Logo Data General color white
Blog

Data General. A legendary brand

Why does it ring a bell?

Data General was a technology company known for manufacturing minicomputers and computer systems for businesses during the 1970s and 1980s. It competed with big names such as IBM and DEC; it was acquired by EMC Corporation in 1999, losing its identity as an independent brand.

As 2023 draws to a close, the legendary brand is re-emerging Data General re-emerges as a telecommunications manufacturer, offering the market an alternative with the latest technology to create Secure Data Networks. 

Let's review its history and how we got here:

Foundation and Innovative Vision

Data General Corporation was founded in 1968 by Edson de Castro and Henry Burkhardt III in Westborough, Massachusetts, in the midst of the computer boom. At a time when large, high-performance computers dominated the computing landscape, Data General he had a bold vision: to democratize computer technology by making the powerful capabilities of computing available to more people. This goal was realized with the 1969 launch of his flagship product, the Nova, a minicomputer revolutionary for its compact size, low cost and ability to perform a variety of tasks. 

Competence and Technological Development

The 1970s saw the intensification of competition among Data General and other leading companies in the field of minicomputers, such as Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). This rivalry reached its peak with the launch of DEC's Eclipse MV/8000, intended to compete with DEC's successful VAX. Data Generalwhich was intended to compete with DEC's successful VAX. This period was also marked by significant technological advances in DEC's product line, including the introduction of advanced operating systems. Data Generals product line, including the introduction of advanced operating systems and improvements in the performance of its equipment.

Data General Eclipse MV/8000

Immortalized in Literature

The competition between Data General and DEC was immortalized in the book "The Soul of a New Machine" by Tracy Kidder, which details the race of Data General to develop the Eclipse MV/8000. This account provides a fascinating insight into the technical challenges, internal rivalries and passion for innovation that characterized the company at the time.

Incursion into Personal Computers

Despite its success in the minicomputer market, Data General faced new challenges in the 1980s with the proliferation of personal computers. In an attempt to capitalize on this trend, the company launched the DG One in 1984, a portable computer aimed at the mass consumer market. However, the DG One faced significant obstacles, including design problems and lack of compatibility with other PC software, resulting in a commercial failure.

Diversification and Adaptation

As the 1980s progressed into the 1990s, Data General adapted to changes in the technology landscape, expanding its presence in areas such as data storage and servers. The company sought to diversify its product offerings to maintain its relevance in an increasingly competitive and evolving market. These efforts led the company to Data General to explore new business opportunities and develop strategic partnerships with other technology companies.

Acquisition and Bequest

In 1999, Data General was acquired by EMC Corporation, a leader in the field of data storage, in a multi-million dollar transaction. This acquisition marked the end of an era for EMC as an independent company, but its legacy lived on in the technology industry. Data General as an independent company, but its legacy lived on in the technology industry. Although it no longer existed as a separate entity, its influence and contributions continued to be remembered and valued in the evolution of computing and information technology.

Central image DG

Impact and Inspiration

The history of Data General is a testament to the pioneering spirit and innovation in the technology industry. From its modest beginnings to its transformation and subsequent acquisition, the company left an indelible mark on the world of computing and laid the foundation for the future development of technology. Its legacy lives on in the technological advances and inspiration it continues to generate in future generations of entrepreneurs and IT professionals.

Data General at the present time

By the end of 2023, Data General evolves and becomes a telecommunications manufacturing brand with a clear objective: to offer the market a product that prioritizes network cybersecurity.

Products are developed through innovation Data General are developed through innovation and undergo rigorous quality processes to ensure that they exceed industry standards and the most demanding certifications.

When it comes to manufacturing network systems, security is non-negotiable. When you choose Data General, you choose a partner dedicated to your network security and your peace of mind.

Discover a constantly growing catalog that adapts to any of your project needs. Contact the Data General team and receive more information about their solutions and services.