AMD has introduced its EasyNow PC platform, designed to make PCs easier to set up, use and upgrade. The chip vendor's platform design includes an oval shaped PC with a translucent case. Features include Instant On capability to cut boot time, and advanced power management features which the company claims enables the PC to re-start from sleep mode in less than 15 seconds. The product also uses USB ports so peripherals can be connected easily and requiring minimal technical skills from the user. Early systems, planned to be available later this month through direct and retail channels, will be based on the EasyNow platform and will use AMD K6-2 or AMD K6-III chips. CyberMax is expected to be the first to start making PCs based on the platform. Other partners include Pionex, Biostar Group, Dixon's, Softsell, Tecnodiffusione, Proton, Gentry Tokyo, Sofmap, Leo Systems and Education to Home, AMD said. "We believe that easy-to-use and stylish PCs based on the AMD EasyNow platform design will help expand the market for personal computers," said Dana Krelle, VP of marketing for AMD's Computation Products Group. ®