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Intel answers FTC charges
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July 13, 1998: 5:41 p.m. ET
Company denies using unfair competition to monopolize market
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NEW YORK (CNNfn) - Intel Corp. Monday formally denied using unfair competition to monopolize the computer chip market.
"Intel has not monopolized any market, attempted to monopolize any market, or used any unfair methods of competition. Intel has not violated... any antitrust law," the company said.
The denials came in a filing submitted to the Federal Trade Commission which last month launched an investigation of the Santa Clara, Calif.-based chip giant. A judge last week set a trial date of Jan. 5 for the case.
The FTC maintains Intel (INTC) illegally used its monopoly power by arbitrarily cutting off technical information to competitors, preventing those companies from shipping their products on time.
Intel said while it does provide certain customers with technical information about upcoming products in advance, recipients are required to file nondisclosure agreements.
Intel argues in the filing the issues central to the case do not come under the jurisdiction of the FTC. Intel said the allegations are the result of intellectual property disputes between it and three of its competitors. Two of those cases have already been settled.
"In none of these cases did Intel deny anyone a supply of microprocessors or any other product. Intel's actions did not and could not harm competition in any relevant market."
The commission's case is based in part on a lawsuit filed by Intergraph Corp. (INGR). The company claimed Intel used "coercive tactics," including withholding vital information and technical support, to acquire the rights to Intergraph's microprocessor patents at no cost. 
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