Table of contents

Memo of authorisation i
Memo of transmittal ii
List of tables iv
Executive summary v
1 Introduction 1
1.1 Purpose 1
1.2 Scope 1
1.3 Method 1
1.4 Limitations 1
1.5 Assumptions 1
1.6 Background 1
2 Findings 2
2.1 Micro-pro 8500 Series 2
2.2 Hewlett Packard 3000CTX 5/233 2
3 Discussion 3
3.1 Comparison of computers 3
3.2 Initial cost 3
3.3 Weight and size 3
3.4 Screen size 3
3.5 Clarity of screen image 3
3.6 RAM and hard disk size 4
3.7 Speed of the CPU 4
3.8 Battery capability 4
3.9 Service agreements and warranties 4
4 Conclusion 4
5 Recommendations and implementation 5
References 7

List of tables
Table 1: Comparison of two portable computers

Executive summary
The purpose of this report was to analyse two portable computers and recommend a
suitable machine for training staff to use at client sites.

This report has considered two machines suitable for corporate use that can
accommodate modern facilities such as e-mail, video conferencing and assist staff
with training courses.

The Hewlett Packard Omnibook 3000CTX model 5/233 is a well made portable
computer with a good size screen and keyboard. For the price of this model you
would expect to see more memory, a CD drive and a Windows based power
management set up. (Australian PC Authority, April 1998, 'PCs and Notebooks -
Reviews', p.82)

Like the Hewlett Packard model the Micro-pro 8500 Series has a good size screen
and keyboard but also comes witha numeric pad. This machine is ideal for the
business user who wants usability, comfort and performance. (Australian PC
Authority, April 1998, 'PCs and Notebooks - Reviews' , p.81)

After taking both machines into consideration, it is recommended that the Micro-pro
8500 Series would be the most suitable computer due to its value for money,
durability and standard features.

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this report was to analyse two portable computers and recommend a
suitable machine for our training staff to use at client locations.

1.2 Scope

While investigating these two computers it was important to consider their suitability
for corporate use, standard features, optional benefits and warranties.

1.3 Method

The information used in this report was collected by consulting an independent

review by the Australian PC Authority magazine and contacting the individual
companies for additional information on the technical specifications and warranties
on the machines.

1.4 Limitations
  Local computer stores did not stock either machine.
 Additional information difficult to locate.
 Software packages included with the machine not specified.

1.5 Assumptions

It has been assumed that the Microsoft Office software package will be installed on
the computers to ensure our training staff have access to PowerPoint. This program
will enable them to present effective teaching media.

As our staff regularly use computer applications it has been assumed that the
implementation of portable computers will cause little delays for the company.

As most computer companies offer clients an extended warranty, it is assumed that

All Purpose Training Company will have the option to purchase an extended
warranty for a period of one year.

1.6 Background

The All Purpose Training Company is a well respected supplier of quality executive
training courses for the business community. The All Purpose Training Company
has statewide representation with plans to expand interstate within the next 12
months.

All Purpose Training Company has a demand to supply new clients with numerous
training courses. With such demands it is crucial that training staff can have
computer access for training presentations and be able to complete day to day
operations while mobile.

2. Findings

2.1 Micro-pro 8500 Series

 Cost: $7895 RRP

 Weight: 4.5 Kg
 Size: (W x D x H) 357 x 275 x 50mm
 Screen size: 15.1"
 Clarity of screen image: Resolution could be higher, set at 1,024 x 768 you
can see the pixels, but very easy on your eyes. (Australian PC Authority, April
1998, 'PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81)
 RAM: 64 Mb, RAM can be raised to a maximum 128Mb for $1140
  Disk Drive: CD-ROM and 3.5" FDD
 Speed of the CPU: Pentium processor
 Battery capabilities: Lithium-ion battery, smart battery option available.
Lithium-ion battery lasts 2.5 hours without smart battery upgrade. (Australian
PC Authority, April 1998, 'PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81)
 Service agreements and warranties: Two year parts and labour warranty

2.2 Hewlett Packard 3000CTX 5/233

 Cost: $8245 RRP

 Weight: 3.1 Kg
 Size: (W x D x H) 304 x 238 x 47mm
 Screen size: 13.3"
 Clarity of screen image: Resolution is set at 1,024 x 768. Reasonably easy to
read... with normal working conditions. (Australian PC Authority, April 1998,
'PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81)
 RAM: 16Mb, upgrade available, $242 for 16Mb.
 Disk drives: 3.5" FDD, CD-ROM available for $570
 Speed of the CPU: Pentium processor
 Battery capabilities: - 2.5 hours from a lithium-ion battery
 Service agreements and warranties: All Hewlett Packard Omnibooks come
with a 3 year parts and labour warranty. (Stephen, 7/5/1998, Telephone
Interview, Customer Service Officer, Hewlett Packard Information Centre,
Hewlett Packard)

3 Discussion

3.1 Comparison of computers

The following table summarises the important points of comparison between the two
portable computers - Hewlett Packard Omnibook and Micropro 8500 Series.

