Western Electric

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Western Electric was an American electrical engineering and manufacturing company that played a significant role in the development of the telecommunications industry. Founded in 1869, it became the manufacturing arm of the Bell System and was instrumental in the production of telephones, switching equipment, and other telecommunications devices.

History

Western Electric was established in 1869 by Elisha Gray and Enos N. Barton as Gray & Barton in Cleveland, Ohio. The company moved to Chicago, Illinois in 1872 and was renamed Western Electric Manufacturing Company. In 1881, it was acquired by the American Bell Telephone Company, which later became AT&T.

Contributions to Telecommunications

Western Electric was responsible for many innovations in telecommunications. It manufactured the first commercial telephone sets and developed the Bell System's standard for telephone equipment. The company also played a key role in the development of the transistor, which revolutionized electronics and telecommunications.

Key Products

• Telephones: Western Electric produced millions of telephones for the Bell System, including the iconic Model 500 telephone.
• Switching Equipment: The company developed and manufactured various types of switching equipment, including the crossbar switch and the electronic switching system (ESS).
• Transistors: Western Electric was involved in the early development and production of transistors, which were crucial for the advancement of modern electronics.

Research and Development

Western Electric's research and development efforts were closely linked with Bell Labs, the research and development subsidiary of AT&T. Together, they made significant advancements in telecommunications technology, including the development of the laser, fiber optics, and satellite communications.

Decline and Legacy

The breakup of the Bell System in 1984 led to the decline of Western Electric. The company's manufacturing operations were eventually absorbed by other entities, and its name was retired. However, its legacy lives on through its contributions to telecommunications and its role in the development of modern electronic devices.

See Also

• Bell System
• AT&T
• Bell Labs
• Transistor
• Model 500 telephone
• Crossbar switch
• Electronic switching system