- Calcomp was established in 1952 in California and rose to prominence as a leading manufacturer of plotters and automated design equipment.
- Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the company held a dominant market position and was synonymous with cutting-edge technology.
- Despite this early success, Calcomp was unable to adapt to the changing landscape of the 1990s.
- The company ultimately failed to survive the decade, marking the end of an era for a once-iconic electronics manufacturer.
Quick Summary
Calcomp was founded in 1952 in California and quickly established itself as a pioneer in the electronics industry. The company specialized in manufacturing plotters and other devices used for automated design and graphics.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Calcomp held a dominant position in the market. It was widely associated with the most advanced technologies of that era. However, the company's success was not permanent. Calcomp ultimately failed to survive the economic and technological challenges of the 1990s.
Founding and Early Success
Calcomp began its operations in 1952 in the state of California. From its inception, the company focused on high-tech manufacturing.
The firm became famous as one of the leading producers of plotters. These devices were essential for automated design and graphics workflows. By establishing a strong foothold in this niche, Calcomp positioned itself as a key player in the emerging computer graphics industry.
Market Dominance in the 70s and 80s
The period between the 1970s and 1980s represented the peak of Calcomp's influence. During these decades, the company occupied leading positions on the market.
Calcomp's reputation was built on providing advanced technology solutions. The brand became synonymous with reliability and innovation in the field of automated design. This era cemented Calcomp's status as a major force in the electronics manufacturing sector.
The Challenges of the 1990s
Despite decades of success, Calcomp faced insurmountable difficulties during the 1990s. The company was unable to overcome the shifting market dynamics of that decade.
While the specific reasons for the decline are not detailed, the outcome was definitive. The manufacturer of electronics ultimately failed to survive the 1990s. This failure marked the conclusion of the company's history.
Conclusion
The story of Calcomp serves as a historical example of a company that rose from a regional startup to a global leader in specialized technology. Founded in 1952, the company enjoyed a long period of market dominance.
However, the inability to adapt to the changing technological environment of the 1990s led to the company's demise. Calcomp remains a notable part of the history of electronics manufacturing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Calcomp known for?
Calcomp was known for being a leading manufacturer of plotters and devices for automated design and graphics.
When was Calcomp founded?
Calcomp was founded in 1952 in California.
Why did Calcomp go out of business?
The company was unable to survive the challenges of the 1990s.




