Silicon Graphics to Shut Down for 2 Days

Mountain View-based Silicon Graphics Inc. said it is closing down its U.S. operations for two days next week in an effort to save money, with all U.S. employees taking the time as paid vacation. The maker of powerful computers used to design airplanes and make movies said all workers must take off Tuesday and Wednesday, in addition to the two days off already offered on Thursday and July 4 for the holiday weekend. The move will help save costs, the company said, because it cuts down on utility bills, telephone bills and facility and support personnel costs. Silicon Graphics has ordered these furloughs before, with the last one in 1993, spokesman John Thompson said. Silicon Graphics has restructured its business to deal with declining sales of its high-end computers. Shares lost 12.5 cents to close at $15.25 on the NYSE.