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The Quiet Hardware Race Behind Crypto: Why ASIC Miners Are Getting Smarter

If you glance at crypto news, you might think only prices and rules matter. Out of sight, a far less dramatic contest is changing the whole field: the push to build hardware that is more efficient and more reliable.

That hardware is the ASIC miner — a chip built for one task, and nothing else. The idea has been around for years, but the pace of fresh designs keeps rising, pushed by high power prices, thin profit margins, and the need for data-centre-grade gear instead of home-built rigs.

ASICs in 2026: Less “Garage Tech,” More “Industrial Compute”

At the start, anyone could mine on a laptop over the weekend — now the job looks like running a small server hall. Current ASICs are heavy-duty boxes that pull large currents, pour out heat, and demand fast network links. Because of that, talk has moved away from “Which coin?” toward “What’s the real total cost of ownership?”

Operators today weigh the same points a classic IT manager would:

Energy efficiency (J/TH) — the watts needed for one unit of hash work
Thermal management — how to shift heat, guide airflow, hold down noise, and keep rooms cool
Uptime and reliability — firmware that stays steady, hash rate that holds, and parts that do not fail often
Logistics — import tax, warranty length, delivery dates, and whether spare boards are on the shelf

In short, ASICs now behave less like household electronics and more like dedicated infrastructure assets.

Why Efficiency Became the Main Battleground

Power bills remain the largest day-to-day cost. When the gap between “profitable” and “painful” rests on a few percent gain, every improvement counts. New generations of machines therefore aim at:

Cleaner power rails, as well as finer voltage steps
Tighter chip design and careful binning
Hash rates that stay high even when intake air reaches 45 °C
Smarter fans and extra thermal probes

Operators also see that efficiency is not only about cost — it decides who survives. As networks grow more crowded and rewards swing, wasteful rigs end up unplugged first.

The “Operational Layer” Is Now Part of the Product

A miner is no longer a metal crate you plug into the wall — the room around it decides success. Power rails, monitoring, and upkeep form one system. Many first-time buyers learn this the hard way.

Noise can equal a jet taking off. Heat can push a garage past 50 °C in minutes. Home wiring rarely meets the sustained load. One wrong firmware flag can turn a stable box into a reboot loop.

That’s why buyers now study the whole purchase journey — where the unit comes from, whether it is genuine, how it will be delivered, and who will help months later — not only the big hash rate number on the advert.

Half-way through your search, you will land on supplier pages that line up models and stock. If you want to buy asic miner gear by type and see what is actually on the market, a tidy list saves time before you pick the route that suits your site.

What Tech Buyers Should Check Before Purchasing

For a small farm, a hosted hall, or a corner of the house, treat the order like IT hardware, not a spur-of-the-moment buy.

Authenticity and provenance
Fake trackers, second-hand rigs dressed as new, or plain non-delivery happen every day. Stick with vendors that publish clear rules and let you check every step.

Power requirements
Note exact voltage, amperage, and plug shape — many miners need 220–240V lines and their own breaker, not the socket that feeds the kettle.

Cooling plan
Without a way to move hot air out, the unit will slow itself or die. Extractor fans or open racks are often mandatory.

Noise constraints
Many machines roar like a server hall — if neighbours are close, decide whether the room can stand the din.

Support and spare parts
Fans, power supplies, and control boards wear out — the ease of getting replacements counts far more than most people expect.

The Sustainability Angle Is Getting Real

Sustainability is no longer a slogan. Operators pipe waste heat into greenhouses, balance loads to spare the grid, or place farms where power is steady and clean.

This matches Europe’s push for energy accountability. In that light, “better hardware” is not only extra hash — it is more work per kilowatt, and a set-up that rising power tariffs will not shut down.

Final Thought: ASIC Mining Is Becoming a Tech Discipline

The biggest shift is cultural: mining is now viewed as a technical operations job. Victory rarely goes to whoever grabs the latest rig — it goes to teams that design power, cooling, buying, and risk the way professionals run a data centre.

For people who work with technology, the important point is straightforward. ASICs are just custom-built chips for one job, and the support network around them is growing up quickly. Treat them as basic equipment, not as a quick fix, and you will choose more wisely, stay away from costly errors, and create a system that keeps working for years.

XGIMI Elevates Big-Screen Projection with the Next-Generation TITAN Noir Max Series at CES 2026

After its breakout debut in the professional world, XGIMI’s TITAN returns at CES 2026 in a new generation built for anyone who craves uncompromising quality. The new TITAN Noir Max Series takes everything the brand has learned from designers, producers, AV professionals, and everyday viewers, and transforms it into a projector that feels just as at home in a family media room as in a high-end creative workspace. It’s powerful enough for professionals, but intuitive enough for the people who simply want their favorite movies, games, and stories to project extraordinarily.

