Rumors of Intel Corp.'s death are greatly exaggerated:

Intel Corp.'s fourth-quarter sales are on track to break a company record as demand for the chips that power computers was stronger than originally expected in the weeks leading up to the holiday buying season. Intel, the world's largest semiconductor company, estimated its sales will be between $9.3 billion to $9.5 billion for the three months ending Dec. 25. That compares with its previous fourth-quarter forecast, announced in October, of $8.6 billion and $9.2 billion.

And all this after a less-than-stellar revenue forecast in September. Investors are either lining up at the gangplank or pitching themselves over the side. Ever feel as if you're on a roller-coaster?