Convergent Technologies

Convergent Technologies, Inc. was an American computer company established in 1979 by engineers and executives who had worked at Intel and Xerox PARC. The company operated primarily as an original-equipment manufacturer rather than as a consumer-facing personal-computer brand. Its systems were sold or adapted by companies including Burroughs, NCR, AT&T, Prime Computer, Bull, Gould Electronics, Four-Phase Systems, Mohawk Data Sciences, Savin, and others. This OEM-centered model allowed Convergent hardware and software to reach office, telecommunications, industrial, and enterprise customers under many different names. The company's early importance came from its networked workstation architecture and its proprietary Convergent Technologies Operating System, or CTOS. The IWS, introduced in 1980, and the lower-cost AWS, introduced in 1981, were designed as clustered office workstations rather than isolated personal computers. They used Intel processors and communicated in a distributed environment, with CTOS providing a message-based operating system and support for shared resources. These products predated the widespread adoption of networked personal computers and helped establish Convergent as a specialist in integrated office-computing systems. Convergent expanded its ambitions in 1982 with the Data Systems division and the MegaFrame line. MegaFrame combined multiple application processors with dedicated input/output processors and could be configured for larger multiuser workloads. The related MiniFrame system provided a smaller CTIX-based UNIX platform and later served as the technical foundation for the AT&T UNIX PC. In parallel, the company created an Advanced Information Products division to pursue lower-cost computing. Its most distinctive result was the WorkSlate, an early tablet-style computer released in 1983. Although innovative in its flat form factor, spreadsheet-oriented interface, mini-cassette storage, and application-specific TaskWare software, the WorkSlate was developed rapidly, was insufficiently tested, and sold poorly before being discontinued in 1984. The NGEN workstation became one of Convergent's most significant product families. Introduced in late 1983 as a successor to the AWS, it used Intel's 80186 and was sold through OEM channels under names such as Burroughs B25, Prime Producer 200, Bull Questar 400, NCR WorkSaver 300, and other designations. Later NGEN models followed Intel's 80286 and 80386 processors and supported enhanced, protected-mode versions of CTOS with virtual memory. Convergent's engineers were also early users of the 80186 and identified a processor silicon problem during beta testing, which Intel subsequently corrected. The company developed several products for AT&T, including the AT&T UNIX PC and the Personal Terminal 510 series. The UNIX PC, introduced in 1985, was based on Convergent's Motorola 68010 technology and incorporated UNIX enhancements for stream-based input/output and multinational language support. The Personal Terminal 510A and 510D combined voice and data functions with a touch-sensitive display for analog telephone and AT&T PBX environments. In the mid-1980s, Convergent broadened its UNIX and server portfolio with the VME-based MightyFrame systems and the 386-based Server PC. The latter could run UNIX and DOS applications concurrently through Merge 386, positioning it as both a PC server and a multiuser UNIX system. The company's OEM strategy achieved notable volume, but contemporary industry commentary also observed that aggressive pricing and licensing arrangements could make some deals economically difficult. Leadership and corporate structure changed substantially after 1985. Former Hewlett-Packard executive Paul C. Ely Jr. became chief executive in January 1985. Later that year, several senior figures, including Michels, left to establish The Dana Group. Convergent acquired a minority stake in Baron Data Systems in 1985 and purchased the remainder in 1987. A proposed acquisition of 3Com reached agreement in 1986 but was abandoned before completion. In 1988, Unisys acquired Convergent Technologies. The business subsequently operated within Unisys as the Network Computing Group, ending Convergent's independent corporate existence. Unisys later introduced the SuperGen, a successor to the NGEN concept based on the Intel 80486.

