Compaq slims down with iPaq for the Internet

Compaq today announced the launch of the iPaq, a cut down Internet access device aimed at business customers.

According to the company, the iPaq is designed to offer one touch Internet access using programmable keys, is available with just USB ports to plug in peripherals and has none of the traditional PC ISA and PCI expansion slots.

With a sleek, black and silver design, the computer will weigh just 10 pounds and will take up to 75 per cent less space than the typical PC, the company claimed. The iPaq will use a 500MHz PIII or 500MHZ Celeron processor, 64Mb to 256Mb memory and comes with built-in network and graphics cards.

It also has hot swappable bays for easy switching of accessories such as CD-Rom or floppy drives. Priced at $499 without a monitor, the iPaq will be available in the US from January directly from Compaq over the Internet or phone, or via traditional channels.

Mike Winkler, senior vice president and general manager of Compaq's commercial computing group said: "The iPaq is a true legacy-free device, with stability, reliability and more usability. It's simplified, consistent and stable with a 12 month life cycle making it easier for companies to maintain."

Compaq also announced plans to deliver an information portal for business professionals. The website, B2E (business to employee), is a partnership with American Express, CMGI, Intel, Siebel and Microsoft.

It will cover industry news and research, and offer tools and information for specific professions such as sales, marketing, IT and human resources and will go live the first quarter of next year.

"B2E is a website to fulfil both the personal and business aspects of our lives," said Mike Winkler.