The first generation of the XPS system was available as either a desktop or a tower case. In September 1993, the first two versions of the XPS line were announced. He worked with Brian Zucker who led the architecture and engineering effort. Vernon Weiss was assigned as product manager to spearhead and manage the marketing of the new product. At this meeting, it was decided to launch a new high-end product line to compete with Gateway.
At this time, Dell's annual revenue was less than $500 million and Michael Dell was involved in most decisions. In early 1993, there was a staff meeting to address how to pursue this emerging market.
Gateway was number one in the high-end consumer market. The XPS (eXtreme Performance System) name dates back to 1990 when Dell was more focused on corporate business than consumers.
