(EMAILWIRE.COM, November 18, 2002 ) The waiting has ended. Dell today unveiled its first handheld computer brand, Axim, at the Comdex 2002 trade show.

The first model, the X5, is based on Microsoft® Windows Powered Pocket PC software and is available in either $199 or $299 configurations after $50 mail-in rebate or $50 discount (regularly $249 and $3491, respectively). Both configurations feature dual-slot (CompactFlash® and Secure Digital) expansion capability, sleek design and standard one-year, next-business-day Advanced Exchange service .

"Until today, handheld users have either had to pay a premium for a full-featured system or live with some compromises," said John Medica, vice-president and general manager of Dell Client Products. "We've learned a great deal about this market by listening to customers and waiting for the relevant technologies to standardize, and everything we've learned has gone into the Axim X5. We're pleased to be able to deliver a new level of value and accessibility to the handheld marketplace."

The $299 Axim X5 configuration is powered by the Intel® Xscale™ processor at 400MHz and offers 64MB of SDRAM, along with 48MB of Intel StrataFlashÔ ROM. The built-in Secure Digital and CompactFlash slots can host a number of devices ranging from 802.11b wireless adapters to memory expansion. A brilliant 3.5-inch transflective TFT color display is standard on both Axim X5 configurations, with 240x320 (QVGA) resolution. The unit's sync/recharge cradle (standard on $299 configuration) has an extra battery charge slot that accommodates either a spare standard battery (1440 mAh) or the available high-capacity (3400mAh) battery.

Users with lower memory and speed requirements can opt for the X5's $199 configuration, which has an Intel Xscale 300MHz processor, 48MB of SDRAM, 32MB of Flash ROM and a USB sync cable instead of a cradle, along with all the other features of the $299 unit. Both units will be offered with a wide variety of accessories, such as folding and snap-on keyboards and leather carrying case.

"We're truly excited that Dell is bringing the power and flexibility of the Pocket PC to customers at such a tremendous value," said Juha Christensen, Microsoft corporate vice-president of the Mobile Devices Division. "The Axim X5 delivers a no-compromises Pocket PC experience and opens the door for a broad range of customers to enjoy the benefits of using it."

The Dell Axim will initially be available in the U.S. and Canada, with plans for other regions in early 2003.

Technical Features of the Axim include:

Microsoft Pocket PC 2002 Software including Pocket versions of Microsoft Outlook, Word and Excel, Internet Explorer, MSN Messenger, Windows Media Player and more.
Intel® XScale™ Processor at 400MHz or 300MHz
Brilliant 3.5-inch TFT 240x320 QVGA 65K Color Transflective LCD
64MB SDRAM or 32MB SDRAM
48MB or 32MB Intel® StrataFlash™ ROM
1 CompactFlash® Type II Slot
1 Secure Digital Slot
IrDA port
1440mAh Li-Ion Removable Battery with Backup Battery
Optional 3400mAh Li-Ion High Capacity Battery
Built-in Microphone & Speaker
Backlit Power Button / Indicator Light
196g (6.9 oz)
128 x 81.5 x 18mm (5" x 3.2" x 0.7")
Power Button, 4 Application Keys, 5-way Navigator Button, Scroll Dial, Record Button, Headphone mini-jack
USB or Serial Cradle with 2nd primary battery charging slot
Ships standard with choice of Cradle or Synch Cable, AC Adapter & Power Cord, Protective Jacket, System Documentation & Companion CD.
About Dell

Dell Computer Corporation (Nasdaq: DELL) is a premier provider of products and services required for customers worldwide to build their information-technology and Internet infrastructures. The company's revenue for the past four quarters totaled $33.7 billion. Dell, through its direct business model, designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements, and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Information on Dell and its products can be obtained at www.dell.com.

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Produced for Dell

Contact:


Cody Pinkston, Jess Blackburn
(512) 723-3593,
(512) 725-0187
cody_pinkston@dell.com
jess_blackburn@dell.com



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