PREVIEW: Some of the major business and economic events scheduled for this week

* Microsoft Corp. today is releasing the first test version of Consumer Windows, an upgrade to the Windows 98 computer operating system aimed at the home market. It is scheduled to go on sale in 2000. The test version will be sent to a select group of personal computer makers and hardware and software providers to get feedback on what features should be included in the final release. The product will emphasize Internet access, home networking, digital media and ease of use, a spokeswoman said, declining to say how many testers will receive the release.