Desktop PC company begins Amazon deal

Linare, a company specializing in inexpensive Linux desktop computers for the average PC user, has begun a deal under which Internet retailer Amazon.com will sell its systems. The company's $199 systems come with a 1.3GHz Advanced Micro Devices Duron processor, but no monitor.

Linare also plans an e-mail service for Linux enthusiasts, a profit-sharing plan to help Linux programmers and a plan to connect Linux businesses.