Silverstone puts external graphics solution on ice

During Computex 2013, Silverstone demonstrated an external graphics solution via Intel’s Thunderbolt interface. The prototype was also on site during the CES trade fair in January 2014, but shines with its absence for this year’s Computex.

The reason is that the development has been put on hold. Although the concept itself works well, there are obstacles from third parties that put sticks in the wheel. According to Silverstone, Intel does not want to certify any external graphics solutions over Thunderbolt, while Microsoft is hesitant to provide proper support in drivers.

The result is that the future of the product is uncertain, even if the development in terms of hardware has gone well, which causes Silverstone to apply the emergency brake. The graphics solution was originally intended for launch as early as the end of 2013 and consists of an external chassis with PCI Express and a SFX power supply of 450 watts.

The subject of external graphics cards has been relatively controversial in recent years, especially among users with a laptop as their primary computer. In addition to Silverstone, Gigabyte has shown a prototype, but over the more obscure connection Mini SAS HD.

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