Where last year’s TITAN marked XGIMI’s entrance into the pro space, the new TITAN Noir Max Series marks something bigger: the moment professional-grade projection becomes personal. Upgraded hardware, the most advanced dynamic iris system, and precision-tuned optics bring out the kind of depth, contrast, and color nuance once reserved for post-production studios – now available to anyone who wants the best picture XGIMI has ever engineered.

A Dynamic IRIS System That Brings Stories to Life

The heart of the TITAN Noir Max Series is XGIMI’s most advanced dynamic IRIS system to date, boosting native contrast to 10,000:1 and reshaping how every scene feels. This isn’t just about deeper blacks or brighter highlights, but mood, emotion, and immersion that improve real-world viewing.

Every frame becomes an invitation to look closer. See the individual drops of rain catching neon light on a midnight street, the delicate weave of a velvet curtain in shadow, the faint tremor of a candle flame illuminating a character’s face – details once lost now define the scene. Highlights don’t just glow, they breathe: city lights hold their shape against true black, eyes gleam with intention, and specular reflections on metal stay crisp, not blown out. This is how contrast becomes narrative – by revealing not just what’s in the frame, but why it matters.

“We’ve always believed that projection should feel extraordinary – something that elevates any space, whether it’s a family room or a full production studio,” said Apollo Zhong, Chairman of XGIMI. “With TITAN Noir Max, we took everything we learned from building our first professional model and pushed it further. This series reflects our vision for projection’s future: professional-grade performance that anyone can enjoy, without complexity or compromise.”

Re-engineered SST DMD Architecture Pushes Brightness Boundaries

At the heart of the new system is SST, a re-engineered DMD architecture capable of handling substantially higher light power densities. The upgraded thermal pathway effectively dissipates heat at the chip level, ensuring sustained brightness, reduced thermal stress, and improved lifecycle stability in demanding projection environments.

The re-engineered SST Architecture advances XGIMI’s philosophy of accessible innovation by pairing professional hardware with the kind of simplicity usually reserved for consumer products.

For professionals, TITAN Noir Max offers the stability, accuracy, and reliability required for color-critical work, studio environments, and high-end installations. For families and enthusiasts, it turns a blank wall into a cinematic event.

This is projection in its purest form: precision engineering that fades into the background, leaving only a brilliant, immersive image before users.

From CES to Launch

The new TITAN Noir Max Series will make its public debut at CES 2026, where media, creators, and industry partners will be invited for hands-on demonstrations ahead of its preorder in Q1 2026. Further sales details for the TITAN Noir Max Series will be announced at a later date.

The Technology Behind Modern Roller Shutters

Roller shutters have long been a staple in commercial, industrial, and residential security systems. Traditionally, they were operated manually and served a purely functional purpose: protecting doors, windows, and storefronts from intruders and the elements. However, like many building components, roller shutters have undergone a significant technological transformation. Today, modern roller shutters are equipped with advanced features that enhance security, automation, energy efficiency, and user convenience. This read explores the key technologies powering the evolution of roller shutters.

Electric Motors and Automation Systems

Motorized Operation

One of the most significant technological advancements in roller shutters is the integration of electric motors. Electric motors eliminate the need for manual lifting and closing, allowing users to operate shutters with the push of a button. These motors come in different sizes and capacities, depending on the weight and size of the shutter according to Dublin Roller Shutters.

Tubular Motors

The most commonly used motors in roller shutters are tubular motors, which fit inside the shutter axle, keeping the design compact and unobtrusive. Tubular motors offer smooth and quiet operation and can be easily integrated with remote control systems and smart home hubs.

Remote Controls and Wireless Systems

Handheld Remote Control

Basic motorized shutters are often operated using a simple handheld remote control. These remotes use radio frequency (RF) technology to send signals to the shutter motor, allowing the user to open, close, or stop the shutter at any point.

Wireless Wall Switches

In addition to handheld remotes, wireless wall-mounted switches can be installed for convenience. These switches are battery-powered and communicate wirelessly with the motor, requiring no rewiring or invasive installation.

Smart Home Integration

Compatibility with Smart Home Systems

Modern roller shutters can be integrated into smart home security ecosystems like Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. This integration allows users to control shutters via voice commands or smartphone apps, even from remote locations.

Mobile App Control

Dedicated mobile apps give users real-time control over their shutters. These apps allow scheduling, remote access, and status monitoring, providing enhanced convenience and peace of mind, especially when away from the property.

IFTTT Automation

Through platforms like IFTTT (If This Then That), shutters can be programmed to react to other smart devices. For example, shutters can automatically close when the smart thermostat detects a certain temperature or when security cameras sense movement.

