<P> This page contains the facts of Dell . </P> <P> Michael Dell founded Dell Computer Corporation, dba PC's Limited, in 1984 while a student at the University of Texas at Austin . Operating from Michael Dell's off - campus dormitory room at Dobie Center, the startup aimed to sell IBM PC - compatible computers built from stock components . Michael Dell started trading in the belief that by selling personal computer systems directly to customers, PC's Limited could better understand customers' needs and provide the most effective computing solutions to meet those needs . Michael Dell dropped out of college upon completion of his freshman year at the University of Texas at Austin in order to focus full - time on his fledgling business, after getting about $1,000 in expansion - capital from his family . As of May 2014, Michael Dell's net worth was stated to be approximately $18 billion . </P> <P> In 1984, the company produced the first computer of its own design--the "Turbo PC", sold for US $795--containing an Intel 8088 - compatible processor running at a speed of 8 MHz . PC's Limited advertised the systems in national computer magazines for sale directly to consumers, and custom assembled each ordered unit according to a selection of options . This offered buyers prices lower than those of retail brands, but with greater convenience than assembling the components themselves . Although not the first company to use this model, PC's Limited became one of the first to succeed with it . The company grossed more than $73 million in its first year of trading . </P> <P> In 1987, the company dropped the PC's Limited dba to be Dell Computer Corporation and began expanding globally . The company name better reflected its presence in the business market, as well as resolved issues with the use of "Limited" in a company name in certain countries . The company set up its first international operations in Britain; eleven more followed within the next four years . In June 1988, Dell Computer's market capitalization grew by $30 million to $80 million from its June 22 initial public offering of 3.5 million shares at $8.50 a share . In 1989, Dell Computer set up its first on - site service programs in order to compensate for the lack of local retailers prepared to act as service centers . </P>

When did the first dell computer come out