<PAGE>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

                                 UNITED STATES
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                              WASHINGTON, DC 20549

                            ------------------------

                                   FORM 10-Q

<TABLE>
<C>        <S>
   /X/     QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
           THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
</TABLE>

                     FOR THE QUARTER ENDED OCTOBER 2, 1999
                                       OR

<TABLE>
<C>        <S>
   / /     TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
           THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
</TABLE>

                           COMMISSION FILE NO. 1-8045

                            ------------------------

                                  GENRAD, INC.

             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

<TABLE>
<S>                                             <C>
             MASSACHUSETTS                            04-1360950
    (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF                (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
     INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)             IDENTIFICATION NUMBER)

        7 TECHNOLOGY PARK DRIVE                       01886-0033
        WESTFORD, MASSACHUSETTS                       (ZIP CODE)
(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
</TABLE>

       REGISTRANT'S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE: (978) 589-7000

                            ------------------------

    Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes /X/  No / /

    Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of
common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

    29,746,314 shares of the Common Stock, $1 par value, were outstanding on
November 12, 1999.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                         QUARTERLY REPORT ON FORM 10-Q
                       THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 2, 1999
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                   PAGE
                                                                                 --------
<S>       <C>      <C>                                                           <C>
PART I.   FINANCIAL INFORMATION:
          Item 1:  Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
                     Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations...........      1
                     Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.....................      2
                     Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows...........      3
                     Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements......      4

          Item 2:    Management's Discussion and Analysis of
                       Financial Condition and Results of Operations...........     12

PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION:

          Item 6.  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K............................     31

                   Signatures..................................................     33
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
                                     PART I
              ITEM 1. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                    (In thousands, except per share amounts)
                                  (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        THREE MONTHS ENDED         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                      -----------------------   -----------------------
                                                      OCTOBER 2,   October 3,   OCTOBER 2,   October 3,
                                                         1999         1998         1999         1998
                                                      ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
<S>                                                   <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Revenue:
  Product...........................................   $ 91,482     $ 43,039     $174,234     $119,791
  Service...........................................     17,764       17,511       51,740       48,771
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
    Total revenue...................................    109,246       60,550      225,974      168,562

Cost of revenue:
  Product...........................................     55,799       26,562       92,987       62,018
  Service...........................................     10,946        9,521       31,170       28,288
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
    Total cost of revenue...........................     66,745       36,083      124,157       90,306
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
Gross margin........................................     42,501       24,467      101,817       78,256

Operating expenses:
  Selling, general and administrative...............     16,925       17,294       51,219       53,183
  Research and development..........................      5,421        4,265       14,720       14,628
  Acquired in-process research and development......         --           --           --       10,097
  Restructuring charges.............................         --        5,490           --        8,753
  Loss from impairment of intangible assets.........         --           --           --        4,906
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
    Total operating expenses........................     22,346       27,049       65,939       91,567
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
Operating income (loss).............................     20,155       (2,582)      35,878      (13,311)

Other income (expense):
  Interest income...................................         20           26          177          340
  Interest expense..................................       (435)        (311)        (921)        (907)
  Other, net........................................         28         (302)         (78)        (402)
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
    Total other income (expense)....................       (387)        (587)        (822)        (969)
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
Net income (loss) before income taxes...............     19,768       (3,169)      35,056      (14,280)
Income tax benefit (expense)........................     (2,000)        (750)         994        7,332
                                                       --------     --------     --------     --------
Net income (loss)...................................   $ 17,768     $ (3,919)    $ 36,050     $ (6,948)
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
Net income (loss) per share:
  Basic.............................................   $   0.62     $  (0.14)    $   1.26     $  (0.25)
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
  Diluted...........................................   $   0.60     $  (0.14)    $   1.22     $  (0.25)
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
Weighted average shares outstanding:
  Basic.............................................     28,748       28,289       28,511       28,028
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
  Diluted...........................................     29,773       28,289       29,537       28,028
                                                       ========     ========     ========     ========
</TABLE>

              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                  Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

                                       1
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                    (In thousands, except per share amounts)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  OCTOBER 2,    January 2,
                                                                                     1999          1999
                                                                                  -----------   ----------
                                                                                  (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                                               <C>           <C>
ASSETS
  CURRENT ASSETS:
    Cash and cash equivalents...................................................   $  7,004      $ 12,998
    Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts
      of $1,575 and $1,538......................................................    116,711        65,490
    Inventory...................................................................     44,513        32,989
    Other current assets........................................................      7,837         7,119
                                                                                   --------      --------
        Total current assets....................................................    176,065       118,596

  Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of
    $40,492 and $37,769.........................................................     42,822        37,269
  Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $9,229 and $5,636.......     36,269        35,744
  Deferred tax assets...........................................................     19,922        15,368
  Other assets..................................................................      1,273         1,248
                                                                                   --------      --------
                                                                                   $276,351      $208,225
                                                                                   ========      ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
  CURRENT LIABILITIES:
    Line of credit..............................................................   $ 20,290      $     --
    Accounts payable............................................................     24,769        10,299
    Accrued liabilities.........................................................      7,350        19,786
    Deferred revenue............................................................      9,991         6,789
    Accrued compensation and employee benefits..................................      6,184         6,844
    Accrued income taxes........................................................      4,374           620
    Current portion of long-term debt...........................................      2,382         2,425
                                                                                   --------      --------
        Total current liabilities...............................................     75,340        46,763

  Long-term debt................................................................      4,167         6,062
  Accrued pension benefits......................................................     10,935        11,488
  Lease costs of excess facilities..............................................      3,922         3,854
  Deferred revenue..............................................................        863           962
  Other long-term liabilities...................................................      3,937         5,065

  Commitments and contingencies

  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
    Common stock, $1.00 par value, 60,000 shares authorized; 29,744 and
      29,176 issued and outstanding at October 2, 1999 and January 2, 1999,
      respectively..............................................................     29,744        29,176
    Additional paid-in capital, common stock....................................    219,465       214,227
    Treasury stock, net.........................................................    (14,374)      (14,958)
    Accumulated deficit.........................................................    (55,509)      (91,560)
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss........................................     (2,139)       (2,854)
                                                                                   --------      --------
        Total stockholders' equity..............................................    177,187       134,031
                                                                                   --------      --------
                                                                                   $276,351      $208,225
                                                                                   ========      ========
</TABLE>

              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                  Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

                                       2
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (In thousands)
                                  (Unaudited)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                 NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                              -----------------------
                                                              OCTOBER 2,   October 3,
                                                                 1999         1998
                                                              ----------   ----------
<S>                                                           <C>          <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
  Net income (loss).........................................   $ 36,050     $ (6,948)
  Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash
    provided by (used in) operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization...........................     11,092        9,461
    Loss on disposal of property and equipment..............        429        1,256
    Deferred income tax benefit.............................     (4,500)      (7,500)
    Lease costs of excess facilities, net...................        (35)      (1,024)
    Acquired in-process research and development............         --        8,420
    Loss from impairment of intangible assets...............         --        4,906
    Restructuring and non-recurring charges.................         --        6,385
  Increase (decrease) resulting from changes in operating
    assets and liabilities:
    Accounts receivable, net................................    (52,313)       6,627
    Inventory...............................................    (12,160)      (6,786)
    Other current assets....................................       (761)         164
    Accounts payable........................................     14,646       (4,177)
    Accrued liabilities.....................................    (12,108)       5,768
    Deferred revenue........................................      3,119        1,466
    Accrued compensation and employee benefits..............       (579)      (1,428)
    Accrued income taxes....................................      3,720         (692)
    Other, net..............................................     (1,158)        (927)
                                                               --------     --------
    Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities.....    (14,558)      14,971

INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
  Purchases of property and equipment.......................    (13,807)     (12,330)
  Purchase of subsidiary....................................         --       (3,093)
  Purchase of intangible assets.............................     (4,118)      (3,378)
                                                               --------     --------
  Net cash (used in) investing activities...................    (17,925)     (18,801)

FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
  Principal payments on long-term debt......................     (1,759)      (1,827)
  Borrowings on credit facility.............................     55,065           --
  Principal payments on credit facility.....................    (34,775)          --
  Proceeds from employee stock plans........................     10,086        4,235
  Purchase of treasury stock................................     (3,696)     (10,856)
                                                               --------     --------
  Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities.......     24,921       (8,448)

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents.......      1,568       (1,620)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents.......................     (5,994)     (13,898)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period............     12,998       21,883
                                                               --------     --------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period..................   $  7,004     $  7,985
                                                               ========     ========
</TABLE>

              The accompanying notes are an integral part of these
                  Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

                                       3
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
              NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION

    The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto included in the Company's Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended January 2, 1999, filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited
condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting
of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary to present fairly the
consolidated financial position at October 2, 1999 and January 2, 1999, and the
results of operations and cash flows for the three and nine months ended
October 2, 1999 and October 3, 1998, respectively. Interim results are not
necessarily indicative of the results for the full fiscal year.

    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the
date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and
expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those
estimates.

    Certain prior period balances have been reclassified to conform to the
current presentation.

NET INCOME PER SHARE

    The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted net
income per share in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 128 "Earnings per Share" for the three and nine months ended October 2, 1999
and October 3, 1998, respectively (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         THREE MONTHS ENDED         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                       -----------------------   -----------------------
                                                       OCTOBER 2,   October 3,   OCTOBER 2,   October 3,
                                                          1999         1998         1999         1998
                                                       ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
<S>                                                    <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
    Net income (loss)................................    $17,768      $(3,919)     $36,050      $(6,948)

    Basic weighted average shares outstanding........     28,748       28,289       28,511       28,028
    Weighted average share equivalents...............      1,025           --        1,026           --
                                                         -------      -------      -------      -------

    Diluted weighted average shares outstanding......     29,773       28,289       29,537       28,028
                                                         =======      =======      =======      =======

    Basic net income (loss) per share................    $  0.62      $ (0.14)     $  1.26      $ (0.25)
                                                         =======      =======      =======      =======

    Diluted net income (loss) per share..............    $  0.60      $ (0.14)     $  1.22      $ (0.25)
                                                         =======      =======      =======      =======
</TABLE>

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

    For the three and nine months ended October 2, 1999, comprehensive income
(loss) included changes in cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments
of $(0.1) and $0.7 million, compared to $(0.2) and $(0.8) million for the three
and nine months ended October 3, 1998. Total comprehensive income (loss) for the
three and nine months ended October 2, 1999 totaled $17.7 and $36.8 million,
compared to $(4.1) and $(7.7) million for the three and nine months ended
October 3, 1998. At October 2, 1999, accumulated other comprehensive loss
totaled $2.1 million.

                                       4
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 2: ACQUISITIONS

INDUSTRIAL COMPUTER CORPORATION

    On April 7, 1998, GenRad acquired all of the then outstanding common shares
of Industrial Computer Corporation ("ICC"), a software company providing
real-time manufacturing execution systems to electronics manufacturers. ICC was
established in 1980 and is located in Atlanta, Georgia. The transaction was
accounted for as a purchase, and accordingly, the purchase price was allocated
to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective fair
values. In connection with the acquisition of ICC, 1,237,917 shares of GenRad's
common stock were issued for all of the then outstanding shares of ICC in a
tax-free reorganization. The total consideration for the acquisition of ICC was
approximately $36.6 million. Direct costs of the acquisition totaled
approximately $1.6 million and consisted primarily of legal fees, accounting
fees and broker fees. The results of ICC are included in the 1998 financial
statements beginning from the date of purchase.

    The purchase price was allocated to the tangible and intangible assets of
ICC as follows:

<TABLE>
<S>                                                           <C>
    Acquired in-process research and development............  $ 8,420
    Goodwill................................................   16,982
    Developed technology....................................   11,370
    Assembled workforce.....................................    1,280
    Tradename...............................................      408
    Assets, primarily accounts receivable and property and
    equipment...............................................    3,954
    Liabilities assumed.....................................   (4,215)
                                                              -------
                                                              $38,199
                                                              =======
</TABLE>

    The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in September 1998, issued
guidance related to the valuation of acquired in-process research and
development as set forth in its letter dated September 9, 1998 from the Chief
Accountant of the SEC to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
In April 1999, the Company corresponded with the staff of the SEC ("the Staff")
concerning the application of the methodology to the valuation of the incomplete
technology and other intangible assets and implemented the methodology. As a
result of the application of the valuation methodology the purchase price was
allocated to acquired in-process research and development, developed technology,
assembled workforce and tradename. In April 1999 the Company restated its
originally filed Form 10-Q filings for its second and third quarters of fiscal
1998 using this methodology.

    The valuation of acquired in-process research and development was based on
management's projections of the after tax net cash flows attributable to the
acquired in-process research and development. Specifically, the valuation
considers the following: (i) a fair market value premise; (ii) comprehensive due
diligence concerning all potential intangible assets including trademarks and
tradenames, patents, copyrights, non-compete agreements, assembled workforce and
customer relationships and sales channel relationships; (iii) the value
contribution of core technology to the acquired in-process technology, with a
view toward ensuring the relative allocations to core technology and acquired
in-process research and development were consistent with the relative
contributions of each to the final product; and (iv) the calculation used to
determine the value allocated to acquired in-process research and development
considered only the efforts completed as of the transaction date and only the
cash flow associated with said completed efforts for one generation of the
product development efforts in-process at the acquisition date.

                                       5
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 2: ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

The charge for acquired in-process research and development relates to one
development project in process at the date of the acquisition that had not
reached technological feasibility, had no alternative future use, and for which
ultimate successful development was uncertain. The conclusion that the
development efforts in-process, or any material subcomponent, had no alternative
future use was reached in consultation with engineering personnel from ICC as
well as the Company's valuation advisors.

    The in-process project consists of the development of ICC's existing UNIX
based product using an object oriented design and standard programming language
which will provide users of the product the ability to use ICC's Shop Floor Data
Manager-TM- ("SFDM") product on varied operating platforms. The primary project
tasks open at the time of acquisition included completion of the design of
certain modules, or objects, which will house the program code, completion of
program code written in the new language and preliminary quality assurance and
testing of the product. At the time of acquisition, additional development
remained on all tasks (management estimated that the project was approximately
69% complete) and costs to complete were estimated to total approximately
$928,000. At the time of the acquisition, management believed that the product
being developed would become available for sale late in fiscal 1999. GenRad will
begin to benefit from the acquired in-process research and development once
completed product is sold. Failure to reach successful completion of this
project may result in impairment of the associated capitalized intangible
assets, i.e. goodwill and developed technology, and/or may require the Company
to accelerate the time period over which the intangibles are being amortized,
which may have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations
and financial condition.

    Significant assumptions used to determine the value of the acquired
in-process research and development included several factors. The first was a
forecast of net cash flows that were expected to result from the in-process
development effort using projections prepared by ICC management, portions of
which (1998 and 1999) were provided to GenRad's Board of Directors. Net cash
flow projections included projected revenue growth and trends in profit margins
and selling, general and administrative expenses that were consistent with
recent historical trends prior to the acquisition. Second, a percentage complete
of 69% for the project estimated by considering the costs invested to date
relative to the expected total cost of the development effort, supported by the
amount of technological progress completed as of the transaction date relative
to the overall technological achievements required to achieve the intended
functionality of the eventual product. The technological issues were addressed
primarily by engineering representatives from ICC along with the Company's
independent valuation advisors. Third, a 24% discount rate, which represents a
rate equivalent to that which would be employed in a fair value analysis, i.e.,
one that considers all cash flows associated with the product. Lastly, a core
technology charge reflected as one-third of after tax net income related to the
in-process project was utilized. This rate represents an amount that the Company
would be required to pay in royalties assuming it had licensed the products
expected to be derived from the acquired in-process development efforts.

