FIC Signs Agreement with Caldera Systems to Bundle OpenLinux 2.3.

TAIPEI, Taiwan--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 16, 1999--

First International Computer, Inc. (FIC), a world leader in the design and manufacture of motherboards, notebooks and PC systems today announced that it has signed an agreement with Caldera Systems, Inc. the Linux for eBusiness leader, to bundle Caldera's Open Linux 2.3 O/S with its PC systems.

By offering OpenLinux FIC now provides their users with a popular alternative O/S solution to Windows. FIC will be working with Caldera in developing reliable easier-to-use, but cost-effective internet/intranet Thin Client platforms based on OpenLinux technology, while providing service, support and systems integration services. Caldera will certify the solutions and jointly promote to target channels globally.

Gene Sheu, Executive Vice President of FIC Group and President of FIC's PC Division, commented, "FIC is pleased to be offering and further developing Thin Client and Server business desktops. These are targeted at the SOHO (Small Office, Home Office) and Server markets such as Govt.'s and Education Institutions. OpenLinux provides the stability, cost-conscious pricing and customization that the these markets are increasingly demanding."

"This bundling agreements is real win-win for consumers," said Ransom Love, president and CEO of Caldera Systems, Inc. "FIC is known for quality hardware throughout the industry. Marrying their hardware to our software is the best of both worlds--whether in the SoHo or enterprise markets. It takes OpenLinux to the next level."

FIC will initially be offering Open Linux 2.3 with its Sahara 1000 Series Slim Line PC and the Equinox 1530 Thin Client solutions. The small form-factor desktop Sahara 1000 is an ideal server solution having been designed to meet the configuration requirements of both corporate and consumer markets. The powerful Equinox 1530 is a cost effective Thin Client solution with a foot-print of only 250 mm (L) and 75 (W), LAN onboard and 40 MB DOC SO-DIMM hard drive.

OpenLinux 2.3 is Y2K compliant and Caldera System's most recent delivery of the award-winning OpenLinux distribution. It features remote system capabilities, the Linux WIZARD (Lizard) point-and-click graphical install and the K Desktop Environment (KDE). It is an easy to use and maintain platform that allows multi-users to do multi-tasking, but requires fairly low system requirements. OpenLinux 2.3 co-exists with various LAN platforms including Mac, NT, 95/98, NetWare, UNIX and other Linux O/S.

The Linux O/S has seen exciting recent market growth and acceptance, with 17 percent share of the server market, as noted by analyst firm IDC, and is increasingly being adopted as the platform of choice for many users, most notably those building Internet and appliance-class networking applications. Linux server license distribution has seen incredible growth reaching 750,000 in 1998 and many experts predict that at present growth, market segment could double by year end, eclipsing NT as leading small-to-medium server OS.

Caldera Systems is the "Linux for eBusiness" technology leader in designing, developing and marketing Linux-based business solutions, including its award-winning OpenLinux, NetWare for Linux, Linux technical training, certification and support. Through its Authorized Linux Education Centers (ALECs) Caldera Systems offer distribution-neutral Linux training and certification based on Linux Professional Institute (LPI) certification standards.

Caldera is a registered trademark of Caldera, Inc. OpenLinux is a trademark of Caldera Systems, Inc. All other products, services, companies, events and publications are trademarks, registered trademarks or servicemarks of their respective owners in the U.S. and/or other countries.

LINUX is a registered trademark of Linus Torvalds.

Note to Editors:

Established in 1980, First International Computer, Inc. (FIC) is a leading OEM/ODM supplier of notebooks, desktop PC's, communications, monitors and computer peripherals and operates a global manufacturing and logistics network with over 4,500 employees in more than 12 countries worldwide. FIC is one of the world's largest PC motherboard manufacturers. In Q4 '98 FIC's monthly capacity was for 800,000 motherboards and 500,000 systems. In 1998, FIC's total revenues reached US$1.3 billion. The latest information about FIC's products and services products and services can be found at www.fic.com.tw or by contacting [e-mail]