Dell Expands ConnectDirect Program with Third ADSL Provider

Strategic Insights -

Dell Computer Corporation has announced an expansion of its ConnectDirect program, which aims to provide fast and easy internet access to its customers. As part of this expansion, Dell has partnered with Bell Atlantic to integrate ADSL services with their ADSL-ready Dimension PCs for home and small business customers. This partnership, which includes compatibility testing between the services, modems, and Dell PCs, was announced at the National Press Club in Washington as part of Bell Atlantic's introduction of ADSL services.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dell has expanded its ConnectDirect program by partnering with Bell Atlantic to provide ADSL services to its customers.
  • The partnership includes compatibility testing between Bell Atlantic ADSL services, modems, and Dell PCs.
  • The combined services will enable customers to access the internet and talk over the phone using the same line.
  • ADSL services are up to 125 times faster than 56K modems.
  • Dell expects to complete its efforts with Bell Atlantic by early next year.
  • Customers can purchase Dell Dimension PCs with network cards for an ADSL connection with Bell Atlantic services and modems.
  • ConnectDirect is Dell's strategy to provide customers with fast, easy, and personalized access to the internet through partnerships with leaders in the online community.
  • Partnerships under ConnectDirect include AT&T WorldNet for ISP services, Excite for customized internet content, Bell Atlantic, SBC Communications, and US West for ADSL services.
  • The program has partnerships with providers in nearly half of the US states.

Statistics:

  • ADSL services are up to 125 times faster than 56K modems.
  • Dell expects to complete its efforts with Bell Atlantic by early next year.
  • Dell has partnerships with providers in nearly half of the US states under the ConnectDirect program.

Sources:

  • BUSINESS WIRE, October 5, 1998

"Dell Expands ConnectDirect Program with Third ADSL Provider"

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/19981005005441/en

  • Dell Computer Corporation official press release, October 5, 1998

(namely on their businesswire.com announcement)

https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/19981005005441/en

  • Fortune Magazine, Fortune Global 500

Source: Fortune Magazine, Homepage Oct. 5, 1998:

http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/global500/ (old link unchanged)