In a First, IBM Introduces Sub-$600 PC

IBM Corp. unveiled a personal computer priced at $599, the first major maker to offer a PC for under $600. IBM said the computer will be in stores beginning in November. The new Aptiva E Series model D1N features a 300-megahertz speed, IBM-compatible computer chip from Santa Clara, Calif.-based National Semiconductor Corp.’s Cyrix unit, a built-in 56-kilobit modem and a slim desktop design. A monitor must be purchased separately. An IBM spokesman said the company hopes to use the new PC to attract more first-time buyers, specifically children and grandparents. Armonk, N.Y.-based IBM is seeking to make a comeback in the consumer PC market after resisting the trend toward low-cost, sub-$1,000 PCs begun by Compaq last year. The new model joins two existing IBM Aptivas priced at $699 and $799.