The PC was never a true 'IBMer'
8 hours ago
- #Personal Computing
- #IBM
- #Tech History
- The IBM Personal Computer (Model 5150) was launched on 12 August 1981, designed by a team led by Philip Don Estridge and William C. Lowe.
- The IBM PC set the standard for personal computing, becoming widely known simply as 'PCs'.
- Despite being manufactured by IBM, the PC wasn't considered a true 'IBMer' due to its reliance on external components like Intel's CPU and Microsoft's operating system.
- IBM's contribution to the PC included the BIOS, assembly in its factories, and its reputation for quality support.
- The IBM PC was more open and expandable than previous IBM attempts, like the IBM 5100, which were innovative but failed due to their closed nature.
- IBM's reliance on external suppliers led to a lack of control over the PC's evolution, with major updates dependent on suppliers like Intel.
- IBM attempted to regain control with the PS/2, featuring proprietary technology, but it was too late to stop the rise of competitors like Compaq.
- Internally, IBM employees showed little enthusiasm for selling PCs, possibly due to cultural resistance or sales targets favoring other IBM products.
- IBM's open approach with the PC, while initially successful, ultimately led to its exit from the PC market, selling the business to Lenovo in 2005.
- The story of the IBM PC highlights the challenges of corporate culture and the importance of controlling key components in technology markets.