Flat Panel: NEC Computer Systems Division Unveils Breakthrough Desktop Design at Demo 99; Flat Panel 'Microdesktop' Features Form Factor of the Future for Desktop PCs - NEC Millennium PC - Product Announcement

Edge: Work-Group Computing Report, Feb 15, 1999

Demonstrating leadership in the convergence of the desktop personal computer and notebook computer markets, NEC Computer systems Division (NEC CSD) debuted a ground-breaking desktop computer at the Demo 99 Conference. NEC CSD's new desktop computer is a concept that features a revolutionary form factor and a combination of technologies unlike that found in any other desktop personal computer.

The personal computer, code-named "Millennium," which integrates desktop, mobile and future technologies, including a built-in flat panel display, is a self-contained system with a footprint that measures only 10.5" wide by 7.7" deep by 2.0" high. NEC CSD intends to ship a similar product later this year for approximately $2,000. Unlike other flat-panel desktop products that are currently available, NEC CSD's Millennium PC demonstrates the power of bringing together some of the world's best engineering expertise in the desktop and notebook computer areas by integrating powerful desktop and notebook computer features into one package. Some of the features NEC CSD is planning to integrate into its Millennium PC are Pentium III processing technology, PC card slots, NEC CSD's renowned modular component flexibility, known as VersaBay technology, and a detachable LCD screen. "Given that desktop PCs will continue to represent more than three-quarters of all clients shipped to commercial customers during the next five years, the desktop will remain a key vehicle for the rollout of technological innovation," said Roger Kay, senior desktop analyst at International Data Corp., an industry research firm in Framingham, Mass. "NEC CSD is leveraging its mobile computing expertise to produce a desktop computer that is going to change the role of the PC in the workplace," said Jeff Cooke, executive vice president and general manager for NEC CSD. "Innovation goes beyond inventing something new to putting together existing technologies to create new solutions. Our Millennium PC concept represents the way we will compute in the next century -- with small, highly integrated computers that fit into locations where space is at a premium and flexibility is key." "Demo is designed to showcase new products that represent huge advances in technology, design and market application," said Chris Shipley, executive director of Demo 99. "NEC CSD's design, approach and integration is indicative of what desktop computers will look like in the future. The engineers have redefined the role of a desktop computer within computing environments by combining mobile and desktop technology for a computer that represents the best of both worlds." NEC CSD's new desktop computer creates a new category in the desktop space called "microdesktop." Microdesktop refers to small form factor PCs that occupy significantly less space than traditional desktop computers but still support the latest processors and storage technology. NEC CSD has taken this mobile technology with its small form factor and integrated it into an innovative design that allows customers to use desktop computers in a range of new, space restricted markets or markets that require a more aesthetic appearance than a traditional desktop computer and monitor. These markets include military applications, research and development laboratories, healthcare, reception areas, kiosks and executive offices. NEC CSD's new microdesktop computer offers a sleek design that weighs just 12 pounds, compared to a typical desktop that measures 17" deep by 15" high by 9" wide and weighs 80 pounds, including monitor. This desktop computer also integrates a fifteen-inch flat panel LCD display (equivalent to a seventeen-inch CRT monitor) that allows for space conservation, has lower emissions, and reduces glare and eyestrain. In addition to the small, efficient form factor, NEC CSD has also incorporated PC card, USB and VersaBay technology into the Millennium PC, which allows for more customization and upgradeability than currently available. All slots are easily accessible so the cumbersome task of upgrading a computer with a screwdriver no longer exists with NEC CSD's desktop computer concept. To enhance the system's appearance, all circuitry and components are contained in a small base unit. Configuration options are almost endless with the massive amount of peripherals and PC cards available. There are approximately 128 distinct devices that have USB connectivity; the VersaBay III allows interchangeability of a floppy disk drive, DVD drive, LS-120 and hard disk drive, and hundreds of PC cards offers everything from Flash Memory to ISDN connection. The Demo Conference showcases cutting-edge technologies and products expected to have a significant impact on the personal computer marketplace. Companies invited to participate in the demos are handpicked each year by Chris Shipley, the conference director. Demo 99 attracts the top executives in leading hardware and software technology companies, venture capitalists and investment bankers, top journalists from key business and industry publications, technology-industry analysts and marketing executives. The conference's Web site, at www.demo.com, will offer an ongoing "virtual" Demo conference in the coming year. NEC Computer Systems Division is a leading manufacturer of computer products and solutions for the commercial market. NEC-branded products include Versa notebook computers, Direction personal computers, PowerMate desktop computers, Express5800 servers and MobilePro handheld personal computers. NEC Computer Systems Division is a division of Sacramento, Calif.-based Packard Bell NEC Inc., the fifth largest PC vendor worldwide according to International Data Corp., an independent industry research firm based in Framingham, Mass.(a) (a) (Q4, 1998 quoted with permission from IDC)