Sun Microsystems Set to Launch New Server

Network computer maker Sun Microsystems Inc. said it will launch a new high-end server with its UltraSPARC III microchip Sept. 26.

Chief Operating Officer Ed Zander will unveil the machine for reporters and analysts in New York, the company said. That puts Sun on the calendar slightly before competitor IBM Corp., which is due to launch its next-generation Unix-based server, known as Regatta, in the fourth quarter.

Sun’s new server will fill out a line of products based on the new chip. The company’s shares gained 38 cents to close at $11.45 on Nasdaq.