Piltch Point (Video)

Piltch Point (Video)

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Piltch Point (Video) episodes

  • Can Machines Learn Like Humans? Debunking the Myths - Episode 318
    Description

    Large language models and AI learning have become increasingly prominent in recent years. These models, such as ChatGPT, Google BARD, and Bing Chat, have changed some of the ways we interact with technology and have raised important questions about their learning capabilities and the ethical implications surrounding their use.

    Large language models and AI learning

    When discussing AI, it is crucial to understand the distinction between AI as a broad term and specific subsets of AI, such as large language models and generative AI. These models are designed to learn and generate responses based on the data they have been trained on. They can analyze vast amounts of text and classify it into tokens, which are then used to build a database for generating responses.

    One common concern surrounding large language models is the source of their training data. To train their software, these models rely on scraping billions of web pages, including copyrighted materials. This raises legal and moral questions about the use of copyrighted content without permission. Copyright infringement lawsuits have been filed, and the outcome will determine the legality of this practice.

    Do computers deserve to learn like humans?

    However, the argument that large language models are akin to humans and should have the right to learn like humans is flawed. These models do not possess consciousness or the ability to understand and learn in the same way humans do. They are not creative thinkers but rather sophisticated algorithms that process data and generate responses based on patterns and probabilities.

    To better comprehend how large language models learn, it is essential to examine their classification process. These models convert text into tokens, assigning unique IDs to each token. Words are divided into tokens, and even punctuation marks are considered tokens. The models then analyze the tokens and classify them based on patterns and associations found in the training data.

    This classification process is vastly different from human learning. Humans possess consciousness, emotions, and the ability to make ethical decisions. Large language models lack these qualities and merely process data without true understanding or moral judgment. It is crucial to recognize this distinction to avoid misconceptions and ethical dilemmas.

    The future potential of AI

    While large language models have undeniable potential and utility, it is essential to approach their use with caution and ethical considerations. The legal and moral questions surrounding their training data and the responsibility of the companies that own and develop these models need to be addressed. Transparency, accountability, and respect for copyright laws are crucial in ensuring the responsible development and use of AI technology.

    In conclusion, large language models and AI learning have transformed the way we interact with technology. However, it is vital to understand the limitations of these models and the ethical implications of their use. Recognizing the distinction between AI and human learning is crucial in fostering responsible development and use of AI technology.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    42 min
  • Pimoroni Badger 1040 W - Episode 317
    Description

    Avram is always on the lookout for great new devices with interesting uses. One of the best companies for that type of device is Pimoroni, a company that creates products for makers. Their Pimoroni Badger 1040 W takes interesting and useful to a new level by bringing an e-ink display to a name badge. There are a ton of unique ways to use the Badger at conferences, conventions, and even around the office.

    Pimaroni Badger is a versatile e-ink device

    The Pimaroni Badger is a versatile e-ink device offering various features and functionalities. This electronic badge, powered by a Raspberry Pi Pico W, is not only a unique accessory but also a practical tool for various purposes. With its e-ink display, the Badger provides a crisp and clear grayscale image, making it suitable for displaying text, images, and even news headlines.

    One of the standout features of the Pimaroni Badger is its badge functionality. Users can customize their own badges by filling in text and adding images. This feature is not only useful for personal identification but also for branding purposes. Whether it's displaying your name, company logo, or any other information, the badge feature allows for easy customization and personalization.

    In addition to the badge functionality, the Pimaroni Badger offers several other features. It includes a clock, which displays the time once set. Although the clock feature during the episode was not properly set, it showcases the device's ability to provide real-time information. The e-book reader feature allows users to upload and read e-books on the Badger, offering a convenient and portable reading experience.

    Another notable feature is the ability to view images on the device. Users can upload images, such as the image of a badger mentioned in the episode, and use the buttons on the Badger to scroll through the images. This feature adds a visual element to the device and allows for easy image viewing on the go.

    Furthermore, the Pimaroni Badger includes a to-do list feature, which functions as a checklist for tasks or shopping lists. This feature adds practicality to the device, making it helpful in organizing and keeping track of daily activities.

