En Vang
USA- Early Life and Education
- Career at Harvard and Invention
- Founding of Wang Laboratories
- Growth and Expansion
- Introduction of Word Processors and Minicomputers
- Retirement and Legacy
- Death and Recognition
Early Life and Education
En Wang was born in Shanghai, China. In 1940, he graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University with an electrical engineering degree. In June 1945, Wang immigrated to the United States to pursue a master's degree at Harvard University. He later earned a Ph.D. in physics from Harvard in 1948.
Career at Harvard and Invention
After graduating, Wang worked on the Mark IV project at Harvard with Howard Aiken, the creator of the first fully electronic computer. Wang co-invented the magnetic core memory device with his classmate Wei-Dong Woo. This device enabled the creation of early computer memory.
Founding of Wang Laboratories
In 1951, Wang founded Wang Laboratories due to a decline in funding for computer research at Harvard. Initially, the company struggled financially, but Wang obtained $50,000 in capital by selling one-third of the company to Warner & Swasey Company. In 1955, Wang sold the patent for his magnetic core memory to IBM for $500,000 and incorporated Wang Laboratories with another classmate, Ge-Yao Chu.
Growth and Expansion
The company grew steadily, and in 1964, its sales reached $1 million. Wang diversified the business by producing desktop electronic calculators with digital displays and later central calculators with remote terminal capabilities. By 1970, the company had expanded to over 27 million in sales and employed 1,400 people.
Introduction of Word Processors and Minicomputers
In 1976, Wang Laboratories introduced the Wang 2200, one of the first desktop computers with a large CRT monitor. The company also became a major producer of word processors. Additionally, Wang expanded into the minicomputer market, introducing the Wang VS minicomputer, which supported multiple users and resembled the IBM System/360.
Retirement and Legacy
Wang stepped down from his leadership role in 1986, appointing his son, Fred Wang, as CEO. However, the company faced financial difficulties, and Wang eventually dismissed his son in 1989. Wang also founded the Wang Institute of Graduate Studies (later acquired by Boston University) and played a significant role in the renovation of the Metropolitan Theatre in Boston.
Death and Recognition
Wang passed away from cancer in 1990, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in technology and philanthropy. In 1988, he was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. His wife, Lorraine, and their three children survive him.
