Systemax Releases First Custom-Build PCs Pre-Installed with Desktop Linux Operating System

Systemax, Inc. (NYSE: SYX) and Linspire, Inc. today released the first customizable Systemax desktop PC pre-installed with the Linspire desktop Linux operating system. The Systemax Venture L335 System is outfitted with top-quality components, including an Intel Celeron D processor, 40GB hard drive, CD-ROM and 256MB of RAM, plus keyboard, speakers and mouse. The Systemax Venture L335 is available for $299.99 direct to consumers at TigerDirect.com and GlobalComputer.com. Systemax also offers the machine to retailers for custom configuration and in-store resale; VARs and resellers have the same configuration options via Infotel Distributors at InfotelUSA.com. For more information about the system or to purchase, please visit www.linspire.com/systemax.

"Most people buy computers, not operating systems," said Kevin Carmony, president and CEO of Linspire, Inc. "It's important that people can experience Linux without having to install it themselves. The success of companies like Dell shows that people want to buy affordable computers direct from the manufacturer but be able to configure the system to fit their exact needs. Now people can enjoy the same benefits of buying custom-build PCs with Linux. This new Systemax machine delivers a turnkey experience for those wanting the power, stability and affordability of Linux without the additional work involved of installing an operating system."

"Our customers have asked for lower-cost PCs without having to sacrifice functionality or performance," added Richard Wallet, Executive Vice President for Systemax Manufacturing. "Linspire's desktop Linux operating system meets this demand, giving customers the easy-to-use, powerful desktop they want in a cost-effective, completely customizable machine."

Outfitted with the Linspire operating system ( including full Microsoft-compatible office suite, e-mail and IM clients, media players and photo manager ) and high-performance components, the powerful Systemax Venture PC is a complete system on its own. However, consumers or retailers can also choose to customize the system to fit their individual needs. The Systemax Build-To-Order systems offer literally millions of combinations - consumers and retailers can choose to upgrade the hard drive, add memory or choose more components for improved audio or video. For more information about components or to purchase the Systemax Venture L335 with Linspire, visit www.linspire.com/systemax.

Features and Benefits of the Linspire Linux Operating System

Complete operating system: Includes integrated office suite, Web browser, e-mail client, instant messenger, and more
Secure and virus-safe: New built-in VPN; new encrypted "wallet" for storing passwords and other personal information; pre-configured firewall; enhanced virus resistance with optional VirusSafe service
Thousands of free software programs: Software available through Linspire's exclusive CNR Warehouse software library ( www.linspire.com/cnrservice ), including games, accounting, media, graphics and more
Advanced hardware support: Easy plug and play support for removable media use; one-step diagnostic reporting; sound system with real-time mixing support
Exclusive look and feel: Graphical user interface and themed Linspire environment; enhanced and expanded voice-narrated "How-To" tutorials
Advanced Internet optimization: New Hot Words integrated search feature; built-in automatic spell checking in all Web applications including in email, Web browser and instant messenger; built-in BitTorrent support; new AOL dialer
Advanced features: Lsongs Music Manager and Lphoto Photo Manager; RealPlayer 10; PhoneGaim Instant Messenger with free long-distance phone calls
Expanded support for popular Internet, office and media file types: Supports QuickTime, Windows Media, Flash, Java, Real, .doc, .xls, .ppt, .mp3, .pdf, .mpg, etc. ( complete list of supported filetypes at www.linspire.com/filetypes )

Specifications of the new Systemax Venture L335 include:
Tower form factor
Intel Celeron D 2.8GHz processor
256MB of fast DDR 333MHz PC2700 RAM
40GB capacity
CD-ROM drive
Integrated audio with 2 external speakers
Integrated AGP graphics
Integrated 10/100Mbps Ethernet Adapter for quick network connection speeds
The Systemax Venture L335 is available direct to consumers for $299.99 at www.linspire.com/systemax. Retailers who are interested in purchasing and customizing this system for direct sale in their stores should contact Systemax for more information or to place an order. VARs or resellers interested in the machine should visit www.InfotelUSA.com.

About Linspire, Inc.

Linspire, Inc. ( www.linspire.com ) was founded in 2001 to bring choice into the operating system market. The company's flagship product, the Linspire operating system, is an affordable, easy-to-use Linux-based operating system for home, school, and business users. Linspire pioneered CNR ( click and run ) Technology, which allows Linspire users to download and install thousands of software programs with just one mouse click. The more than 2,000 software titles available in the CNR Warehouse ( www.linspire.com/cnrservice ) include full office and productivity suites, games, multimedia players, photo management software, accounting tools, and more.

About Systemax Inc.

Systemax Inc. ( www.systemax.com ) utilizes an integrated system of branded e-commerce Web sites, direct-mail catalogs and relationship marketers to sell PC hardware, related computer products and industrial products in North America and Europe. Systemax is a Fortune 1000 company.

For further information, please contact:

Steven M. Goldschein
Systemax Inc.
516-608-7000
sgoldschein@systemax.com

Heather MacKenzie
Linspire, Inc.
858-587-6700, ext. 263
858-587-8095 Fax
pr@linspireinc.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements about Systemax's ( the "Company's" ) performance. These statements are based on management's estimates, assumptions and projections and are not guarantees of future performance. The Company assumes no obligation to update these statements. Actual results may differ materially from results expressed or implied in these statements as the result of risks, uncertainties and other factors including, but not limited to: ( a ) unanticipated variations in sales volume, ( b ) economic conditions and exchange rates, ( c ) actions by competitors, ( d ) the continuation of key vendor relationships, ( e ) the ability to maintain satisfactory loan agreements with lenders, ( f ) risks associated with the delivery of merchandise to customers utilizing common carriers, ( g ) the operation of the Company's management information systems, and ( h ) unanticipated legal and administrative proceedings. Please refer to the Forward Looking Statements section contained in Item 7 of the Company's Form 10-K for a more detailed explanation of the inherent limitations in such forward-looking statements.

CNR, CNR Technology, CNR Warehouse, Hot Words, IRMA, Lassist, Linspire, Linspire Five-0, LinspireLive, Lphoto, Lsongs, MailMinder, Nvu, SurfSafe, VirusSafe, and "The World's Easiest Desktop Linux" are trademarks of Linspire, Inc. All other marks herein may be property of their respective owners.

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