Abstracts » Business, international

Computer cocktail; Samsung bets on Australian to revive America's AST

Article Abstract:

Australian Ian Derry has free rein in salvaging troubled US computer-maker AST Research, where he was installed by Samsung, AST's 40% owner since Feb 1995. Missed production deadlines cost AST heavily in the breakneck personal computer business, but it has shifted more design work to suppliers Samsung and Intel. The AST-Samsung collaboration could pay off for both, and already AST has benefitted from a larger line of credit, help boosting productivity, and better deals on components. Critics of Samsung remain skeptical, though.

AST Research Inc., ASTA, Diery, Ian

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Sound investment: Shanghai-born businessman blends hi-tech and fun

Article Abstract:

Entrepreneur and co-founder of AST Research, Thomas Yuen is aggressively pursuing several high-technology ventures in the US and Asia. He is focusing on entertainment products, including a successor to stereo sound marketed by SRS Labs and NuReality, projector tv technology sold by Lightouch, CD-ROM notebook computers marketed through MPC Technologies, and a Pacific Rim on-line information service for businessmen. Some of these products and technologies are winning major awards, and all have few or no competitors.

High technology, Asia, Personalities, Multimedia technology, Multimedia systems, Yuen, Thomas

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Melting pot: computer firm blends Asian, American styles

Article Abstract:

Kingston Technology is growing rapidly thanks in part to a corporate style marrying Asian and American business cultures. The southern CA company, founded in 1988 by Asians David Sun and John Tu, is the world's largest maker of computer-upgrade products. While noted for its honest dealings and enthusiastic service, it places employees first and vendors second. Sales should exceed $1.2 billion in 1995, up from $802 million in 1994, and the familial atmosphere is proving harder to maintain as the company grows.

Kingston Technology Company Inc.

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