Apple Will Push for Compatible Systems

Apple Computer will step up efforts to enable its computers to communicate with those of IBM and is also moving to integrate Apple machines with those of Digital Equipment, Chief Executive John Sculley said Wednesday.

Company officials said the moves represent Apple’s recognition that its equipment must operate within the systems of more established computer firms if the company is to grow in business and other markets.

Apple once held itself out as an alternative to such companies as IBM, and its personal computers run on operating systems that aren’t compatible with those of IBM. However, the company last winter signaled its intention to achieve “connectivity” with IBM equipment.

Specifically, Sculley said Wednesday at an industry conference in Dallas that Apple will develop equipment that can operate within IBM’s recently announced system of computer “networks.” The adaptations will center on Apple’s Macintosh computer, he said.

Sculley also said that, in response to requests by customers, “we are developing software in conjunction with third parties to fully integrate Macintosh” into systems using Digital Equipment products.