Chronicles Revisited Podcast 16 — The First Mobile Computer
Summary
Host S.M. Oliva examines the rise and fall of Gavilan Computer Corporation, which burned through $31 million before going bankrupt in 1984. Despite a flashy debut as the first mobile computer, Gavilan failed due to poor timing, lack of IBM compatibility, and production delays. The episode details founder Manny Fernandez’s background and the company’s tragic liquidation, where units sold for pennies on the dollar.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Gavilan's rise and fall
Manny Fernandez's background and Zilog tenure
Founding Gavilan and the integrated software vision
Gavilan specs, pricing, and the famous limo demo
Competition: TRS-80 Model 100 and market reality
Marketing struggles and floppy drive format wars
Production delays, leadership change, and bankruptcy
Liquidation auction and Fernandez's later career
Listen ad-free on Castria