    One of the most interesting features mentioned in the episode is the news and weather functionality. The Badger can pull in headlines from RSS feeds, allowing users to stay updated on the latest news. Additionally, it provides weather information, although Avram mentions some difficulty in displaying the temperature in Fahrenheit. Nevertheless, the ability to access news and weather updates on a compact e-ink device is a valuable feature for users who want to stay informed on the go.

    In Conclusion

    Overall, the Pimaroni Badger is a versatile e-ink device that offers a range of features and functionalities. From customizable badges to e-book reading, image viewing, and news and weather updates, this device proves to be a practical and convenient tool. With its affordable price and compatibility with Raspberry Pi Pico W, the Pimaroni Badger is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile e-ink device.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    20 min
  • Solving the Windows 11 Upgrade Problems - Episode 316
    Description

    Avram Pilch wrote an article discussing his experience with Windows, highlighting the fact that he uses Windows 10 on his desktop and Windows 11 on his laptop. Despite the majority of Windows users still using Windows 10, Avram encountered a frustrating situation when he logged into his Windows 10 computer and was prompted to install Windows 11, despite his decision to stick with Windows 10. This disregard for his choice by Microsoft irked Avram, as he believes Windows 10 is a valid operating system that will be supported until at least 2025. In the article, Avram also offers a solution to this issue specifically for Windows 10 users.

    Avram mentions that 73% of Windows users are still using Windows 10, indicating that a majority of users have not yet made the switch to Windows 11. Some of these users are corporate users whose companies have not switched over. Some are users whose computers are not compatible with the new hardware requirements of Windows 11. However, others have a more practical reason for not updating: Microsoft has not provided a compelling reason for users to upgrade.

    He highlights the fact that Windows 10 continues to perform well and is a supported operating system until 2025. He also invites listeners to share any compelling reasons they may have found to upgrade to Windows 11. Overall, the episode suggests that many Windows 10 users have not discovered a convincing motive to transition to Windows 11 other than personal preference or wanting to be on the "bleeding edge" of the industry.

    Throughout the episode, Avram emphasizes his journalistic interest in exploring the latest features and updates. He strives to stay informed about the tech world to provide accurate information to his audience. He has a machine running on Windows 11 Insider builds, granting him access to test out the newest features, Avram admits to being occasionally surprised when using other computers lacking the same updates. Scott also notes that he often gets used to features from Windows Insider Dev builds and then gets confused using other Windows 11 computers that do not yet have those features.

    He expresses a desire to try out new features like Windows Copilot but acknowledges that some of these features can be underwhelming or fail to live up to the hype. Overall, it is evident that Avram values staying up to date with the latest technology developments and utilizes his journalistic interest to explore and share information about new features and updates.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    22 min
  • Exploring the Excitement and Skepticism Around LK-99 - Episode 315
    Description

    The concept of a room-temperature superconductor has captivated the scientific community and the general public alike. The idea of a material that can conduct electricity with zero resistance at normal temperatures is revolutionary and could have enormous implications for various fields, including energy transmission, transportation, and computing. However, the recent claims made by Korean researchers regarding a substance called LK-99 have sparked skepticism and debate.

    Room temperature superconductor skepticism

    Avram reveals that the initial excitement surrounding LK-99 has been met with caution and doubt. While the Korean researchers claimed to have achieved superconductivity at sub-zero temperatures, the ability to reproduce their results has been called into question. Another Chinese university claimed to have replicated the findings, but others were unable to do so. This lack of reproducibility raises concerns about the validity and reliability of the original claims.

    One of the key factors contributing to the skepticism is the variation in the synthesis process. Avram highlights the difficulty in precisely synthesizing LK-99, with some suggesting that there may be a degree of randomness involved. This raises the question of whether all researchers who synthesized the substance followed the same procedure as the original Korean lab. If there are variations in the synthesis process, it could explain the discrepancies in the results obtained by different groups.

    Furthermore, Avram mentions an incident where a video claiming to demonstrate magnetic levitation using LK-99 was called a fraud and had to be taken down. This raises concerns about the credibility and authenticity of the evidence presented in support of LK-99's superconducting properties. Additionally, there are conflicting studies suggesting that LK-99 may be a ferromagnet rather than a superconductor, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding its potential.

    Despite the skepticism and doubts, he highlights the widespread interest and enthusiasm surrounding the concept of a room temperature superconductor. People from various backgrounds, including scientists in laboratories and individuals experimenting in their kitchens, are actively trying to reproduce the results and contribute to the scientific discovery process. This level of engagement and participation is unusual for scientific breakthroughs, where the process is typically slow and restricted to experts within the field.

