Computers offer 2D/3D graphics performance.
Press Release Summary:
ThinkCentre(TM) A50p systems combine Intel® Extreme Graphics 2 performance with connection of peripherals via 8 USB 2.0 ports, and tools to back up and protect data. Design incorporates Intel 865G core chipset and Pentium® 4 processors with support for up to 4 GB of 333 MHz DDR memory and Ultra ATA 100 HDDs. Products also provide integrated Intel 10/100 Ethernet or dial-up V.90/56KB modems on select models.
Original Press Release:
New IBM ThinkCentre A50p Series
At a Glance
The ThinkCentre A50p systems provide:
o A stable platform to reduce testing and qualification costs
o Exceptional performance and room for growth:
- Fast Intel processors
- Hyper-Threading technology (select models)
- Outstanding 2D/3D graphics performance for demanding graphics applications
- Support for up to 4 GB of 333 MHz DDR memory
- Support for Serial ATA and ATA-100 devices
o ThinkVantage Technology which can:
- Make computing simpler and more secure
- Help lower your total cost
- Increase PC availability and control
o Multiple mechanical form factors with one common system board
o IBM embedded security subsystem1 (select models)
o Innovative tool-less mechanical designs allow for easy upgradeability and service support
Overview
The new ThinkCentre(TM) A50p systems bring new Intel® Extreme Graphics 2 performance, fast overall system performance, fast connection to peripherals (with eight USB 2.0 ports), and easy tools to back up and protect your data - all at a price you can afford.
A50p Family Leadership Design
o Intel 865G core chipset
o Intel Pentium® 4 processors
o Hyper-Threading technology (select models)
o Support for up to 4 GB of 333 MHz DDR memory
o Ultra ATA 100 HDDs
o Select models with ATA 100 serial HDDs
o Integrated Intel 10/100 Ethernet and dial-up V.90/56KB modem2 (select models)
Extreme Multimedia Capabilities
o Integrated Intel Extreme Graphics 2 support3 and 8x AGP slot for video upgrades
o NVIDIA GeForce4 MX440 64 MB DDR (VGA) AGP8x video adapter (select models)
o ATI RADEON 9600 128 MB (VGA, TV Out, DVI-I) AGP8x video adapter (select models)
o Full range of optical drives to choose from, including CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and CD-RW/DVD-ROM combo drive
o External stereo speakers (select models)
Tools for Support and System Expansion
o Rapid Restore(TM) Ultra software provides a hassle-free one-button recovery solution that lets you restore your previously saved system image including data, applications, and operating system
o Access IBM software provides easy access to key ThinkVantage® Technologies and IBM service and support
o Easier-to-service chassis designs help increase uptime, make upgrades easier, and make repairs faster with tool-less cover removal, tool-less slots, and internal bays that flip up and allow components to slide in on rails
o Easy-to-access high-speed USB 2.0 ports
Optimized for Connectivity
o Integrated Intel 10/100 Ethernet standard on all models
o 56 KB modem (select models)
IBM Service and Support
o Service and support available globally
o Full range of optional services available for all customer sizes
For up-to-date marketing and technical information, visit the IBM Web site at:
http://www.pc.ibm.com
1 Requires download of security software from IBM.
2 Public network download speeds are limited to 53 Kbps. Upload speeds are limited to 31.2 Kbps. Compatible phone line and server equipment required. Actual speeds depend on many factors and are often less than the maximum possible.
3 For models without a separate video card, memory supports both system and video. System memory used by video may be up to 32 MB if the system has 128 MB installed, and up to 64 MB if the system has 256 MB or more system memory installed, depending on video mode.
Planned Availability
May 2003
Description
New ThinkCentre A50p Pentium 4 systems offer industry-leading technologies, superior management capabilities, and IBM quality, service, and support.
Industry-Leading Technologies
o Intel 865G chipset
o Pentium 4 processors with integrated L2 cache
o 333 MHz DDR system memory
o Enhanced IDE Ultra-ATA 100 HDDs
o Select models with serial HDDs
o Intel 10/100 Ethernet integrated standard on all models
Leading Business Tools and Data Protection Software
o ConfigSafe (Microsoft(TM) Windows® 2000 Professional preload)
o Norton AntiVirus 2003 (OEM Version)
Diagnostics
PC-Doctor runs diagnostics tests for major computer components either locally or remotely through the Internet or an intranet.
Remote Deployment Manager (RDM)
RDM is a server-based application that simplifies the setup, configuration, rollout, and ongoing lower-level management of networked IBM ThinkCentre desktop computers. Because RDM gains control of a PC before it boots its local operating system, many of the lower-level tasks that previously required a visit to each computer can now be performed over the network.
Asset Protection
Each system includes Norton AntiVirus 2003 (OEM Version) software that is preloaded to help protect your critical business information.
ConfigSafe software (Windows 2000 Professional preload) tracks changes to system configuration files and allows you to conveniently restore your configuration when changes threaten system integrity.
