With all indicators showing that US consumers’ desire to get on to the internet is the primary motivator for buying a PC, Compaq Computer and Dell Computer have stepped up their efforts to attract buyers with low-cost desktops and financing options plus several internet services.
Compaq is offering three internet access services, its own $12 a month Compaq.Net, America OnLine or the free NetZero on Presario 5700 and 5300 desktops which start at $1,200 and $600 respectively. The 5300 uses AMD’s K6-2; the 5700 a 550MHz Pentium III and also includes a DSL modem. They keyboards now include seven buttons for direct access to web sites. New laptops include the Presario 1800 with a large 15 screen from $2,200 – $3,000 when fitted with ATI Technologies graphics for movie playback – and new 1900 series. Compaq is selling them direct from its web site, through retailers including those offering custom configuration services such as Radio Shack. Compaq usefully points out that 94% of the population of the US is within five minutes (drive?) of a Radio Shack store.
Meantime, Dell is offering a low-cost desktop Dimension L series rigged for internet access. The entry-level Dimension 400L with a 400MHz Intel Celeron chip and 32Mb RAM costs from $900 or $27 a month over two years ($1,300).
