Compaq Redefines Home Computing For the Internet Age; Offers New Presario Internet PCs, Internet Services, Advanced Technologies and Compaq "Built for You" Retail Program
HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 9, 1998--
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Editors' Summary
-- Compaq redefines the home personal computer with its new Presario
Internet PCs, featuring Compaq Easy Access Internet Keyboard, partnerships with leading Internet media brands and new cable
modem-ready 10 Mbps Ethernet port.
-- Compaq makes Web surfing easy, reliable and affordable with its
enhanced Compaq Easy Internet Access powered by GTE -- eligible
Presario purchasers receive a $100 mail-in rebate for simply
signing up for a 50-hour free trial of this new Internet
service.(1)
-- Compaq "Built for You" program gives consumers access to the
latest technologies and the option to configure the Presario PC
that is perfect for them -- at competitive price points.
-- Completely redesigned Presario Internet PC line offers
unprecedented value, performance and innovation, including new
Digital Creativity Imaging and Creativity Action Centers and new
Digital Flat Panel Display.
-- Enhanced Extra Mile Service and Support program features new
Web-based Compaq Extra Mile Maintenance, enabling consumers to
automatically download software updates.
Computer Corporation (NYSE:CPQ), the world's leading supplier of consumer PCs, today announced the worldwide availability of its most advanced and powerful Presario home computers ever. Designed to provide users with the best Internet computing experience, the redesigned Presario Internet PC line includes: new Internet access services for easy, reliable and affordable Web access; easier navigation to the most popular Web activities; new integrated technologies for ultra-fast Internet connections, and new cutting-edge digital technologies for enhanced computing experiences today and in the future.
"The Internet Age of home-computing starts today. With this announcement, Compaq is the first home computing company to place the Internet front and center, exactly where our consumers expect it to be," said Rod Schrock, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Products Group. "Our new Presario Internet PCs allow consumers to easily enjoy the rich, vast world of information associated with a true 'web lifestyle,' while also experiencing the best in Compaq innovation, value and performance."
New Presario Internet PCs Offer The Best Internet Computing Experience
With the new line of Presario Internet PCs, Compaq has integrated key technologies to ensure fast and easy Internet access and use.
For easy, reliable and affordable Internet access, Compaq offers its Easy Internet Access Service powered by GTE, at a competitive price to all Compaq PC customers beginning today. Consumers will receive a $100 mail-in rebate on all new Presario desktop models just for signing up for a 50-hour free trial of Compaq's new Internet access service.(1) Consumers pay only $19.95 per month (or $16.95 with purchase of GTE long-distance phone service) for access after the free hours expire.
Compaq is also announcing an agreement with America Online (AOL), the world's leading Internet online service, to feature AOL on all Presario desktop Internet PCs and to support AOL members through Compaq's Easy Internet Access Keyboard. With the Compaq Easy Internet Access powered by GTE and AOL services, Compaq is able to cover the broadest spectrum of Presario customers who want to go online.
For easy navigating on the Web, Compaq is incorporating its exclusive Easy Access Internet Keyboard across the entire Presario desktop line. The keyboard's Instant Internet Button Suite provides users with one-touch access to news, weather and helpful information about their new Presario PCs (Instant Internet); easy search and Web navigation (Instant Search); communication on the 'Net (Instant E-Mail); and online shopping and commerce (Secure E-Commerce).
In addition, Compaq has selected over 20 leading brand-name Internet companies as featured partners with the Compaq Internet PC family. Compaq's Daily Internet Button (Instant Internet) features My Yahoo!, a leading personalized Web page. By teaming with Yahoo!, Compaq is providing its customers with a customizable and personalized starting point to the World Wide Web, where users can get updated local and national news, sports and financial information, local weather reports and more.
Many of the new Compaq Presario models also come with a fully-tested cable modem-ready 10 Mbps Ethernet Port. This port not only provides ultra-fast 10 Mbit Internet access, but it also allows consumers to share Internet connections, files, software, printers and other peripherals between computers on a home network.
