Dell, 3Com to Enable High-Speed Internet PCs with ADSL, Cable Internet Services

Dell, 3Com to Enable High-Speed Internet PCs with ADSL, Cable Internet Services

Dell Computer Corporation (Nasdaq: DELL) and 3Com Corporation (Nasdaq: COMS) today announced that the two companies will deliver high-speed, integrated modems that will match Internet service deployments from SBC Communications, Inc. (ADSL service) and @Home Networks (cable service).

The new high-speed Internet modems are expected to be available early next year on Dell Dimension®  PCs, marking the latest development in Dell's ConnectDirect (sm) initiative to customize PCs for high-speed Internet services from leading U.S. telephone and cable companies. In October 1998, Dell announced an initiative with @Home Networks for internal cable services with high-speed PCs. Dimension PCs were shipped in November 1998 with integrated modems for high-speed Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) Internet services by U S WEST !NTERPRISE MegaBit Services.

@Home cable Internet services are currently available in 169 communities in 27 U.S. states and Canadian provinces. In addition, SBC has already announced a broad deployment of high-speed ADSL services in more than 200 communities in California. With these broadband services and broadband-enabled PCs now available, small businesses and end-users can enjoy high-speed Internet services directly out of the box for a simplified setup process, comprehensive service and support, and low start-up costs.

"By working directly with 3Com, leading Internet service providers and their customers, Dell is customizing PCs to match high-speed Internet services that are available today" said Carl Everett, senior vice president of dell corporation "As we integrate fast PCs and fast Internet services, either through cable or DSL technology, the Internet becomes a fast, more robust experience for consumers and small businesses."

"Together, Dell and 3Com's market leadership will enable the roll-out of broadband access solutions to coincide with consumers' high demand and the availability of broadband services enabled by Internet service providers and carriers" said Rich Edson, senior vice president of new business initiatives for 3Com Corporation This consumer-friendly solution delivers top-of-the-line computing platforms with unparalleled communications access.

About 3Com Corporation

With more than 200 million customers worldwide, 3Com Corporation connects more people to information in more ways than any other networking company. 3Com delivers innovative information access products and network system solutions to large, medium and small enterprises; carriers and network service providers; PC OEMs; and consumers. 3Com - More connectedTM . For further information, visit 3Com's World Wide Web site at www.3com.com or the press site at www.3com.com.

About Dell

Ranked No. 125 among the Fortune 500 companies and No. 363 in the Fortune Global 500, Dell Computer Corporation is the world's leading direct computer systems company, based on revenues of $16.8 billion for the past four quarters. Dell designs, manufactures and customizes products and services to customer requirements and offers an extensive selection of software and peripherals. Information on Dell and its products can be obtained through its toll-free number 1-800-388-8542 or by accessing the Dell World Wide Web site at www.dell.com.