Su hardware upgrade è stata pubblicata una notiza riguardante un interessante accordo tra SI ed Ati, con il quale Ati cercherebbe di migliorare i supporti per i system integrators europei, dando una serie unica di servizi di supporto:

ATI launches SI Partner Programme* in Europe Company introduces fully-integrated web-based partner programme to provide co-marketing support for European system integrators; SI's registering before March 31st qualify for a welcome bonus of $250 USD Munich, Germany, March 13, 2002 - ATI Technologies Inc. today announced the launch of its SI Partner Programme* in Europe. This fully-integrated programme is designed to help European system integrators grow their business and at the same time create a bigger market for ATI products. Available online, the SI Partner Programme* covers comprehensive technical, sales and marketing support and is very easy to administer. ATI's SI Partner Programme allows system integrators to accrue marketing fund dollars for ATI-based graphics boards purchased from approved ATI board partners that are integrated into PC systems. To date, approved ATI board partners include C.P. Technology, Connect3D, Gigabyte, Hercules and Sapphire. By ordering a certain quantity of "Powered by ATI" boards from these approved partners, system integrators will accrue a Partner Fund which can be used on marketing and promotion activities, such as offset advertising, direct mailings, training and trade shows. "ATI decided that the SI Partner Programme will be a very useful instrument for all system integrators", said Peter Edinger, Vice President of ATI Europe. "We felt we needed a system, which would allow us to continue supporting our traditional customers, as well as new customers who have emerged as a result of changes to our business model in the form of AIB/ODM partners. We are committed to working with all SI customers, combining the strength of our resources with their ideas and experience to create a plan for success." By joining ATI's SI Partner Programme, system integrators have 24-hour, online access to the latest ATI product updates, marketing resources, and information on approved ATI board partners. To optimise support, the company established a special SI Partner Programme team, which can be consulted at all times to advise on appropriate activities to use the accrued marketing fund. As a special welcome bonus, system integrators registering before March 31st, 2002 will receive an extra amount of $250 USD in their marketing fund, once they have qualified and placed their first order for ATI-based boards. ATI's SI Partner Programme is now live for registration at: www.ati.com/SIPartnerProgramme.