New Products Deliver the Digital Future Today
In addition to ground-breaking Internet enhancements, Compaq is introducing many new digital technologies today, including a new Digital Flat Panel Display that brings cutting-edge monitor technology to consumers at affordable prices. The new FP500 -- the first of its kind to sell for under $1,000 -- features a bright, clear 14.1-inch TFT display and unsurpassed image clarity in a sleek, space-saving design.
To enable these clearer and crisper digital displays, Compaq has designed into most of its product line an industry-standard Digital Flat Panel Port that provides a direct digital connection to these displays. The addition of this port means that consumers who choose not to buy a Digital Flat Panel display today can still upgrade to the latest in digital display technology at a later date without having to buy a new PC or a difficult-to-use adapter.
Enhancing consumers' digital video and digital photo experience, Compaq's Presario 5600 Series ultimate-performance minitowers offer the exclusive Digital Creativity Imaging Center(2) with front-panel access to both USB and IEEE-1394 (400 MBps next-generation consumer electronics bus) ports. With the Digital Creativity Imaging panel, consumers can now connect digital cameras and new digital Mini-DV camcorders as well as capture, edit, and publish their own high-quality digital movies and still images. Advanced video-editing software assists consumers in generating their creations and, because the 5600 Series systems also support S-Video and NTSC outputs, their creations can be published to a VCR or played on a standard television.
The Compaq Presario 5000 and 5100 Series extreme-value minitowers include the Creativity Action Center(2) that provides front-panel access to two USB ports and a game port connection for quick access to creativity and fun. This Center also includes image-capture and editing software to create digital-imaging masterpieces. To enable users to share and store their digital creations, Compaq features 100 MB Iomega(R) Zip BUILT-IN(TM) drives on most of the Presario desktop models introduced today.
New Internet Presario PCs Offer Value and Performance
In addition to the innovative Internet and digital technologies, the new Presario desktop and notebook lineup continues the Compaq tradition of delivering unprecedented value and performance in every product class. Ranging in price from $799 to $3,299(3), the line includes Intel(R) Pentium(R) II and Celeron(TM) processors.
"Compaq Presario systems based on Pentium(R) II processors and Intel Celeron(TM) processors deliver exciting new levels of performance to a variety of end-users," said Paul Otellini, executive vice president, Intel Architecture Business Group. "Compaq offers consumers a range of choices while delivering the rich, quality computing experience that users desire."
The new line of Presario PCs also features processors from AMD, 56K ITU V.90(4) modems, the new high-performance 100 MHz System Bus drives, 3D 2X AGP graphics, 2nd-Generation DVD-ROM drives(5), and audio technologies such as Dolby(R) Digital Surround Sound, JBL 3D VirtualTheater(TM), and JBL Pro Speakers. Compaq is also the first to include Aureal A3D(TM) Interactive 360(Degree) Positional Sound on all of its Presario desktop models, providing true-to-life positional sound for 3D games.
All new Presario products announced today have been designed for Windows 98 and will have this software either pre-installed or will offer it as a free upgrade. "Today's announcement demonstrates Compaq's commitment to providing innovative solutions taking full advantage of Windows 98's powerful Internet capabilities," said Brad Chase, Vice President, Windows Marketing and Developer Relations, Microsoft Corporation. "In addition, consumers purchasing new Presario PCs will also benefit from the new generation of hardware technologies, like USB, supported in Windows 98."
For consumers looking for the most affordable desktop PC, the Presario 2254 delivers exceptional power and expandability for the future. Priced at $799(6), the Presario 2254 features a 266 MHz AMD-K6(R) MMX(TM) enhanced processor, a 256 KB L2 pipeline burst cache, 32 MB SyncDRAM (expandable to 64 MB), hardware accelerated 3D PCI graphics, a 4.0 GB hard drive, and a 32X Max CD-ROM.