Convergent Technologies emerged in 1979 from the semiconductor and research communities associated with Intel and Xerox PARC. Its founders combined hardware engineering, operating-system design, marketing, and business-development experience. Rather than competing primarily as a branded consumer PC maker, the company concentrated on building complete systems that other vendors could rebrand, manufacture under license, or distribute through established sales channels. Its first major platform was the Integrated Workstation, or IWS, introduced in 1980. Based on the Intel 8086, the IWS integrated processing, memory, input/output, and display functions into a workstation designed for clustered operation. The following year's AWS Application Workstation reduced cost while retaining compatibility with the IWS environment. Both systems used CTOS, a proprietary message-based operating system intended for distributed office computing. OEM partners marketed related systems under names such as Burroughs B22 and B21, NCR WorkSaver systems, and Savin Information Stations. In 1982, Convergent organized a Data Systems division to develop larger computers. The MegaFrame, released in 1983, used multiple Motorola 68010 application processors alongside Intel-based input/output processors. This architecture allowed the system to combine UNIX-derived CTIX processing with specialized CTOS-based service processors for files, terminals, clusters, and storage. A smaller MiniFrame followed in 1984. The platform was sold by several resellers and was used as the basis for the AT&T UNIX PC. The company also pursued lower-cost personal computing. The Advanced Information Products division developed the WorkSlate, a thin tablet-style machine released in November 1983. Its spreadsheet-centered interface, mini-cassette storage, and TaskWare application cartridges represented an early attempt to package a portable computer around task-specific software. The product's rapid development cycle left insufficient time for testing, and its commercial performance was poor. It was discontinued in 1984. Convergent replaced the AWS with the modular NGEN family in late 1983. Initially based on Intel's 80186, NGEN systems were sold through a broad network of OEMs, including Burroughs, Prime Computer, Bull, NCR, McDonnell Douglas Computer Systems, Datapoint, Mohawk Data Sciences, Gould, and Telenorma/Bosch. The product family later adopted Intel's 80286 and 80386 processors. CTOS was revised for protected-mode operation and larger address spaces, while some configurations could run MS-DOS alongside the Convergent environment. During early 80186 testing, Convergent engineer Greg Walsh identified a processor defect that Intel corrected in later silicon. Convergent's relationship with AT&T became especially important during the mid-1980s. It developed the AT&T UNIX PC, released in March 1985, and marketed a related version as the S/50. The machine used Motorola 68010 technology and added features supporting stream-based I/O and multiple languages. Convergent also developed the Personal Terminal 510A and 510D, integrated voice/data terminals with gel-based touch screens for analog telephone and AT&T PBX applications. In January 1985, Paul C. Ely Jr., a former Hewlett-Packard executive, became chief executive. The company continued to pursue large OEM relationships, and contemporary trade coverage described it as unusually successful at moving supermicrocomputer products through high-volume channels. Its strategy included equity participation and manufacturing licenses for partners, although aggressive pricing sometimes constrained profitability. In October 1985, several senior figures left to form The Dana Group. Convergent subsequently acquired Baron Data Systems in stages, first purchasing a minority interest and then the remainder in 1987. The company attempted further strategic expansion in 1986 by agreeing to acquire 3Com, but the proposed combination was canceled before closing. Convergent nevertheless continued developing higher-performance systems, including the Motorola-based VME MightyFrame family and the 386-based Server PC, released in 1987. The Server PC used Merge 386 to run UNIX and DOS applications at the same time, combining PC-server functions with a multiuser UNIX role. Unisys acquired Convergent Technologies in 1988. The acquired operation became the Unisys Network Computing Group, and Convergent no longer existed as an independent company. Unisys continued parts of the product lineage, including the SuperGen workstation introduced in 1993 with an Intel 80486 processor. Convergent's historical significance rests on its early networked workstations, its CTOS and CTIX software platforms, its influential OEM model, and its role in developing specialized systems for AT&T and other major technology companies.

• 1988

  Acquired by Unisys

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Unisys purchases Convergent Technologies and integrates it as the Network Computing Group.

• 1985

  AT&T products and new leadership

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Paul C. Ely Jr. becomes CEO, while Convergent supplies AT&T with the UNIX PC and Personal Terminal 510.

• 1983

  NGEN and WorkSlate launched

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  The modular NGEN workstation and tablet-style WorkSlate enter the market.

• 1982

  Data Systems division formed

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Convergent begins development of MegaFrame and MiniFrame multiprocessor systems.

• 1981

  AWS introduced

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  The lower-cost Application Workstation expands the CTOS workstation platform.

• 1980

  IWS introduced

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  The Intel 8086-based Integrated Workstation becomes the company's first major product.

• 1979

  Company founded

  [1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Convergent Technologies is established by former Intel and Xerox PARC personnel.

