Via responds to Intel's 845 chipset

Via Technologies responded this week to Intel's launch of cheaper chipsets with its own low-end solution, the P4X266E, which supports the latest Pentium 4 chips with faster bus speeds. The P4X266E comes with a 533MHz system bus as well as integrated USB 2.0, a high-speed connection for printers and other devices. While Via's Pentium III and earlier Celeron chipsets have been popular with PC makers, the company is currently engaged in a worldwide legal battle with Intel over Pentium 4 products, which has dampened some of the enthusiasm for the company's latest offerings. Intel alleges that Via does not have a license to make Pentium 4-compatible products. Via disputes this but has offered to indemnify PC makers and others who adopt Via's chips. Under patent law, Intel can file claims against companies that incorporate Via's chipsets. ZDNet U.K.'s Matthew Broersma reported from London. To read the full story, visit ZDNet U.K.