    As of October 2, 1999, the technological feasibility of the project has been
reached and no significant departures from the assumptions included in the
valuation analysis have occurred.

MANUFACTURING EXECUTION SYSTEMS BUSINESS

    On April 9, 1998, GenRad acquired certain assets of the Manufacturing
Execution Systems ("MES") business of Valstar Systems Limited ("Valstar")
located in Aberdeen, Scotland. Valstar's MES component provides integration
services and support and distribution in Europe for ICC's Software.

                                       6
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 2: ACQUISITIONS (CONTINUED)

    Total consideration paid for Valstar's MES business was $3.2 million in
cash, including acquisition costs, funded through internally generated funds. As
part of the acquisition, the Company entered into a two-year consulting and
services agreement with Valstar that includes securing certain Valstar personnel
and other resources to transition the business to GenRad. Of the $3.0 million
purchase price, $2.0 million was paid on April 9, 1998 and $1.0 million was
released from escrow on October 7, 1998 as certain contingencies were achieved.
Direct costs of the acquisition totaled approximately $0.2 million and consisted
primarily of legal and accounting fees.

    The transaction was accounted for as a purchase, and accordingly, the
purchase price was allocated to the intangible assets acquired based on their
respective fair values. The purchase price was allocated to the intangible
assets of Valstar's MES business as follows (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<S>                                                   <C>
        Goodwill....................................  $2,100
        Customer lists..............................     900
        Employment contracts........................     200
                                                      ------
                                                      $3,200
                                                      ======
</TABLE>

NOTE 3: RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND OTHER CHARGES

    During the three months ended July 4, 1998 ("second quarter") and
October 3, 1998 ("third quarter"), respectively, the Company recorded certain
restructuring and other charges totaling approximately $9.8 million and
$10.4 million, respectively. Total charges are summarized as follows (in
thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                                   --------------------------------
                                                   JULY 4,    OCTOBER 3,
                                                     1998        1998       TOTAL
                                                   --------   ----------   --------
<S>                                                <C>        <C>          <C>
Impairment loss..................................   $4,900           --    $ 4,900
Acquired in-process diagnostic software..........    1,700           --      1,700
Restructuring and other charges..................    3,200       10,400     13,600
                                                    ------      -------    -------
                                                    $9,800      $10,400    $20,200
                                                    ======      =======    =======
</TABLE>

IMPAIRMENT LOSS

    In fiscal 1996, the Company purchased Test Technology Associates, Inc.
("TTA") and Testware, Inc. ("Testware"). These companies provide custom test
programming, test fixture integration and other value-added services to
manufacturers and users of electronic products. Additionally, GenRad acquired
certain assets of Field Oriented Engineering, AG in fiscal 1996, consisting
primarily of the software program known as TRACS-Registered Trademark- III,
which is sold to electronic manufacturing systems customers. The excess purchase
price over the net assets acquired for these acquisitions was recorded as
long-term intangibles, primarily goodwill.

    Through July 4, 1998 the historical financial performance of these entities
continued to be less than anticipated and the businesses had been negatively
impacted by a decline in the in-circuit test market. Due to these factors as
well as certain management changes during the three months ended July 4, 1998,
the

                                       7
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 3: RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND OTHER CHARGES (CONTINUED)

Company prepared revised projections of future operating cash flows relating to
these businesses, which indicated that the businesses would not generate
sufficient operating cash flows to realize the carrying value of the intangible
assets. This analysis was performed in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of." As a result, a $4.9 million
impairment loss, representing the net book value of goodwill, was recorded
during the second quarter and is included in the accompanying condensed
consolidated statements of operations for nine months ended October 3, 1998.

ACQUIRED IN-PROCESS DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

    On July 2, 1998, the Company acquired the rights to certain diagnostic
software for which technological feasibility had not been established. The
Company plans to use the acquired technology in the diagnosis of increasingly
complex mechatronic systems, particularly in vehicle systems. At the time of
acquisition, the acquired technology had not yet reached technological
feasibility, had no alternative future uses and, accordingly, the entire
purchase price was expensed. The total of $1.7 million is included in acquired
in-process research and development in the accompanying condensed consolidated
statements of operations for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.

RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES

    During the second and third quarters of 1998, the Company restructured its
operations, which resulted in a workforce reduction of approximately 230
manufacturing and general and administrative employees or 15% of the Company's
workforce. In accordance with EITF 94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain
Employee Termination Benefits, and Other Costs to Exit an Activity," the Company
recorded a charge for restructuring totaling approximately $6.8 million for
severance costs and post-employment benefits ($5.2 million), write-offs of
certain fixed assets which will no longer be utilized ($1.0 million) and for the
termination fees of certain equipment and real estate leases ($0.6 million).

    During the third quarter of 1998, the Company ceased its manufacturing
operations at its Manchester, UK facility. Inventory related to the manufacturer
of certain ADS products and the cessation of ADS' contract manufacturing
business totaling $3.5 million was charged to cost of products. In addition,
restructuring charges totaling approximately $0.5 million were recorded related
to a workforce reduction of approximately 20 people and certain fixed assets
which will no longer be utilized and will be disposed of in 1999.

    During the third quarter, the Company completed an in depth analysis of the
hardware portion of the Vision product line resulting in a decision to exit this
business. This decision was based upon the following: (i) the market for Vision
equipment in PCB manufacturing was not as large as had been previously
estimated, and (ii) the continued research and development investment required
for the existing Vision product was not warranted given the resizing of the
Vision market. Exiting the Vision hardware product line resulted in charges
totaling $2.8 million related to fixed assets which will no longer be utilized
and were disposed of in 1998 and certain excess inventory, inventory purchase
commitments and prepaid royalties. Of the total of $2.8 million, $1.4 million is
recorded in costs of products and $1.4 million is recorded as restructuring
charges in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

                                       8
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 4: INVENTORY

    Inventory consists of the following at October 2, 1999 and January 2, 1999,
respectively (in thousands):

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          OCTOBER 2,   January 2,
                                                             1999         1999
                                                          ----------   ----------
<S>                                                       <C>          <C>
Raw materials...........................................    $11,474      $ 8,992
Work in process.........................................     16,935       15,204
Finished goods..........................................     16,104        8,793
                                                            -------      -------
                                                            $44,513      $32,989
                                                            =======      =======
</TABLE>

NOTE 5: CONTINGENCIES

    The Company is subject to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the
ordinary course of its business. In the opinion of management, the amount of
ultimate liability with respect to any such claims will not materially affect
the results of operations or the financial position of the Company.

