Focusing on the mobile, wireless and networking needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the education market, IBM has introduced new models of its notebook and desktop computers aimed at lowering the cost of and facilitating e-business.
The new value-priced ThinkPad and NetVista systems add to the standard, powerful features and functions of traditional IBM PCs patented IBM technologies for wireless networking, advanced security and application management.
So, they provide customers with significant savings and the opportunity for increased return on investment - at entry-level prices.
Says IBM SA`s ThinkPad brand manager, Angela Henry: "SMEs need instant computing solutions and rapid return on investment (ROI).
"They don`t have vast customised infrastructures or complex business processes, so pre-packaged technology solutions meet their needs very well.
"Which is why our new range of PCs anticipate and integrate all the tools an SME may need for e-business connectivity, security and centralised management.
"They reduce technology complexity and therefore the need for technology skills, while keeping the business` future technologies options open.
"Pre-packaged options also keep the purchase price down.
"That, together with reduced operating costs and the ability to get to market quickly, makes the return on investment on these new PCs quick and substantial."
The thin, light ThinkPad R32 marks the latest use of the Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M in IBM`s notebook family.
All new ThinkPad R32 models feature two USB ports for easy connectivity, dedicated graphics capability and UltraBay plus support for additional modular devices such as a second battery.
IBM`s Embedded Security Subsystem - the first and only TCPA-compliant hardware-enhanced authentication solution currently available - provides security features that can work with existing networks, wireless or static. It is available on select ThinkPad and NetVista models.
Developed with Intel, the solution includes IBM`s embedded security chip, as well as IBM Client Security Software (available by download).
IBM`s ThinkPad A31 and A31p line now incorporates additional Mobile Intel Pentium 4 1.6GHz and 1.8GHz processors, with IBM FlexView display technology for enhanced contrast on select models.
The new NetVista A30 and A30p models include the Intel Pentium 4 processor and integrated Intel Extreme Graphics and DDR memory.
To increase flexibility, the new models offer six USB 2.0 ports. A portable USB hard drive for backup of data and critical files is available as a new option.
The NetVista M42 incorporates the fastest technology available in a desktop from IBM, featuring DDR memory and Intel`s Pentium 4 processor. It has four different chassis designs, including IBM`s first Mini Desktop with a small footprint enabling horizontal or vertical orientation.
Select M42 models also feature one of the industry`s only desktops with integrated gigabit Ethernet - suited for users connected to high-speed networks. Additionally, the M42 comes with six USB 2.0 ports, two with front access, making download speeds up to 40 times faster than USB 1.0.
The ThinkPad R32 starts at R25 000, including VAT.
Enhanced Celeron-based models of the ThinkPad R31 start at R19 000 including VAT.
ThinkPad A31 prices start at R25 180 and ThinkPad A31p at R47 550, including VAT.
The new NetVista A30p models start at R13 500 including VAT.
The new NetVista M42 starts at R13 700 including VAT.
The new ThinkPad and NetVista systems will be available through IBM business partners at the beginning of July. ThinkPad models with Wi-Fi Wireless or Bluetooth will be available at the end of July.
* IBM, ThinkPad, NetVista and ImageUltra are trademarks or registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation.
* Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
* Bluetooth is a trademark owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and licensed to IBM.
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IBM is the world`s largest information technology company, with more than 80 years of leadership in helping businesses innovate. Drawing on resources from across IBM and key business partners, IBM offers a wide range of services, solutions and technologies that enable customers, large and small, to take full advantage of the new era of e-business.
IBM can be found on the Web at www.ibm.com/za.
IBM notebooks and desktop computers
The ThinkPad and NetVista lines are available through select IBM business partners or from your IBM sales representative. See ibm.com/thinkpad and ibm.com/netvista. All IBM PCs can also be purchased direct through ibm.com.
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