Incredible shrinking computers

Article Abstract:

Ergonomics is now the limiting factor in the size of notebook computers. The next generation should weigh less than 1 kilogram. Compaq Computer Corp started with a clean sheet to design its notebook computer and did a bottom up design. The design has the main 20-MHz 386SX microcomputer and other key chips surface-mounted on both sides of a motherboard. Also part of the design is making sure the weight of the components is evenly distributed. The engineers at GRiD Systems Corp discovered that a major influence on the case's weight is the surface area of the computer. At PrairieTek Corp the main innovation was a technique that unloads the heads off the media while the platter spins down. Most notebook computers use lightweight flat-panel liquid-crystal displays. Batteries are the heaviest single component in notebook computers. Toshiba Corp introduced a new battery technology in NOV 1990; the new technology is a rechargeable nickel-metal hybrid. Considerable effort has been expended in making sure the computers will withstand levels of non-operational shock and vibration that are not encountered by desktop models.

Product information, Compaq Computer Corp., Product introduction, Laptop computers, Design, Hardware, Power supplies (Computers), New Product, Miniaturization, New Technique, Computer Battery, Computer batteries, Power Supply, Grid Systems Corp., Notebook Computer, PrairieTek Corp.

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Just keeping current entails ingenuity, resourcefulness, and improvisation

Article Abstract:

Research and development (R&D) professionals (leaders, influential participants and informed observers included) need to stay current with technological advances. Several methods are available so that colleagues may stay informed: electronic mail, conferences, journals, telephones and scouting other companies. Electronic mail systems can range from local-area networks within a firm to informal international bulletin boards or networks such as CompuServe. Individual engineers and scientists need to keep informed on R&D in order to update colleagues and managers. Companies that stay informed are more competitive in the marketplace. Sometimes engineering departments 'bootleg' company equipment and time in order to work on projects they feel may turn out well; these may be projects the business unit does not initially find worthwhile.

Industrial research, Engineering, Research and Development, Competitive Intelligence, Cost of Information

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Piloting the IEEE through a critical first year

Article Abstract:

IEEE's first president, Ernst Weber, says his chief concerns included creating a frictionless merger, building member confidence in the new entity, and increasing international participation. IEEE was formed by the 1963 merger of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) and the Institute of Radio Engineers (IRE). Initial difficulties included merging two staffs and establishing a committee structure which did not ignore established power and special interests. Weber merged the staffs without pay cuts or dismissals and he created a committee structure by merging similar professional groups where possible and permitting reluctant committees (notably the AIEE Power Committee) to remain intact temporarily. He relied on extensive contact with former students to develop international participation.

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, History, Management, Appreciation, Organization Structure, Merger, IEEE, International Organizations, Weber, Ernst

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