Your new 1997 PC, or maybe not

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Chmn and CEO Bill Gates unveils the company's vision of the Simply Interactive PC (S.I.P.C.) at the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference, outlining a plan that seeks to make the PC as convenient and easy to use as an appliance. The S.I.P.C. proposal includes the 'On Now' clause, which would all but eliminate the time a computer takes to boot up and would allow the system to handle incoming telephone calls even when turned off. S.I.P.C. also tries to eliminate the need to open the PC case, suggesting that PCs use bays that support the interchange of CD-ROM, floppy disk and digital video disk (DVD) drives. Similarly, adding memory could be as easy as plugging in a cartridge. An S.I.P.C. system would have a large monitor and better video and audio support to make it more like an entertainment system. Microsoft forecasts that a $1,000 S.I.P.C. system will be available by Dec 1997, but observers are skeptical that the company can meet that goal.

Standards, Planning, Product information, Microsoft Corp., MSFT, Company product planning, Company business planning

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New stuff: let the buyer be aware

Article Abstract:

Buyers are faced with difficult decisions when they are considering buying a computer, including what type of computer to buy, when to buy it and who to buy it from. Consumers can choose between desktop machines, which are often more reliable and durable, and laptop units, which offer both portability and convenience. Although computer prices are declining, increased flexibility and promising options continue to be more expensive. Current 200MHz Pentium MMX systems are approximately 7% to 10% faster than traditional Pentium systems, but faster chips are imminent. While computer manufacturers often distinguish their respective products by adding special software, similar machines are not improved because these applications use so much memory. Mail-order vendors and chain stores offer similar assistance and service to computer buyers. Local computer makers that build custom systems from standard parts should be avoided by inexperienced buyers.

Marketing, Design and construction, Technology overview, Computer design, System selection, Pentium-based notebook, Pentium based notebooks, Pentium-based system, Pentium based computers

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