by David A. Bright

from the July 1983 issue of Mini-Micro Systems magazine

Franklin Computer Corp., once considered just another Apple Computer Inc. clone, is being closely monitored by the personal computer industry as it begins to move away from Apple’s shadow. With the hiring last spring of several key research and development personnel, Franklin has indicated that it intends to become a major independent personal computer supplier.

Franklin’s first big move was hiring Avram Miller, former manager of Digital Equipment Corp.’s Professional computer program, as executive vice president of manufacturing and engineering. A month after Miller arrived, he lured William L. Sydnes away from his position as development manager for the Personal Computer at IBM Corp. Sydnes was rumored to be working on the low-end Peanut model. He assumes the post of vice president of engineering at Franklin. Miller is confident that Sydnes will build an engineering organization at Franklin that will be “second to none." He says Sydnes has a proven track record in developing superior products on tight schedules.

from the August 1984 issue of Australian Micro Computerworld magazine

Franklin Computer, maker of Apple-compatible computers, has filed for reorganisation under Chapter 11 of the US Federal Bankruptcy Code.

In a prepared statement, Franklin president, Morton David said the company was experiencing falling sales and a “strain in financial resources’. To date, the company has about $US33.9 million in assets and $US22.8 million in liabilities, a spokesperson said.

The company owes significant sums to at least 20 unsecured creditors. Under Chapter 11, acompany is protected from its creditors while it reorganises, which usually takes several years. “We will spare no effort to turn Franklin around,” David said.