NEC Computer Systems Introduces Second Generation of Compatible Notebook Computer Families.

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 9, 1998--

Thin and Light Versa SX and Corporate Standard Versa LX Notebook

Computers Share Accessories and Feature Intel's 300MHz Mobile

Pentium II Processor

NEC Computer Systems Division (NEC CSD) today announced that the award winning Versa(R) SX series and Versa LX series of notebook computers will be available with Intel's newly-announced 300MHz Mobile Pentium II processor, one of the fastest mobile processors currently available.

In June, 1998 NEC CSD introduced the thin and light Versa SX and the corporate standard Versa LX, two distinct families of notebooks which share accessories, including docking options, VersaBay III components, power supplies and memory modules, in order to provide corporations with simplified solutions for managing equipment and resources.

The latest generation of Versa SX and Versa LX notebook computers also share accessories with current product lines. Both Versa SX and Versa LX notebook computers are also available in Japan, Europe and Asia Pacific.

"When we introduced the Versa SX and Versa LX, we made a commitment to our corporate customers that the products' accessories would be compatible with current and future product offerings in order to enhance their total cost of ownership," said Mark Romano, director of marketing, NEC CSD.

"With the introduction of the second generation of Versa SX and Versa LX notebook computers, we are living up to that promise by ensuring that all of the accessories continue to be compatible with earlier notebook computers of the same families, and also with future product offerings."

Changing Role of MIS

By 2001, industry analysts predict that more than 40 percent of white-collar workers will work outside the confines of a traditional office, meaning that corporations and small businesses will have to adjust to support a new population of location-independent employees with a variety of needs and a range of products.

In this complex environment, having a single family of notebook computers that meets the needs of the entire enterprise and shares accessories simplifies the operation of business and also contributes to further lowering the total cost of ownership.

Compatibility: Now and in the Future

With the announcement of the next generation of Versa SX and Versa LX notebook computers, NEC CSD is making a commitment to corporations to provide notebook accessories that are compatible across product lines, meaning that corporations will only have to maintain one set of accessories and that those accessories will also be compatible with previous and future NEC Versa product offerings.

With Versa accessories, an IT professional may deploy the same port bars and docking stations at all of its locations, allowing mobile users to easily access information globally. Coworkers will also be able to easily exchange accessories such as CD-ROMs and batteries, regardless of what type of notebook they use.

Compatible accessories include the following: -0-

-- AC adapter
-- 24X CD-ROM
-- Floppy drive
-- NEC SuperDisk LS-120 Drive Pak
-- DVD Drive Pak
-- Secondary LiION Battery
-- Secondary 5.0 GB Hard Disk Drive
-- Secondary 6.0 GB Hard Disk Drive
-- Versa Dock docking station
-- Versa PortBar port replicator

-0- The Versa SX Series

The Versa SX series is designed for the mobile professional who requires full functionality in a highly portable system. The Versa SX features a thin and light form factor that weighs 4.8 pounds and measures only 1.3 inches in height, and features an internal, modular bay.

This notebook also includes the latest mobile processor technology from Intel and is available with a 233, 266 or 300MHz Pentium II processor, or a 233MHz processor with MMX. NEC CSD has also integrated its new 1/4-inch screen technology into the Versa SX, available in 13.3 and 14.1 inch TFT display sizes.

The Versa SX also features a VersaBay III slot, a modular bay that accepts one of seven hot-swappable storage and computing tools. The Versa SX featuring the 300MHz processor is available now built-to-order starting at $3,899 for system with 64MB of RAM, a 3.2GB hard drive and a 14.1-inch screen.

The Versa LX Series

The Versa LX series, a modular, all-in-one device featuring a built-in floppy drive, a hard disk and a modular VersaBay III slot, is designed for the enterprise environment and is aimed at a range of corporate customers who require a large display, powerful multimedia performance, remote manageability and versatility.

Like the Versa SX, the Versa LX features NEC's new thin screen technology, VersaBay III slot, a built-in floppy drive or SuperDisk LS-120 drive, and is available with a 233, 266 or 300MHz Pentium II processor, or a 233MHz processor with MMX. The Versa LX featuring the 300MHz processor is available now starting at $3,899 for a system with 64MB of RAM, a 3.2GB hard drive and a 14.1-inch screen.

NEC Versa UltraCare Service

NEC CSD was one of the first personal computer manufacturers in the industry to offer an innovative, comprehensive service and support program. NEC CSD's highly acclaimed UltraCare(R) Service offers a standard, return-to-factory, three-year limited warranty on all parts and labor and technical support.

In addition, upon registration, the customer receives one free year of UltraCare Service; NEC CSD's enhanced warranty service program. Upgrades are available for up to five years. In the United States and Canada, UltraCare Service presently includes a toll-free hot line to request service 24 hours a day, seven days a week as well as free overnight pickup, repair and return of the NEC Versa notebook computer within one business day after arrival at the service depot.

About NEC Computer Systems Division

NEC Computer Systems Division is a leading manufacturer of computer products and solutions for the commercial market. NEC-branded products include Versa(R) notebook computers, Direction(TM) personal computers, PowerMate(R) desktop computers, Express5800(TM) servers and MobilePro(TM) handheld personal computers.

NEC Computer Systems Division uses a distribution model that enables customers to purchase BTO and CTO notebooks, servers and desktop products, direct or via a network of qualified resellers. This customer-focused distribution model allows corporate end-users to choose the logistics and pricing advantages of direct sales, integrated with the service and support of their preferred resellers.

By calling 1-888-8NEC-NOW or visiting the web site at www.necnow.com, customers decide how, where and when they want their orders fulfilled. NEC Computer Systems Division is a division of Sacramento, Calif.-based Packard Bell NEC, Inc., the fifth largest PC vendor in the United States according to International Data Corporation, an independent industry research firm based in Framingham, Mass.(a)

(a)(Q2, 1998 quoted with permission from IDC)

Note to Editors: To obtain photos of the Versa LX or Versa SX please call Mojgan Khalili at 650/528-5513.

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

CONTACT: NEC Computer Systems Division

Mojgan Khalili, 650/528-5513

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