11.   Computer vendors separated into two camps, favouring one of the two alternatives, when IBM came through with a third option last year, the sealed PC.

12.   Local computer vendors are under immense pressure from fierce competition, so some are turning to tactics such as using remarked chips.

13.   Market leader Intel has been responsive to this problem, setting up an independent team to oversee computer vendors, particularly those known to have remarked chips.

14.   The programme, however, was beset by rumours that favouritism and alleged kickback payments were involved in awarding contracts to the benefit of only one computer vendor.

15.   To implement such projects, HITTS is currently working with computer vendors like IBM, Dell and Unisys, said Avadiar.