IBM Announces 56K PC Card Modem with Cellular Capabilities.

SOMERS, NY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 25, 1997--IBM(a) today announced its 56K PC Card Modem /Cellular Capable with data/fax/voice functions. This new modem provides ThinkPad(a) and other notebook computer users with a powerful communications tool that includes the cellular-capable modem and an advanced suite of software.

The modem is compatible with most popular brands of cellular phones(1) including AT&T, Motorola, Nokia, RadioShack and Technophone. The new modem replaces IBM's PCMCIA 33.6 Kbps XJACK Data/Fax/Voice Modem as a modem of choice for notebook computer users.

The new modem is bundled with a CD-ROM containing advanced software application tools including 60-days of free Internet access from IBM Internet Connection(2), IBM AntiVirus with Internet Protection, IBM Home Page Creator(3), IBM Web Browser Intelligence, Intel's Speakerphone (half-duplex), NetNanny Lite, Adobe Acrobat Reader and data/fax/voice software.

This new cellular-capable modem is an ideal communications solution for small business and home office professionals who need to stay connected to their customers, or for users who want to surf the World Wide Web. A fully-functional V.34 PCMCIA modem featuring the XJACK(a) connector, it employs x2 technology(4), allowing users to download data fast. And, when using IBM's Internet Connection through IBM's Global Network as the service provider, users in select cities(5) with x2 service, can have immediate, out-of-the-box, high-speed dial connections with x2 technology support and compatibility. Its versatile functionality includes speakerphone capability which allows the user's notebook to be used as a handy conference calling tool. Also included are caller-ID capability, direct-attach cellular support for wireless fax and data access, and support for V.80 video conferencing.

"The importance of the Internet for business communications continues to grow at a rapid pace, and IBM is committed to providing customers with cutting-edge technology solutions that allow them to stay competitive," said Kevin R. Barry, general manager, Options by IBM, Personal Systems Group.

This new 56K PC Card Modem is compatible with the PCMCIA 2.1 standard, and plugs conveniently into a notebook PC's Type II PC Card slot. It also features ITU standard fax compatibility, a digital line guard, the Smart Battery Saver and support for popular operating systems including DOS 5.X or later, Windows 3.1, Windows 95, Windows NT and OS/2(a) 3.0 or 4.0.

Pricing and Availability

The new cellular-capable modem is shipping now. The estimated reseller price is $259(6). The product is protected by a five-year limited warranty(7) with IBM's service and support available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week(8). For users who do not require a cellular-capable modem, IBM continues to offer the 56K PC Card Modem Kit. Options by IBM distributes its products to channel customers including resellers, value-added resellers, mail order houses and retail superstores.

The Options by IBM Commitment

Options by IBM, within the IBM Personal Systems Group, is committed to providing tested, quality and affordable PC solutions that enhance and protect its customers' computing investment. The Options by IBM portfolio includes storage, communications/networking, memory, multimedia, visual, and accessory products for desktop, workstation, server and mobile IBM and non-IBM systems. -0-

(a) IBM, ThinkPad and OS/2 are registered trademarks of

International Business Machines Corporation. Windows, Windows 95

and Windows NT are trademarks or registered trademarks of

Microsoft Corporation.

All other company names/product names may be trademarks or

registered trademarks of their respective holders.

(1) Cellular phones and cables are sold separately. Cables are

available to IBM modem customers through a Business Partner. For

the most current list of supported cellular phones, call

1-800-846-2233 in the U.S.A. or 1-800-454-9496 in Canada.

(2) First 60 days use at no additional charge for new customers in

the U.S.A. only. For more information about monthly rates for

IBM's Internet service, visit the IBM Web site at www.ibm.net.

(3) IBM Home Page Creator requires IBM Internet Connection.

Applications may vary from retail version and may not include all

documentation or functions. Not all applications available

separately. Titles subject to change.

(4) x2 modems are designed to receive data at up to 56 Kbps from

an x2 compatible service provider, and transmit data at up to

33.6 Kbps. Public networks currently limit maximum download

speeds to approximately 53 Kbps. Actual speeds depend on many

factors, and are often less than the maximum possible.

(5) Availability of x2 service in your area may vary.

(6) Estimated reseller price only. Actual price to end-users may

vary. (7) For information regarding the terms and conditions

of IBM's limited warranty, please call 1-800-772-2227. Copies

are available upon request. (8) Response times may vary

depending on call loads. May exclude certain holidays.

IBM news releases are available on the Internet, via the IBM Home Page at http://www.pc.ibm.com. For more information about Options by IBM, visit its Web site at: http://www.us.pc.ibm.com/options. Additional product information about the 56K PC Card Modem/Cellular Capable and other IBM modems can be found at: http://www.us.pc.ibm.com/options.

The IBM Fax Information Service allows you to receive facsimiles of prior IBM product releases. Simply dial 1-800-IBM-4FAX. For general information about IBM and these or other Options by IBM products, dial the IBM Personal Systems Group HelpCenter at 1-800-772-2227.

CONTACT: Press Contact:

Brynett Gamba

IBM Corp.

Ph: 919-254-8618

[e-mail]