LG launches MY PCs

NEW DELHI: LG has announced the launch of its Linux-based MY PC range of personal computers for the domestic market. It is also planning a foray in the peripherals - keyboard and speakers space. R Manikandan, DGM, IT, marketing, informed that the launch of the same is tentatively scheduled around JFM quarter and the finer details are still being worked out.

The MY PC product line is available in two configurations — Basic and Multimedia, and is priced respectively at Rs 33,900 and Rs 36,500. The Multimedia PC has a PIV processor, 128 MB RAM, 40 GB HDD, 15-inch monitor, 52X CD-ROM, optical mouse, keyboards, speakers and a few free hours of internet.

The Basic model is configured to have PIV, 128 MB RAM, 40 GB HDD, 15 inch monitor optical mouse and keyboard. Both use the Seagate HDD. By way of software, the PCs come with Open Office, K Office and Calculator. It uses the Internet Explorer for navigation. The PCs come with a one-year on site warranty.

Apart from the regular distribution channel of LG, the PCs can also be ordered through its website www.lgezbuy.com. LG will also deploy LG Accredited System Assemblers to facilitate installation and user training. The company is also revamping its channel, and coming up with the LG Accredited Systems Partners.

"There would be 3 to 5 partners per city, in almost all the cities in the country. The deadline for setting this up is December this year." However, there will not be any co-promotions with the range of LG consumer goods, nor will the existing channel for consumer goods leveraged. The marketing relationship with IBM, which has done exceedingly well in the Korean peninsula will also not be duplicated here, informs Bose.

Since LG is providing only the monitor to the PCs, and acting as an assembly unit, what exactly would be the value-add of the company? "Quality," informs Arindam Bose, head, IT, LGIE. "LG has a strict quality check, and quality at a competitive price-point is going to be our major USP." "There are 124 service centres across the country, and service is also going to figure high in our priority list."

It is interesting to note the entrance of major players like Samsung and eSys in the Linux-based PC segment,that bypasses Rs 4,500 which has to be shelled out to Microsoft for its operating system.