Hardware
o Intel 865G chipset
o Pentium 4 processors with integrated L2 cache
o Integrated Intel Extreme Graphics 2 video support
o NVIDIA GeForce4 MX 440 64 MB (VGA) AGP8x adapter (select models)
o ATI RADEON 9600 128 MB (VGA, TV Out & DVI-I) AGP8x adapter (select models)
o Enhanced IDE Ultra-ATA 100 HDDs
o Select models with ATA 100 serial HDDs
o Four memory DIMM sockets using 333 MHz DDR system memory
o Standard audio on-board
o 48x Max CD-ROM drive (select models)
o 48x/24x/48x Max CD-RW drive (select models)
o 48x/24x/48x/16x Max combo drive (select models)
o Intel 10/100 Ethernet integrated standard on all models
o Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) support
o One parallel port (IEEE 1284 compatible)
o One serial port (16550 compatible)
o Eight USB ports - two front, six rear for easy connection of peripherals
o Mouse, keyboard, and VGA monitor port
o Line-out, line-in, and microphone audio jacks
Tower Models
o Three PCI slots (three-quarter length)
o One AGP slot (three-quarter length for AGP 8x video adapter)
o Two 3.5-inch external access slim line bay (one for diskette drive)
o One 3.5-inch internal access slim line bay (for HDD)
o Two 5.25-inch half high external access slim line bays (for optical drives)
Preinstalled Operating Systems
Select models come preinstalled with Microsoft Windows XP Professional, Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, or Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional.
Embedded Security Subsystem
Select ThinkCentre A50p models have built-in hardware and software-based security features:
o Offers platform and user authentication (requires download of security software from IBM)
o Executes all private key-related Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) operations right on the chip (requires third-party digital certificate, not included)
o Designed to enable secure storage of private keys (requires third-party digital certificate)
o Supports industry standard cryptographic interface (MSCAPI and PKCS#11)
o Provides more secure access authentication by coordinating with Windows logons and strengthening Lotus Notes® logons
o Encrypts and decrypts files, folders and messages with 1024-bit digital signature and up to 256-bit key exchange
o Digital signatures allow non-repudiation and data integrity
o Integrates with optional biometrics and proximity badges
o Adheres to the Trusted Computing Platform Alliance (TCPA) specification recognized by over 180 companies
Other Software Tools
The ThinkCentre A50p includes a unique set of software tools to help you manage your desktop computing assets.
Lotus Notes Client and Lotus SmartSuite® Millennium Edition
o Lotus® 1-2-3®
o Lotus Organizer®
o Lotus Word Pro®
o Lotus Freelance Graphics®
o Lotus Approach®
o Lotus FastSite®
o Lotus SmartCenter(TM)
Note: Licenses are shipped with system.
ConfigSafe: ConfigSafe is a comprehensive configuration tracking and recovery tool for systems running the Windows 2000 Professional operating system. Since user and application changes to key system components are a frequent source of system failures, ConfigSafe tracks changes in areas such as the system registry configuration files, file versions (including .DLLs, drivers, and .EXEs), system hardware, and network connections. ConfigSafe allows users to capture an image or snapshot of a system configuration at any time, so that a user has a record of previous stable configurations and subsequent changes should problems arise. The utility can also be configured to take periodic snapshots, automatically capturing the system setup files and other related information.
Norton AntiVirus 2003 (OEM Version): This comprehensive antivirus product for Windows operating systems is preloaded on all A50p systems, and can simply and reliably detect and remove viruses from your computer.
PC-Doctor Diagnostics: Diagnoses common problems on all major system components.
Backup Copies of Your Software: The ThinkCentre A50p has a product recovery program on the system HDD. A hidden service partition will provide preload recovery.
For up-to-date marketing and technical information on your ThinkCentre A50p systems, visit the IBM Web site at:
http://www.pc.ibm.com
The latest system BIOS and device drivers are available to bring your system up to the best performance level possible.
Warranty Information
For a copy of applicable product warranties, write to:
Warranty Information
P.O. Box 12195
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
Attn: Dept JDJA/B203
IBM makes no representation or warranty regarding third-party products or services.
Telephone support may be subject to additional charges, even during the limited warranty period. If a machine is listed as having "on-site service for select repairs," this means that on-site service is available only for the replacement of select parts. For all other warranty repairs, IBM will provide a replacement part for customer installation. The parts for which on-site service is available varies by machine, but may include the processor, power supply, heat sink, system board, or base cover. For IBM machines with EasyServ service, IBM will attempt to diagnose and resolve the problem remotely before sending a courier.
All offers subject to availability. IBM reserves the right to alter product offerings and specifications at any time without notice. IBM is not responsible for photographic or typographic errors.
Statement of General Direction
IBM intends to enhance its industry-leading imaging technology with its ImageUltra(TM) Builder V2.0, currently planned for release by third quarter 2003.
This new version is expected to include several ease-of-use and functionality improvements, such as the reduction of repetitive activities, the ability to manage and manipulate modules more efficiently, and increased capabilities for menu customization. As a result, image build and management should be faster and more efficient.
In addition to IBM desktops and notebooks, the new version of ImageUltra Builder is planned to continue testing for compatibility with current select HPQ, Dell, Toshiba (laptops only), NEC, Legend, and Fujitsu desktops and notebooks.
IBM is making this statement without representations or warranties; all statements regarding IBM's plans, directions, and intent are subject to change or may be withdrawn without notice.
Trademarks
ThinkCentre, Rapid Restore, SmartCenter, and ImageUltra are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
ThinkVantage, Lotus Notes, Lotus SmartSuite, Lotus, 1-2-3, Lotus Organizer, Word Pro, Freelance Graphics, Approach, and Lotus FastSite are registered trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the United States or other countries or both.
Intel, Pentium, and Celeron are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.
Microsoft is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Other company, product, and service names may be trademarks or service marks of others.
