HP slashes prices, launches new desktops

Hewlett-Packard Co. has reduced prices on a range of Intel-based PCs and workstations, while announcing support of the Intel 550 MHz Pentium III processor in upcoming models of its PC and server lines.

Prices were cut by as much as 25 percent on a range of Brios, Vectras, Kayaks, and NetServer systems.

For example, the HP Brio business PC with an Intel Celeron 400 MHz processor, 64 MB SDRAM, 8.4GB Ultra ATA hard drive, and a 32X CD-ROM drive is now selling for $850 - a 9 percent reduction.

An HP Vectra with a Pentium III 450 MHz prcoessor, 32 MB SDRAM, 4.3 GB Ultra-ATA hard drive, and a Matrox MGA graphics card has been reduced by 15 percent to $1120.

The XA and XU models of the Kayak workstations, both featuring 450 MHz Pentium III processors, were reduced by 21 and 10 percent, respectively.

New models which feature the latest Pentium III processor include an HP Vectra PC selling at approximately $2370, a Kayak XA-s workstation expected to sell at $3390, a Pavilion 8495 model for $2499, and NetServer LPr systems beginning at $3080.

Information on all the configurations can be found at HP's web site, www.hp.com .