpenLane
OpenLane is a Python-based infrastructure designed for implementing Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). The OpenLane platform has been at the forefront of open-source silicon implementation since 2020. Integrating a range of development tools including Yosys, OpenROAD, Magic, and KLayout, it abstracts the complex processes of silicon design into tangible and manageable steps. This approach has made it the development backbone for numerous projects, including most projects on the Open MPW and chipIgnite shuttles.
OpenLane is more than a tool; it is a community-centric platform that fosters collaboration and innovation in open-source hardware design. Through OpenLane 2, Efabless is committed to pushing the boundaries of open-source hardware into new territories.
OpenLane 2 transcends the mildly flexible flow of its predecessor by providing a robust Python-based infrastructure upon which users can construct fully customizable flows incorporating both existing and novel steps using proprietary or open-source tools.
Key Highlights of OpenLane 2:
- Stability and Flexibility: OpenLane 2 introduces a stable infrastructure that supports the creation of multiple, customizable flows. Whether it is integrating custom steps or leveraging advanced options for flow control, OpenLane 2 accommodates a wide range of user needs.
- Enhanced User Experience: Users benefit from complete configuration validation, more graceful failure handling, and the flexibility to resume flows from specific stages – enhancing productivity and reducing time to implementation.
- Customizability at Its Core: With OpenLane 2, users can write their own steps in Python, create complex flows with decision-making capabilities, and even experiment within Python Notebooks. This level of customization was previously not possible.
Key Benefits
The OpenLane 2 tool flow also includes a number of additional enhancements and benefits, including:
- Error-proof configuration and enhanced error handling
- Command-line flow control for nuanced workflow management
- Customizable and complex flows enabling optimal design strategies
- Access to a standardized and formalized form of design metrics
Mohamed Shalan, head of the EDA/IC Design Team at Efabless, remarked, “OpenLane 2 is a testament to our commitment to innovation and collaboration in the open-source silicon space. By offering a silicon development infrastructure that supports highly customizable flows, we’re not just meeting the current needs of the industry – we’re anticipating its future directions.”
Availability
OpenLane 2 is now available. Download instructions can be found at https://efabless.com/openlane.
About Efabless
Efabless offers a platform applying open source and community models to enable a global community of chip experts and non-experts to collaboratively design, share, prototype and commercialize special purpose chips. Over the past three years, 1300 designs and six hundred tapeouts have been executed on Efabless. The company’s customers include startups, Fortune 500 companies, universities, and research institutions around the world.
For more information, please visit www.efabless.com.
UltiMaker Launches Factor 4 Industrial-Grade 3D Printer
NEW YORK, NY and GELDERMALSEN, Netherlands, Apr 22, 2024 – UltiMaker, a global leader in 3D printing, announces the release of the UltiMaker Factor 4 industrial-grade 3D printer, designed to take manufacturing to new levels of efficiency and reliability. Factor 4 is an end-to-end 3D printing solution for light industrial applications.
The UltiMaker Factor 4 3D printer is engineered for the development and production of process-critical tools and components. With support for engineering materials, direct drive dual extrusion, onboard print quality reporting, temperature-controlled build volume, and other innovative features, it delivers high levels of predictability and minimal variance. Built on over a decade of dedication to openness and accessibility, the machine will support one of the widest material portfolios on the market for a variety of applications, including end use parts, functional prototyping, manufacturing tools, and small batch manufacturing of auxiliary components and spares.
UltiMaker Factor 4 H-bridge gantry
Factor 4 offers a temperature-controlled build volume of 330 x 240 x 300 mm and uniform bed heating, ensuring consistent performance across the entire build plate. Designed for manufacturing and industrial sectors, it launches with a new high-temperature print core that allows engineers to print up to 340°C, enabling a broader range of high-performance, temperature-resistant, and durable materials, such as the new UltiMaker PPS CF, a high-temperature composite material. The machine efficiently uses the heated bed and actively controlled chamber airflow to manage the build volume temperature up to 70°C, ensuring optimal material-specific processing conditions and consistent part quality wherever the 3D printer is located.
ULTIMAKER FACTOR 4 Frame
Thoroughly tested to achieve over 95% print completion success and dimensional accuracy within ± 0.2 mm or ± 0.2% of the feature nominal length,[1] Factor 4 is designed to deliver consistent results across multiple machines—optimal for producing validated parts for distributed manufacturing. The printer’s versatility, reliability, and ease of use make it ideal for industries looking to optimize their production workflows and accelerate development. The latest print profiles for Factor 4, available on Cura 5.7.1, enable engineering materials, such as PET-CF and Nylon, to be printed with productivity levels similar to Tough PLA and PETG, effectively doubling print speed when compared to the UltiMaker S series.[2]
“Our commitment to customers goes beyond providing just a 3D printer; we offer a full 3D printing ecosystem, including hardware, software, materials, training, and support,” said Michiel Alting von Geusau, CEO at UltiMaker. “With our comprehensive support, we help customers navigate through the complexities of 3D printing and identify opportunities. There is untapped potential in the light industrial market, and we believe that Factor 4 will enable customers to further explore the application possibilities in this space. With its efficiency and versatility, Factor 4 promises a quick return on investment, allowing businesses to capitalize on the benefits of 3D printing.”
