“The database-software billionaire says he’ll try a second time
to build a business around “network computers” — stripped- down
desktop machines intended to provide a simpler, cheaper and
easier-to-manage alternative to standard business PCs. This
time his plan calls for a $150 box running the free Linux operating
system...He’s not only planning to spin off a new company to
develop and market the devices, but even looking ahead to its
initial public stock offering.”
“The idea hasn’t made much headway since Ellison began promoting
it four years ago, but that evidently hasn’t dulled his
enthusiasm.”