News release

Compaq Wireless Notebook Computers Are at the Head of the Class in Virginia Beach High Schools

$3 Million Project Deploys 1,500 Compaq Evo Notebook Computers, Providing Convenience and Flexibility to Teachers and Students

The versatility and convenience of the Armada E500 and Evo Notebook N600c computers from Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE: CPQ) operating over a wireless network, have moved them to the head of the class in Virginia Beach City Public Schools. A two-year, $3 million technology enhancement project is placing some 1,500 of the computers into the district's 11 high schools.

"The use of wireless notebook computers in the Virginia Beach high schools is an excellent example of classroom innovation," said George Warren, director of K-12 education for Compaq. "Wireless technology allows traditional classrooms to be used in different ways. In addition, wireless goes a long way toward paying for itself by eliminating the need to hardwire older buildings to support computer networking."

The flexibility provided by the wireless operation of the Armada and Evo units permits teachers to take advantage of teaching opportunities at a moment's notice. It also allows any classroom in the school to be converted into a computer lab within minutes.

"As part of its strategic plan, Virginia Beach City Public Schools identified the need to focus on integrating technology into the curriculum as a tool for teaching and learning," said Dr. Timothy R. Jenney, system superintendent. "Without a doubt, Compaq's wireless computers support this initiative by enhancing the traditional classroom technology and expanding educational opportunities for students on the high school level. The use of wireless computers creates a stimulating learning environment with greater flexibility for both students and teachers."

Three wireless carts, each supporting a transmitter-receiver unit and 21 notebook computers, were placed in each high school at the beginning of this school year. Because each cart supports such a large number of computers, the number of students in a class that must share a terminal is held to a minimum. Having their own unit allows students to work at their own pace and results in an environment that is more conducive to learning.

To maximize availability of the units, the school district purchased extra batteries to reduce the amount of time that the computers have to be out of service for re-charging.

School officials say an unexpected benefit of having the wireless units is that students seem to be more serious and disciplined as they use them.

"The students understand that they are being entrusted with the use and care of a valuable piece of equipment," said Jenney. "Their response has reinforced our confidence in the responsibility and maturity of our students."

The district is using the wireless technology in its strategy to meet the goals of the Standards of Learning program, established by the Virginia Department of Education. The Standards of Learning program sets teaching and testing targets in the subject areas of mathematics, science, English, history and social science.

Configuration, delivery and installation services for the computer systems are being handled by systems integrator Electronic Systems, Inc. (ESI) of Virginia Beach, a Compaq business partner. ESI is also providing training for teachers on how to use the systems.

The success of the wireless deployment in the high schools has resulted in the decision to expand the wireless notebook concept into the district's 15 middle schools.

About the Virginia Beach City Public Schools

Virginia Beach City Public Schools is the second largest school system in Virginia and among the 50 largest school divisions in the United States (based on student enrollment); the Virginia Beach City Public Schools serves 74,576 students. Currently, the school system includes 55 elementary schools, 15 middle schools, and 11 high schools.

The school division welcomes the addition of the Advanced Technology Center (ATC). Scheduled to open with the 2002-03 academic year, the ATC is designed to offer secondary and post-secondary students the highly technical training demanded in today's workforce. It is the culmination of years of careful planning and research by Tidewater Community College, Virginia Beach City Public Schools, and the City of Virginia Beach. The ATC will be an industry-certified training location, designed to facilitate interdisciplinary learning.

Company Background

Founded in 1982, Compaq Computer Corporation is a leading global provider of information technology products, services, and solutions for enterprise customers. Compaq designs, develops, manufactures, and markets information technology equipment, software, services, and solutions, including industry-leading enterprise storage and computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, communication products, personal desktop and notebook computers, and personal entertainment and Internet access devices sold in more than 200 countries directly and through a network of authorized Compaq marketing partners. Information on Compaq and its products and services is available at: http://www.compaq.com.