NEW IBM WORKPAD PC COMPANIONS EMPOWER ENTERPRISES WITH MOBILE E-BUSINESS SOLUTIONS

..Provide integration with Lotus Notes and improved
ergonomics..


IBM today introduced two new models of its WorkPad PC
Companion line. Corporate professionals will now have
quicker access to critical enterprise data thanks to easy
data synching with Lotus Notes, wireless connectivity and
enhanced IBM service and support.

"These new WorkPad models and our solutions Web site
demonstrate IBM's commitment to providing customers the best
pervasive computing solutions for improving productivity
when mobile," said Adalio Sanchez, General Manager, IBM
Mobile Computing.

Designed for mobile corporate users, the new IBM WorkPad PC
Companions incorporate improved LCD screens for ultra-clear
viewing, and include a new model with an ultra-thin form
factor and rechargeable batteries for improved portability.

Recognising corporate needs, these new units also include
EasySync for Lotus Notes software, and IBM WorkPad Infrared
(IR) Syncronisation software to wirelessly HotSync WorkPads
to IBM desktop PCs or ThinkPads equipped with infrared
ports. WorkPad owners will also have access to a new IBM PC
Companion solutions Web site to learn about industry-leading
software applications for their WorkPad. This Web site will
also allow customers to download enterprise PC Companion
software applications. WorkPad users can also take advantage
of thousands of applications from third-party vendors since
both models are based on 3COM's Palm Computing Platform,
version 3.1.

Enhanced Mobile Connectivity

For added convenience, the IBM WorkPad PC Companion is now
bundled with EasySync for Lotus Notes. With more than 25
million users, Lotus Notes is the most popular groupware
system in the world. EasySync for Lotus Notes allows users
to quickly and easily synchronise their important business
information such as e-mail, calendars, contacts, tasks and
other information with the IBM WorkPad PC Companion.

In addition, WorkPad IR Syncronisation software provides
users with a convenient solution for enhancing the
portability of the WorkPad PC Companion. Users can upgrade
their WorkPad to perform wireless back up and data
synchronisation, eliminating the need to bring along the
desktop docking cradle. By simply pointing their
infrared-enabled WorkPad in the direction of an
infrared-equipped IBM ThinkPad or IBM desktop PC and tapping
the WorkPad HotSync application, users can smoothly
synchronise data without cables.

Advanced e-business and Pervasive Computing Tools

To facilitate e-business solutions, IBM will be launching a
new Web site for enterprises to learn how PC Companions can
be easily integrated into business processes for maximum
advantage. By simply visiting the IBM PC Companion solutions
Web site, users can learn about, try out and purchase
applications, allowing them to determine which solutions are
best suited for their business needs. Featured applications
will include IBM pervasive computing solutions such as IBM
Mobile Connect, which enables synchronisation of information
from the WorkPad directly to enterprise servers such as
Lotus Notes Domino and Microsoft Exchange. The IBM PC
Companion solutions Web site will also feature offerings
from select third party software vendors.

Enhanced Ergonomics and Usability

The new WorkPad PC Companions models incorporate a slimmer
form factor for easier portability, increased memory for
customised applications and enhanced displays that allow for
bright clear viewing. The new IBM WorkPad model 30x offers
an improved screen and enhanced data capacity with 4MB of
RAM. The new IBM WorkPad c3 (model 40x) incorporates 2MB of
RAM, an ultra-thin form factor and weight of a mere 119
grams (including battery). A new monochrome LCD display
allows for bright, clear viewing and a rechargeable
Lithium-Ion battery allows users to work even longer, with
up to two weeks of battery life. For advanced ease-of-use, a
new HotSync cradle with integrated rechargers allows users
to simply place the WorkPad c3 in its cradle to recharge the
battery.

Pricing and Availability

The IBM WorkPad model 30x will be available in March with an
estimated reseller price of 238.29 UK pounds (1). Model c3
will ship in May with an estimated reseller price of 297.86
UK pounds (1). The IBM WorkPad is protected by a one-year
international warranty with IBM's service and support
available 24 hours, 7 days-a-week (2).

Ref 99/056

Editors notes

(1) Estimated IBM authorised reseller price. Actual price
may vary. All prices exclusive of VAT.

(2) For terms and conditions, or a copy of IBM's limited
warranty, call 0870 6010136.

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Media Contact:

Katharine Sharp Notebooks Brand Manager IBM Personal Systems
Group, UK & Ireland 01256 343002 sharpkl@uk.ibm.com

or

Michael O'Connell/Emma Thompson (on behalf of IBM) 01753
790700 moconnel/ethompso@brodeuraplus.com

Customer Contact:

IBM PC Response Centre on 0870 6010136