Don't think computer; think easy to use! Think NIC! That's the New Internet Computer. The NIC is an inexpensive device that offers access to the Internet, but it also provides the full audio and video functionality of a PC. It can be used in homes and schools. Businesses can customize the NIC with their logos and homepages and provide access to Web-based applications for employees or customers.

The NIC is powered with a 266 MHz VIA Cyrix MII processor, 64 MB RAM, and 4 MB flash. Its Linux operating system and Netscape Navigator 4.76 browser software are housed on the NIC Version 2.0 CD and played on the unit's built-in 24X CD-ROM Drive. This facilitates easy upgrades as users can simply snap updated NIC CDs into the CD-ROM drive. The CD-ROM cannot play music; it is used only for system software. The NIC CD also has games and software for connecting to a remote server. The hard drive has been omitted from the device, but that means no crashes or viruses to worry about.

The NIC has a 56K modem for connection via a telephone line and a 10/100 Base T Ethernet for connection via a LAN, DSL, or cable modem. Connections for a keyboard, mouse, speakers, and display are included, as well as two USB ports, but currently the NIC supports only USB printers. Future releases of the NIC CD will include support for devices such as scanners and zip drives.

The NIC doesn't lock users into an Internet service provider with monthly fees, which means the base price is what users actually pay. NIC offers a free ISP, NetZero, or will work with existing ISPs such as such as Earthlink, AT&T Worldnet, and Mindsping. Citrix, Acrobat files, most file attachments, and plug-ins, including Java Macromedia Flash and RealPlayer are supported on the NIC as well.

Pricing and Availability

The standard NIC unit comes packaged with a keyboard, mouse, and speakers, all for $199.99. For $319.98, NIC adds a 15-inch SVGA monitor or for $664.98, NIC adds a 12.1-inch active matrix, flat screen display with built-in speakers on the rear of the housing.

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