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Microsoft Corp.

Microsoft and Compaq Collaborate on Interoperability Efforts

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft and Compaq Computer Corp. announced a technology initiative designed to increase interoperability between Compaq's 64-bit Digital UNIX operating system and Microsoft's Windows NT operating system. This collaboration addresses the needs of customers who require both Windows NT Server and UNIX in their data centers and want a high level of interoperability and investment protection for their systems, storage, applications, and human resources assets.

The initiative adds support for the Microsoft Component Object Model (COM) on Compaq's Digital UNIX, allowing better integration between the programming models of the two operating systems. Additionally, it includes security and Active Directory interoperability engineering, transaction processing and data management interoperability services, and Microsoft Windows NT-based services for UNIX support for Compaq's Digital UNIX.

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft and Compaq agreed to implement select Windows NT components in Compaq's Digital UNIX to enhance interoperability.
  • The initiative addresses the needs of customers who require both Windows NT Server and UNIX in their data centers.
  • The technology collaboration includes support for COM on Compaq's Digital UNIX, security and Active Directory interoperability engineering, and transaction processing and data management interoperability services.
  • Compaq's commitment to interoperability with Windows NT is evident in its Digital UNIX, which takes a collaborative approach to interacting with Windows NT.
  • The Compaq Alpha systems, which can run either UNIX or Windows NT, play a significant role in Compaq's investment protection message.
  • Microsoft and Compaq plan to create a public strategy road map providing details on these initiatives as the products near market.
  • Compaq, founded in 1992, is a Fortune Global 100 company and the second-largest computer company in the world.
  • Microsoft, founded in 1975, is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers and offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use.

Statistics:

  • Fortune Global 100 ranking: 2nd largest computer company in the world
  • Number of countries with Compaq products sold and supported: 100
  • Number of customer support locations: Compaq (800) OK-COMPAQ and (800) 345-1518
  • Number of years Microsoft has been in business: 23
  • Number of years Compaq has been in business: 6

Sources:

  • M2 Communications Ltd: https://www.m2.com/
  • Patricia Seybold Group: Patricia Seybold Group website (no date)
  • Compaq: http://www.compaq.com/ (last visited 14 September 1998)
  • Microsoft: http://www.microsoft.com/ (last visited 14 September 1998)

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