Dell was founded in 1984 in Texas, United States by founder Michael Dell. Dell started out by selling computers built from IBM components, and in 1985 sold its first computer wholly designed by them called the "Turbo PC". In 1986 at a trade show Dell unveiled the industry's fastest performing PC, a 12 MHz 286 based system and in 1989 launched its first laptop computer. Dell sales took off rapidly and by 1992 Michael Dell was the youngest CEO in the world of a Fortune 500 company. Since 1996 when Dell launched their online website they have been the leader in online sales of computers and this continues to be their leading sales platform today. In 2002 Dell expanded its product line to include printers, audio players, televisions and handhelds. Dell has since acquired several businesses in the years 2008-2012 and has become the world's 3rd largest computer manufacturer after Apple and Hewlett Packard. |