Intel to offer computer-help service to PC users

Article Abstract:

Intel today will announce its Answer Express service to help repair computer programs for consumers and small businesses. The for-profit service represents a new Intel move to form direct relationships with PC users. The company believes its brand name and level of service will distinguish it from a competitive help services market that includes computer makers, add-on hardware vendors and software publishers. Answer Express will feature software that uses e-mail to help solve computer problems, as well as offering speedy answers to a number of hardware and software problems. Intel is targeting Answer Express to small companies that cannot afford in-house technical support and wish to consolidate help services. Cost is $49.95 for the first three months and $14.95 a month thereafter. Another cost option consists of $5.95 for a basic level of service plus $19.95 a call.

Data Processing Services, Specialized Computer Services, Data processing and preparation, Services, Computer services industry, Information technology services industry, Information technology services, Company service introduction, Service introduction

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Intel files suit against Intergraph, launches counterattack against FTC

Article Abstract:

Intel has filed a countersuit against Intergraph, saying the computer company is in violation of Intel-owned patents. Intel's lawsuit, alleging violations of seven patents, counters an action begun by Intergraph in Nov 1997. Intergraph says Intel retaliated when Intergraph denied an Intel request for a royalty-free license to patents Intergraph was enforcing against Intel's customers. Separately, Intel has responded to antitrust charges filed by the FTC, denying that alleged retaliation against Compaq, DEC and Intergraph has caused other companies to stop innovating in chip technology. Intel has also asked the FTC to make its charges clearer. In both cases, Intel says it acted within its rights when it withheld intellectual property from companies contending against it in the courts.

Semiconductors and related devices, Semiconductor Devices, Semiconductor and Related Device Manufacturing, Semiconductor industry, Compaq Computer Corp., CPQ, Antitrust law, United States. Federal Trade Commission, Intergraph Corp., INGR, Antitrust Issue

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Digital Equipment, Intel meet to explore a settlement of high-stakes patent suit

Article Abstract:

DEC and Intel have been discussing a possible settlement of the patent-infringement lawsuit that DEC has filed against Intel. DEC CEO Robert B. Palmer and Intel Pres Craig Barrett met in mid-Jun 1997 for preliminary talks, during which no agreements were reached. The companies appear to be interested in settling out-of-court if possible, in spite of the combative rhetoric they have been dispensing. DEC's first priority may be to ease the way into an alliance between the companies, rather than to punish Intel. Intel has stated that the lawsuit is baseless, yet the company seems to be quite eager to settle with DEC. This suggests that Intel may be hesitant to go to court, fearing perhaps the trial's outcome as well as the bad publicity surrounding it.

Electronic computers, Computers, Electronic Computer Manufacturing, Computer industry, Copyrights, Patents, Patent/copyright issue

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