Intel chief executive Paul Otellini has unveiled a 'Discover the PC' initiative at a company event in Mexico that aims to increase the market for computers in developing nations.

The initiative follows one day after Intel published specifications for the Community PC platform which targets computer users in rural India.

As part of the new programme, Otellini unveiled a low cost desktop PC platform that will initially be available to consumers in Brazil, Egypt, Ghana, Mexico and Nigeria.

Targeting users who would not otherwise have access to computers, the device will be made available through local government agencies or telecoms providers such as Telmex in Mexico. 

"The 'Discover the PC' initiative is part of Intel's longstanding and comprehensive approach towards sharing the benefits of personal computing with those who have traditionally had neither the access nor the means to use technology," said Otellini.

The platform offers a fully featured system using low cost components and runs either Linux or Windows XP Starter Edition. Similar to the Community PC, Intel provides specifications but relies on local manufacturers to make and sell the units.

'Discover the PC' is the result of four platform definition centres that Intel opened in August last year. The programme is part of a wider initiative to expand the market for Intel's chips into new geographies.

Intel also touted the WiMax networking technology that can bring wireless broadband internet to rural areas that lack the infrastructure for wired connections. The chipmaker is one of the main backers of the technology.