WASHINGTON -- Manufacturing output edged down 0.1% in March, and the factory operating rate fell to 78%, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve. Durable goods declined 0.2%, reflecting a drop in the output of motor vehicles and parts and in the production of nonmetallic mineral products.

Computer and electronics products advanced 1.1% and rose at an annual rate of 22.6% in the first quarter. Computer and peripheral equipment rose at an annual rate of 12.7%, and the output of semiconductors and related components advanced at an annual rate of 39%.

Although the production of communications equipment fell in March, the index increased at an annual rate of more than 24%, the Federal Reserve said.

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