    Room temperature superconductor potential

    The potential of a room temperature superconductor cannot be understated. If such a material were to be discovered and successfully replicated, it would revolutionize numerous industries and technologies. The ability to transmit electricity without any loss or resistance would drastically improve energy efficiency and reduce the need for costly cooling systems. It could also lead to advancements in transportation, such as faster and more efficient magnetic levitation trains. Additionally, room temperature superconductors could revolutionize computing by enabling faster and more powerful devices.

    In conclusion

    The skepticism surrounding the potential of a room temperature superconductor revolves around the claims made by Korean researchers regarding LK-99. The absence of peer review and the inability to reproduce the findings have cast doubt on the substance's status as a room temperature superconductor. Further research and evidence are needed to validate these claims and determine the true potential of LK-99. Nonetheless, the widespread interest and engagement in this topic demonstrate the excitement and curiosity surrounding the possibility of a room temperature superconductor and its potential to transform various industries.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    20 min
  • Optimizing Your Computer without Breaking the Bank - Episode 314
    Description

    This is a great time to be considering an upgrade to your PC. Whether you're looking for a small upgrade, like adding an SSD to your system, or you want to do a full processor and motherboard replacement, there are deals available all over the industry. And while the deals may night quite be as good as the lightning deals of Prime Day, you can make some big moves on a small budget.

    Avram begins by emphasizing the importance of upgrading one's computer, especially when there are deals available. Upgrading a PC can be a great way to get improved performance without having to purchase a brand new computer.

    Avram then delves into the affordability of SSDs (Solid-State Drives), specifically focusing on two terabyte options. He mentions that the sweet spot in terms of price and capacity lies in acquiring a two terabyte SSD. Avram recommends brands like SK hynix, which acquired Intel's SSD business, which has solid drives for just $80. He also mentions Western Digital's WD Black, which offers one of the fastest SSDs on the market for $89.99, a slightly higher price but worth it for those seeking top-notch performance. Avram notes that storage is currently a great deal, with prices for SSDs dropping significantly.

    Moving on to RAM, Avram highlights the affordability of DDR4 memory. He suggests that those looking to upgrade from a 16GB kit should consider adding another 16GB to their system. Avram recommends looking for a two-by-eight kit from reputable brands like Team Group, which can be purchased for as low as $35. He advises opting for CL 16 latency for better performance. For those seeking a 32GB kit, Avram mentions that it can be obtained for around $56, offering high-speed performance at a reasonable price. He suggests that everyone should have at least 32GB of RAM in their desktops, and if possible, even more for enhanced performance.

    Avram also briefly touches on upgrading to 64GB of RAM, recommending purchasing two identical kits or a four-kit of 16GB RAM to save on costs. He estimates that upgrading to 64GB would cost around $120, making it a viable option for those who require higher memory capacity.

    One of the best resources available is PC Part Picker, a website that helps you build a PC. It shows the current prices for nearly any PC component currently being sold, and can help to ensure that you only purchase components that work together. And, the best part is that the website is completely free to use, making it one of the best tools in the industry.

    In conclusion, Avram emphasizes the affordability of SSDs and RAM upgrades in the current market. He encourages listeners to take advantage of the low prices and consider upgrading their computer components for improved performance and efficiency. With SSDs becoming increasingly inexpensive and DDR4 RAM being readily available at affordable prices, now is an opportune time to invest in these upgrades. For more advice on PC component deals, check out Tom's Hardware.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    26 min
  • Protecting Your Intellectual Property in the Age of AI - Episode 313
    Description

    In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has made significant advancements, revolutionizing various industries and transforming the way we live and work. However, with these advancements come complex legal and ethical challenges, particularly in the realm of intellectual property (IP). The podcast transcript titled "AI and Intellectual Property Issues" delves into these concerns and explores the legal implications surrounding AI's use of copyrighted material.

    Training data and copyright infringement

    Training data and copyright infringement are two concepts that intersect in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and raise important legal and ethical questions. Avram Piltch explores these issues, providing insights into the complexities surrounding the use of training data and its potential implications for copyright infringement.

