(Compaq Computer Corporation, Houston, TX, www.compaq.com) Compaq was the leading PC manufacturer when it was acquired by HP in 2002. Founded in 1982 by Rod Canion, Jim Harris and Bill Murto, one year later the company shipped 53,000 PC-compatible COMPAQ Portables, resulting in $111 million in revenues and an American business record. The Portable's success was due to its rugged construction, ability to run all PC software and its semi-portability (it weighed 30 pounds!).

In 1984, Compaq introduced its DESKPRO desktop computers and achieved a computer-industry sales record in its second year. In 1986, it was the first to offer a 386-based machine. Throughout its history, Compaq has been well respected for its high-quality computer products and innovations. Maintaining this high profile kept it from initially competing with the mail order houses that were dramatically driving down prices in the 1990s. Compaq later became very competitive and a leading vendor in the mass market chain stores.

In 1997, Compaq acquired Tandem Computers, the first company to build fault-tolerant computers from the ground up. Tandem brought Compaq a strong background in high-availability systems for mission critical applications. In 1998, Compaq acquired Digital Equipment Corporation, one of the oldest computer companies and pioneer of minicomputers in the 1960s. Digital's entree into major companies, plus its large service organization, added a significant enterprise presence for Compaq.