SUN microsysterns has just released a new range of computers designed for multimedia applications on Internet and corporate networks. 'Ultra compmCTS' would provide access to three-dimensional (3-1)) 'virtual worlds', music jnd video at just half the price of today's 3-1) workstations.

"Ultra computers will let you cruise the information super-highway in style," said Scott McNealy, Sun's chairperson and chief executive. Although Sun supplies about 60 per cent of the computer servers linked to Internet and has a 36 per cent share of the global market for workstations, it has recently bad to Strive hard to maintain its edge over other competitors. The new 'Ultra' range based on a faster version of Sun's Sparc microprocessor has surpassed products from rivals HIM and Silicon Graphics. It is closer to the speed of Digital Equipment's fastest workstations. The new chips may also discourage Pc manufacturers such as Compaq Computer, which plan a new generation of Pcs, based on Intel's Pentium Pro microprocessor.