Compaq's $9.6 billion blockbuster

In its drive to become the world's No. 1 computer manufacturer, Compaq has purchased Digital Equipment for a record $9.6 billion. NEWS.COM looks at the deal, its strategy, and the industry impact.

Dell may end up the loser
today's lead story The merger creates a "big three" in computing that may leave Dell out in the cold.

Fallout on Wall Street update The $9.6 billion deal update IBM, HP challenged news analysis Alpha: What now? news analysis Wintel wins, again news analysis How deal was made reporter's notebook