Minis and mainframes
Article Abstract:
Many analysts predicted the demise of the mainframe computer in the mid-1980s as superminicomputers and minisupercomputers reached the market but, in fact, a new generation of mainframes has been released by IBM, Fujitsu, Hitachi, Amdahl, DEC and Tandem Computers. IBM's Enterprise System/9000 series of 18 mainframe models improves on the 3090 series; top-end ES/9000s enhance the thermal conduction modules through use of a ceramic substrate of alpha cordierite for improved conduction of heat away from the wiring and ICs, allowing them to be placed closer together. IBM also introduced three new operating systems, new technology for connecting computers and peripherals over large areas and other technical advances. Hitachi Data Systems added three high-end models to the HDS EX mainframe series, Fujitsu introduced its M-18000 series of five mainframes, and Amdahl debuted its 5995 processors.
Publication Name: IEEE Spectrum
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0018-9235
Year: 1991
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Minis and mainframes
Article Abstract:
There were numerous major developments in the minicomputer, mainframe and supercomputer industry in 1989. Digital Equipment Corp (DEC) introduces the VAX 9000 series of one-to-four-processor, $1.2 million to $3.9 million mainframe computers series. DEC expanded high-end VAX 6000 minicomputer line with the Model 400s and introduced add-in vector-processing hardware. Tandem Computers Inc introduced its 4-to-16-processor, $2 million to $4 million Cyclone mainframes. Control Data and Unisys Corp add new models to their mainframe lines. Other major events include Convex Computer Corp becoming the dominant supplier of minisupercomputers, failures of Control Data's ETA Systems Inc supercomputer subsidiary and Evans & Sutherland Computer Corp's supercomputer effort, merger of Ardent Computer Corp and Stellar Computer Inc to form Stardent Computer Inc, and formation of the Cray Computer Corp.
Publication Name: IEEE Spectrum
Subject: Engineering and manufacturing industries
ISSN: 0018-9235
Year: 1990
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