NEC readies new consumer PCs

Packard Bell NEC has expanded its Ready line of consumer PCs with three new models designed for home and small office/home office (SOHO) users.

With suggested retail prices of $799 up to $1,299, the new machines are scheduled to ship this month.

Processors range from the 433MHz Celeron up to the 450MHz Pentium III, combined with 64MB or 96MB of system memory, an 8.4GB or 10.2GB hard drive, and a 56K V.90 modem.

Two of the new systems feature a CD-ReWritable drive. All the models are housed in an expandable mini-tower chassis for easy access and upgradability.

All three new Ready PCs feature a high-performance 3D AGP graphics/video accelerator, according to the company.

Additional details are posted at the company's web site, at www.packardbell.com .