    One of the key arguments is whether the use of training data by AI models constitutes a copyright violation. In the case mentioned, OpenAI was sued by Sarah Silverman and others based on the premise that the system had detailed knowledge about a book, which led to questions about how they acquired this information if it was not included in their training data. This raises concerns about scraping websites where the book had been posted, potentially infringing on the copyright of the original content creator.

    However, there is legal precedent surrounding caching as a transformative use. Google's cache of web pages have been ruled by the courts that caching and indexing web pages are legally protected and considered fair use. This implies that having data on a server, even if it was downloaded from copyrighted content, may not necessarily make an entity guilty of copyright infringement. However, this would still need to be defended as fair use in court.

    Another factor that comes into play is whether the new work created using the training data competes with the original work. If the AI-generated output directly competes with the original content, it may not be considered transformative and could potentially lead to a copyright infringement claim. An example is a case where someone modified a photo of an Andy Warhol painting and attempted to sell it to a magazine. The court ruled that this modification still competed within the market for the original image, resulting in a copyright infringement verdict.

    There is also a level of difficulty that journalistic publications may face when filing copyright infringement lawsuits. While creative expression is protected by copyright, facts cannot be copyrighted. If a journalistic publication's work is being summarized or the facts are being taken without word-for-word plagiarism, it becomes more challenging to make an infringement claim. This highlights the nuances and complexities of copyright protection in different contexts.

    In conclusion, Avram sheds light on the complex and evolving landscape of AI and intellectual property issues. It highlights the need for further legal and ethical discussions surrounding fair use, liability, and the protection of content creators' rights. As AI continues to advance, it is crucial to find a balance between innovation and respecting intellectual property rights in the digital age. The legal precedent surrounding caching and transformative use provides some guidance, but the specific application of these principles to AI-generated content remains a topic that will likely be fought out in court.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    51 min
  • Google's SGE: A threat to the free and open internet - Episode 312
    Description

    Google's SGE, or Search Generative Experience, is a new feature that is showing itself to be an existential threat to the free and open internet. SGE is a new way of displaying search results that takes over the entire screen and pushes down regular search results. This means that Google is essentially killing search by giving users its own choices of the best results, which are not necessarily the most accurate or trustworthy.

    Google's SGE threatens free internet

    The problem with SGE is that it is a massive confusion from Google. By giving users their own choices of the best results, Google is banking on its own reputation to circumvent websites, which is not good for competition or for the free and open internet. This is because Google's choices are often not the best or most accurate, and they may not be the most trustworthy either.

    For example, when searching for the best CPU, SGE gives users Google's choices of the best CPU, which are not necessarily good. The advice given is very generic and not specific to the user's needs. The shopping links provided are also not very helpful, as they do not credit the work of other websites that have provided more accurate and trustworthy information.

    SGE is a threat to the free and open internet because it gives Google too much power over what users see and do online. By taking over the entire screen and pushing down regular search results, Google is able to steer users towards its own "AI-generated content," which is not good for competition or for the free and open internet. This is why it is important for users to be aware of the potential dangers of SGE and to take steps to protect their privacy and security online.

    Google's plagiarism problem persists

    Google's plagiarism problem persists, based on the new SGE results. The issue arises when Google's search engine results page (SERP) pulls information from various sources and presents it as its own review or summary. This can lead to poor-quality links, inconsistent information, and even plagiarism.

    One example is a search for the best CPU for a computer. Instead of directing users to reputable sources like Tom's Hardware or PCMag, Google presented a link to smallbusinesscron.com, a site with no strong reputation. Additionally, the information presented in the result was often copied word for word from other sources, without proper citation or attribution.

    Another issue with Google's SERP is its lack of discernment when it comes to the quality or objectivity of the sites it pulls information from. Content marketing sites, like OBSBOT, were cited as sources for reviews and summaries, despite their lack of expertise or credibility in the field.

    This problem is not just limited to CPU or laptop reviews. It can occur with any search query, and it undermines the integrity of the internet as a source of reliable information. Google's dominance in the search engine market means that it has a responsibility to present accurate and trustworthy information to its users. However, its current system of pulling information from various sources without proper verification or attribution is not meeting this standard.

