by Mary Kathleen Flynn; Rita Rubin; Margaret Mannix; Dana Hawkins
Personal-computer makers are rushing to mollify customers concerned about Intel's superfast Pentium computer chip, revealed last month to have a flaw in certain high-accuracy calculations. Most manufacturers, including AST Research, Compaq, Dell, Gateway 2000, IBM and Packard Bell, say they will provide redesigned chips free, when they become available next year, for customers who insist on a replacement. Meanwhile, Compaq will offer a free software "patch" that overcomes the glitch -- but may drastically slow down some functions, such as those used in computer-aided- design programs. And IBM has established a toll-free number (800-426-3389) to handle questions from Pentium owners. PC makers agree with Intel's claim that the glitch will affect only complex calculations, such as plotting the trajectory of a missile. Some experts, however, warn that errors could occur rarely but unpredictably in everyday spreadsheet tasks like budget analysis. That may be one more reason for would-be Pentium shoppers to choose the fastest possible 486 machine or hold off until systems with new chips are shipped in mid-1995; prices should also be lower by then, and PCs will include the next generation of Microsoft Windows.