Combining power and unbeatable value, the Presario 5000 Series minitowers range in price from $1,199 to $1,499(6) and feature either an Intel(R) Pentium(R) II processor -- 300 MHz, or an Intel(R) Celeron(TM) processor -- 266 or 300 MHz, 6 GB or 8 GB hard drives, 64 MB SyncDRAM system memory, 100 MHz SyncGraphics memory and a 32X Max CD-ROM drive.
The Presario 5100 Minitower Series provides leading-edge performance at great price points. With a street price of $2,199(6), the 5100 Series includes an Intel(R) Pentium(R) II processor -- 400 MHz for incredibly fast performance, a 512 KB L2 burst cache, 96 MB SyncDRAM system memory and 100 MHz SyncGraphics memory, 8 GB hard drive, and a 2nd-Generation DVD-ROM drive(5).
The ultimate PC for the digital future, the Presario 5600 Series features the latest in Intel(R) Pentium(R) II processors -- 333, 350 or 400 MHz; a new 50 percent faster 100 MHz system bus(7); 512 KB L2 pipeline burst cache; up to 384 MB SyncDRAM memory; hard drive sizes from 8 GB to 16.8 GB, including the fastest desktop drive in the industry, the IBM 12.9 GB Deskstar 7200 RPM; and a 2nd-Generation DVD-ROM drive(5). Prices range from $1,549 to $2,999(6) for base models.
For consumers looking for great notebook PC value, Compaq today announced the Presario 1230 and the 1600 Series. The new Compaq Presario notebooks offer convenient Internet access with integrated 56K(8) modems and an Easy Access Internet Button or one-touch key. The new Compaq Presario 1230 combines a fully loaded notebook with a high-quality, all-in-one design and an affordable price. Listed at $1,699, the Presario 1230 features a 233 MHz MediaGX(TM) MMX(TM) Enhanced processor, a 12.1-inch HPA display, 32 MB SyncDRAM memory, a 3.2 GB hard drive, and a 24X Max(9) CD-ROM drive.
The ultimate multimedia notebook line for serious work and serious play, the Presario 1600 Series offers powerful performance, innovation and quality. Priced from $2,199 to $3,299, this series features two of the fastest processors available on notebook computers
-- either a 266 MHz AMD-K6(R) MMX(TM) Enhanced processor or an Intel(R) Pentium(R) II processor -- 266 MHz -- as well as 24X Max9 CD-ROM drives, 3.2 or 4.0 GB hard drives, High Performance Addressing (HPA) and 12.1- or 13.3-inch TFT displays, 128-bit accelerated graphics, up to 64 MB SyncDRAM and 512 KB L2 pipeline burst cache memory.
Compaq today also introduced a new 19-inch (18" viewable) color monitor, which will begin shipping in August.
Compaq Built for You -- New Retail Program for Custom Ordering
Compaq today announced a new and easy way for consumers to custom-order and purchase a Presario 5600 Series desktop PC or Presario 1600 Series notebook PC at retail locations. Providing the value and flexibility of buying direct with the convenience of retail store support, Compaq's new "Built for You" retail program lets consumers configure and purchase a computer with the options that best suit their needs.
Currently up and running in approximately 100 stores, including retailers such as Best Buy, Office Depot and Staples, this program is expected to expand to thousands of stores, including retailers such as CompUSA, Computer City, Office Max and RadioShack, by the end of 1998.
Compaq's New Retail Printers -- For a Total Compaq Solution
Launched last month, Compaq's new color inkjet printers are perfect for the home user buying a first-time color printer, or the professional working at a small office or home office. Compaq's printer offering includes the entry-level Compaq IJ200, a 600 x 600 dpi single-head color inkjet printer; the Compaq IJ700, which offers 1200 x 1200 dpi resolution and produces impressive text and image quality at a low price; and the top-of-the-line Compaq IJ900, which features fast print speeds, crisp text quality and print resolution up to 1200 x 1200 dpi.