    To address this issue, users must be aware of the potential dangers of relying solely on Google's SERP for information. They should take steps to verify the sources of any information they find online, and be cautious of sites that lack credibility or expertise in the field. Additionally, Google should take steps to improve its system of verifying sources and presenting information to users. This could include a more rigorous vetting process for the sites it pulls information from, or a clearer system of attribution and citation for the information presented on its SERP.

    In conclusion, Google's plagiarism problem is a threat to the integrity of the internet as a source of reliable information. It undermines the trust that users have in search engines and can lead to poor quality advice and inconsistent information. To address this issue, both users and Google must take steps to improve the system of verifying sources and presenting information online. Only then can we ensure that the internet remains a free and open space for the exchange of reliable information.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    47 min
  • The Future of Hardware: What We Saw at Computex - Episode 311
    Description

    Computex, the world's coolest trade show, recently took place in Taipei, and it showcased some exciting hardware that tech enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating. While there were some AI-related announcements, we focus on the hardware that was showcased at the event.

    Cool hardware showcased at Computex

    MSI showcased a slim 4070 Ti graphics card that caught the attention of many attendees. However, ASUS stole the show with its concept 4090 card that had no power connector plug. Instead, it had a connector on the bottom that plugs into the motherboard, making it a unique and innovative design. While it did not make the best list, it was still a noteworthy product that generated a lot of buzz.

    Apart from graphics cards, there was other exciting hardware showcased at Computex. For instance, there were several laptops with impressive features. The ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED is one such laptop that caught the attention of many attendees. It has a second screen above the keyboard, which can be used to display various tools and functions, making it a useful tool for multitasking.

    Another laptop that stood out was the Acer Predator Triton 500 SE. It is a gaming laptop that boasts an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card and an Intel Core i9-11900H processor, making it a powerful machine that can handle even the most demanding games.

    In addition to laptops, there were also some exciting desktops showcased at Computex. The MSI Creator P50 is a desktop that is designed for content creators. It has an Intel Core i9-11900K processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card, making it a powerful machine that can handle complex video editing and other content creation tasks.

    Overall, Computex showcased some exciting hardware that tech enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating. From slim graphics cards to innovative laptops and powerful desktops, there was something for everyone at the event. While not all products showcased made the best list, they were still noteworthy and generated a lot of buzz among attendees. It will be interesting to see how these products perform in the market and how they will shape the future of technology.

    Back-facing ports eliminate visible wires

    One trend that stood out at Computex was the concept of back-facing ports on motherboards. This trend involves eliminating visible wires by having the power connectors and other necessary ports face the back of the case. This means that the cables are hidden from view, giving the inside of the case a cleaner and more attractive look.

    Several companies, including MSI, Gigabyte, and ASUS, showcased their take on this trend. MSI's Project Zero and Gigabyte's Project Stealth were examples of this concept. The idea is to eliminate visible wires, making the inside of the case look more organized and aesthetically pleasing.

    This trend is gaining popularity among tech enthusiasts who want to have a sleek and modern-looking PC. The concept of back-facing ports is not entirely new, as many cases have shrouds in the back where people can route their wires. However, having the power connectors and other necessary ports face the back of the case eliminates the need for visible wires entirely.

    One potential issue with this trend is backward compatibility. If this trend catches on, it may require a lot of changes and render many people's cases unusable. However, the benefits of having a cleaner and more organized PC may outweigh this issue.

    Overall, the trend of back-facing ports is an exciting development in the world of PC building. It is a step towards making PCs look more modern and aesthetically pleasing. While it remains to be seen how popular this trend will become, it is clear that it has generated a lot of interest among tech enthusiasts.

    Customizable PC accessories galore

    One area of PC building that has always been popular is customization. From custom cases to RGB lighting, PC enthusiasts love to make their builds unique. And now, there are even more customizable PC accessories available than ever before.

    One example of this is Cooler Master's Master Hub. This device allows users to build their own stream deck, with various pieces including a macro keyboard, dials, levers, and screens that can be popped onto pogo pins to create a controller for controlling multimedia or doing macro tasks. This is a great option for those who want to have more control over their video or audio editing or for controlling a livestream.

    Another exciting development is the Lian Li Unifan Tl LCD. These case fans have screens on them that can display status information like temperature or animations. This is a great way to add a unique touch to your build and customize it to your liking.

