Microsoft Unveils Simply Interactive PC Framework

Microsoft, Hardware Companies to Extend the PC to the Family Room; SIPC
Components, Technologies, Prototypes Shown at WinHEC 96

SAN JOSE, CALIF. - APRIL 1, 1996 - Microsoft Corp. Chairman and CEO Bill
Gates today unveiled the Simply Interactive PC (SIPC) framework of
hardware technologies for Microsoft Windows operating system-based PCs.
According to Gates, the technologies of SIPC will make the PC platform the
center of entertainment, communications and productivity in both home and
office, providing the ease of use and convenience of a consumer
appliance.

Gates described and demonstrated key technologies and prototypes for SIPC
to more than 3,000 PC hardware engineers and executives gathered here for
the Windows Hardware Engineering Conference 96 (WinHEC 96). The
demonstrations included enhanced audio, processed and driven from the PC
through a consumer stereo system; unparalleled high-performance 3-D
graphics; connectivity between the PC and consumer electronics devices via
Universal Serial Bus (USB) and IEEE 1394; DVD playback of digitally
perfect audio and video; and sealed-case concept PCs that never need to be
opened for users to connect and add new devices.

Leading hardware companies, including Compaq Computer Corp.,
Hewlett-Packard Co., Intel Corp. and Toshiba America Information Systems
Inc., endorsed the SIPC framework and its associated technologies. Gates
invited the PC hardware industry to join with Microsoft and begin making
SIPC a reality immediately.

"While the PC is easier to use today, we should not be satisfied," Gates
said. "SIPC technologies will make the PC as easy and convenient to use as
other home appliances. PCs will not only be more interactive and fun,
they'll also be easier to connect to consumer devices like VCRs, stereos
and TVs. As the PC becomes a central device for entertainment and
communications, it will be placed with these consumer devices in the
family room."

SIPC is a general hardware framework, rather than a specific reference
platform. Key technologies for SIPC, announced today, include the OnNow
design initiative for systemwide power management and instant
accessibility and the Win32R Driver Model, which simplifies driver
development and improves time to market and quality of new hardware. SIPC
technologies will benefit PCs used in offices as well as in the home.

SIPC GIVES NEW MEANING TO "SIMPLICITY"

Simplicity and convenience are cornerstones of the SIPC framework. Unlike
today's PCs, which can take minutes to boot up each time they're turned
on, SIPC systems will be instantly available at the touch of the on
button, much like other popular consumer electronics products. A consumer
with no experience using a personal computer will be able to sit down at
an SIPC system and immediately complete tasks such as playing a game,
watching a movie or TV program, browsing the World Wide Web, connecting to
a stereo or VCR, listening to voice mail or writing e-mail.

Extending or connecting SIPC systems to other devices will be as easy as
plugging in an extension cord. SIPC technologies include support for new
ways to connect to consumer electronics devices and PC peripherals using
the 1394 and USB buses. Also, while today's PC users may dread opening the
PC case, SIPC systems will not need to be opened. It will be possible for
connections to be made while the SIPC system is turned on, with no need to
reboot.

CONSUMERS BENEFIT FROM SIPC'S INTERACTIVITY

Consumers will be drawn to the interactive experience of an SIPC system.
SIPC systems will deliver 3-D graphics and audio comparable to leading
consumer platforms by taking advantage of Microsoft ActiveX and DirectX
technologies, for example, playback of DVD movies using the ActiveMovie
API. SIPC systems will also provide connectivity to popular consumer
electronic devices such as camcorders via a 1394 digital pipe. Another
important peripheral to an SIPC system will be a large display with high
resolution.

NEW WAYS TO COMMUNICATE WITH SIPC

SIPC systems will provide fast access to the Internet and will support
critical-mass high-speed data pipelines, such as ISDN and cable modems, to
the home. SIPC systems will support state-of-the-art Web browsing, with
enhancements to Microsoft Internet Explorer, and provide full support for
e-mail, voice messaging, conferencing and faxing, making them complete
home or office communications centers.

WIN32 DRIVER MODEL KEY FOUNDATION FOR SIPC

The Win32 Driver Model is a key foundation technology for SIPC. SIPC
technologies that will use the driver model include new Plug and Play
device support for 1394 and USB, and the OnNow initiative. Because the
Win32 Driver Model provides a driver-common architecture for both the
WindowsR 95 and Windows NTR operating systems, hardware developers can
write a single driver for both systems, making it faster and easier to
create drivers for innovative hardware.

SIPC TECHNOLOGY SUMMARY

* "APPLIANCE" EASE OF USE AND CONVENIENCE. The SIPC will be instantly
accessible and easily extensible externally through DeviceBay, USB (low
speed) and 1394 (high speed). This will allow connectivity to consumer
electronics, such as stereos, VCRs, camcorders, TVs and DSS/cable boxes.
SIPC also means users can immediately perform tasks such as playing a
game, browsing the Web, watching a movie, or listening to voice messages
with no prior experience with the PC. It also means no user-serviceable
parts, much like a TV or stereo today.

* LIFELIKE ENTERTAINMENT AND MULTIMEDIA. The SIPC will include outstanding
2-D and 3-D graphics, high-fidelity audio, extremely low latency, the
ability to handle multiple rich data streams, and large displays.

* INTERNET AND COMMUNICATIONS. The SIPC will have fast access to the
Internet through caching and support for all critical-mass high-speed data
pipelines. It will always be able to access an Internet browser and
extensions. It will also provide voice messaging, conferencing and fax
capabilities.

Additional information about SIPC, including white papers, is available at
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/thirdparty/hardware. Live transcripts of
Bill Gates' keynote will be made available via a hot link from the WinHEC
World Wide Web site at
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/events/winhec.htm.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (NASDAQ "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in
software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of
products and services for business and personal use, each designed with
the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take
advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.
 
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