Dell 1998 Annual Report Download - page 5

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The Company offers two lines of desktop computer systems. The OptiPlex(R) line
is designed for corporate and institutional customers who require highly
reliable systems optimized for use in networked environments. All systems within
the OptiPlex line are "Managed PCs," enabling remote manageability and control
using industry-standard systems management tools. Some OptiPlex systems are
designed for optimal performance with 32-bit operating systems, and some are
available as Net PCs. All OptiPlex systems utilize the Company's no-tool
OptiFrame(TM) chassis,
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easing serviceability and upgradability. The OptiFrame chassis is built entirely
from recyclable materials.
The Dimension(R) line of desktop computer systems is designed for small
businesses, workgroups and individuals, who generally demand fast performance
and the latest technology without the need for remote manageability. Many
systems within the Dimension line contain the latest, state-of-the-art
technology and are targeted at technologically sophisticated users, while others
are designed for more value-oriented users.
Notebook Computers
The Company offers two lines of notebook computer systems, each designed for
targeted customer needs. The Latitude(R) line is targeted at business customers
who require highly reliable and durable systems with maximum connectivity for
use in networked environments. The Inspiron(TM) line is targeted at home and
small business users who require the latest technology and high-end multimedia
performance.
Enterprise Systems
Workstations -- The Company entered the workstation market in fiscal year 1998.
In fiscal year 1999, the Company's Dell Precision(TM) workstation product line
achieved the number one worldwide market share position in Windows NT(R)-based
workstations. The Dell Precision workstation product line is intended for
professional users who demand exceptional performance to run sophisticated
applications, such as computer-aided design, digital content creation,
geographic information systems, computer animation, software development and
financial analysis.
Network Servers -- The PowerEdge(R) line of network servers consists of systems
that can operate as file servers, database servers, applications servers and
communications/groupware servers in a networked computing environment. PowerEdge
systems can be configured as desired for use in a range of networked
environments, from single workgroups to entire enterprises. The Company also
offers rack-mountable chassis for its network servers and a full line of
external storage systems for increased disk capacity and data backup.
Storage -- The PowerVault(R) line of storage products is designed to drive
high-end storage features into standard computing environments, meeting a wide
range of customer storage needs. The Company offers a range of products within
the PowerVault line for differing customer needs. Each system within the
PowerVault line employs the latest technology. The PowerVault 650F, the highest
performing system in the line, uses Data General's CLARiiON(R) Fibre Channel
technology throughout the system and can be configured with up to 120 Fibre
Channel disk drives with a total storage capacity of over two terabytes of data.
Software and Accessories
The Company maintains three primary software and accessory programs to enhance
its computer systems. The Company offers a wide range of software, peripherals
and other accessories through its DellWare(R) and Gigabuys(SM) programs. Through
its Dell Plus(SM) custom factory integration program, the Company can
factory-install a customer's proprietary applications or hard-disk images at the
time of system manufacture and deliver other customer-specific solutions.
Through the ReadyWare(R) program, the Company can factory-install off-the-shelf
software applications in any computer system the Company sells.
Service and Support
The Company enhances its product offerings with a number of specialized
services, including custom hardware and software integration, leasing and asset
management, and network installation and support. The Company offers
next-business-day delivery, as well as an extended training and
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support program on many of its software offerings. The Company's direct
relationships with customers and its extensive on-line capabilities via
www.dell.com enhance service delivery. For additional discussion of the
Company's service and support programs, see "Item 1 -- Business -- Service and
Support."