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About WDC

Bill Mensch: A Visionary in Microprocessor Development and Embedded Intelligence

William D. Mensch, Jr., the founder of WDC, holds 22 patents in microprocessor technology and has been recognized as a pioneer in the industry. COMDEX 96 honored the 6502 as the first of only seven microprocessors having the most impact on the Information Technology industry over the previous 25 years. Mensch was in attendance and received this prestigious award on behalf of the 6502. His contributions to the development of the Motorola 6800 and the MOS Technology 6502 have had a seminal impact on computing, semiconductors, and engineering.

WDC’s philosophy centers around Embedded Intelligence (EI), emphasizing the integration of intelligence within systems to enable autonomous operation. This is encapsulated in the SPCA model: Sense, Process, Communicate, Actuate. By embedding these capabilities, devices can interact with their environment, make decisions, and perform actions without external intervention.

WDC – Pioneering Embedded Intelligence Technology (EIT) Since 1978

Founded in 1978 by microprocessor innovator William D. Mensch, Jr., The Western Design Center, Inc. (WDC) has been at the forefront of microprocessor technology, licensing its 65xx brand microprocessor Intellectual Property (IP) cores to the electronics industry since 1981. WDC is recognized as a pioneer in microprocessor IP design and licensing, inspired Acorn engineers to create the wildly popular ARMxx series of microprocessors. GTE, Rockwell, MOS Technology, Synertek, and NCR were some of WDC’s first licensees. In 1984, WDC began selling 65xx brand microprocessor chips to Apple Computer, making it the first supplier of microprocessors as a fabless semiconductor company.

WDC continues to make its 65xx EIT available through distributors, directly and license IP for educational and commercial purposes. These are supported by vast documentation and even a custom GPT.

Diversity is a crucial aspect of our mission as it brings together individuals with unique perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds to create innovative solutions and drive progress forward. Embracing diversity in these fields of inquiry fosters an inclusive culture where everyone’s contributions are valued and respected, and promotes equal opportunities for individuals regardless of their race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status. By prioritizing diversity, we can ensure that the scientific and technological advancements of the future are representative of and accessible to all members of our society.

The Legacy of 65xx Technology

The 65xx microprocessor family has been instrumental in shaping the personal computing and video game industries. Notably, the W65C02S 8-bit microprocessor powered the Apple IIc and IIe, while the W65C816S 16-bit microprocessor was utilized in the Apple IIGS and the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. These processors have also found applications in medical life support systems, automotive electronics, industrial controls, and consumer devices.

The following is a list of some of the pioneering products that the 65xx technology is remembered for:

Billions and Billions Sold

Through the last 40+ years as one of the most popular microprocessor architectures of all time. WDC and its licensees have shipped over eight billion CMOS processors; more than 1 per person on planet earth! This number is growing by hundreds of millions of units each year.

The following is a partial list of high-volume applications that have been successful in using 6502 microprocessor technology:

  • Personal computers
  • Video game systems
  • Modems
  • Floppy disk drives
  • Set-top cable boxes
  • Telephones
  • Fax machines
  • Pagers
  • Digital television chipsets
  • Copiers
  • Scanners
  • Wireless cameras
  • Security Systems
  • Telecom Devices
  • Electronic Books
  • Personal Digital Assistants
  • Toys
  • Automobile dashboard
  • Appliance controllers
  • Industrial controllers
  • Embedded heart defibrillators
  • Pacemakers
  • Point of Sale Terminals

The Western Design Center, Inc. - 2023