Intel looks set to be at the Fore of ATM

Intel has signed to blend its ethernet products with Fore Systems ATM technology to ensure that desktop and backbone applications work together.

The companies' sales channels will sell each other's products and jointly market and develop future work.

Reinier Tuinzing, director of strategic marketing at Intel's network products division, told PC Dealer that European customers demand a blend of ATM and ethernet more than US clients.

'Many are leaning towards ATM, so integrating the technologies of desktop ethernet and backbone ATM means cost-effective solutions,' he said. Intel chose Fore because ATM is gaining momentum. The deal aimed to support customers rather than win business.

The companies first collaboration, Fore's ES-2810 10/100 ethernet switch, was launched at Networld+Interop last week.

Fore president and chief executive Thomas Gill said other companies' products would be considered in further OEM deals, but Intel was Fore's ethernet partner.

Frank Gill, executive VP at Intel networking group, said it has a mission to grow its networking business and the number of connected PCs and will work with other companies on standards. 'But Fore is our ATM partner,' he said.