Zardon

TAIPEI, TAIWAN (8 November, 2002) - Acer launches the TravelMate C100 - the first convertible Tablet PC - that interprets and answers to usersÃ* needs by employing industry standard technologies. The TravelMate C100 fulfills knowledge workersÃ* desire for the freedom to work anytime and anywhere, based on Acer and MicrosoftÃ*s in-depth research and findings. The launch coincides with the release of MicrosoftÃ*s Windows XP Tablet PC Edition operating system.

The TravelMate C100 is an ultra-portable notebook PC that can be easily converted into tablet mode, and provides the choice to input data by typing, writing or speech. Its design takes into full consideration of people's most natural and practical computing needs. Weighing at 1.4kg (~3.08lb) only, the TravelMate C100 is the lightest convertible PC to date.

"Acer is striving to make computing easier by developing devices that improve productivity, and are more practical to people's everyday needs." Said Stan Shih, Chairman and CEO, The Acer Group.

"Acer's TravelMate C100 is an excellent example of the innovation Tablet PC hardware vendors are providing consumers,Ã* said Alexandra Loeb, Vice President of the Tablet PC Division, Microsoft Corp. ëIts versatile convertible design provides users all the conveniences of a powerful ultra-portable notebook PC with the added benefit of natural input methods such as digital ink."

"Tablet PC breaks the barriers between people and technologies through a friendly interface, from which we expect a new productivity in the freer style of information sharing." Added Jim Wong, President of IT Products Business Group, Acer Inc.

Convertible design
The TravelMate C100Ã*s LCD is designed to fold back neatly creating a large and comfortable writing surface. Users can also switch viewing modes from landscape to portrait according to their viewing habits. Alternatively, the rotatable LCD display makes it extremely versatile as a tool for presentations to small groups of people.

Mobile and dependable
Small enough to slip into a brief case, and light enough to rest on one arm, the TravelMate C100 can be used whether sitting, standing, or moving about. What's more, integrated 802.11b wireless connectivity enhances user mobility and productivity. Meanwhile, an extended battery life of 3.5 hours, an optional secondary battery, and power rapid-charge at 1.5 hours, all ensure that users have more time away from their desks for meeting clients and doing business.

A choice of input methods
Acer's specially designed Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR) pen and stylus enable natural writing as a form of input, in addition to traditional keyboard typing and touch pad use (or external mouse clicking). The pen-input technology provided by the hardware and Tablet PC edition software provides users the means to write, file, and store ink type notes as they are, or convert handwriting into typewritten text, as it's written. Voice recognition allows for operation using spoken commands, and gives users the convenience of converting speech into text.

Advanced reliability
Acer has also built the TravelMate C100 to take on the hectic pace of today's mobile users. Specific tests ensure the reliable performance of the convertible hinge, two-way latch, and keyboard - even if splashed with fluid. The LCD scratch test ensures no scratches are left on the screenÃ*s protection shield, and a ripple test ensures that the screen can endure a definite amount of stylus pressure. In addition, through Acer's patented DASP or Disc Anti-Shock Protection system, the TravelMate C100 reduces the impact of knocks and bumps.

Enhanced security
Meanwhile, the TravelMate C100 enhances data safety via optional SmartCard security, preventing unauthorized access to files and programs, ensuring work is even better protected.

The TravelMate C100 has been endorsed and honored by the media from all over the world, including Fortune, Business Week and PC World. Awards have also been granted to its unique design and leading technology, such as the 2002 Intel Innovative PC Awards for the Slate/Tablet mobile PC category, and the Best Mobile PC Award at Computex Taipei 2002.

About Acer
Established in 1976, Acer is among the world's top ten branded PC vendors. Acer employs marketing and service operations across Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, supporting dealers and distributors in over 100 nations. In addition to offering a broad spectrum of IT services, Acer is also a leading innovator of e-business, providing MegaMicro e-enabling solutions that combine IT products with a range of Micro services delivered via Acer's Mega infrastructure. For more information about Acer, please visit our website at http://www.acer.com .

Acer and the Acer logo are registered trademarks of Acer Incorporated. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation. Other trademarks, registered trademarks and/or service marks, indicated or otherwise, are the properties of their respective owners.

For More Information: http://www.acer.com