Enhanced Extra Mile Service for Total Customer Satisfaction
Compaq today also announced several new customer-focused service programs, including Compaq Extra Mile Maintenance, a totally new style of Web-based service that will automatically download software updates or helpful hints whenever users log on to the Internet. This new tool requires minimal user intervention while allowing for complete privacy, as users always have the choice to install update files or delete them.
Another new Compaq service, Extra Mile Assistance, provides the capability for support technicians to access the user's system remotely, quickly diagnose and resolve problems, and provide interactive help using voice and data communication. As a result, support technicians can provide faster and more accurate assistance.
Compaq continues to offer one of the most comprehensive warranty packages in the industry, including free technical support and on-site maintenance during the warranty period.
Company Background
Founded in 1982, Compaq Computer Corporation, a Fortune 100 company, is a global information technology company. Compaq is the fifth-largest computer company in the world and the largest global supplier of personal computers. With worldwide sales of $24.6 billion in 1997, Compaq develops and markets hardware, software, solutions and services, including industry-leading enterprise computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, networking and communication products, commercial desktop and portable products and consumer PCs. The company is an industry leader in environmentally friendly programs and business practices.
Compaq products are sold and supported in more than 100 countries through a network of authorized Compaq marketing partners. Customer support and information about Compaq and its products can be found at compaq.com or by calling 1-800-OK-COMPAQ in North America. Product information and North America reseller locations can be obtained by calling 1-800-345-1518.
Compaq North America is headquartered in Houston, Texas. Its products and services are sold and supported through a network of more than 25,000 commercial and consumer marketing partners across the United States and Canada.
(1) $100 Mail-in Rebate from Compaq with purchase of qualifying
product and sign-up for 50-hour free trial of Compaq Easy
Internet Access. Rebate offer is valid only in the USA and
expires 12/31/98. 50 free hours of Internet access when Compaq
Easy Internet Access is chosen from Compaq Internet Setup. The 50
free hours can be used over a 45-day period, up to two hours per
day. A valid credit card will be required in order to continue
service after the trial period. See store for details.
(2) Works with most third-party devices.
(3) All prices listed herein are estimated U.S. retail prices. Actual
reseller prices may vary. Presario desktop prices are shown after
application of $100 mail-in rebate from Compaq with sign-up for
50-hour free trial of Compaq Easy Internet Access. See rebate
terms for details.
(4) ITU V.90 modems are designed only to allow faster downloads from
K56flex or V.90 compliant digital sources. Maximum achievable
download transmission rates are currently unknown, may not reach
56 Kbps, and will vary with line conditions.
(5) Second-generation DVD-ROM drives run at higher maximum transfer
rate of up to 2.76 MB/s compared to first-generation DVD-ROM
drives, which run at a maximum transfer rate of up to 1.348 MB/s.
(6) After $100 mail-in rebate from Compaq. See rebate terms for
details.
(7) 100 MHz system bus compared to 66 MHz system bus.
(8) The K56flex modems are designed only to allow faster downloads
from K56flex compliant digital sources. Maximum achievable
download transmission rates are currently unknown, may not reach
56Kbps and will vary with line conditions. ITU V.90 updates may
be downloaded from the Compaq Web site when available, and are
designed to allow faster downloads from K56flex or V.90 compliant
digital resources.
(9) 24x Max CD-ROM drive data transfer rates may vary from 1500 to
3600 Kbps.
*T -0- Note to Editors: Compaq and Presario, Registered U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Other product names mentioned herein may be trademarks and/or registered trademarks of their respective companies.
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CONTACT:
Compaq Computer Corporation
Hedy Baker, 281/514-0484
hedy.baker@compaq.com
or
Miller/Shandwick Technologies
Simone Skretvedt, 314/552-6708
sskretve@shandwick.com |
