TECHNOLOGY : AST to Launch New Expanded PC System for Small Businesses

AST Research Inc. said Monday that it has introduced a more powerful and affordable line of personal computer systems that deliver video performance 26 times faster than standard PCs.

The PC--Advantage! Plus is AST’s answer for small businesses, especially home-based businesses, that need a more powerful and expandable system. The completely configured and ready-to-operate systems are available in three processor models, each equipped with high resolution graphics capabilities, an expanded number of slots that can hold as many as six disk drives, and a higher-capacity power supply of 200 watts.

The system can store as much as 345 megabytes of information and includes a number of popular pre-installed software packages, such as Lotus 1-2-3 and Microsoft Windows 3.1.

AST, based in Irvine, said it will start shipping the new mini-tower systems later this month. The models, which include monitors, will carry retail prices of $2,500 to $3,500.