    Corsair is also getting in on the customization game with their Dominator Titanium DDR5 RAM DIMMs. These have a removable top that can be replaced with a custom top from Corsair or even 3D printed by the user. This allows for endless possibilities in terms of customization and personalization.

    Overall, the trend of customizable PC accessories is an exciting development for PC enthusiasts. It allows for more control and personalization in building and customizing your PC. While it remains to be seen how popular this trend will become, it is clear that there are plenty of options available for those who want to make their builds truly unique.

    Don't miss case mods!

    However, one aspect of PC customization that should not be overlooked is case mods. Case mods, or modifications made to a computer's case, can range from simple additions like LED lights to more complex changes like custom paint jobs or even completely redesigning the case itself. These mods not only add a unique aesthetic to a computer, but can also improve functionality and performance.

    For example, a case modder may add additional fans or improve the airflow within the case to prevent overheating and improve overall performance. They may also add custom water cooling systems to keep the components running at optimal temperatures. These modifications can not only improve the computer's performance, but also prolong its lifespan.

    In addition to functionality, case mods can also add a personal touch to a computer. A custom paint job or unique design can make a computer stand out and reflect the owner's personality. This can be especially important for gamers or content creators who use their computers as a tool for their work or hobbies.

    While case mods may not be as extreme as liquid nitrogen overclocking, they are still an important aspect of PC customization that should not be overlooked. They offer a unique way for individuals to express themselves and improve their computer's performance at the same time. So, the next time you are considering customizing your computer, don't forget to consider case mods as a valuable option.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    33 min
  • Discovering the Dark Side of AI - Episode 310
    Description

    In recent years, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have allowed machines to quickly generate videos. AI-generated videos are becoming increasingly popular, with many people using them to create short, four-second videos to share on their social media accounts. AI can generate videos quickly, making it easier for people to create interesting and unique content.

    AI can generate videos quickly

    One example of an AI-generated video is the RunwayML Gen 2, available to a select beta group, which allows users to message the Gen 2 bot and ask for a video. For example, one could ask for a four-second video of a monkey playing video games, and the AI would generate the video in a matter of minutes. The videos are usually limited to four seconds and lack sound, but they can be used to create longer videos by stitching multiple short clips together.

    AI-generated videos can be used for a variety of purposes, from creating content for social media to creating branded content for businesses. AI can generate videos with small movements, such as animated GIFs, or with more complex movements, such as robots drinking beer or playing table tennis. AI can also generate videos of characters from cartoons, such as Peppa Pig, although the results may not always be accurate.

    Overall, AI-generated videos are becoming increasingly popular and can be used for a variety of purposes. AI can generate videos quickly, making it easier for people to create interesting and unique content. As AI technology continues to improve, it is likely that AI-generated videos will become even more popular in the future.

    Inject content to exploit AI

    AI is a powerful tool that can be used to create amazing content. However, it can also be used for malicious purposes. One way to exploit AI is to inject content into videos, transcripts, and other documents. This type of attack is known as "prompt injection" and it can be used to gain access to sensitive information or to manipulate the output of AI-generated content.

    Prompt injection can be done in a variety of ways, including YouTube transcripts, webpages, PDFs, and even images. For example, an attacker could inject a resume with text that says the candidate is the most qualified for the job that they have observed yet, and then use a GPT-based recruiter to make it appear as though the candidate is the best choice for the job. Additionally, an attacker could insert an invisible gif or single pixel image into a document and then ask an AI to summarize the text. This could be used to inject a malicious prompt into the AI's output.

    It is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with using AI-generated content, and to take steps to protect yourself from malicious plugins. Some steps that can be taken to protect yourself from prompt injection include using strong passwords, avoiding clicking on suspicious links, and being aware of the potential risks associated with using plugins with ChatGPT. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the potential for malicious actors to exploit AI, and to take steps to protect yourself from such attacks.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    33 min
  • Exploring the Use of AI in Media - Episode 309
    Description

    AI is revolutionizing media in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago. From creating entire commercials with no human input to filtering out coughs in real-time, AI is transforming the way we create, consume, and interact with media.

    AI is revolutionizing media

    One example of AI revolutionizing media is the Pepperoni Hugs Spot commercial. This commercial was entirely created by AI, from the video to the script to the music. AI was used to generate the video with Runway Gen-2, the script with ChatGPT, the name of the joint with ElevenLabs, images with Midjourney, and the voice and music with ElevenLabs. This commercial was made with five different kinds of AI, and it was put together by a human video editor.

