Tandy introduces electronic version of pencil and paper; GRiDPad can make type out of block lettering for a price of $2,395

Article Abstract:

Tandy Corp introduces GRiDPad, the computer industry's answer to pencil and paper. The hand-held computer can 'read' handwritten block letters, digitize them and convert them into type. Because they are digitized, they are stored into the computer as if they were entered on a keyboard. GRiDPad, $2,395, consists of an electronic pen and clipboard-sized glass writing surface. The product weighs just 4.5 pounds. Those who fill out forms outside of an office, such as census takers, insurance adjusters and police officers who write tickets, could all benefit from the GRiDPad. Analysts estimate that GRiDPad could capture up to 15 percent of the hand-held computer market. GRiDPad also offers plug-in storage cards that can be programmed to display forms or calculator keypads. Users can purchase a 20Mbyte hard-disk drive and keyboard to make GRiDPAd an IBM-compatible microcomputer.

Hand-held computers, Handheld computers, Product introduction, product announcement, GRiD Systems GRiDPad (Pen-based computer)

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Can Dell, CompuAdd broaden niches?

Article Abstract:

Dell Computer Corp and CompuAdd Corp, two computer companies who built their business on mail order, will attempt to break out of their niches in revolutionary ways. CompuAdd will build a chain of discount stores to sell its proprietary line of low-end microcomputers and supplies. The stores already in business have caused revenue at the computer company to increase to $400.1 million in 1989 from $240.8 million in 1988, an amount which is itself double 1987 figures. Dell is focusing on direct marketing of its high-end microcomputers and equipment to corporations and government bodies. Dell's sales figures are expected to increase to $385 million for FY 1989 after sagging sales in the recent past. The two companies, which were alone in their attempts to direct-market proprietary systems, will also be alone in their efforts to be exclusive retailers of their own products.

Computers, peripherals & software, Management, Computer industry, Mail-order industry, Mail order business, Dell Inc., DELL, Computer stores, Diversification, Mail Order, CompuAdd Computer Corp.

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Tandy joins forces with software firm to market a multimedia encyclopedia

Article Abstract:

Tandy Corp and Britannica Software Inc will jointly sell a computerized encyclopedia on CD-ROM. The 26-volume Compton's Encyclopedia will be available on a single 5.25-inch compact disk. The disk can be played on Tandy's 2500 XL microcomputer, which features a built-in CD drive. The two will be displayed at more than 700 of Tandy's Radio Shack computer centers by the end of Mar 1990. The set costs $895 for the disk and $3,600 for a fully configured 2500 XL. The 2500 XL includes a digital-audio converter, CD-ROM drive, Intel 80286 microprocessor and VGA color monitor. Industry analysts hope that the availability of Compton's will start a surge of software intended for CD-ROM. While the encyclopedia on disk includes 15,000 photographs, 5,800 maps and charts and 60 minutes of sound, few of the 900 other CD-ROM packages available embrace true multimedia capability.

Prepackaged software, Publishing industry, Contracts, CD-ROM, CD-ROM disks, Encyclopedias and dictionaries, Britannica Software Inc., Cooperative Agreements, Encyclopedia

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