Mike Fischer

Mike Fischer studied physics at Oxford and co-founded Research Machines with Mike O'Regan in 1973. The young company began with scientific instruments and created the Sintel mail-order components business to provide a steadier source of income.

Fischer led the technical side as Research Machines moved into microcomputers. Inspired by the arrival of early American kits, the company developed its own Z80 system and supplied a first machine to an education authority in 1977. That work evolved into the durable 380Z, which became widely used in British schools.

Fischer served as chief executive for twenty-four years. Under his leadership, Research Machines expanded from hardware into networks, software and support while keeping education at the centre of the business.