                                       9
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 6: OPERATING SEGMENTS

    The following table illustrates, (in thousands), each of the Company's
operating segments' revenues and operating income (loss) for the three and nine
months ended October 2, 1999 and October 3, 1998, respectively. The amounts
provided herein are those utilized by the respective segment's President, in
conjunction with the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, in
allocating resources and evaluating performance.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          EMS        ADS        GRS       TOTAL
                                                        --------   --------   --------   --------
<S>                                                     <C>        <C>        <C>        <C>
Three months ended October 2, 1999:
  Revenues:
    Product...........................................  $ 38,794   $51,126    $ 1,562    $ 91,482
    Service...........................................     8,169     6,431      3,164      17,764
                                                        --------   -------    -------    --------
      Total revenues..................................  $ 46,963   $57,557    $ 4,726    $109,246
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========
  Operating income (loss).............................  $ 15,976   $11,104    $(1,457)   $ 25,623
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Three months ended October 3, 1998:
  Revenues:
    Product...........................................  $ 37,375   $ 2,065    $ 3,599    $ 43,039
    Service...........................................     8,673     5,875      2,963      17,511
                                                        --------   -------    -------    --------
      Total revenues..................................  $ 46,048   $ 7,940    $ 6,562    $ 60,550
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Operating income......................................  $ 10,924   $   939    $ 1,019    $ 12,882
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Nine months ended October 2, 1999:
  Revenues:
    Product...........................................  $103,992   $62,225    $ 8,017    $174,234
    Service...........................................    23,819    18,757      9,164      51,740
                                                        --------   -------    -------    --------
      Total revenues..................................  $127,811   $80,982    $17,181    $225,974
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Operating income (loss)...............................  $ 38,492   $14,920    $(1,104)   $ 52,308
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Nine months ended October 3, 1998:
  Revenues:
    Product...........................................  $106,166   $ 7,451    $ 6,174    $119,791
    Service...........................................    25,761    16,813    $ 6,197      48,771
                                                        --------   -------    -------    --------
      Total revenues..................................  $131,927   $24,264    $12,371    $168,562
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========

Operating income (loss)...............................  $ 27,414   $ 1,740    $(1,917)   $ 27,237
                                                        ========   =======    =======    ========
</TABLE>

                                       10
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
        NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

                                  (Unaudited)

NOTE 6: OPERATING SEGMENTS (CONTINUED)

    A reconciliation of the totals reported for the operating segments to net
income (loss) before income taxes in the condensed consolidated financial
statements is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        THREE MONTHS ENDED         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                      -----------------------   -----------------------
                                                      OCTOBER 2,   October 3,   OCTOBER 2,   October 3,
                                                         1999         1998         1999         1998
                                                      ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
<S>                                                   <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Operating income (loss):
  Total for reportable segments.....................    $25,623     $ 12,882     $ 52,308     $ 27,237
  Corporate expenses (a)............................     (5,468)     (15,464)     (16,430)     (40,548)
                                                        -------     --------     --------     --------
  Operating income (loss) per condensed consolidated
    financial statements............................     20,155       (2,582)      35,878      (13,311)
  Other expenses, net...............................        387          587          822          969
                                                        -------     --------     --------     --------
Net income (loss) before income taxes...............    $19,768     $ (3,169)    $ 35,056     $(14,280)
                                                        =======     ========     ========     ========
</TABLE>

------------------------

(a) Includes capitalization and amortization of capitalized software, corporate
    research and development and other charges.

NOTE 7: TREASURY STOCK

    On June 11, 1998, the Company's Board of Directors authorized the Company to
repurchase up to 2,500,000 shares of its common stock, which represented
approximately 8.0% of the then issued and outstanding shares of common stock. At
October 2, 1999, the Company had repurchased 1,225,600 shares of common stock at
a cost of approximately $18.7 million. The Company accounts for its treasury
stock utilizing the cost method.

                                       11
<PAGE>
ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS
                                 OF OPERATIONS

                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

    The matters discussed herein contain forward-looking statements that involve
risks and uncertainties. The Company's actual results could differ materially
from those discussed herein. Factors that could cause or contribute to such
differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in Item 1
"Business" of the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
January 2, 1999 as well as those discussed in this section and elsewhere in this
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

OVERVIEW

    GenRad, Inc. ("GenRad" or "the Company"), which commenced operations in
1915, is a leading global manufacturing solutions company. GenRad designs,
manufactures and markets integrated hardware and software solutions that enable
the successful manufacture, test and service of microprocessors and other
electronic devices and components. The Company operates primarily in North
America, Europe and Southeast Asia through its three business segments,
Electronic Manufacturing Systems ("EMS"), Advanced Diagnostic Systems ("ADS")
and GR Software ("GRS").

    EMS focuses on the integration of hardware and software for process control
in the manufacture of printed circuit boards, emphasizing inspection
technologies. EMS provides its customers with leading-edge, cost effective
solutions used to collect data about its manufacturing process and provide
reliable, timely and useful information which can be used to optimize
manufacturing processes.

    ADS is a global leader in developing and marketing diagnostic solutions
comprised of hardware, software and services which optimize the manufacturing
and service capabilities of leading transportation and equipment companies. ADS'
solutions are used by its customers to maximize manufacturing efficiencies at
time of product build as well as to maintain efficient and effective service
operations throughout the product's life.

    GRS develops and markets product solutions and services to companies wishing
to achieve and maintain control over and optimize its manufacturing processes.
GRS' products manage a business's process information necessary to manufacture
products according to plan. They also enable the shop floor to communicate with
a company's ERP systems to have a real time direct impact on a business's
manufacturing operations.

                                       12
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

    The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage of
total revenue represented by certain items in the Company's Condensed
Consolidated Statements of Operations.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         THREE MONTHS ENDED         NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                       -----------------------   -----------------------
                                                       OCTOBER 2,   October 3,   OCTOBER 2,   October 3,
                                                          1999         1998         1999         1998
                                                       ----------   ----------   ----------   ----------
<S>                                                    <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Total revenue........................................    100.0%       100.0%       100.0%       100.0%
Cost of revenue......................................     61.1%        59.6%        54.9%        53.6%
                                                         ------       ------       ------       ------
Gross margin.........................................     38.9%        40.4%        45.1%        46.4%
Selling, general and administrative..................     15.5%        28.6%        22.7%        31.5%
Research and development.............................      5.0%         7.0%         6.5%         8.7%
Acquired in-process research and development.........        --           --           --         6.0%
Restructuring charges................................        --         9.1%           --         5.2%
Loss from impairment of intangible assets............        --           --           --         2.9%
                                                         ------       ------       ------       ------
      Total operating expenses.......................     20.5%        44.7%        29.2%        54.3%
                                                         ------       ------       ------       ------
Operating income (loss)..............................     18.4%       (4.3)%        15.9%       (7.9)%
Other income (expense)...............................    (0.3)%       (1.0)%       (0.3)%       (0.6)%
Income tax benefit (expense).........................    (1.8)%       (1.2)%         0.4%         4.4%
                                                         ------       ------       ------       ------
Net income (loss)....................................     16.3%       (6.5)%        16.0%       (4.1)%
                                                         ======       ======       ======       ======
</TABLE>

THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 2, 1999 VS. THREE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 3, 1998

ORDERS AND BACKLOG

    Orders for the Company's products and services increased to $76.9 million
for the three months ended October 2, 1999 from $59.9 million for the three
months ended October 3, 1998. EMS orders totaled $45.6 million for the three
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to $47.4 million for the three months
ended October 3, 1998. ADS orders totaled $27.1 million for the three months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to $6.6 million for the three months ended
October 3, 1998. GRS orders totaled $4.2 million for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $5.9 million for the three months ended October 3,
1998.

    The decrease in EMS orders of $1.8 million for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to the comparable period ended October 3, 1998 reflects
consistent overall demand for the segment's in-circuit products during the
quarter, offset by a significant decline in demand for the segment's high-end
functional test products. Orders for these products decreased $1.6 million, or
36%, during the three months ended October 2, 1999 as compared to the comparable
year ago period. The increase of $20.5 million in ADS orders for the three
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to the comparable period ended October 3,
1998 is primarily attributable to both the European and North American launches
of the Company's WDS product for The Ford Motor Company ("Ford"). During the
three months ended October 2, 1999, the segment received orders totaling
$19.0 million from Ford. The decrease of $1.7 million in GRS orders for the
three months ended October 2, 1999 compared to the three months ended
October 3, 1998 reflects the significant sales cycle for GRS's products and the
timing of significant customer orders.

