Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

JSAUX says a software design flaw could wear out the internal storage in its Steam Machine Pixel Matrix Faceplate faster than intended. Firmware and software version V1.2 reduces unnecessary storage writes, while a revised hardware batch removes clock and performance writes from the storage path altogether. The company has also extended the Pixel Matrix warranty to 24 months and is offering qualifying owners a free replacement faceplate without requiring the old one back.

What caused the JSAUX Pixel Matrix Faceplate problem?

The issue affects the Pixel Matrix model’s software behavior, not a published defect rate or a stated temperature limit. JSAUX says the original Clock and Performance screens redrew once per second, and every redraw was saved to the faceplate’s internal storage. That repeated writing could wear the storage sooner than intended.

The company’s explanation concerns the Pixel Matrix Faceplate specifically. It does not establish that every unit will fail, identify an affected serial-number range, or provide a percentage of failed devices.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What does software V1.2 change?

V1.2 is a mitigation for existing hardware. It reduces unnecessary redraws and adds several controls intended to limit activity when the display does not need a new value.

Popular on Amazon
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
  • Do Not Disturb threshold: CPU, GPU and RAM figures are held until they change by more than 6 percentage points.
  • Brightness controls: The update adds brightness safeguards and adjustment behavior.
  • Frame-rate handling: V1.2 includes frame-rate safeguards for the display.
  • Sleep and wake behavior: Sleep/wake handling is revised to avoid needless activity.
  • Display protection: Additional display safeguards accompany the redraw changes.

Updating changes how information is refreshed; it does not replace the physical panel or convert an existing faceplate into the revised hardware design.

How is the free replacement different from the software fix?

The replacement is a hardware change rather than another setting. JSAUX says new units shipping from early November use a revised board in which clock and performance layouts are stored on the panel, while the changing numbers arrive from the Steam Machine without those updates being written to storage.

Choice What changes Best fit
Keep the current faceplate and install V1.2 Redraws and unnecessary writes are reduced through software; the original hardware remains. Owners who want the mitigation without removing the panel.
Request the free revised faceplate Clock and performance updates use revised hardware that avoids storage writes for those updates. Owners who want the hardware remedy or extra reassurance.

JSAUX says the replacement process is offered instead of asking owners to open the faceplate and connect a service tool to its internal board.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Also popular on Amazon
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

How do I request a free replacement?

JSAUX’s announcement gives owners this route:

  1. Send an email to support@jsaux.com.
  2. Use the subject line Pixel Matrix Replacement.
  3. Include your JSAUX order number.
  4. Include the shipping address for the replacement.

The announcement says replacements ship in early November in the order requests are received. It also says the current faceplate does not need to be returned. JSAUX has not published a replacement deadline, universal geographic eligibility rule, or other qualification list, so support will need to resolve those details for individual orders.

What software and hardware do installation require?

JSAUX’s official installation guides separate the E-Ink and Pixel Matrix applications. They are different packages and are not interchangeable. Both installation paths require SteamOS Desktop Mode and Decky Loader.

Pixel Matrix installation

Use the Pixel Matrix package from the official guide while the Steam Machine is in SteamOS Desktop Mode with Decky Loader available. Do not substitute the E-Ink application.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

E-Ink installation

Use the separate E-Ink package under the same Desktop Mode and Decky Loader prerequisites. Installing the wrong package can prevent the display software from working even though the faceplate itself is connected.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

How do Pixel Matrix and E-Ink faceplates differ?

They use different display technologies and software paths, so the firmware issue described in the announcement should not be generalized to the E-Ink model.

Specification E-Ink Faceplate Pixel Matrix Faceplate
Panel description 5.83-inch E-Ink panel 7-inch, 64 × 54-pixel Pixel Matrix panel
Power detail 500mAh battery; JSAUX states up to 22 days at one refresh per minute Wired real-time display, according to JSAUX
Listed price when accessed $99.99 $89.99

The battery-runtime figure is JSAUX’s stated value under the one-refresh-per-minute condition, not an independent endurance result.

Also popular on Amazon
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Widely Compatible: Transform any USB-C port into a USB-A port and USB-A port into a USB-C port, and connect up a wide range of USB-C(including MacBook, iPad Pro/Air/Mini, iPhone models with USB C ports, Samsung Galaxy series, and Google Pixel series. ) and USB A devices(including external hard drives, phones, mice, printers, and more)
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Can I buy the exact JSAUX Steam Machine faceplate on Amazon?

JSAUX lists the E-Ink and Pixel Matrix faceplates through its own store. An exact Amazon listing, seller and ASIN were not verified, so check the model name, seller and return terms before treating an Amazon offer as the same product. The relevant product wording is “JSAUX Steam Machine Pixel Matrix Faceplate.”

If a listing does not clearly identify the Pixel Matrix variant, it may be the E-Ink model, which uses a different application and display technology.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What should owners do now?

  • Install V1.2 if you are keeping the current Pixel Matrix hardware.
  • Email support with the required subject, order number and shipping address if you want the revised unit.
  • Keep your order information available; JSAUX has not published a serial-number lookup or replacement deadline.
  • Do not install the E-Ink application on a Pixel Matrix faceplate, or vice versa.
  • Keep the support confirmation and shipping details until the replacement arrives.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What remains unknown?

JSAUX has not stated how many units are affected, whether any particular production run is excluded, how the 24-month warranty period is calculated, or whether every country is eligible for free replacement shipping. It also has not published a temperature threshold or a guaranteed delivery date beyond the early-November shipping start and request-order sequence.

Also popular on Amazon
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep using my current Pixel Matrix Faceplate while waiting for support?

JSAUX’s announcement does not instruct owners to stop using the existing faceplate. It describes V1.2 as the mitigation for current hardware; contact support if your unit shows a symptom that needs case-specific guidance.

Does the 24-month warranty start over when a replacement ships?

The announcement says the Pixel Matrix warranty was extended to 24 months, but it does not explain whether that period starts at the original purchase, the update, or replacement shipment. Ask support to confirm the start date recorded for your order.

How can I tell whether a listing is Pixel Matrix or E-Ink?

Look for the exact model name and display description before ordering. Pixel Matrix is the 7-inch, 64 × 54-pixel wired model; E-Ink is the 5.83-inch, battery-powered model.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Will I have to send the old faceplate back later?

JSAUX’s announcement says no return is required for the current faceplate. Keep that statement and your support correspondence in case the company changes instructions for a particular order.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.