Robbed a bank recently and want to build a monster PC? The real performance powerhouse of 2011 is the recently-released Core-i7 3000-series. Fast as it is, it's going nowhere without a supporting motherboard and quad-channel memory. ASUS provides a helping hand with the well-featured X79 TUF motherboard, while G.Skill offers a value 16GB DDR3-1,600 kit. We also test it in an X79 platform with two DIMMs taken out, to see how memory bandwidth scales on Intel's finest silicon.
We're constantly asked which component should be upgraded in a system. The answer tends to be the same, as adding a solid-state disk (SSD) into the machine does wonders for responsiveness; PCs feel a-new. Patriot throws the flamin'-hot Pyro SE into the mix and we pass judgement.
Technology and aesthetics are total harmony with the ASUS Zenbook UX31. This gorgeous little number looks absolutely fantastic and performs well. Tell the boss to give you a Christmas bonus and spend it all on this, dear readers.
On the gaming front, the latest iteration of Assassin's Creed has been given the once-over. Find out what happens to Ezio and co. in our review. Changing gears, the iPad 2's graphics are pushed to the limit in the dinosaur-infested Jurassic Park.
In other news, Battlefield 3 is all patched up, iPhone users aren't satisfied, the tasty Ice Cream Sandwich (Android 4.0) is shown on an equally tasty ASUS Transformer Prime tablet, the mighty Google throws its considerable weight around, and Apple's iPad 3 grows nearer.
Before we sign off, anyone interested in the PlayStation Vita? Due for release next February, the handheld's software line-up looks strong and, should rumours be true, you may even see PS3 streaming in time to come. We've had our say so now have yours in the Question of the Week.
