Intel forms online marketplace

Intel announced plans to set up and manage the "Intel e-Business

Network" a new online marketplace where customers for its ICs, networking

and related products can team to sell packages of equipment and services to

small and medium-size businesses.

Intel already sells $1 billion a month worth of products and services over

the Internet to 560 computer makers and distributors. The company now wants to

use its online model to help its customers do more business online, cut costs

and sell to more small and mid-sized businesses, which are growing faster than

some big corporations. The Intel e-Business Network also will offer online

certification, training and testing programs for products that use Intel parts.