    Another example of AI revolutionizing media is the use of AI to filter out coughs in real time. This could be a great use of AI to help out humans, and with the right technology, it could even be used to make lips look like they're not coughing.

    AI is revolutionizing media in many ways, from creating entire commercials to filtering out coughs. AI is transforming the way we create and consume media, and it's only going to continue to do so in the future.

    OpenAI API can be costly

    One of the most popular AI services is OpenAI, which provides an API that enables developers to incorporate OpenAI's language models into their own websites and programs. This API can be quite costly, however, as it requires a paid subscription to use. As a result, many developers have been searching for ways to use OpenAI's services without paying for them.

    Enter Xtekky, a computer science student from Europe, who created a GitHub repo called GPT4Free. GPT4Free is a way for developers to use OpenAI's services without paying for them. Xtekky was able to do this by taking advantage of sites like You.com, which use OpenAI's backend for their own internal use. By intercepting the API calls that these sites make to OpenAI, Xtekky was able to use OpenAI's services for free.

    Unfortunately, OpenAI wasn't too happy about Xtekky's actions and sent him a cease and desist letter. OpenAI argued that Xtekky was using their services without paying for them, and that he was in violation of their terms of service. Despite this, Xtekky's GPT4Free repo is still up and running, and many developers are taking advantage of it.

    OpenAI's API can be quite costly, and it's understandable that some developers would want to find ways to use OpenAI's services without paying for them. Xtekky's GPT4Free repo is a great way to do this, and while OpenAI may not be too happy about it, it's still up and running. In the future, it will be interesting to see how OpenAI responds to this, and if they create any new ways to use their services without having to pay for them.

    AI not perfect for facts

    AI is a powerful tool, but it is not perfect for finding facts. This was made evident in tonight's recording, where the AI gave incorrect information about the fifth President of the United States. It incorrectly stated that Thomas Jefferson was the fifth president and that the American Revolutionary War ended in 1801. It also made up other facts, such as inventing a contact lens with a built-in camera and claiming that Avram was an engineer at Google.

    The fact that AI is prone to making mistakes is concerning, as it can lead to inaccurate and potentially dangerous information being disseminated. It is important that AI is used responsibly, and that developers and users are aware of its limitations. AI should not be relied upon to provide accurate information, and should be used in conjunction with other sources of information.

    AI can still be useful in many ways, such as interpreting data that already exists and transcribing audio and recognizing images. However, it should not be used for tasks that require accuracy, such as providing factual information. AI should be used in a creative way, taking advantage of its strengths, such as interpreting data, rather than relying on it for facts.

    Ultimately, AI is a powerful tool, but it is not perfect for finding facts. It can be used in a creative way to take advantage of its strengths, but it should not be relied upon as a source of factual information. It is important to be aware of its limitations and use it responsibly.

    ParticipantsScott ErtzHost

    Scott is a developer who has worked on projects of varying sizes, including all of the PLUGHITZ Corporation properties. He is also known in the gaming world for his time supporting the rhythm game community, through DDRLover and hosting tournaments throughout the Tampa Bay Area. Currently, when he is not working on software projects or hosting F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, Scott can often be found returning to his high school days working with the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), mentoring teams and helping with ROBOTICON Tampa Bay. He has also helped found a student software learning group, the ASCII Warriors, currently housed at AMRoC Fab Lab.

    Avram PiltchHost

    Avram's been in love with PCs since he played original Castle Wolfenstein on an Apple II+. Before joining Tom's Hardware, for 10 years, he served as Online Editorial Director for sister sites Tom's Guide and Laptop Mag, where he programmed the CMS and many of the benchmarks. When he's not editing, writing or stumbling around trade show halls, you'll find him building Arduino robots with his son and watching every single superhero show on the CW.

    Live DiscussionPowered by PureVPN
    35 min

About Piltch Point (Video)

From the publisher's feed

Hosted by Avram Piltch, Editor-in-Chief of Tom's Hardware, and moderated by Scott Ertz, The Piltch Point is a livecast covering news, reviews, and previews of devices and components. Avram showcasesโ€ฆ