Microsoft Corp. hopes to get even bigger by scaling back.
The company was expected Monday to unveil plans for a network computer, a low-cost, basic machine intended to be linked in corporate networks. A variety of companies have or are working on such computers for consumers and businesses.The move is an apparent strategy switch for Microsoft. Its chairman, Bill Gates, previously derided the idea that anyone would want a stripped-down box dependent on a network rather than a full-fledged PC, most of which use Microsoft's operating software.
But the idea is catching on among businesses because network computers, or NCs, are cheaper to buy and maintain than PCs. Microsoft also is seeking to go even smaller, recently introducing a version of its Windows operating system for hand-held computer devices.
Monday's announcement also was being seen as an attempt to steal some thunder from Sun Microsystems Inc., which plans to launch its JavaStation NC in New York on Tuesday. Sun is one of several companies, including Apple, IBM, Netscape and Oracle, collaborating on NC standards that don't include Microsoft software.
In an attempt to counter Microsoft's attempt to become the dominant Internet software company, Oracle and Netscape were planning Monday to endorse each other's flagship products, The New York Times reported.
Lawrence J. Ellison, Oracle's chairman, said Friday that his company would include the Netscape Navigator browser with its own operating system software. Netscape, in turn, said it would sell Oracle enterprise and work-group data bases with its server products.
According to published reports, Microsoft's plan will be supported by several personal computer makers, including Compaq, Dell and Hewlett-Packard, whose products are based on Intel Corp. chips and Microsoft software.
The San Jose Mercury News reported Saturday that Microsoft's network computer will be based on the "simply interactive PC" standards it introduced earlier this year. Those standards are intended to make computers easier to use.