HP unveils wireless net services for SMEs

Hewlett Packard (HP) has put wireless internet access at the heart of an autumn drive to increase sales to small businesses.

The company is launching three products with SME appeal: the OmniBook XE3, a new version of its highly successful entry-level notebook computer; the e-pc, a slimmed down version of its e-Vectra machine; and the top-of-the-range E800 NetServer.

David Smith, HP's recently appointed small business manager, said the company aims to be recognised as the IT supplier of choice for the small business community. HP will do this by "understanding small business issues, developing the best IT solutions to address them, and delivering them with local qualified channel partners", he said.

While the Omnibook XE3 is available now, ranging in price from £999 to £1999, customers will have to wait until November for the e-pc and E800 NetServer.

Both the notebook and desktop PC will have an optional Orinoco wireless local area network solution, provided in partnership with Lucent. The NetServer will have a built-in ISDN card for connecting to the internet.

Frederic Leenhardt, HP's European marketing manager, said: "Wireless devices certainly represent one of the most exciting and compelling technologies for SME customers, and we are pleased that HP technology is enabling them to conduct their business from anywhere at anytime."

HP is also re-engineering the services it makes available to smaller companies online. Its e-Centre Services business portal will offer SMEs financial, travel, information and educational services.

"The new e-Centre Services confirm that HP is delivering on its promise to extend the benefits of purchasing power to the SME sector," said Leenhardt.