SAN JOSE, Calif. and MILPITAS, Calif., Jan. 15, 2008 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Bell Microproducts Inc. (Nasdaq:BELM), one of the world's largest value-added distributors of storage and computing technology, and AOpen, a market-leading manufacturer of computer components, announced today that they have signed a distribution agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, Bell Microproducts will configure and distribute AOpen's ultra small form factor solutions, the Digital Engine line, which consists of the DE945-CD and the DE945-FL. The Digital Engine line is targeted to applied computing platforms including digital signage, high performance kiosks and vehicle PCs.
With the market growing for digital signage solutions and users demanding higher system performance, solutions are required to be cost-effective, turnkey, small, reliable and customized. The combination of AOpen products, which feature the latest in technology, and Bell Microproducts' value-added services and deep expertise in computing solutions, bring together the essential elements for a strong partnership that can serve the digital signage market.
"We are pleased to be able to offer our resellers additional options for embedded applications, as well as to reinforce our commitment to offering industry-leading solutions by partnering with AOpen," noted John Vossoughi, senior vice president, North American computer products marketing for Bell Microproducts. "AOpen's products are well suited for applied computing platforms such as digital signage, point of sale, medical PCs, kiosks, and vehicle PCs."
AOpen's Digital Engine products are application-ready system platform solutions that are based on MoDT (Mobile on Desktop) technology. AOpen digital engine products are very flexible and can be applied to many different applications. AOpen's MoDT technology provides a combination of low power consumptions and high performance solutions. Both the DE945-CD and the DE945-FL support dual display, high resolution images at 1080P, anti-shocking resistance and critical environmental/temperature resistance. Additionally, the products use a fan-less design for close operating environments or environments requiring low system maintenance.
"Bell Microproducts' strength in embedded product solutions, coupled with its extensive network of resellers makes them the perfect systems integration and distribution partner for us," said Jacky Lin, director of the solution business unit for AOpen. "We offer the most extensive PC product line in the industry and guarantee the latest in technology development at competitive prices, and our partnership with Bell Microproducts will make these advantages increasingly visible to the channel."
AOpen's ultra small form factor solutions are now available through Bell Microproducts. Please call 1-800-800-1513 or visit www.bellmicro.com for more information.
About AOpen
AOpen Inc. is the world's largest total component solutions manufacturer and a member of a $10 billion technology group. Leveraging more than 25 years of technology manufacturing experience and more than 1,000 Group patents, AOpen designs, develops and markets advanced PC motherboards, notebooks, optical drives, PC housings, peripherals, multimedia, telecommunications and networking solutions for resellers, system integrators and those who value reliability and performance.
For more information about AOpen, AOpen Products, services, and business partners is available on the World Wide Web at: www.AOpen.com.
About Bell Microproducts Inc.
Bell Microproducts (Nasdaq:BELM) is an international, value-added distributor of a wide range of high-tech products, solutions and services, including storage systems, servers, software, computer components and peripherals, as well as maintenance and professional services. An industry-recognized specialist in storage products, this Fortune 1000 company is one of the world's largest storage-centric value-added distributors. In 2006, the company celebrated the sale of its 50 millionth hard disk drive, setting a significant industry milestone.
Bell Microproducts is uniquely qualified with deep technical and application expertise to service a broad range of information technology needs. From design to deployment, its products are available at any level of integration, from components to subsystem assemblies and fully-integrated, tested and certified system solutions. More information can be found in the company's SEC filings, or by visiting the Bell Microproducts Web site at www.bellmicro.com.