System builders and distributors around the world are reporting that the AMD Athlon 550MHz processor, which many thought would disappear as the firm ramped up higher clock speeds, is once more for sale. The processor is being offered in OEM packaging to dealers at a cost of around $169, which makes it, let us say, rather competitive with Intel's range of Celeron processors. The move is part of AMD's attempt to capitalise on Intel's embarrassment over being unable to supply enough of its Coppermine Pentium III processors at a competitive price. According to distributors close to AMD and Intel's plans, the move also reflects the very aggressive pricing strategy that the smaller firm will implement in the second and third quarters of this year. Intel is reacting to the threat to its margins and has instituted programmes such as Goldarrow, which offers discounts and coop marketing rebates. Meanwhile, reports on different Web hardware sites are suggesting that AMD may be able to get an Athlon mobile processor out of the door faster than anyone suspected, perhaps as early as this summer. AMD was unavailable for comment at press time. ® See Also AMD prices set to kybosh Intel Celermine plans