                                       13
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ORDERS AND BACKLOG (CONTINUED)

    North American orders totaled $43.4 million during the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $38.4 million during the three months ended
October 3, 1998. European orders totaled $29.0 million during the three months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to $17.3 million during the three months ended
October 3, 1998. Asian orders totaled $4.5 million during the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $4.2 million during the three months ended
October 3, 1998.

    The increase in North American orders of $5.0 million is due to increased
order activity related to the launch of the Company's WDS 3500 product for Ford
which increased orders $7.8 million from the comparable year ago period. This
increase was offset by a decline in North American orders of $2.8 million
related to the Company's EMS segment, indicative of the emergence of Eastern
Europe as an expansion area for certain of the Company's major contract
manufacturing customers and the decline in orders for the Company's high-end
functional test equipment products. The increase in European orders of
$11.7 million reflects increases in EMS orders of $0.8 million reflecting the
continued migration of certain of the Company's large contract manufacturing
customers into Eastern Europe and the launch of the Company's WDS 3500 product
for Ford which amounted to $9.9 million in orders during the three months ended
October 2, 1999. Orders in Europe also reflected an increase of $1.0 million of
orders related to GRS's activity with certain large telecommunications companies
in Europe.

    Backlog totaled $28.0 million at October 2, 1999 compared to $60.3 and
$21.6 million at July 3, 1999 and January 2, 1999. The Company believes that a
substantial portion of backlog at October 2, 1999 will be shipped during the
three months ended January 1, 2000.

REVENUE

    Product revenue increased to $91.5 million for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 from $43.0 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998.
EMS product revenue totaled $38.8 million for the three months ended October 2,
1999 compared to $37.4 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998. ADS
product revenue totaled $51.1 million for the three months ended October 2, 1999
compared to $2.0 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998. GRS product
revenue totaled $1.6 million for the three months ended October 2, 1999 compared
to $3.6 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998.

    EMS product revenue increased $1.4 million primarily due to a change in
product mix for the three months ended October 2, 1999 compared to the three
months ended October 3, 1998 which contributed $1.7 million in higher product
revenue. This increase reflects EMS customers' desire to optimize their
manufacturing processes by moving toward higher throughput EMS products which
carry higher margins. Also contributing to the increase in EMS product revenues
is an increase of $1.2 million in product revenue related to the Company's GR
Pilot. Offsetting these favorable results was a decrease in product revenue of
$1.5 million in all other EMS products including a decline of $0.9 related to
the Company's high-end functional test products.

    The increase in ADS product revenue of $49.1 million is almost entirely
attributable to an increase of $47.4 million related to the Company's WDS
product for Ford. During the three months ended October 2, 1999 the Company
shipped approximately 7,400 WDS 3500 units to Ford primarily in North America
and Europe. Shipments by Ford to its North American dealers contributed
$35.9 million in product revenue during the three months ended October 2, 1999.
In addition, $11.5 million of product revenue for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 related to the launch of the product by Ford to its European
dealers. The Company expects to continue to derive significant revenues from
Ford related to the WDS 3500 product

                                       14
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

REVENUE (CONTINUED)

during the remainder of 1999 and in 2000. However, the Company does not
anticipate a unit count approaching the unit count in the three months ended
October 2, 1999 in any one future three month period because of the nature of
the product roll-out for Ford in which the Company and Ford worked together to
time the major regional launches to European and North American dealers during
June, July and September of 1999. Subsequent regional market launches, as well
as launches for certain of Ford's subsidiaries and strategic partners, are
planned beginning in January 2000.

    The decline of approximately $2.0 million in GRS product revenue reflects
the timing of significant customer orders as well as the lengthy sales cycle
involved in selling the segment's products. During the three months ended
October 2, 1999, segment management has continued to focus on building the
segment's sales pipeline and new product development. Should such efforts not
yield favorable results during the three months ended January 1, 2000, the
segment's revenue could be significantly impacted, affecting the Company's
financial condition, results of operations or cash flow.

    Service revenue increased to $17.8 million for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 from $17.5 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998.
EMS service revenue totaled $8.2 million for the three months ended October 2,
1999 compared to $8.7 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998. ADS
service revenue totaled $6.4 million for the three months ended October 2, 1999
compared to $5.9 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998. GRS service
revenue totaled $3.2 million for the three months ended October 2, 1999 compared
to $2.9 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998.

    The decline in EMS service revenue of $0.5 million is primarily attributable
to a decline of $0.4 million in service revenue related to the segment's
high-end functional test products that normally carry higher service revenues as
a percentage than the segment's other products. The increase in ADS service
revenues of $0.5 million reflects work on certain new customer orders received
in 1999 while the increase in GRS service revenue of $0.3 million reflects
installations at certain large contract manufacturing sites.

    Revenue from international markets increased to $51.0 million, or 46.7% of
revenue, for the three months ended October 2, 1999 from $31.2 million, or 51.5%
of revenue, for the three months ended October 3, 1998. The increase in
international revenue in total reflects the Company's launch of the WDS 3500
product for Ford and the continued expansion of the Company's contract
manufacturing customers into Eastern Europe and Mexico. The percentage decrease
resulted from increased volume of business in North America attributable to the
launch of the Company's WDS 3500 product for Ford during the three months ended
October 2, 1999. Revenues from international markets are subject to the risks of
currency fluctuations.

GROSS MARGINS

    Product margins were $35.7 million, or 39.0%, for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $16.5 million, or 38.3%, for the three months ended
October 3, 1998. Excluding one-time charges of $4.9 million related to the
cessation of manufacturing at the Company's Manchester, UK site and the
discontinuation of the Company's Vision product line during the three months
ended October 3, 1998, product margins for the three months ended October 3,
1998 were $21.4 million, or 49.8%.

    The increase in product margins of $14.3 million, excluding certain one-time
charges during the comparable year ago period, consists of incremental margins
of $10.4 million in the ADS segment and $5.7 million in incremental margins in
the EMS segment. The increase in ADS margins was driven by the launch of the
Company's WDS 3500 product for Ford while the increased margins in the EMS
business are

                                       15
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

GROSS MARGINS (CONTINUED)

attributable to improved manufacturing efficiencies and a more favorable product
mix. These increases were offset by a decline in GRS margins of $2.1 million
resulting from the decline in product revenue and decreased capitalized software
amortization costs of $0.3 million during the three months ended October 2, 1999
as compared to the comparable year ago period.

    As a percentage of total revenues, product margins declined to 39.0% from
49.8% during the comparable year ago period. This decrease reflects the
significantly lower margins realized on the WDS 3500 product compared to the
Company's higher margin EMS products.

    Inventory turnover, excluding certain inventory related to the Company's
contract with Ford, for the three months ended October 2, 1999, was 5.8. For the
three months ended October 3, 1998 inventory turnover, excluding certain Ford
inventory, was 3.5. The increase in inventory turnover for the three months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to the year ago comparable period is attributable
to increased operating efficiencies in manufacturing resulting from the
Company's restructuring efforts in 1998, overall improved inventory management
and significant turnover of the Company's WDS 3500 product.

    Service margins were $6.8 million, or 38.4%, for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $8.0 million, or 45.6%, for the three months ended
October 3, 1998. The decrease in service margins for the three months ended
October 2, 1999 as compared to the three months ended October 3, 1998 is
attributable to declining margins in the ADS segment which reflects the
competitive market conditions in the markets that ADS competes.

