Tech Brew Ride Home (IHP) The Gary Kildall Legend Part 1
Nov 24, 2023
Gary Kildall, a pioneer from Seattle, revolutionized computing by inventing the modern disc operating system and creating CPM, the first popular OS for personal computers. In a deep dive into tech history, he contrasts sharply with Bill Gates, raising questions about why Gates became the wealthiest man in the world while Kildall faded into the background. The discussion explores Kildall's innovative spirit, the birth of the software platform, and the pivotal negotiations between Microsoft and IBM that reshaped the technology landscape.
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The Legend of the IBM Deal
- Bill Gates became incredibly successful due to a deal with IBM, while Gary Kildall missed out because he was flying.
- This is the popular version, but the reality is more nuanced.
Kildall's Path to Computing
- Gary Kildall, initially destined for the family's nautical school, pursued mathematics and fell in love with computers.
- He developed an early personal computer and the first disk operating system, CPM.
Kildall's Early Game and Noyce's Dismissal
- Kildall created one of the first computer games while consulting for Intel.
- Intel co-founder Bob Noyce dismissed it, believing the future was in digital watches.