Fujitsu Ltd has announced three new models of its pioneering FM-Towns multimedia personal computer, a machine that may be finally coming into its own after a slow start following its announcement in 1989 as the first Japanese personal computer with in-built CD-ROM. The new products have faster CPUs and improved price performance. The entry level Model UG, based on a 20MHz 80386SX, is now just under $2,000, while a 20MHz 80486SX-based Model HR is priced from $2,710. CD-ROM access speeds have been improved to half a second for the HR series and one second for the HG and UG models. New software tools from Fujitsu to run on the machine include LiveMovie V1.1 which enables manipulation of video and animation, and LiveAnimation, with an interface to MacroMind Director. Fujitsu has an installed base of 255,000 FM Towns units, which now looks low compared with the faster-growing Macintosh. However, its strength lies in the number of titles now available, particularly in the education field: by March 1993 there will be 650 titles, plus another 3,200 titles for MS-DOS and 250 titles for Windows. All models are about $3,000 cheaper than multimedia personal computers announced by NEC Corp at the end of October; Fujitsu looks to low prices to win market share.