Timers and Scheduling Functions

Programmable Timers

Advanced shutter systems include programmable timers that let users schedule opening and closing times. This feature is particularly useful for commercial premises, allowing businesses to automate security based on business hours.

Sunlight and Temperature Sensors

Some systems integrate sunlight and temperature sensors, allowing shutters to operate based on environmental conditions. For example, shutters may close during the hottest part of the day to keep interiors cool, reducing the need for air conditioning.

Safety and Obstacle Detection Technology

Obstacle Detection Sensors

Safety is a critical concern in motorized roller shutter systems. Obstacle detection sensors automatically stop the shutter’s motion if an object or person is in the way. This prevents accidents and reduces wear and tear on the motor.

Auto-Reverse Function

Many systems include an auto-reverse function: when resistance is detected during closure, the shutter will reverse direction. This is particularly important in residential settings or places frequented by children and pets.

Battery Backup and Power Failure Protection

Battery Backup Systems

Power outages can disable motorized shutters, but battery backup systems ensure they remain operational during blackouts. These systems automatically switch to battery power if the main supply is interrupted.

Manual Override

In the event of motor failure or a prolonged power outage, a manual override system—often a crank handle—allows users to operate the shutter manually, ensuring continued functionality.

Noise Reduction and Vibration Control

Brush and Seal Technology

Advanced brush and seal systems reduce the noise produced by moving shutters. These components also minimize vibrations, making roller shutters quieter and more suitable for residential environments.

Soundproof Slats

Some manufacturers offer slats with soundproofing materials inside. These slats not only reduce operational noise but also help insulate the property against external sound pollution.

Insulation and Energy Efficiency Technology

Insulated Slats

Modern roller shutters often include insulated slats made from aluminium and injected with polyurethane foam. These slats improve energy efficiency by providing thermal insulation, helping to maintain indoor temperatures.

Thermal Break Technology

Some premium systems include thermal breaks—barriers within the shutter slats that prevent heat transfer. This enhances energy performance and reduces reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Security Enhancements and Locking Mechanisms

Electronic Locking Systems

Beyond simple latches, many roller shutters are now equipped with electronic locking mechanisms. These locks engage automatically when the shutter is closed and can only be disengaged via remote control or smart system access.

Anti-Lift Devices

To prevent burglars from prying open the shutter from the bottom, anti-lift sensors and mechanical devices automatically engage if unauthorized lifting is detected.

Alarm Integration

Roller shutters can be connected to alarm systems or CCTV cameras. If tampering is detected, an alarm can be triggered, and the system can notify the property owner or security personnel via SMS or app notification.

Materials and Construction Technology

Lightweight, High-Strength Alloys

Modern roller shutters often use lightweight yet high-strength materials such as extruded aluminium or galvanized steel. These materials are corrosion-resistant and durable, ideal for long-term use in various environments.

Powder Coating Technology

Advanced powder coating techniques not only improve the aesthetic appeal of roller shutters but also increase resistance to weather, corrosion, and UV damage.

The Takeaway

Roller shutters have come a long way from their humble beginnings. Thanks to significant advances in technology, they now offer much more than just physical security. Motorized operation, smart home integration, safety sensors, and energy-efficient materials have all contributed to making roller shutters smarter, safer, and more user-friendly.

As the demand for home automation and security grows, roller shutters will likely continue to evolve—integrating AI, machine learning, and even predictive environmental responses. Whether for residential use or commercial applications, investing in technologically advanced roller shutters ensures enhanced convenience, safety, and long-term cost savings.

Tech Review – Nelko Bluetooth Thermal Printer PL70e Shipping/Label Printer

There is no shortage of printers out there however most are big and cumbersome and can be challenging for some with the tech packed into some of them these days. This printer however is small neat and portable meaning you can bring it with you if required and can be moved from room to room.

The build quality is also good and it is simple to use and you can use your mobile phone too if you wish which is my preferred method for doing labels and printing items from. Over the years I have been using HP printers and one of the most popular ones being the HP Deskjet 2720e and serves me well and again I print off material via my smartphones as this is where I print all my docs from and always have so the same will apply to this printer but it works on all platforms and is more aimed at shipping labels but you can print of other things is you wish to do so which makes it handy.

Set up takes a few mins and you are good to go, we will show the app and how it works in the video review below but once set up it can print anything on your phone if you wish to do so, it is super fast in comparison to other printers I have used in the pat including the current one and there is plenty of templates and settings at your fingertips to get done what needs doing.

Overall this is a really great product if you are in need of shipping labels fast or you have a business that requires labels printed regularly, this can also save you time and money in the long run and is a worthy investment and not expensive to purchase it will also work with regular shipping labels you can but at any stationary stores. Best of all no ink is required.