Table 1: Comparison of two portable computers

Hewlett Packard Micropro 8500

Omnibook Series
 Initial cost $8245 $7895

Weight 3.1 Kg 4.5 Kg

Size (Dimensions
304 x 238 x 47mm 357 x 275 x 50mm
WxDxH)

Screen Size 13.3" 15.1"

RAM 16 Mb 64 Mb

Battery Time 2.5 Hours 2.5 Hours

Warranty Period 3 Years 2 Years

3.2 Initial cost

There is a RRP difference between the two computers of $350. In order to have the
computers ready for staff use, upgraded memory size would be required on the
Hewlett Packard model.

3.3 Weight and size

The Micro-pro computer weighs an extra 1.4 Kg. This is substantially heavier, but
the Micro-pro is a larger machine with each dimension larger than the Hewlett
Packard computer. Micro-pro measures 53W x 37D x 3H mm larger.

3.4 Screen size

There is a notable gap between screen sizes. Micro-pro has a 14.1 inch screen
compared with Hewlett Packards 13.3 inch screen. When using over long periods a
larger screen is preferred to avoid eye strain.

3.5 Clarity of screen image

The resolution on both machines is set a 1,024 x 768. Pixels can be seen on the
Micro-pro model, while the Omnibook is reasonably easy to read. (Australian PC
Authority, April 1998, PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81 - 82)

3.6 RAM and hard disk size

RAM between the two machines varies greatly. The Australian PC Authority states
that the Micro-pro comes with 64 Mb of RAM standard, with an option of buying the
maximum 128 Mb for $1140. They also state Hewlett Packards Omnibook comes
with 16 Mb RAM, but as most computer applications require 32 Mb, this extra
memory will cost you $242. Both machines come with a standard 3.5" FDD. Only the
Micro-pro machine comes with a CD-ROM drive, you must buy this as an extra for
the Omnibook for a cost of $570. (Australian PC Authority, April 1998, PCs and
Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81- 82)

3.7 Speed of the CPU

With 32 Mb of RAM fitted the Omnibook is one of the fastest portable computers the
Australian PC Authority magazine has ever seen, They also found that with 64 Mb
RAM the Micro-pro was not exceptionally quick but for word processing and other
office tasks it was quite acceptable.

3.8 Battery capability

Both machines come with a standard lithium-ion battery which can support the
computers for up to 2.5 hours. The computers come with power management tools
that will save battery power. A smart battery option is available on the Micro-pro for
$60. (Australian PC Authority, April 1998, PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81)

3.9 Service agreements and warranties

Micro-pro supplies their clients with a two year part and labour warranty, while
Hewlett Packard supplies a three year parts and labour warranty. It is assumed that
when the machines are purchased a service agreement will be negotiated with the
option to extend the warranty.

4. Conclusion
After investigating the Hewlett Packard Omnibook 3000CTX 5/233 and the Micro-pro
8500 Series portable computers, it was found that both models are suitable for
corporate use and would meet All Purpose Training Company requirements.
It is important to consider the long term benefits to the company when considering
which computer was best suited. Apart from initial purchasing expenses, warranty,
speed, size and memory were some factors which have been taken into account.
Software suitability was also considered.

The computers had to be easily adaptable for new technology such as e-mail, video
conferencing and presentation aids, for future company requirements.

Both computers are distinct from each other and, although both companies have the
corporate user in mind, Micro-pro appears to be offering an exceptional package.

5. Recommendations and implementation

The findings and conclusion in this report support the following recommendations:

1. The Micro-pro 8500 Series portable computer is purchased at a rate of one

computer per training staff member.
2. The smart battery option is purchased with each computer; this will assist with
heavy workloads and long training programs.
3. Staff must have e-mail access on their computers to enable them to be in
contact with the company.
4. All Purpose Training Company should negotiate price, warranty and on going
service agreements with Micro-pro direct.
5. To reduce company long term expenses:
o The company could investigate the viability of staff leasing the
computers
o A staff option of buying the computers for personal use after the
warranty period expires.
6. Computers should be available to staff after a maximum of 6 weeks.

References
1. Australian PC Authority, April 1998, PCs and Notebooks - Reviews, p. 81 -
82.
2. Micro-pro, 1998, 8500 Series Brochure, Micro-pro Computer (Imports) Pty
Ltd, Melbourne, Australia.
3. Gray, K. 1998, Director, Turnstone Technologies Pty Ltd, Australia.
4. Stephen, 1998, Customer Service Officer, Hewlett Packard Information
Centre, Hewlett Packard, Australia.
5. Guffey, M. 1997, Business Communication: Process and Product, South -
Western College Publishing, Ohio, USA.
6. Kimberly, N. and Cotesta, P, 1998, Student Q Manual, Faculty of Business
and Economics, Monash University, Caulfield, Australia.
7. Distance Education Centre, 1998, Business Communication Subject Guide,
Monash University, Churchill, Australia.