OPERATING EXPENSES

    Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $16.9 million, or
15.5% of total revenue, for the three months ended October 2, 1999 from
$17.3 million, or 28.6% of total revenue, for the three months ended October 3,
1998. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses, in dollars,
is attributable to the restructuring actions management implemented during the
second and third quarters of 1998, accounting for approximately $1.7 million of
reduced selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended
October 2, 1999. The favorable impacts of the management actions in 1998 are
offset during the three months ended October 2, 1999 by $0.4 million in
increased marketing costs related to the Company's efforts in the low cost
functional test market and $0.9 million in certain sales and management
incentive programs. As a percentage of total revenue, the significant decrease
reflects the launch of the WDS 3500 product as well as better organizational
efficiencies.

    The Company expects to continue to focus on cost minimization efforts to
lower selling, general and administrative expenses, particularly as a percentage
of total revenue. However, there can be no assurances that such reductions can
be achieved. Failure to achieve such reductions may impact the Company's
financial position, results of operations or cash flow.

    Research and development expenses increased to $5.4 million, or 5.0% of
total revenue, for the three months ended October 2, 1999 from $4.3 million, or
7.0% of total revenue, for the three months ended October 3, 1998. The increase
in research and development costs primarily reflects the Company's efforts in
entering the low cost functional test market adding $0.5 million of incremental
costs, on-going new product development efforts in the GRS segment, totaling
$0.8 million, which were not undertaken in 1998, and incremental research and
development costs in the ADS segment of $0.5 million attributable to the
Company's contract with Ford and the increasingly complex nature of vehicle
electronic systems. The

                                       16
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OPERATING EXPENSES (CONTINUED)

increase in research and development expenses is offset somewhat by decreases in
research and development efforts for certain EMS products totaling $0.5 million
and an increase in capitalized software of $0.2 million for the three months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to the comparable year ago period.

    During the three months ended October 2, 1999, on-going research and
development projects continue to reflect the development of in-circuit test
software, new product development efforts in low cost functional test equipment
software, and significant new product development and system enhancements for
the Company's GRS product suite as well as maintenance of existing products in
the EMS segment. The Company expects to continue to invest in new product
development and enhancements to its existing products.

    Interest expense was $0.4 million for the three months ended October 2, 1999
compared to $0.3 million for the three months ended October 3, 1998 reflecting
increased borrowings.

    A net income tax expense of $2.0 million was recorded during the three
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to a net income tax expense of
$0.8 million during the three months ended October 3, 1998 reflecting higher
pre-tax net income.

NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 2, 1999 VS. NINE MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 3, 1998

ORDERS

    Orders for the Company's products and services increased to $232.3 million
for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 from $166.8 million for the nine
months ended October 3, 1998. EMS orders totaled $133.9 million for the nine
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to $132.1 million for the nine months
ended October 3, 1998. ADS orders totaled $80.2 million for the nine months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to $22.1 million for the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. GRS orders totaled $18.2 million for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $12.6 million for the nine months ended October 3,
1998.

    EMS orders increased $1.8 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999
compared to the comparable period ended October 3, 1998 due to the improvement
in the economic conditions in which the Company's customers operate during the
nine months ended October 2, 1999 offset by declining demand for the segment's
high-end functional test products during the nine months ended October 2, 1999.
The increase of $58.1 million in ADS orders for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to the comparable period ended October 3, 1998 is
attributable to both the European and North American launches of the Company's
WDS 3500 product for Ford. The increase of $5.6 million in GRS orders for the
nine months ended October 2, 1999 compared to the nine months ended October 3,
1998 is attributable to the acquisition of Industrial Computer Corporation
("ICC") in April 1998.

    North American orders totaled $134.1 million during the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $97.2 million during the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. European orders totaled $84.3 million during the nine months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to $57.8 million during the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. Asian orders totaled $13.9 million during the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $11.8 million during the three months ended
October 3, 1998.

    The increase in North American orders of $36.9 million consists of an
increase in order activity related to the launch of the Company's WDS 3500
product for Ford, which contributed $37.0 million in incremental orders during
the nine months ended October 2, 1999. North American orders were affected by a
decline in EMS order activity of $5.9 million caused by the migration of certain
of the Company's

                                       17
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ORDERS (CONTINUED)

large contract manufacturing customers to Eastern Europe. This decline was
offset by a similar increase in GRS North American orders of $5.8 million for
the nine months ended October 2, 1999 attributable to the acquisition of ICC in
April 1998. European orders increased $26.5 million attributable to increases in
EMS orders of $5.7 million reflecting the continued migration of certain of the
Company's large contract manufacturing customers into Eastern Europe and the
launch of the Company's WDS 3500 product for Ford, which amounted to
$17.3 million in orders during the nine months ended October 2, 1999. Orders in
Europe also reflected an increase of $3.5 million of incremental business in the
Company's ADS segment relating to certain contracts with European truck
manufacturers.

PRODUCT REVENUE

    Product revenue increased to $174.2 million for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 from $119.8 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.
EMS product revenue totaled $104.0 million for the nine months ended October 2,
1999 compared to $106.2 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. ADS
product revenue totaled $62.2 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999
compared to $7.4 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. GRS product
revenue totaled $8.0 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 compared
to $6.2 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.

    The decrease in EMS product revenue of $2.2 million is primarily
attributable to declines in product revenue of $5.5 million related to the
Company's high-end functional test systems, reflecting significantly lessened
demand for these products. Competition for these systems remains intense and is
often evaluated against customers' own internally developed solutions. Other
declines amounted to $0.8 million related to the segment's fixture programming
operations and $1.2 million related to the Company's low cost in-circuit systems
and its GR Vision product which was discontinued in 1998. These decreases are
offset by increases of $2.7 million related to the segment's in-circuit systems.
This increase reflects EMS customers' desire to optimize their manufacturing
processes by moving toward higher throughput EMS products which carry higher
average selling prices. Also offsetting the decline in EMS product revenues is
an increase of $2.6 million in product revenue related to the Company's GR
Pilot.

    The increase in ADS product revenue of $54.8 million is almost entirely
attributable to an increase of $54.1 million related to the Company's WDS 3500
product for Ford. During the nine months ended October 2, 1999 the Company
shipped approximately 8,400 WDS 3500 units to Ford dealers primarily in North
America and Europe. The Company expects to continue to derive significant
revenues from Ford related to its WDS 3500 product during the remainder of 1999
and in 2000. However, the Company does not anticipate a unit count approaching
the unit count in the nine months ended October 2, 1999 in any one future
comparable period because of the nature of the product roll-out for Ford in
which the Company and Ford worked together to time the major regional launches
to Ford dealers during June, July and September of 1999. Subsequent regional
market launches, as well as launches for certain of Ford's subsidiaries and
strategic partners, are planned beginning in January 2000.

    The increase of approximately $1.8 million in GRS product revenue reflects
the acquisition of ICC in April of 1998.

SERVICE REVENUE

    Service revenue increased to $51.7 million for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 from $48.8 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.
EMS service revenue totaled $23.8 million for the nine months ended October 2,
1999 compared to $25.8 million for the nine months ended October 3,

                                       18
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SERVICE REVENUE (CONTINUED)

1998. ADS service revenue totaled $18.7 million for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $16.8 million for the nine months ended October 3,
1998. GRS service revenue totaled $9.2 million for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $6.2 million for the nine months ended October 3,
1998.

    The decline in EMS service revenue of $2.0 million is primarily attributable
to declines of $1.2 and $1.6 million in service revenue related to the segment's
high-end functional test products and its fixture programming business,
respectively. The decrease related to the segment's high-end functional test
systems reflects the overall decrease in demand for these products. The decline
in the Company's fixture programming business reflects the overall decreased
demand for the segment's products driven by customer demands for higher
throughput per manufacturing line and improved worldwide asset management. These
decreases are offset by an increase of $0.8 million of service revenue related
to the Company's in-circuit test products. The increase in ADS service revenues
of $1.9 million reflects work on certain new customer orders received in 1999
while the increase in GRS service revenue of $3.0 million reflects the
acquisition of ICC in April 1998.

