Packard Bell, the world's No. 1 supplier of home
computers, ships integrated x2 high-speed modem in its
platinum PC series
SACRAMENTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 2, 1997--Packard Bell, a division of Packard
Bell NEC Inc., maintains its leadership in quick-to-market delivery of innovative technology to the
home user with integration of high-speed x2 modem technology in its Packard Bell Platinum PC
series.
This advanced modem technology, developed by U.S. Robotics (NASDAQ:USRX - news) and built in
to programmable Digital Signal Processing chipsets manufactured by Texas Instruments
(NYSE:TXN), is designed to support download speeds up to 56Kbps.
Through a strategic relationship with U.S. Robotics and Texas Instruments, the company is bringing
the x2 modem technology to consumers in its Platinum PCs with Intel Pentium processor with MMX
technology. The systems include a comprehensive offering of hardware and software to support true
multimedia computing and are now available through leading retailers in the U.S. market for
estimated street prices ranging from $1,799 to $2,299.
With the new high-speed integrated modem and service from one of the more than 500 Internet
Service Providers that are adopting x2 technology, Packard Bell PC buyers will be able to
download complex graphics, audio and video files found on the Internet in nearly half the time it took
with earlier modem technology.
``As the No. 1 provider of PCs to the home user with a tradition of making technological innovation
and its benefits available and affordable to the greatest number of people, it's a natural for Packard
Bell to be a front-runner in bringing this advanced communications technology to our customers,''
said Mal Ransom, senior vice president, marketing, Packard Bell NEC.
``Our systems have been designed for easy access to the Internet and with x2 technology, the
download process can be faster and much more enjoyable.''
U.S. Robotics, the world's leading provider of modems and remote access equipment, extensively
field tested x2 and shipped its first x2 products in February 1997. Using x2 developed by USR
gives Packard Bell an edge in providing high-speed modem technology well in advance of PC
manufacturers who are dependent on other companies for their modem technology.
``We're very pleased to provide the latest in modem technology to Packard Bell, the worldwide
leader in the home PC market,'' said John McCartney, president and COO of U.S. Robotics.
``With x2's widespread acceptance by the hundreds of Internet Service Providers worldwide,
representing more than 18 million subscribers, Packard Bell customers will have numerous options
for Internet access at x2 speeds.''
Rich Templeton, T1 executive vice president semiconductor group president, said: ``The modems in
Packard Bell systems are based on T1's software-defined DSP which provides flexibility and cost
performance advantages over conventional modem chipsets. This technology protects the customers'
investment by allowing them to upgrade their modems with software to comply with evolving
technological advances.''
Packard Bell Platinum PCs Enrich the Multimedia Experience
Platinum models with integrated x2 modem technology include the 2010X, 2015X, 2240X and the
new 2250X introduced Monday (see related release). In addition to answering the need for higher
download speed, the Platinum PCs are loaded with performance features, including a 166MHz,
200MHz or 233MHz Intel Pentium processor with MMX multimedia enhancement technology; 16,
24 or 32 MB of EDO memory; 2 GB, 3.2 GB or 6.4 GB hard drive; and 16X CD-ROM.
All models also are packed with a rich software suite for the entire family. Additionally, an array of
hardware and software features enhance sight and sound to make family computing a truly enriched
multimedia experience -- 64-bit 3-D graphics power for high resolution and 3-D special effects;
Dolby Digital (AC-3) Surround Sound decoding and Dolby ProLogic capability; SRS 3-D
Amphitheater Stereo Sound for true-to-life audio experience; MPEG-2 for full-motion video
playback of movies, concerts and DVD entertainment; and Universal Serial Bus for faster data
transfer rates and easy addition of multiple peripherals such as joysticks, scanner and other devices.
Comprehensive Service and Support
All Platinum PC models include SystemSoft's System Wizard support-call solution that provides
capabilities for the PC to self-correct more than 5,000 common computing errors automatically
without the user having to call in to customer service.
The PCs also are backed by a one-year limited warranty for hardware defects. Ninety days of
on-site service is included for those customers who register their Packard Bell computer. Premier
Support, a pay-as-you-go service, also is available for in-depth ``how to'' questions, software
training and other assistance. |
