Framework, a company known for its modular laptops, has made its laptops more versatile with the introduction of a RISC-V main board. The new upgrade allows users to modify their laptops’ processor, making them more repairable and upgradable.
The DC-ROMA board, powered by the StarFive JH7110 System-on-Chip, features a quad-core 64-bit device. While it offers decent performance for general-purpose use, it may not be as powerful as other options like Intel or AMD processors. Framework has already taken orders for the new main board through its early access program.
The modular design of Framework laptops makes them appealing to those looking for user-repairable devices. However, users have expressed a desire for better keyboards and more travel distance in the laptop’s keyboard.
Framework CEO Nirav Patel recently demonstrated the upgrade process on stage at the Ubuntu Summit 2024, modifying a laptop from x86 to RISC-V in front of an audience. The company has already delivered several new generations of hardware, including a 16-inch model with the new main board.
While RISC-V offers more than enough performance for less demanding work, it still lags behind Arm-based processors in terms of performance. Nevertheless, Framework’s modular laptop design and RISC-V upgrade provide users with a unique solution that prioritizes repairability and upgradability over raw processing power.
Source: https://www.theregister.com/2024/11/18/riscv_framework_main_board