Compaq ProLinea
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Computer hardware |
| Founded | 1992 |
| Defunct | 1996 |
| Fate | Replaced by Compaq Presario series |
| Products | Desktop computers |
| Owner | Compaq |
The ProLinea represented Compaq's affordable desktop computer series produced between 1992 and 1996. These x86-architecture IBM PC compatible machines featured processors ranging from the i386SX up to the original Pentium. The ProLinea line was eventually replaced by the Presario series starting in 1993, although both product lines were available simultaneously for a period.
Release and price war
When introduced in June 1992, the ProLinea ignited a significant pricing battle within the personal computer industry. Under the leadership of CEO Eckhard Pfeiffer, Compaq launched entry-level models priced below US$900—a groundbreaking move for major PC manufacturers. This aggressive pricing prompted rivals such as IBM, Apple, DEC, and Dell to respond with their own budget desktop offerings; notably, IBM released the PS/ValuePoint line priced under $1,000. Smaller firms found it difficult to remain competitive in this environment, resulting in many exiting the market or filing for bankruptcy.
Despite facing component supply constraints, Compaq managed to sell close to 400,000 ProLinea units by the close of 1992, which contributed to stabilizing the company following the removal of CEO Rod Canion in 1991.
See also
- Compaq Deskpro, the professional desktop series offered by the company