The SRM-3 modem developed under Zohar Zisapel gained international attention for being small enough to fit in the hand and drawing power directly from telephone lines. This innovation helped redefine data communications in the early 1980s, marking the beginning of a prolific industrial career that spanned decades and led to the creation of the influential RAD Group.
Early Development and Service
Born in 1949 in Tel Aviv, Zohar Zisapel was the son of immigrant parents who managed a shoe shop. He pursued advanced studies at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, earning both bachelor and master degrees in electrical engineering. To fund his schooling, he operated lighting for local discos. Following his undergraduate work, he served in an intelligence unit of the Israel Defense Forces.
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In 1981, Zisapel joined his brother Yehuda to cofound RAD Data Communications Ltd. While the brothers had previous experience through the distribution company Bynet, this new venture focused on manufacturing. The development of miniature modems proved highly successful, with the SRM-3 model eventually appearing in the Guinness Book of Records. By 1987, the firm reached $10 million in annual sales, climbing past $100 million in global revenue by 1996.
Decentralized Corporate Strategy
The Zisapel brothers implemented a unique business model characterized by independent entities rather than a single holding company. This structure allowed for agility and focused management across diverse technology niches, including fiber optics, security appliances, and wireless devices. Since 1984, the RAD Group family grew to encompass over 185 companies, facilitating 19 mergers and acquisitions and 8 initial public offerings.
Philanthropy and Academic Engagement
Zisapel committed significant resources to education and research. He funded computer rooms for children from disadvantaged backgrounds and donated $4.5 million to the Technion for the Sara and Moshe Zisapel Nanoelectronics Center. Additionally, he served as chairman of the executive committee for the Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yafo between 2005 and 2009. His environmental efforts included establishing a solar system on the college campus that funds student scholarships.
Fast facts
- Born: 1949, Tel Aviv
- Died: 2023, Tel Aviv
- Education: Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and Tel Aviv University
- Notable product: SRM-3 miniature modem
- Business structure: RAD Group
- Key contributions: Sara and Moshe Zisapel Nanoelectronics Center
- Awards: Israel Defense Prize, 1979
Questions readers ask
What was the RAD Group's business strategy?
It operated as a network of independent companies without a central holding firm, allowing each unit to maintain flexibility and focus on specific technology niches.
What happened to the RAD Group under Zisapel?
The group spawned more than 185 companies, completed 19 mergers and acquisitions, and conducted 8 initial public offerings.
Achievements
- Educated at Tel Aviv University and Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
