Packard Bell NEC Unveils Svelte Notebook Computer Lines

Strategic Insights -

Packard Bell NEC, in a push to create "thin and light" mobile computers, is set to unveil two new notebook computer lines, the Versa SX and Versa LX series. These laptops are designed for highly mobile executives, sales forces, and occasional travelers, and are equipped with Intel's new mobile Pentium II microprocessor, specially designed for notebook computers. The Versa SX series starts at $3,499, while the Versa LX series starts at $2,499.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Versa SX and Versa LX series are made by Packard Bell's NEC Computer Systems Division and are targeted at highly mobile professionals.
  • The laptops weigh in at under 5 pounds and measure 1.3 inches high, making them ideal for road warriors.
  • The computers use Intel's new mobile Pentium II microprocessor, which has tightly packed circuitry designed to save power and reduce heat, thereby improving battery life.
  • The Versa SX series starts at $3,499, while the Versa LX series starts at $2,499.
  • Packard Bell NEC recently unveiled a line of PCs starting at $699, which is the first from a mainline manufacturer using newer technology.
  • Industry experts expect other PC makers to quickly follow suit with similar pricing.
  • Packard Bell's director of product marketing, Jack Yovanovich, stated that the new machines are aimed at the home user and consumers who may want a second or third PC for the home.
  • The Packard Bell 550, priced at $699, comes with a Cyrix 233 Mhz microprocessor, 24 MB of RAM, a 2.1 GB hard drive, a 24X CD-ROM, and a 56 Kbs modem.
  • At $999, buyers can get a Cyrix 266 Mhz microprocessor, 48 MB of RAM, a 4.3 GB hard drive, a 24X CD-ROM, and a 56 Kbs modem.

Statistics:

  • The Versa SX series starts at $3,499.
  • The Versa LX series starts at $2,499.
  • The Packard Bell 550, priced at $699, comes with a Cyrix 233 Mhz microprocessor.
  • The Packard Bell 550 comes with 24 MB of RAM.
  • The Packard Bell 550 comes with a 2.1 GB hard drive.
  • The Packard Bell 550 comes with a 24X CD-ROM.
  • The Packard Bell 550 comes with a 56 Kbs modem.

Sources:

  • Michael Stroh and Clint Swett, Sacramento Bee Scripps Howard News Service, "Packard Bell NEC Unveils Svelte Notebook Computer Lines"