COMPAQ's NEW PCs OFFER CUSTOMIZATION.

Compaq Computer Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) announced a new line of Presario PCs specifically designed to be personalized by customers. The new PCs include a 'pop-off' panel that makes upgrades simple and are available in a variety of fashionable colors. They are designed to target today's consumer market that is increasingly looking to purchase hardware with designer form and functionality.

In its most significant design statement since 1996, Compaq consumers can now customize their PCs as often as they like with a wide array of colors, including Smokey Quartz (standard color), Emerald Green, Ruby Red, Amber Orange, Sapphire Blue and Amethyst Purple. Elements of the 'MyStyle' Accent Color Kits consist of a front panel, keyboard insert and speaker grills, allowing customers to create a color scheme to suit their individual style.

The new Presario desktops include an easy access 'pop-off' panel that gives access to memory, PCI slots and the hard drive. The new desktops feature a screwless rail design that allows for easy removal and upgrade of various storage devices. The new Internet keyboard features a Compaq exclusive 'email waiting' light which automatically 'wakes up' the PC to notify up to ten household members that new email is waiting for them.

"The personal computer has become a gray commodity good in many households. Like mobile 'phones and Pocket PCs' consumers are buying products that can be changed depending on personal taste, mood and status," says Oscar de Beer, Vice President, Consumer Division, Compaq Computer EMEA. He continued, "Compaq's new Presario PCs are simple, easy to use and bring color and expression to a room based on customers personal preferences."