Intel 285K CPU Failures Lead to AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Switch

2025-09-07
Intel 285K CPU Failures Lead to AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D Switch

The author's Intel 285K CPU failed twice in a few months, leading to a switch to the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D. The first failure occurred after a lengthy CUDA compilation task, rendering the PC unbootable. While ruling out overheating, the author suspects CPU reliability issues. A new CPU and motherboard were purchased. Benchmarks comparing the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and the Intel 285K show slightly higher power consumption for the AMD chip but superior performance. The author expresses hope for continued competition in the CPU market.

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Hardware

NixOS Network Installation with nixos-anywhere: A Declarative Approach

2025-06-01
NixOS Network Installation with nixos-anywhere: A Declarative Approach

After a decade-long hiatus, the author revisits NixOS and shares their experience with network installation using nixos-anywhere. Unlike graphical or manual methods, nixos-anywhere allows declarative configuration and installation of NixOS on remote machines. Configuration files are version-controlled, ensuring reproducibility and system integrity. The article details building a custom installer ISO and using nixos-anywhere for remote installation, highlighting the benefits of NixOS's declarative configuration and version control.

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Automating My 8K Monitor Setup with Grobi

2025-05-10

The author uses a Dell 32-inch 8K monitor and encountered configuration issues after waking up the computer from sleep. Previously, manual SSH connection and running xrandr commands were necessary. Now, the author uses the Grobi program to automate the monitor configuration, solving this problem. Grobi listens for X11 RandR output change events and automatically runs xrandr to configure resolution and positioning. Additionally, the author uses the zleep program and a myStrom smart plug to control the monitor's power, saving energy.

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