AST packs power, versatility and full multimedia functionality into new Ascentia A Series of aggressively priced notebooks; the high-performance Ascentia A Series delivers the advanced features value-conscious buyers need for assured investment protection.

IRVINE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 23, 1996--In a move that continues to assert its aggressive new consumer retail strategy, AST Computer on Monday introduced the Ascentia A Series of multimedia-ready notebook computers, which break all traditional price, performance and functionality boundaries.

Each model in this new series of value-right, feature-rich notebook computers comes complete with a 120MHz Intel Pentium processor, a vivid color display, a 1GB hard drive, 16MB of standard RAM, a fast 6X CD-ROM and a spectrum of advanced features. Priced from $2,499, the Ascentia A Series is perfectly suited for SOHO and home users or for value-oriented corporate customers who want to defy obsolescence and protect their computing investment.

"The consumer retail market has become increasingly sensitive of how the rapid advancements in computing technology can impact their notebook PC investment," said Mark Marlow, director, mobile product marketing for AST Computer.

"As a result, users are seeking affordable solutions that offer higher performance and state-of-the-art features that won't become obsolete overnight. The Ascentia A Series delivers the power and complete multimedia functionality users need to protect their investment -- without added costs for features they're not likely to use."

Feature-Smart, Value-Wise

The Ascentia A Series was designed from the ground up to include everything users need for high-performance mobile computing and multimedia, and nothing they don't. Customers can be assured that one of the two Ascentia A models will precisely match both their computing and budget requirements.

The new value-oriented notebooks each offer a 120MHz Intel Pentium processor, a 1GB hard drive and 16MB of standard RAM expandable to 80MB. The Ascentia A Series also offers an exceptionally vibrant 12.1-inch Super VGA TFT or an 11.3-inch Super VGA DSTN color screen.

Dynamic Multimedia, Anywhere

The Ascentia A Series' advanced, built-in multimedia capabilities allow users to develop multimedia presentations, play CD-ROM games, watch full-screen movies, or just listen to their favorite music -- at their desk or on the go. The Ascentia A Series comes complete with 1MB of video memory, software-based MPEG, 16-bit Sound Blaster audio, zoomed video support and dual stereo speakers. For external attachment, the systems also include a speaker-out port, line-in port and microphone-in port.

The Ascentia A Series also includes a high-performance, modular 6X CD-ROM drive. Using AST's unique SmartBay accessory bay, users can easily switch between the CD-ROM and standard 1.44MB floppy drive within just a few seconds.

Mobile Computing with Convenience

At a mere 6.75 pounds with a floppy drive installed or just 7.0 pounds when housing a CD-ROM drive, Ascentia A Series notebooks are exceptionally portable. Windows 95 comes pre-installed and the Ascentia A Series features an advanced full-size keyboard design that provides a wide palm rest area. Using the SmartPoint Touchpad pointing device, files saved on an Ascentia A Series system open with just a tap of a finger.

The enhanced nickel-metal hydride battery included with Ascentia A Series products provides more than two hours of battery life. Because the unit is compatible with a Duracell DR36 NiMh Smart battery, additional batteries can be easily purchased. For added convenience, the Ascentia A Series' built-in infrared port allows files to be sent and received from any IrDA compliant computer or printer. For maximum expandability, the Ascentia A Series supports one Type 3 or two Type 2 PC Cards.

The Ascentia A Series can also be quickly transformed into a desktop system through the use of the optional Mini-Dock port replicator unit. The Mini-Dock, which remains on a user's desk pre-connected to a desktop PC monitor, mouse, external keyboard and printer and the network, enables quick connection and disconnection for ultimate computing flexibility.

Retail Channel Availability

The Ascentia A Series is available now from leading computer super stores, consumer electronics stores and mass merchants. The new notebook series is additionally available by mail-order.

AST Computer also offers the Ascentia J20, a low-cost notebook ideal for students and SOHO users that don't require multimedia capabilities; and the Ascentia P line of professional notebooks for Fortune 1000 companies who require more power and advanced features. Like the Ascentia A Series, the Ascentia J20 is available from leading retail outlets. The Ascentia P Series is sold through the reseller channel.

Corporate Background

AST Research, a member of the Fortune 500 list of America's largest industrial and service companies, is one of the world's leading personal computer manufacturers. The $2.468 billion company develops a broad spectrum of desktop, mobile and server PC products that are sold in more than 100 countries worldwide.

AST systems meet a wide range of customer needs, from corporate business applications to advanced home and home office use. Corporate headquarters is at 16215 Alton Parkway, P.O. Box 57005, Irvine, Calif. 92619-7005. Telephone: [phone] or 800/876-4278. Fax: [phone].

Service and support, technical specs and other information about AST's products can be found on the World Wide Web at http://www.ast.com. -0-

NOTE: AST is a registered trademark and AST Computer and Ascentia are trademarks and GuardianCare is a service mark of AST Research Inc. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corp. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corp. Sound Blaster is a registered trademark of Creative Technologies Ltd. All other products or services mentioned herein may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

CONTACT: AST Computer, Irvine

Camerone Welch-Thorson, 714/727-8858

[e-mail]

or

The Benjamin Group

Lisa M. Zwick, 714/727-7961

[e-mail]