Group Objects to Microsoft’s On-Line Plans

Microsoft Corp.’s plans to launch an on-line service, which have raised fears among its rivals, were challenged Monday by a group of computer dealers concerned that their sales will be hurt by the network.

Representatives of ASCII Group Inc., a buying group of 1,075 computer dealers nationwide, will meet with Justice Department officials today to discuss their displeasure with the planned Microsoft Network, said Alan Weinberger, executive director of the group.

ASCII is the latest of several industry groups and companies to express concern about the potentially huge competitive advantage Microsoft will have when it launches the network as part of its Windows 95 computer operating system expected to be available by August.

A spokesman for Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft said the dealers’ concerns are premature.