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GenRad rejuvenates

Article Abstract:

GenRad, one of the oldest electronics companies in the US, with its core business in supplying automatic testing equipment, has rejuvenated after several years of losses. By 1993, GenRad was losing 44 million on sales of $158.7 million, with total losses for 1984-1994 totalling $242 million. However, new CEO Jim Lyons has launched an effective comeback strategy, lashing management at top and middle levels, selling off much of the company's real estate holdings and emphasizing software development and end-to-end service solutions. Two acquisitions in 1996 have added to GenRad's new direction; the company purchased Mitron and its manufacturing data management software as well as Test Technology Associates, a testing services provider. GenRad offers its testing equipment, software and services primarily for the communications, transportation and computer industries.

Prepackaged software, Instrument industry (Equipment), Testing and measuring equipment industry, Company analysis, Company business planning, GenRad Inc., GEN

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The boom continues

Article Abstract:

The overall communications market will have a strong 1997, with global sales to reach about $83.5 billion, or an increase of 15.3% from 1996, according to Cahners Economics. The hottest segment is that of networking switches and routers, which will register from 30% to 50% growth. Industry insiders say the trends in 1997 point toward the melding of ATM and IP technologies and significantly higher access speeds, to be fueled by digital subscriber line technology and hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) in cable TV. Communications semiconductors will also experience strong demand although competition is expected to drive down prices. There will be frenzied activity in the wireless market in the first half of 1997 as Personal Communications Services (PCS) players complete the licensing process and build infrastructure.

Telephone and telegraph apparatus, Forecasts and trends, Preview of coming year, Technological forecasting, Telecommunications equipment industry, Telecommunications equipment, Market trend/market analysis, 1997 AD

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Digital's Alpha bet

Article Abstract:

DEC embraces Microsoft's Windows NT operating system as it attempts to be a one-stop shop for corporate computing. DEC will use its powerful Alpha microprocessor on the high end of its product line, supplemented by Pentium-based servers and personal computers. Windows NT is expected to enjoy strong growth, and the Alpha chip is one of the most viable RISC-based platforms. Windows NT is being developed by David Cutler, who helped develop VMS. Alpha servers and workstations can handle high-performance applications such as video-conferencing, data warehousing and engineering programs, and they have better margins than lower-end systems. DEC also plans to offer enterprise-wide service and support. Some distributors believe Alpha will be a tough fit in the low-cost NT workstation market.

Semiconductors and related devices, Electronic computers, Product development, Product information, Marketing, Equipment and supplies, Microsoft Windows NT (Operating system), Company marketing practices, Company product planning, Digital Equipment Corp., DEC

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