    Revenue from international markets increased to $109.6 million, or 48.5% of
revenue, for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 from $88.9 million, or 52.7%
of revenue, for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. The increase in
international revenue in total reflects the increased revenue in Europe
associated with the Company's launch of the WDS 3500 product for Ford and the
continued expansion of the Company's contract manufacturing customers into
Eastern Europe and Mexico. The percentage decrease resulted from increased
volume of business in North America attributable to the launch of the Company's
WDS 3500 product for Ford during the nine months ended October 2, 1999. Revenues
from international markets are subject to the risks of currency fluctuations.

GROSS MARGINS

    Product margins were $81.2 million, or 46.6% for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $57.8 million, or 48.2%, for the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. Excluding one-time charges of $4.9 million related to the
cessation of manufacturing at the Company's Manchester, UK site and the
discontinuation of the Company's Vision product line during the nine months
ended October 3, 1998, product margins for the three months ended October 3,
1998 were $62.7 million, or 52.3%.

    The increase in product margins of $18.5 million, excluding certain one-time
charges during the comparable year ago period, consists of incremental margins
of $13.3 million in the ADS segment, $3.4 million in incremental margins in the
EMS segment and $1.7 million in incremental margins in the GRS segment. The
increase in ADS margins was driven by the launch of the Company's WDS 3500
product for Ford amounting to $11.4 million in incremental margins and improved
manufacturing efficiencies totaling $1.9 million. The $3.4 million in
incremental margins in the EMS business is attributable to improved
manufacturing efficiencies affected by management's restructuring efforts in
1998 and a more favorable product mix. The increase of $1.7 million in GRS
product margins primarily relates to increased product sales realized during the
nine months ended October 2, 1999 compared to the comparable year ago period.
These increases were accompanied by decreased capitalized software amortization
costs of $0.1 million during the nine months ended October 2, 1999 as compared
to the comparable year ago period.

    As a percentage of total revenues, product margins declined to 46.6% from
52.3% during the comparable year ago period. This decrease reflects the
significantly lower margins realized on the WDS 3500 product compared to the
Company's higher margin EMS and GRS products.

                                       19
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

GROSS MARGINS (CONTINUED)

    Inventory turnover, excluding certain inventory related to the Company's
contract with Ford, for the nine months ended October 2, 1999, was 3.9. For the
nine months ended October 3, 1998 inventory turnover, excluding certain Ford
inventory, was 2.7. The increase in inventory turnover for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to the year ago comparable period is attributable to
increased operating efficiencies in manufacturing resulting from the Company's
restructuring efforts in 1998, overall improved inventory management and
significant turnover related to the Company's WDS 3500 product.

    Service margins were $20.6 million, or 39.8%, for the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to $20.5 million, or 42.0%, for the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. The relatively stable service margins, for the nine months
ended October 2, 1999 as compared to the nine months ended October 3, 1998,
reflects increased margins in the GRS segment attributable to the acquisition of
ICC in April 1998. This increase is offset by declining margins in the EMS and
ADS segments indicative of the competitive market conditions in the end markets
for EMS' and ADS' products.

OPERATING EXPENSES

    Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $51.2 million, or
22.7% of total revenue, for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 from
$53.2 million, or 31.5% of total revenue, for the nine months ended October 3,
1998. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses, both in
dollars and as a percentage of total revenue, is attributable to the
restructuring actions management implemented during the second and third
quarters of 1998, accounting for approximately $4.7 million of reduced selling,
general and administrative expenses for the nine months ended October 2, 1999.
This decrease was offset by approximately $1.2 million in incremental selling,
general and administrative expenses resulting from the acquisition of ICC in
April 1998, $0.5 million in increased marketing costs related to the Company's
efforts in the low cost functional test market and $1.2 million in certain sales
and management incentive programs. The Company expects to continue to focus on
cost minimization efforts to lower selling, general and administrative expenses,
particularly as a percentage of total revenue. However, there can be no
assurances that such reductions can be achieved. Failure to achieve such
reductions may impact the Company's financial position, results of operations or
cash flow.

    Research and development expenses increased to $14.7 million, or 6.5% of
total revenue, for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 from $14.6 million, or
8.7% of total revenue, for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. The increase
in research and development costs primarily reflects the Company's efforts in
the low cost functional test market which made up $0.5 million of incremental
costs, a new in-circuit test platform which carried incremental costs of
$0.9 million, on-going new product development efforts in the GRS segment,
totaling $2.9 million, which were not undertaken in 1998, and a decline in
research and development costs in the ADS segment of $1.3 million primarily due
to the decrease in maintenance efforts in the first half of 1999 related to
certain existing products. In addition, the Company has moved into a sustaining
mode related to its high end functional test products which decreased research
and development $0.8 million during the nine months ended October 2, 1999. The
increase in research and development expenses is offset somewhat by an increase
in capitalized software of $1.6 million for the nine months ended October 2,
1999 compared to the comparable year ago period.

                                       20
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OPERATING EXPENSES (CONTINUED)

    During the nine months ended October 2, 1999, on-going research and
development projects continued to be for in-circuit test software, a next
generation in-circuit hardware platform, a low cost functional test system and
new product development and system enhancements for the Company's GRS product
suite. The Company expects to continue to invest in new product development and
enhancements to its existing products.

    Interest expense was $0.9 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999
and $0.9 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. Interest expense has
remained consistent for the nine months ended October 2, 1999, considering
increased borrowings on its credit facility, offset by lower average interest
rates on the Company's five year term loan.

    A net income tax benefit of $1.0 million was recorded during the nine months
ended October 2, 1999 compared to a net income tax benefit of $7.3 million
during the nine months ended October 3, 1998. The recorded income tax benefit of
$1.0 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 results primarily from a
reversal of a portion of the Company's deferred tax asset valuation allowance
totaling $4.5 million which was recorded due to management's expectations of
future income and expected utilization of the Company's domestic and foreign net
operating loss carryforwards. Excluding the reversal of a portion of the
deferred tax asset valuation allowance income tax expense was $3.5 million for
the nine months ended October 2, 1999 compared to an income tax expense of
$0.2 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.

IMPAIRMENT LOSS

    In fiscal 1996, the Company purchased Test Technology Associates, Inc. and
Testware, Inc. These components provide custom test programming, text fixture
integration and other value-added services to manufacturers and users of
electronic products. Additionally, GenRad acquired certain assets of Field
Oriented Engineering, AG in fiscal 1996, consisting primarily of the software
program known as TRACS-Registered Trademark- III, which is sold to electronic
manufacturing systems customers. The excess purchase price over the net assets
acquired for these acquisitions was recorded as long-term intangibles, primarily
goodwill.

    Through July 4, 1998 the historical financial performance of these entities
continued to be less than anticipated and the businesses had been negatively
impacted by the recent decline in the in-circuit test market. Due to these
factors as well as certain management changes during the second quarter of 1998,
the Company prepared revised projections of future net cash flows relating to
these businesses, which indicated that the businesses would not generate
sufficient net cash flows to realize the carrying value of the intangible
assets. This analysis was performed in accordance with the provisions of
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 121, "Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Assets to be Disposed Of." As a result,
a $4.9 million impairment loss, representing the net book value of goodwill, was
recorded during the second quarter of 1998 and is included in the accompanying
condensed consolidated statements of operations for the nine months ended
October 3, 1998.

