A Fork In The Road For Control Data

In Business This Week

A FORK IN THE ROAD FOR CONTROL DATA

Control Data, the last of the independent, old-line mainframe computer makers, plans to split into two companies. Pending approval from its banks, the struggling company will spin off its computer business as Control Data Systems, while the remaining information-services operation will be named Ceridian.

Control Data CEO Lawrence Perlman will be in charge of Ceridian, while James Ousley will head the computer arm. Workstation maker Silicon Graphics plans to buy 10% of the new computer company, and Japan's NEC may purchase a 5% share.EDITED BY HARRIS COLLINGWOOD