NEC Computer Systems Division Announces New Personal Computers Based On Intel's 333 MHz Pentium II Processor.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 26, 1998--

NEC CSD's Direction SPL333 Desktop PC Is One of the First to

Offer Intel's Highest Performance Processor; Prices Including

Monitor Start at $2,199

NEC Computer Systems Division (NEC CSD) today announced the introduction of its fastest personal computer, the NEC Direction SPL333.

Based on the Intel 333 MHz Pentium(R) II processor introduced today, the Direction SPL333 is available now from NEC CSD with prices starting at $2,199.

"Our aim is to offer performance PCs with the latest technology at an unbeatable price," said Vernon Weiss, director of marketing for NEC's Direction product line. "Not only do we offer the fastest processors the same day Intel announces them, but we also include a 32X CD ROM drive, 64 megabytes of SDRAM, a 56kbps modem, a 4.3 gigabyte Ultra DMA hard drive and more. That is a lot of performance for only $2,199."

"The Intel 333 MHz Pentium II processor delivers the next step in high performance computing," said Mike Fister, vice president, Intel Microprocessor Products Group, and general manager, Microprocessor Division 6. "This is the highest performance Intel architecture processor available, and it powers today's complex computing needs for visual computing. Pentium II processor-based PCs such as the NEC Direction SPL333 deliver the latest high-end technology to end users."

About the Intel 333 MHz Pentium II Processor

Intel's 333 MHz Pentium II processor is the first in a new family of Pentium II processors being introduced throughout 1998. The new processor family is based on the 0.25 micron technology, enabling more powerful processing speeds and a new era of processor production. Additionally, the 333 MHz processor will use Slot 1, with the 66 MHz system bus. Intel processors based upon this technology are also available for server, workstation, desktop and mobile markets.

The Direction SPL333 PC is part of the NEC Direction line of personal computers sold directly from NEC CSD. Targeted at home consumers, Small Office/Home office (SOHO) users and small businesses, the Direction PC line is designed to meet user demands for the most advanced package of new technologies and features without the premium price.

The base configuration for the NEC Direction SPL333 includes:

-- 333 MHz Intel Pentium II processor -- 32X CD ROM drive -- 64 megabytes of SDRAM -- 4.3 GB Ultra DMA hard drive -- US Robotics x2 56Kbps modem -- Diamond Viper AGP with 4 megabytes of SGRAM -- 3.5" floppy drive -- 2 USB ports -- Altec Lansing ACS-90 speakers -- Microsoft Windows 95 -- MS Office 97 Small Business Edition -- MS IntelliMouse and Palmrest keyboard -- 3-Year limited warranty on parts and labor with 1-year order PC: up to 9.1 GB Ultra DMA or 9 GB S CSI harection line is available through direct telemarketing and Internet sales channels only (1-888-8NEC-NOW or wwding manufacturer of computer products to the commercial and consumer markets. NEC branded products include s. NEC Computer Systems Division is a division o For sales information or the n earest authorized r eseller, interested customers should call 1-888-8NEC-NOW or look on the Internet at www.necnow.com . -0-

Note to Editors: Express5800 is a trademark and NEC, PowerMate and Versa are registered trademarks of NEC Corporation used under exclusive license. Direction and MobilePro are trademarks NEC Now is service mark of Packard Bell NEC, Inc. Pentium is a registered trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks or registered trademarks are the property of their respective trademark owners.

CONTACT: NEC Computer Systems Division

Micael Wong, 650/528-5875

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