IBM Expands ThinkPad, NetVista Lines

IBM has expanded its line of ThinkPad notebooks and NetVista desktops, targeting smaller companies and organizations that want to configure their own systems.

The selection of new desktops and notebooks were announced Tuesday and are available immediately. Desktop prices start at under $800, while the new notebooks start around $1600.

P4-M Powers ThinkPads

The newest members of IBM's ThinkPad R32 line are available in several different configurations, but all are powered by Intel's Pentium 4 Processor-M, introduced in April. Buyers can choose to equip their new ThinkPad notebooks with 802.11b wireless networking technology, as well as IEEE 1394 (FireWire) and USB ports for connecting peripheral devices. The company also provides image management software. Prices for the expanded R32 line start at $1649. IBM is aiming them at small to midsize businesses and customers in the education market.

In addition, IBM introduced new computers within its ThinkPad A31 and A31p lines, which also run on Pentium 4 Processor-M CPUs. The new ThinkPad A31 systems start at $1599, and the newest ThinkPad A31p notebooks start at $3599. IBM is adding a selection of Intel Celeron-powered systems in the company's ThinkPad R31 line as well.

NetVista Revamped

The desktop consumer can choose between new NetVista models, the A30 and A30p. Intel's Pentium 4 processor provides the computing power for both of the new systems. Both machines also come with integrated Intel Extreme Graphics, a feature of Intel's new 845G and 845GL chip sets. Six USB 2.0 ports provide an interface for digital cameras, MP3 players, and a new portable hard drive from IBM. Pricing for the NetVista A30 starts at $799; the base price of the A30p is $889.

The NetVista M42 is also making its debut this week. That desktop system features a Pentium 4 processor and built-in Gigabit Ethernet capability. Its starting price is $1279.

PC sales to larger companies have stagnated in the U.S. as technology purchasing managers in corporations attempt to keep costs down amid an uncertain economic future. A recent report from Gartner said that while desktop sales continue to be sluggish overall, sales to educational and government customers are up.