Iann Barron facts for kids

Iann Marchant Barron (born June 16, 1936 – died May 16, 2022) was a clever British computer engineer. He was also an entrepreneur, which means he started and ran his own businesses. He helped create some important computer systems.

Who Was Iann Barron?

Iann Barron was a very important person in the world of computers. He designed early computers and even created a special kind of computer chip called the Transputer. His work helped shape how computers developed in the United Kingdom.

Early Computer Designs

While still a student at Christ's College, Cambridge, Iann worked at a company called Elliott Brothers. This was during his summer holidays in 1956 and 1957. During this time, he designed a computer called the Elliott 803. This was a big achievement for someone still in college!

After finishing university in 1958, he joined the British government's Civil Service. He worked on special projects for the Army and later for the Air Ministry.

Leading Computer Projects

Iann Barron later returned to Elliott Automation, which was the new name for Elliott Brothers. He became a Project Leader for the team working on the Elliott 502 computer. He then became the company's Head of System Research. This meant he was in charge of looking into new computer ideas.

In 1965, Iann decided to start his own company. He founded Computer Technology Limited. Here, his team developed a series of computer systems called the Modular One. These were important computers for their time.

Creating the Transputer

In the mid-1970s, Iann started another new company called Microcomputer Analysis Ltd. This company advised other businesses on microprocessors. Microprocessors are like the "brains" of computers.

Through this work, he met two famous American experts, Richard Petritz and Paul Schroeder. In 1978, these three people started a company together called Inmos International PLC. This company created a very special and new computer chip called the transputer. The Transputer was unique because it could work on many tasks at once. This led to other important developments, like SpaceWire, which is used in space technology.

Awards and Recognition

Iann Barron was recognized for his amazing work. In 1986, he was chosen as a Distinguished Fellow of the British Computer Society. This is a high honor for computer professionals. He was also given the CBE award in 1994. CBE stands for Commander of the Order of the British Empire, which is a special award from the Queen of England.

Iann Barron passed away on May 16, 2022, when he was 85 years old. He left behind a legacy of important contributions to the world of computers.