Iomega launches new Zip tools software for Zip drive customers; Company also announces new internal 3 1/2 inch SCSI Zip drive

Business Wire, Sept 23, 1996

ROY, Utah--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 23, 1996--Iomega Corp. (NASDAQ:IOMG) Monday announced a new version of its software suite for Zip drive customers.

Iomega's new Zip tools 5.0 includes a bundle of applications designed to easily organize, move and protect personal computer information, and includes new 1-Step Back-up and application mover programs. Available now, the new software is free until Oct. 31, 1996, to customers via a variety of on-line services.

Iomega also announced an addition to its Zip family of products with the introduction of a 3 1/2-inch internal version of the SCSI Zip drive. It is available immediately at leading retail outlets and resellers for an estimated street price of $199.95.

"With the Zip drive, we believe in delivering more than just a storage device -- we provide an entire personal storage solution," said Andy Grolnick, Zip product line manager for Iomega. "By adding new features to the software, such as the new 1-Step Back-up and AppMover, and by expanding our internal SCSI Zip drive models, we're continuing to provide solutions that will significantly enhance the overall Zip experience."

Enhanced Software -----------------

Zip tools 5.0 includes a number of new programs that will enhance the benefits of using the Zip drive. New 1-Step Back-up allows customers to back-up their computer information to Zip disks with one click of a button. Features include uninterrupted back-up and notification of the number of disks needed to complete the back-up.

AppMover, co-developed by Iomega and Microhelp, the makers of UnInstaller, allows customers to easily move programs and games to 100MB Zip disks, freeing up hard drive space.

"By partnering with Iomega, we were able to take our award winning software and offer it to Zip drive customers as an exciting new component in their Zip tools software," said Tim O'Pry, president of MicroHelp. "Iomega is committed to bringing customers new, innovative ways to manage their stuff, so including AppMover in the latest Zip tools suite benefits everyone."

The new Zip tools software will include the following programs for Windows 95 and Macintosh Zip drive customers:

For Windows 95

-- 1-Step Back-up, allows customers to back-up critical files to Zip disks or Jaz cartridges with one click of a button.

-- AppMover, allows customers to easily move applications off their hard disk to a Zip disk or a Jaz cartridge.

-- Copy Machine, allows customers to easily make copies of their Zip disks without needing multiple Zip drives.

-- FindIt, allows customers to catalog files and programs across all Zip disks and easily find the document they are looking for, without having to search every disk individually.

For Macintosh

-- Dantz DiskFit Direct, allows customers to back-up critical files to Zip disks or Jaz cartridges. (Not available as part of free on-line download).

-- Copy Machine, allows customers to easily make copies of their Zip disks without needing multiple Zip drives.

-- FindIt, allows customers to catalog files and programs across all Zip disks and easily find the document they are looking for, without having to search every disk individually.

Software Availability ---------------------

Until Oct. 31, 1996, Iomega is offering the new Zip tools software free (excluding Dantz DiskFit Direct) to customers who wish to download it from America OnLine, Microsoft Network, Iomega's Bulletin Board Service at 801-778-5888, and Iomega's home page, http://www.iomega.com.

Or, for $39.95 Iomega is offering Zip Tools 5.0 as an upgrade Zip disk, packaged with several Zip accessories, such as a Zip drive carrying case, a Zip disk desk caddie that holds up to six Zip disks, and a Zip-wallet (a soft-case Zip disk holder) -- all accessories have a combined street value of over $50. Customers can order the Zip tools 5.0 upgrade disk and accessories by calling 800-MY-STUFF.

The new Zip tools software is currently shipping with Zip drives.

Jaz Drive Customers -------------------

Jaz drive customers can take advantage of the new software by downloading it off AOL, MSN, BBS or Iomega's home page. Jaz drives are expected to include the new software by the end of this year.

New Internal 3 1/2-inch SCSI Zip Drive --------------------------------------

The 3 1/2-inch internal SCSI Zip drive, which includes the new Zip tools software, fits in most standard drive bays. It provides fast SCSI performance while providing an affordable internal solution for PC and Macintosh computer customers.

Available now at leading retail outlets and resellers, the new SCSI Zip drive has an estimated street price of $199.95, which includes a bundled internal Zip zoom card -- a $49.95 estimated street value. Like all models of the Zip drive, the internal SCSI version is compatible with existing 100MB Zip disks, available for as low as $14.95 each.

The new internal drives are also available in bulk packs for value added resellers (VARs).

Iomega Corp. provides personal computer storage solutions that help people manage their computer stuff -- anywhere. These solutions include: Zip drives and disks; Jaz one-gigabyte drives and disks; Ditto tape backup drives and tape cartridges; and the Bernoulli line of removable drives and disks. Used in homes, business, government and education, and by creative professionals, Iomega storage solutions are available through computer retail stores, resellers and major distributors. The company can be reached at 800-MY-STUFF (800-697-8833) or at the Iomega home page, located at http://www.iomega.com.