New Notebooks: HP Adds Most Popular OmniBook Notebook PCs to HP TopValue Program. Streamlined Distribution Yields Lower Notebook Prices for Customers; New Model Prices Cut by Up to 15 Percent

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, July 13, 1998

Hewlett-Packard Company Tuesday said it has migrated the entire lineup of its most recently announced HP OmniBook notebook PCs to the company's newly implemented HP TopValue reseller program and has dropped prices on those notebooks by as much as 15 percent.

The HP TopValue program, through its supply-chain efficiencies, enables resellers to supply the most frequently ordered standard configurations of the products, quickly and at the lowest price possible.

"Aggressive pricing, superior distribution channels, support for Windows NT across the entire line, full Year 2000 compliance, and extended service and support prove we're serious about providing customers the best overall mobile computing solution," said Marc Jourlait, worldwide market development manager for HP's Mobile Computing Division.

The price cut also is part of HP's strategy to maintain aggressive pricing as it gains market share in the notebook PC market. Price cuts, which were effective July 1, apply to the HP OmniBook Sojourn, 2100, 4100 and 7100 notebook PCs. In addition, the HP OmniBook 800 notebook PC price also was cut, by 37 percent.

Price cuts include the following: * The HP OmniBook Sojourn notebook PC has been reduced in price by 13 percent and now is expected to sell for about $4,999 (U.S.). -- This ultra-thin, ultra-portable high-performance notebook PC weighs just over 3 pounds and measures less than .75 inches thick. It boasts state-of-the-art technology and an attractive, functional design for the mobile executive.

* The HP OmniBook 7100 notebook PC has been reduced in price by 15 percent and now is expected to sell for about $4,799 (U.S.). -- This desktop-replacement high-performance notebook PC addresses the needs of the power-notebook user, delivering high levels of processor and graphics performance, coupled with easy-to-use features.

* The HP OmniBook 4100 notebook PC has been reduced in price by 7 percent and now is expected to sell for about $3,199 (U.S.). -- This corporate performance notebook PC features high performance and ultimate portability.

* The HP OmniBook 2100 notebook PC has been reduced in price by 6 percent and now is expected to sell for about $1,799 (U.S.). -- This value performance notebook PC is designed for price-conscious users who want solid performance and PC functionality.

* The HP OmniBook 800 notebook PC has been reduced in price by 37 percent and now is expected to sell for about $2,299 (U.S.). -- This subnotebook PC is not currently included in the TopValue program.

HP has 125,300 employees and had revenue of $42.9 billion in its 1997 fiscal year. Information about HP and its products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.hp.com. Specific information about HP OmniBook notebook PC products can be found on the World Wide Web site at http://www.hp.com/omnibook.>

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