With its antitrust case against Microsoft Corp. under way, the government is going after its next target: Intel Corp.
The Federal Trade Commission will file an antitrust suit against Intel, alleging that it abuses its position as the dominant manufacturer of microprocessor chips for PCs, according to an online report by the New York Times. The chip manufacturer will also come under fire for bullying some computer manufacturers, a practice for which Microsoft is also under scrutiny.
According to the Times, the FTC is charging Intel with selectively withholding key technical information about its chips from PC vendors and other chip manufacturers. Intergraph Corp. just won a suit against Intel based on patent infringement and anticompetitive behavior. Intel was ordered to share its product information with Intergraph. The FTC will be seeking similar conditions. Intergraph said during its case that denying access to such information puts manufacturers at a disadvantage because they can't develop new products.
The FTC later may file more charges against Intel, including allegations of predatory pricing and contract provisions, according to the Times. The newspaper also reported that the FTC is taking the case because the Department of Justice is busy with the Microsoft case.
The government's plan to break up the Microsoft/Intel alliance, known as "Wintel," which supplies the CPUs and operating systems on more than 90% of the world's PCs.
The government is set to make its case in court against Microsoft on Sept. 8.
RELATED LINKS
FTC plans antitrust suit against Intel
Free registration required for this site. New York Times, 5/28/98
Microsoft's legal woes
Includes articles and filings in Microsoft's court battles.
Intergraph wins suit against Intel
Includes links to case details. IDG News Service, 4/14/98
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