CompuServe Thread

IBM TO UNVEIL COMPUTER FOR THE HOME MARKET (June 25) IBM Corp. plans to unveil tomorrow its latest attempt to tap the home computer market. According to the Associated Press, IBM will introduce a four-model line with the low-end machine selling for under $1,000 and possibly for as little as $650 in discount houses. Based on Intel Corp.'s 80286 microchip, the computers will be compatible with scores of popular software packages used in business. Although the memory will not be overwhelming, industry analysts claim it will be adequate. AP notes that some and perhaps all four of the models in the PS-1 line will include a built- in modem as well as software from Microsoft Corp. that will offer word processing, spreadsheet analysis and communications. There will reportedly be no expansion slots, and the keyboards will not be full- sized. Analysts say the design limitations are intentional so that the new line will not threaten sales of IBM's higher- priced PCs. IBM has a corporate policy of not commenting on unannounced products, but industry analysts interviewed by AP said that top executives revealed several months ago that the company is anxious to sell computers to the millions of people who have little or no experience with the machines. Although other computer companies have tried the same marketing ploy with little success, IBM believes that the millions of high-tech novices that make up this market have learned enough about computers that they will be ready to take the plunge. "The thrust of this seems to be going after the family," said Bruce Stephen, an analyst with International Data Corp. "They sense that there is some kind of perceived demand that increasingly families view a computer as a necessary home appliance." He predicted that IBM may market the machines as a way for families to do shopping and investing and to use educational software. Stephen also noted that consumer spending is down and that this may be the wrong time to launch such a pricey item for the home. For more news from The Associated Press, consult the Executive News Service (GO ENS) or AP Online (GO APONLINE). — Cathryn Conroy