Getting personal

Article Abstract:

Apple Computer Chmn John Sculley discusses the future of his company's personal digital assistant (PDA) strategy. PDAs are pocket-sized computers designed to record handwritten notes, send and receive electronic mail and faxes and store telephone numbers; Apple expects to introduce its first PDA, the Newton, in 1993. Sculley states that the idea for the Newton began in 1988 with the realization that Apple had to once more define a new type of computing as it had earlier with the Macintosh graphical interface. He argues that PDAs will take advantage of the transition of electronic networks from analog to digital technology and that computers will become more specialized and more able to handle 'media-rich' data in order to assist users. Sculley notes that timing is everything in the PDA market and admits that Apple will not have a monopoly on the technology. Apple is focusing on integrating PDAs with desktop computers and servers. Different types of PDAs will evolve for different uses, according to Sculley. Sculley also says that price will not be the main issue when selling to the commercial market. He admits that Apple's agreement with Sharp Corp to develop the Newton will eventually lead to the two firms competing but is optimistic, saying that PDAs will eventually become a massive industry and will revitalize Silicon Valley.

Prepackaged software, Usage, Hand-held computers, Handheld computers, Technological forecasting, AAPL, Interview, Executives, Apple Inc., Executive, Future of Computing, Sculley, John

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Silicon Graphics aims to be supercomputer contrarian; new machines, line of workstations are seen doubling revenue to $2 billion

Article Abstract:

Workstation maker Silicon Graphics Inc is making a daring move into the supercomputer market. Many companies involved in supercomputers have become extinct; but Silicon Graphics is intent on becoming the leader of the market and doubling its total revenue as a result. Companies such as Cray Research Inc and IBM are struggling with their supercomputer business because they are still trying to find new applications to run on those machines to justify their high cost. Some existing Silicon Graphics workstations are already, by some standards, supercomputers. The company plans to expand the supercomputer market by bringing prices below a million dollars per machine. Analysts expect Silicon Graphics to grow, granted that it remains focused on the technical, scientific and animation markets.

Marketing, Product development, Silicon Graphics Inc., SGI, Supercomputers, Supercomputer, Outlook, Strategic Planning, Marketing Strategy, Market Entry

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Hewlett-Packard names Lewis E. Platt president and chief, succeeding Young

Article Abstract:

Hewlett-Packard Co (H-P) chooses Lewis E. Platt to succeed John Young as HP's president and CEO. Young will retire in Oct 1992. Platt has headed H-P's computer systems organization. Young retires at a time when H-P is doing especially well. Reorganizations initiated and overseen by Young have revitalized H-P. Platt is seen as an aggressive, competitive executive. The other leading contender to succeed Young was Richard Hackborn, who heads H-P's computer printer business. He will continue as an executive vice president. Both Platt and Hackborn are named to H-P's board.

Electronic Components and Accessories, Appointments, resignations and dismissals, Hewlett-Packard Co., HWP, Electronics industry, Chief executive officers, Retirement, New Appointment, Platt, Lew, Young, John A.

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