IBM Debuts New Line of ThinkPads for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses

Business Wire, Nov 3, 1998

SOMERS, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--November 3, 1998--IBM today introduced a new line of ThinkPad(R) notebook PCs for small and medium-sized businesses, bringing the award-winning ThinkPad legacy to this fast-growing market. The new ThinkPad 390 series offers a sleek, integrated all-in-one design, compatibility with Windows (R)NT Workstation 4.0 and high-end features, including a modular bay that accepts a second battery or a second hard drive. The new ThinkPad 390 models are available now through IBM resellers at aggressive prices that start at just $1,799(1).

According to Peter Rawley, the general manager of IBM's Small and Medium Business Division, the new ThinkPad 390 line was designed to make it easier for small and medium-sized businesses to make the jump to the next generation of desktop replacement notebook PCs. "When small and medium-sized businesses select a notebook PC line, upgradability and service and support are as vital as power and flexibility. The built-in investment protection of the ThinkPad 390 series ensures that their total cost of ownership is as low as possible, without sacrificing performance and functionality."

Superb Core Technology and Services at an Affordable Price

A choice of three slim, 1.8-inch thin models in the ThinkPad 390 lineup incorporate high-performance processors, integrated modems and large active matrix TFT displays for bright, clear images. The ThinkPad 390's integrated design combines the floppy, CD-ROM and hard drives into a single unit, providing unprecedented flexibility in a value-priced notebook. An UltraBay FX bay, which supports user-swappable components including a second battery or a second SMART hard disk drive, enables small businesses to match their individual needs through a variety of configurations. Starting with an upgradable hard drive (3.2GB to 4.3GB), the ThinkPad 390 can provide up to 10.7GB(2) of storage with an optional 6.4GB hard drive installed in the UltraBay FX. Adding a second battery in the UltraBay FX boosts running time to up to eight hours(3).

For businesses deploying Windows NT Workstation or planning to do so in the future, the ThinkPad 390 series supports Windows NT Workstation version 4.0. Tapping the strengths of IBM developers, the new ThinkPads deliver advanced Windows NT(R) Workstation functionality, including full power management, resume on ring and Hot Plug PC Card support. The power management features allow users to manually set timers to control system devices such as the display, hard disk drive and the CPU, further extending battery life. In addition, a low-battery warning allows users to insert a charged battery or switch to AC power without losing critical data.

Presentations come to life when users take advantage of the bright, 14.1 or 12.1-inch active matrix TFT displays and rich, robust stereo sound of the ThinkPad 390's 16-bit stereo with audio In/Out. The ThinkPad 390 also supports Sound Blaster Pro(R) applications and 3D sound, and features an integrated microphone, 256-bit video for enhanced screen performance and a ZV port for third party video adapters.

The IBM ThinkPad 390 Series model 20U, $1,799, offers a 233MHz(4) Intel(R) Pentium(R) processor with MMX(TM) technology, 12.1-inch active matrix TFT display, 32MB RAM, 3.2GB upgradeable hard drive, 24X-10X CD-ROM drive(5) and an integrated 56K(6) modem. The model 50U, $1,999, adds the performance of an Intel 233MHz Mobile Pentium II processor. The ThinkPad 390 model 70U, $2,999, features a 14.1-inch active matrix TFT display, Intel 266MHz Mobile Pentium II processor, upgradeable 4.3GB hard drive and 64MB RAM. All ThinkPad 390 models include Microsoft(R) Windows(R) 98 and Lotus(R) SmartSuite Millennium(R) software.

IBM's new optional Enhanced Port Replicator with Advanced Etherjet features PC Card support, Wake on LAN and integrated NIC, allowing users to "snap-on" the ThinkPad 390 for quick connectivity, remote asset management, security and cable convenience. The port replicator allows users to connect an external monitor, keyboard and printer without having to attach and detach directly with the ThinkPad 390.

IBM offers ThinkPad customers a versatile range of service and support for ThinkPad notebook computers. The IBM ThinkPad 390 Series is protected by IBM's stellar service and support, available 24 hours per day and seven days per week(7), and a one-year Limited Warranty(8), which can be upgraded to meet individual requirements. IBM's Easy Serv depot repair service via courier allows for express round-trip servicing of ThinkPad notebooks(9). International Warranty Service is also available(10). IBM support includes Web pages, proactive e-mail to registered users, and sophisticated remote repair and assistance technologies. In addition, ThinkPad 390 customers can now benefit from IBM's new KnowledgeBase application that provides users with Web-based access to the same information used by IBM PC HelpCenter specialists.

Designed to help large, small and medium-sized businesses make the most of their mobile computing investments, IBM's SystemXtra program offers a host of support services, software, training and convenient financing -- with most costs combined on a single monthly invoice. A unique technology exchange option allows customers to upgrade their ThinkPads anytime after 24 months(11). This provides access to the latest mobile technology, keeping it in the hands of skilled employees and reducing capital outlay with specialized leasing programs.