UltiMaker Factor 4 HT print cores
Key features of UltiMaker Factor 4:
Industrial-Grade Performance: Constructed from robust steel, aluminum, and glass, Factor 4 is built for the factory floor. The printer features a triple-insulated build volume, closed loop and direct-drive dual extrusion, automatic inductive bed leveling, and a PEI-coated flexible build plate, ensuring consistent production output, even on complex and challenging designs. These features combined with the all-new H-bridge gantry and a rigid all metal frame allow for high-speed movement and accuracy.
Automatic Material Handling and Storage: The integrated, low moisture material handling system allows engineers to reliably manage their print jobs. The material station is climate controlled, with humidity levels kept below 15%, and holds up to six spools of filaments in their prime condition. It features an automatic material change capability, which seamlessly switches between spools, eliminating downtime and ensuring uninterrupted printing, for those printing a single part that may require several days or multiple spools.
Expanded Material Diversity: The new printer expands the range of high performance, industrial-grade materials, enabling production of structural integrity verified parts, from flexible materials to high-temperature composites, such as the UltiMaker PPS CF. UltiMaker PPS CF is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic material, reinforced with carbon fiber. The material has a temperature resistance greater than 230°C and is flame retardant. It provides a high-performing alternative to steel or aluminum for less-demanding parts, enabling users to unlock new industrial applications.
Seamless Workflow Integration: The UltiMaker Cura 5.7.1 release has new print profiles for Factor 4, customized and fine-tuned for optimal print quality and performance. With automatic recognition of UltiMaker materials and print cores in Cura, Factor 4 offers a smooth 3D printing experience. The printer is also compatible with major CAD software.
Powerful Onboard Print Process Reporting: The machine has a 7” capacitive touch screen and a suite of sensors in the print head, build volume, and automated material loading system that monitors real-time data on printer and material performance and delivers in-depth reporting after every print job, ensuring easy part validation and quality control.
Modular System for Simplified Maintenance: The printer offers a modular design that allows for easy repairs and maintenance, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.
“With Factor 4, we are introducing a reliable industrial-grade solution that provides a solid long-term investment,” said Andrea Gasperini, product manager, B2B Solutions, at UltiMaker. “Our focus remains on releasing products that can meet current needs and adapt and improve over time. Factor 4 delivers the reliability that UltiMaker products are known for, while also being able to seamlessly integrate alongside other industrial machinery and production processes.”
Materials available for the Factor 4 include UltiMaker PPS CF and other UltiMaker-branded materials, such as PLA, Tough PLA, nylon, PETG, PET CF, and PVA, as well as validated materials from BASF Forward AM, Kimya, Polymaker, LEHVOSS, Jabil, and more suppliers. Factor 4 is compatible with materials on the UltiMaker Marketplace, with 250 pre-tuned print profiles. Factor 4 supports 2.85 mm filament.
The printer is equipped with an integrated HEPA filter and a large red STOP button, ensuring safer 3D printing anywhere in factory or office environments.
The Factor 4 is expected to begin shipping in May 2024. Reach out to a certified UltiMaker partner to find a Factor 4 showroom near you.
For more information on the UltiMaker Factor 4, visit ultimaker.com/factor-4/.
The Factor 4 will be on display at HANNOVER MESSE from April 22-26, 2024, in Hannover, Germany, in Hall 17 booth D35.
UltiMaker will also exhibit and showcase Factor 4 and other professional 3D printing solutions at TCT Asia in Shanghai, from May 7-9, 2024, in booth 8F90 at National Exhibition and Convention Center Hall 8.1.
About UltiMaker
UltiMaker is a global leader in 3D printing, focused on shaping the future of manufacturing, product development, and education. With a wide range of cutting-edge 3D printing solutions, including the popular S and Method series, one of the widest portfolios of 3D printing materials on the market, and leading 3D printing software platforms–Cura and Digital Factory, UltiMaker is paving the way for innovation across industries.
UltiMaker also offers the MakerBot sub-brand and Sketch series for educators and students, providing one of the most comprehensive 3D printing ecosystems for classroom learning and advancing education.
With a focus on reliability, precision, and innovation, UltiMaker is empowering customers to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
Learn more at www.ultimaker.com.
[1] 95% print success rate and dimensional accuracy of ± 0.2 mm or ± 0.2% were tested using UltiMaker PLA, Tough PLA, PETG, PET CF, and PPS CF.
[2] Internal testing shows a 50% increase in productivity when printing with UltiMaker-branded materials PET-CF and nylon, compared to printing on the UltiMaker S7.
