I was reflecting this weekend that in our fast-paced, one-upmanship technology lifestyle we often miss the point that for many, simple access to technology itself is more important than how capable the PC, smartphone, or latest and greatest audio-visual component may be. For many, who has the latest, fastest processor is less important than how much a notebook costs.

I remember my own days in grade school, playing text-dominated video games on the school’s recycled Apple II computer. Months later I found myself reading every book and manual I could find, determined to learn how to program the computer to play games of my own design. Years later, a career in the industry became a reality for me.

Would I have been as interested in such a career if I didn’t have access to technology at such an early age? Would things have been different if computers were completely absent from my curriculum and school experience? I have to believe that the answer is yes.

Access to technology at the right price and in the right places is key – and not just because the world is suffering the symptoms of a global recession. It’s also because value is more than a good deal on a notebook; value is about giving someone access to a computer that could change their life, enhance their business, allow them to connect with people they haven’t seen in years, or expand their children’s educational resources.

AMD has always been about value, and today we’re announcing an expanded relationship with Clevo that can help us reach first-time computer buyers in emerging mobile markets. By combining ATI Mobility Radeon^TM HD 4570 graphics cards with the AMD Athlon^TM 64 X2 processors and the AMD M690G Chipset, Clevo is now able to deliver advanced performance and mobility benefits powered by AMD platform technology.

Collaborating with a company like Clevo is not only important for AMD because it showcases the value in our technology, but it provides access to thousands and thousands of potential customers. Undoubtedly, by reaching those these customers, these notebooks can help make people more productive, connect them to thousands of opportunities in the global marketplace, and put smiles on many a child’s face as they play a game or learn their alphabet. Plus, I am certain there is another generation of people waiting to make a career in this industry. They are just few keystrokes away from a whole new life.

Value. Access. Lots and lots of possibility.

David Kenyon

David Kenyon is VP of WW Channel Marketing for AMD.

His postings are his own opinions and may not represent AMD’s positions, strategies or opinions. Links to third party sites are provided for convenience and unless explicitly stated, AMD is not responsible for the contents of such linked sites and no endorsement is implied.