Hardware Podcasts

Compaq Computers: Rod Canion

How I Built This · 22 May 2017 · 38m

What this episode covers

Rod Canion, who co-founded Compaq with Jim Harris and Bill Murto, explains how they reverse-engineered the IBM PC to create the first portable IBM-compatible computer, the Compaq Portable. Canion details the strategic decision to reverse-engineer the ROM legally, the rapid prototyping process that resulted in a rugged 28-pound device, and the pivotal moment when IBM launched its own portable, causing Compaq's orders to vanish. He describes the high-stakes gamble of continuing production and storing inventory in trailers, betting that IBM's product would be delayed or inferior, a strategy that ultimately allowed Compaq to outsell IBM's portable and establish the IBM-compatible PC standard.

Most relevant to

early-stage companies

Topics

Mentioned

Companies
Compaq, IBM, Texas Instruments, Kleiner Perkins
Products
Osborne, Compaq Portable, IBM PC, IBM Portable, PS2, Apt App

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