SAEDNEWS: Intel, the world’s largest processor maker and AMD’s rival, was founded in 1968 by Robert Noyce and Gordon Moore. Based in California, it designs and manufactures computer circuits and processors.
According to Saed News’ Success World service, Intel is a familiar name to anyone in the world of technology. For several years, the company has been recognized as one of the leading processor manufacturers in the world. Intel is an international computer processor manufacturer, widely regarded as a pioneer of the modern computing era. Its headquarters are located in Santa Clara, California, in Silicon Valley. Currently, Intel is recognized as the second-largest processor manufacturer in the world and the second most valuable company in its industry, with Samsung having recently overtaken the top position.
Intel is credited as the inventor of the x86 processors, which are used in most personal computers today. Major clients of Intel include Apple, Lenovo, HP, and Dell. The company also produces other computer components, from memory storage devices to networking equipment.
Founding and Early History
Intel was founded in 1968 by Gordon E. Moore, a chemist, and Robert Noyce, a physicist and one of the inventors of the integrated circuit (IC). Before founding Intel, both worked at Fairchild Semiconductor. Arthur Rock and Max Palevsky were also among the first board members, with Rock helping the founders secure the initial funding. Intel’s initial capital was reported at $2.5 million, which increased to $6.8 million two years later following its IPO. Andy Grove, one of the early employees, later played a pivotal role in Intel’s golden era during the 1980s and 1990s.
The name “Intel,” derived from “Integrated Electronics,” was adopted in July 1968, replacing the initial name N M Electronics. The founders avoided combining their surnames, which could be misread as “More Noise,” an unsuitable name for an electronics company.
First Products
Initially known for logic circuits, Intel aimed to produce semiconductor memory. Their first product was a 64-bit static RAM, twice as fast as competitors. Subsequent products included a 1024-bit ROM and the first 256-bit static RAM based on MOSFET technology. The DRAM chip 1103, released in 1970, became the world’s best-selling memory chip by 1972.
The Era of Processors
In 1971, Intel released the world’s first commercial microprocessor, the Intel 4004, designed by Federico Faggin. Facing increasing competition in memory markets during the early 1980s, Intel shifted focus to processors, leveraging the boom in personal computing, particularly IBM PCs, to secure a significant market share.
Intel’s Milestones
By the late 1980s, Intel’s golden era began with microprocessor production for IBM and other major PC competitors. Andy Grove succeeded Gordon Moore as CEO in 1987 and launched the “Intel Inside” campaign, strengthening brand loyalty. The Pentium processor, released in the late 1990s, marked another milestone under Grove’s leadership.
Challenges
The early 2000s saw a decline in personal computer demand and rising competition, especially from AMD. Intel’s attempts to diversify into markets beyond semiconductors met mixed success. Legal disputes, particularly with AMD and companies like Transmeta, have been a recurring challenge. Environmental concerns and labor complaints also tested the company, but Intel addressed many through strategic initiatives, ranking among top tech firms in sustainability by 2012.
Corporate Structure and Leadership
Intel is currently led by CEO Brian Krzanich, who succeeded Paul Otellini in 2013. The company prefers promoting from within, particularly for managerial positions. Its main administrative office is in Santa Clara, California, with major production facilities in Oregon and worldwide offices in China, Costa Rica, Malaysia, Ireland, India, Russia, Argentina, and Vietnam.
Product Evolution
Intel’s product line evolved from memory chips to microprocessors, with key milestones including the Intel 4004, 80286, 80386, Pentium series, Itanium, and modern SSDs using NAND flash, PCIe, NVMe, and 3D XPoint technologies. Intel also ventured into supercomputers, establishing Intel Scientific Computers in 1984, later renamed Intel Supercomputing Systems in 1992, and developing machines like Paragon and ASCI Red.
Operating Systems and Software
Intel collaborated with companies like Nokia to develop MeeGo, a Linux-based OS for x86 systems, and later supported Samsung’s Tizen OS for mobile devices.
Current Status
Today, Intel is the second-largest processor manufacturer and the second most valuable brand in the industry. In 2017, the company reported revenues of approximately $62 billion and a net profit of $18 billion, employing around 106,000 people. Subsidiaries include Mobileye, McAfee, Here, and Wind River Systems.
