Softbank, once primarily a computer distributor, has stakes in more than 100 companies worldwide and plans to expand that number to 780 in five years.

Microsoft asked computer distributor, Keydata SA to set up the Institute four years ago.

Duna is Hungary's largest computer distributor, with independent dealers in every major town.

Ingram Micro Inc., the nation's largest computer distributor, said it would eliminate 1,000 jobs to try to save $30 million to $40 million annually.

Mr. Stead said the company had been suffering because there were too many computer distributors, all trying to compete by lowering margins.

He told about 100 computer distributors there that the key to eliminating corruption in the city was the computer.

In addition to using its traditional computer distributors, I.B.M. is said to be planning three mass-market trials for the new line.

The "channel" refers to computer distributors and retailers.

Rather, it will have the machines shipped directly from a computer distributor to its customers.

The computer distributor acknowledged a disappointing outlook for fourth-quarter earnings.