HP Simplifies One-to-One Computing Solutions for Schools; ''Computing in a Box'' Solution Bundle Can Help School Districts Improve Attendance, Increase Test Scores

Business Wire, March 23, 2006

ORLANDO, Fla. -- HP (NYSE:HPQ) (Nasdaq:HPQ) today announced a simplified approach for school districts planning to deploy one-to-one teaching and learning programs using computer technology.

With the launch of the HP 1:1 Computing in a Box pilot solution program, HP has bundled the required hardware (either a notebook or tablet PC), software and services that a school needs to effectively deploy the technology backbone of a one-to-one teaching and learning program.

One-to-one computing is an educational initiative to improve the way schools deliver instruction through technology, with the goal of increasing academic achievement and active learning.

HP also introduced a series of digital projectors for the education market. The projectors feature bright output, high compatibility with other devices and remote networking tools -- making them easy to use by educators as well as IT administrators.

The announcements were made at the Florida Educational Technology Conference, an annual forum where the latest in K-12 educational technology is showcased. HP is present in booth 1309.

In addition, HP and the One-to-One Institute are launching a national effort to help transform schools into high-performing, student-centered and technology-rich learning environments. The institute is a newly formed, non-profit organization of which HP is a founding sponsor. It provides services for schools, districts and states to advance one-to-one teaching and learning programs personalized through technology.

"Integrating technology in the classroom through a one-to-one computing solution had a positive effect on the teaching and learning dynamic among teachers, students and administrators," said Cathy Martin, director of marketing, Education Solutions, Technology Solutions Group, HP. "Our experience in a statewide deployment of a one-to-one computing solution yielded improved attendance and significantly increased test scores."

The One-to-One Institute can consult with schools, districts and states considering the HP 1:1 Computing in a Box pilot solution program to determine public and private funding resources.

HP 1:1 Computing in a Box

The HP 1:1 Computing in a Box pilot solution program consists of either an HP Compaq nx6110 Notebook PC or HP Compaq tc4200 Tablet PC.

The HP hosted and managed solution uses the framework of Microsoft(R) Class Server and SharePoint, which provides schools with the powerful technology of a school portal and instructional management system, without the high costs and maintenance. The solution features all the basic operating system and application software including:

--Microsoft Office Pro 2003 Win32;

--Microsoft OneNote 2003 Win32;

--Microsoft Student 2006, a comprehensive set of essential homework tools for middle- and high-school students;

--Solid Oak Cybersitter web filtering software;

--CA EZ-armor consumer antivirus and firewall desktop security suite.

To ensure maximum availability and performance from the new environment, the solution includes HP Services, such as Care Pack packaged services that provide four-years of service coverage, professional development training for educators, spare replacement and imaging services. Qualified schools may work with HP Financial Services, the leasing and financial services subsidiary of HP, for a tax-exempt installment sale lease. Optional upgrades include accidental damage coverage and carrying case.

With the minimum deployment of 100 units, the notebook version of the HP 1:1 Computing in a Box pilot solution program starts at $357 per unit as annual payment on four-year lease.(1) With the minimum deployment of 100 units, the tablet PC version starts at $529 per unit as annual payment on four-year lease.(1)

The expected general availability of the HP 1:1 Computing in a Box pilot solution program is April 14. More information is available at 1 800 88TEACH ( 1 800 888 3224).

New digital projector series helps both instructors and IT managers

HP also introduced a new series of projectors and a new projector networking solution that can assist IT managers in local school districts.

The HP xp7000 Digital Projector series is easy to use and highly compatible with other devices. With 3,500 lumens and a 2,000:1 contrast ratio, the projectors provide vibrant, bright images that can easily be seen by students, even in well-lit classrooms.

Both the xp7010 and xp7030 models offer simple menu selections, quick set-up procedures and a small remote control with mouse functionality that enables operation from the screen. With a single button, instructors can choose the optimal setting for any type of content they are showing, whether data, graphics or video presentations.

The digital projector series also has a wide range of inputs, including connections to notebooks, DVDs, cable boxes, S-video and even interactive whiteboards. These connections provide versatility for instructors who teach in various rooms and with various instructional tools.

When the HP xp7000 series projector is combined with the optional HP Jetdirect pn1050 Network Projector Manager, IT professionals in local school districts can manage a fleet of projectors from a single, remote location. With this innovative tool, remote management becomes an efficient and useful means to help keep costs down and save time.