Also yesterday, Apollo Computer Inc., a maker of computer work stations, announced a loss for its second quarter.

The maker of computer work stations said it might even have a small loss in the three-month period that ends June 30.

Apollo, a maker of advanced computer work stations, is based in Chelmsford, Mass.

Apollo Computer Inc., based in Chelmsford, Mass., a maker of computer work stations, said its earnings for the quarter plummeted 68 percent, despite increased sales.

Now four makers of computer work stations have taken steps to end their disagreement by setting up an organization to develop benchmarks that will permit head-to-head comparison.

Next Inc., a maker of computer work stations, also offers as a standard feature the ability to add voice comments and graphics to any text message.

The Control Data Corporation will buy a 20 percent stake in Silicon Graphics Inc., a maker of computer work stations, the two companies announced.

Sun, a maker of computer work stations, based in Mountain View, Calif., said a return to profitability in the current quarter "cannot be assured."

The Federal case would follow a similar lawsuit filed by Intergraph, a maker of computer work stations.

Mr. Graziano's departure from Sun comes as the fast-growing maker of computer work stations expects to report its worst quarter, and possibly its first loss ever.