IBM Aptiva to Ship the First AMD K6 300MHz Systems for Consumers at an Aggressive Price
IBM Redefines the Home PC Price/Performance Equation
SOMERS, NY (April 07, 1998) – IBM today announced two new members of its award-winning Aptiva E Series – the E84, the industry’s first K6 300MHz processor-based system and the E56, a K6 266MHz1 processor-based system. Both models offer consumers the ultimate combination of performance, expandability and affordability.
“The $999-$1,499 price range is the ‘sweet spot’ for home PCs,” said Brian Connors, vice president, IBM Aptiva brand. “With the E84, we are leading the market by shipping the first AMD K6 300MHz systems at an outstanding price. These new models complement our existing Aptiva line and demonstrate IBM’s continued commitment to deliver the best home PCs at the most competitive prices.”
Both the Aptiva E56 and E84 have 256KB L2 cache for better performance, as well as extra open bays and slots for enhanced expandability. In addition, the systems feature powerful 266MHz and 300MHz AMD K6 processors, either 48 or 64MB of RAM (expandable to 256MB2), 4 GB3 hard drives, a 24X-Max/10X-Min CD-ROM drive4 and Lotus SmartSuite software. Both systems also include outstanding multimedia features such as ATI hardware accelerated 3D graphics with Direct3D, 2MB of SGRAM and SRS 3D Sound. For quick Internet access, both models are equipped with a K56 flex modem5 and offer 30 days of unlimited Internet access through IBM’s Internet Connection at no additional charge.
“Today’s consumer is buying more in the $1,000-$1,500 price range than at any other price point. This is creating a new dynamic in which first-time buyers are not willing to sacrifice performance for an affordable PC,” said Aaron Goldberg, executive vice president of Computer Intelligence. “IBM has made it clear that it is not only meeting the cost needs of its customers but is doing so in ways that truly deliver enduring value and affordability to the desktop.”
Priced at $1,399* and $1,499* respectively, the E56 and E84 are available at retailers across the country, as well directly from IBM at 1-800-426-7235, ext. 4340. In addition, similar Aptiva models will be announced in Europe in the near future.
Source: IBM