IBM Launches ‘Low-cost’ Linux Desktop in India

Following the launch of Linux notebooks in Asia by HP and Dell, IBM has
announced the launch of a Linux desktop in India–NetVista A30–targeting the
SMB and SOHO segments. The desktop, which is touted as a new version of low-cost
PCs, will be available at a price of Rs 39,900 excluding taxes. NetVista A30
will be launched in the non-metro cities in India like Lucknow, Patna, Raipur,
Nagpur, Bhopal and Indore to name a few.

Commenting
on the new addition Alok Ohrie, Vice President, Personal Computing Division, IBM
India Ltd said, "Linux has evolved into an enterprise-class operating
system that is establishing itself as a significant presence in the IT
landscape. Moving ahead on our belief of developing and deploying new
technologies with real customer requirements in mind, the new IBM Linux desktop
aims to support the business requirements of the SOHO and SME segments in
non-metro markets."

The NetVista A30 comes with a Intel Pentium 4 1.8 Ghz and Intel Celeron 1.7
Ghz processor with a maximum memory of 2 GB DDR and a disk capacity of 40GB 7200
RPM. The Redhat Linux 8.0 bundle will include the self-installing operating
system CD and packages like Open Office.org, Mozilla Web browser, Apache web
server, Ximian Evolution, Project, GIMP and other applications that will address
the basic computing needs of SOHO and SME segments. The NetVista A30 Linux
desktop, which has a 3-year hardware warranty, will be sold through IBM’s
network of business partners in B&C class cities across the country.
Customers can also purchase them through the Internet from www.ibm.com/home/shop_ShopIBM.

CNS