An engineering-led OEM supplier of networked workstations, multiuser systems, UNIX platforms, and specialized office and telecommunications computers. Convergent emphasized modular architectures, distributed processing, operating-system integration, and licensing or resale relationships with established computer and communications companies.

• Networked workstation · 1980

  IWS

  Introduced in 1980, the Integrated Workstation used a 5 MHz Intel 8086 processor and optional 8087 math coprocessor. Its electronics were arranged in a distinctive lectern-style base or floor-standing enclosure, with Multibus expansion slots and support for soft fonts. It operated in clustered office environments under CTOS and was rebranded by OEMs including Burroughs, NCR, and Savin.

• Networked workstation · 1981

  AWS

  The Application Workstation was a lower-cost desktop successor to the IWS, introduced in 1981. It used an Intel 8275 CRT controller and remained compatible with the CTOS clustered environment. A later Turbo Color Graphics version used a NEC 7220 graphics controller and dedicated display memory. OEM versions included the Burroughs B21, NCR WorkSaver 200, Prime Producer 100, and Bull Corail B4000.

• Multiprocessor computer · 1983

  MegaFrame

  Released in 1983, MegaFrame was a modular multiprocessor system using Motorola 68010 application processors and Intel 80186-based service processors. Application processors ran CTIX, a UNIX System III-derived environment, while specialized processors handled files, clusters, terminals, and storage under scaled CTOS variants. The architecture supported substantial board expansion and was resold under several OEM product names.

• Modular workstation · 1983

  NGEN

  NGEN, meaning Next Generation, replaced the AWS in late 1983. Initially based on Intel's 80186, it was designed for OEM customization and was sold as systems such as the Burroughs B25, Prime Producer 200, Bull Questar 400, and NCR WorkSaver 300. Later Series 286, 386, and 386i models tracked Intel processor advances and used enhanced protected-mode CTOS software.

• Tablet-style personal computer · 1983

  WorkSlate

  The WorkSlate was an early flat, tablet-style personal computer released in November 1983. It was approximately one inch thick and used a spreadsheet as its principal interface. Mini-cassettes stored voice and data and supplied TaskWare applications for activities such as calendars and expense management. Its compressed development schedule contributed to weak testing and poor sales, and the product was discontinued in 1984.

• UNIX minicomputer · 1984

  MiniFrame

  Introduced in 1984, the MiniFrame used a Motorola 68010 processor and ran CTIX. It could be expanded with memory, Ethernet, and serial-interface boards. The platform was sold by NCR and Burroughs, rebranded by Gould and Four-Phase Systems, and served as the hardware foundation for the AT&T UNIX PC.

• UNIX personal computer · 1985

  AT&T UNIX PC

  Developed for AT&T and released in March 1985, the UNIX PC was Convergent's first Motorola 68010-based OEM UNIX product for the telecommunications company. It incorporated stream-based I/O and multinational language support into the AT&T UNIX environment. Convergent also offered a related version under its own S/50 designation.

• Voice and data terminal · 1985

  Personal Terminal 510

  The Personal Terminal 510A and 510D were integrated voice/data terminals developed for AT&T. The 510A supported ordinary analog telephone lines, while the 510D targeted AT&T System 75 and System 85 PBX environments. Both used a distinctive gel-based nine-inch touch display.

• UNIX server and minicomputer · 1986

  MightyFrame

  The MightyFrame family, released in 1986, consisted of VME-based CTIX systems using Motorola 68020 and 68040 processors. Models covered a wide range of configurations and were intended for professional, technical, and multiuser computing applications. Several were sold through OEM partners under different product names.

• UNIX and PC server · 1987

  Server PC

  Released in 1987, the 20 MHz 80386-based Server PC ran CTIX/386 and used Merge 386 to allow UNIX and DOS applications to operate concurrently. This hybrid design let one machine function as a conventional PC server and as a multiuser UNIX system supporting up to 32 users.

• Operating system

  CTOS

  CTOS was Convergent's proprietary message-based operating system for distributed workstations and system processors. It supported clustered operation and specialized service roles, including file, terminal, storage, and cluster processing. The software was central to the IWS, AWS, NGEN, and MegaFrame product families and continued in revised protected-mode forms.

