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I spotted this on Infoworld Electric ================================================== IBM to consolidate desktop lines, overhaul ThinkPad design By Dan Briody InfoWorld Electric Posted at 1:25 PM PT, Apr 10, 1997 IBM is taking a series of steps in both its desktop and portable product lines intended to make buying an IBM PC easier. [snip - desktop stuff deleted] Also in the plans for IBM is a major redesign of the ThinkPad notebook computer line, expected to improve performance and reliability as well as to bring the machines more in line with typical portable form factors. Among the features to be included in upcoming ThinkPads are 15 millimeter removable Zip drives, eventually to be included across the entire product line, and a removable dual CD-ROM/floppy drive module for the ThinkPad 360 line, according to company officials. Keyboards will also be redesigned, with the company opting to go with more traditional laptop keyboards over the ThinkPads' current raised keyboard. IBM is expected to use Intel as the motherboard manufacturing house, rather than use its own facilities, and will provide an easy upgrade path for CPUs in the new notebooks for a longer product cycle and reduced cost.