• UNIX operating system

  CTIX

  CTIX was Convergent's UNIX-derived operating environment, based initially on UNIX System III concepts. It powered MegaFrame, MiniFrame, MightyFrame, and Server PC systems and complemented CTOS in Convergent's multiprocessor architecture.

• 1988

  Sell the company to UnisysM&A

  Background

  Convergent had built a substantial OEM systems business but was operating in a rapidly consolidating computer industry.

  Action taken

  Unisys acquired Convergent Technologies and integrated the operation into its Network Computing Group.

  Aftermath

  Convergent ceased to operate as an independent company, while parts of its workstation and operating-system lineage continued within Unisys.

  Source

• 1986

  Attempted acquisition of 3ComM&A

  Background

  Convergent pursued expansion in networking and related computer systems.

  Action taken

  It reached an agreement to acquire 3Com, but the proposed merger was canceled before completion.

  Aftermath

  Convergent continued independently until its acquisition by Unisys in 1988.

  Source

• 1983

  Launch the WorkSlateProduct launch

  Background

  Convergent wanted a low-end product with a target price of $499 and formed the Ultra team within its Advanced Information Products division.

  Action taken

  The company released the WorkSlate, an early tablet-style computer centered on spreadsheets, mini-cassette storage, and TaskWare applications.

  Aftermath

  The product's rapid development and inadequate testing contributed to poor sales, and it was discontinued in 1984.

  Source

• 1983

  Replace AWS with NGENGeneration change

  Background

  Convergent needed a more modular workstation platform that could follow Intel processor development and support varied OEM requirements.

  Action taken

  It introduced NGEN, initially based on the Intel 80186, and later extended the family to 286, 386, and 386i models.

  Aftermath

  NGEN became one of Convergent's broadest OEM platforms and was sold under numerous partner brands.

  Source

• 1982

  Expand from workstations into multiprocessor systemsStrategy

  Background

  After establishing the IWS and AWS workstation platforms, Convergent sought larger enterprise and multiuser opportunities.

  Action taken

  It created the Data Systems division and developed the MegaFrame and MiniFrame architectures around multiple processors and CTIX/CTOS software.

  Aftermath

  The move broadened the company beyond office workstations and produced platforms later used in OEM UNIX and telecommunications systems.

  Source

• 1988

  Unisys acquires Convergent Technologies[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  M&A

  Unisys purchases Convergent, after which the business becomes part of Unisys's Network Computing Group.

• 1987

  Convergent completes acquisition of Baron Data Systems[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  M&A

  After acquiring a 40 percent stake in 1985, Convergent purchases the remaining interest in Baron Data Systems.

• 1986

  Proposed 3Com acquisition is abandoned[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  M&A

  Convergent reaches an agreement to acquire 3Com, but the transaction is canceled before completion.

• 1986

  MightyFrame systems introduced[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Product launch

  Convergent expands its CTIX portfolio with Motorola 68020- and 68040-based VME systems.

• 1985

  Paul C. Ely Jr. becomes chief executive[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Leadership change

  The former Hewlett-Packard executive assumes leadership as Convergent continues its OEM and UNIX expansion.

• 1985

  Convergent develops AT&T UNIX PC and Personal Terminal 510[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Product launch

  The company supplies AT&T with a Motorola-based UNIX personal computer and integrated voice/data terminals.

• 1985

  Senior executives leave to form The Dana Group[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Leadership change

  Allen Michels, Matt Sanders, Ben Wegbreit, and another executive depart Convergent and establish a new company.

• 1984

  WorkSlate discontinued after weak sales[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Other

  The WorkSlate is withdrawn after a short commercial life attributed to rushed development, inadequate testing, and limited market traction.

• 1984

  MiniFrame introduced[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Product launch

  Convergent releases a compact Motorola 68010-based CTIX system that later contributes to the development of the AT&T UNIX PC.

• 1983

  WorkSlate reaches the market[1]Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org

  Product launch

  Convergent releases its thin, tablet-style WorkSlate computer with spreadsheet software, mini-cassette storage, and TaskWare applications.

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1. 1Convergent Technologiesen.wikipedia.org
2. 2Convergent Technologies archivebitsavers.org