ACQUIRED IN-PROCESS DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE

    On July 2, 1998, the Company acquired the rights to certain diagnostic
software for which technological feasibility had not been established. The
Company plans to use the acquired technology in the development and diagnosis of
increasingly complex mechatronic systems, particularly in vehicle systems. At
the time of the acquisition, the acquired technology had not yet reached
technological feasibility and had

                                       21
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ACQUIRED IN-PROCESS DIAGNOSTIC SOFTWARE (CONTINUED)

no alternative future uses and, accordingly, the entire purchase price was
expensed. The total of $1.7 million is included in acquired in-process research
and development in the accompanying condensed consolidated statements of
operations for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.

RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER CHARGES

    During the second and third quarters of 1998, the Company restructured its
operations, which resulted in a workforce reduction of approximately 230
manufacturing and general and administrative employees or 15% of the Company's
workforce. In accordance with EITF 94-3, "Liability Recognition for Certain
Employee Termination Benefits, and Other Costs to Exit an Activity," the Company
recorded a charge for restructuring totaling approximately $6.8 million for
severance costs and post-employment benefits ($5.2 million), write-offs of
certain fixed assets which will no longer be utilized ($1.0 million) and for the
termination fees of certain equipment and real estate leases ($0.6 million).

    During the third quarter of 1998, the Company ceased its manufacturing
operations at its Manchester, UK facility. Inventory related to the manufacture
of certain ADS products and the cessation of ADS' contract manufacturing
business totaling $3.5 million was charged to cost of products. In addition,
restructuring charges totaling approximately $0.5 million were recorded related
to a workforce reduction of approximately 20 people and certain fixed assets
which will no longer be utilized and will be disposed of in 1999.

    During the third quarter of 1998, the Company completed an in depth analysis
of the hardware portion of the Vision product line resulting in a decision to
exit this business. This decision was based upon the following: (i) the market
for Vision equipment in PCB manufacturing was not as large as had been
previously estimated and (ii) the continued research and development investment
required for the existing Vision product was not warranted given the resizing of
the Vision market. Exiting the Vision hardware product line resulted in charges
totaling $2.8 million related to fixed assets which will no longer be utilized
and were disposed of in 1998 and certain excess inventory, inventory purchase
commitments and prepaid royalties. Of the total of $2.8 million, $1.4 million is
recorded in costs of products and $1.4 million is recorded as restructuring
charges in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

ACQUISITION OF INDUSTRIAL COMPUTER CORPORATION

    On April 7, 1998, GenRad acquired all of the then outstanding common shares
of Industrial Computer Corporation ("ICC"), a software company providing
real-time manufacturing execution systems to electronics manufacturers. ICC was
established in 1980 and is located in Atlanta, Georgia. The transaction was
accounted for as a purchase, and accordingly, the purchase price was allocated
to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective fair
values. In connection with the acquisition of ICC, 1,237,917 shares of GenRad's
common stock were issued for all of the then outstanding shares of ICC in a
tax-free reorganization. Consideration for the acquisition of ICC totaled
approximately $36.6 million. Direct costs of the acquisition totaled
approximately $1.6 million and consisted primarily of legal fees, accounting
fees and broker fees. Consideration was allocated to the tangible and intangible
assets of ICC as follows: acquired in-process research and development
($8.4 million), developed technology ($11.4 million), goodwill ($17.0 million),
other intangible assets ($1.7 million) and the net assets and liabilities of ICC
(net liability of $0.3 million). The results of ICC are included in the 1998
financial statements beginning from the date of purchase.

                                       22
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ACQUISITION OF INDUSTRIAL COMPUTER CORPORATION (CONTINUED)

    The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), in September 1998, issued
guidance related to the valuation of acquired in-process research and
development as set forth in its letter dated September 9, 1998 from the Chief
Accountant of the SEC to the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
In April 1999 the Company corresponded with the staff of the SEC ("the Staff")
concerning the application of the methodology to the valuation of the incomplete
technology and other intangible assets and implemented the methodology. As a
result of the application of the valuation methodology, the purchase price was
allocated to acquired in-process research and development, developed technology,
assembled workforce and tradename. In April 1999, the Company restated its
originally filed Forms 10-Q filings for its second and third quarters of fiscal
1998 to reflect this methodology.

    The valuation of acquired in-process research and development was based on
management's projections of the after tax net cash flows attributable to the
acquired in-process research and development. Specifically, the valuation
considers the following: (i) a fair market value premise; (ii) comprehensive due
diligence concerning all potential intangible assets including trademarks and
tradenames, patents, copyrights, non-compete agreements, assembled workforce and
customer relationships and sales channel relationships; (iii) the value
contribution of core technology to the acquired in-process technology, with a
view toward ensuring the relative allocations to core technology and acquired
in-process research and development were consistent with the relative
contributions of each to the final product; and (iv) the calculation used to
determine the value allocated to acquired in-process research and development
considered only the efforts completed as of the transaction date and only the
cash flow associated with the product development efforts in-process at the
acquisition date. The charge for acquired in-process research and development
relates to one development project in process at the date of the acquisition
that had not reached technological feasibility, had no alternative future use,
and for which ultimate successful component, had no alternative future use was
reached in consultation with engineering personnel from ICC as well as the
Company's valuation advisors.

    The in-process project consists of the development of ICC's existing UNIX
based product using an object oriented design and standard programming language
which will provide users of the product the ability to use ICC's Shop Floor Data
Manager-TM- ("SFDM") product on varied operating platforms. The primary project
tasks open at the time of acquisition included completion of the design of
certain modules, or objects, which will house the program code, completion of
program code written in the new language and preliminary quality assurance and
testing of the product. At the time of acquisition, additional development
remained on all tasks (management estimated that the project was approximately
69% complete) and costs to complete were estimated to total approximately
$928,000. At the time of the acquisition, management believed that the product
being developed would become available for sale late in fiscal 1999. GenRad will
begin to benefit from the acquired in-process research and development once
completed product is sold. Failure to reach successful completion of this
project may result in impairment of the associated capitalized intangible
assets, i.e. goodwill and developed technology, and/or may require the Company
to accelerate the time period over which the intangibles are being amortized,
which may have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations
and financial condition.

    Significant assumptions used to determine the value of the acquired
in-process research and development included several factors. The first was a
forecast of net cash flows that were expected to result from the in-process
development effort using projections prepared by ICC management, portions of
which (1998 and 1999) were provided to GenRad's Board of Directors. Net cash
flow projections included projected revenue growth and trends in profit margins
and selling, general and administrative expense that

                                       23
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ACQUISITION OF INDUSTRIAL COMPUTER CORPORATION (CONTINUED)

were consistent with recent historical trends prior to the acquisition. Second,
a percentage complete of 69% for the project estimated by considering the costs
invested to date relative to the expected total cost of the development effort,
supported by the amount of technological progress completed as of the
transaction date relative to the overall technological achievements required to
achieve the intended functionality of the eventual product. The technological
issues were addressed primarily by engineering representatives from ICC along
with the Company's independent valuation advisors. Third, a 24% discount rate,
which represents a rate equivalent to that which would be employed in a fair
value analysis, i.e., one that considers all cash flows associated with the
project and resulting product, and therefore represents a blended rate of all
the risks associated with the product. Lastly, a core technology charge
reflected as one third of after tax net income related to the in-process project
was utilized. This rate represents an amount that the Company would be required
to pay in royalties assuming it had licensed the products expected to be derived
from the acquired in-process development efforts.

    As of October 2, 1999, the technological feasibility of the project has been
reached and no significant departures from the assumptions included in the
valuation analysis have occurred.

ACQUISITION OF MANUFACTURING EXECUTION SYSTEMS BUSINESS

    On April 9, 1998, GenRad acquired certain assets of the Manufacturing
Execution Systems ("MES") business of Valstar Systems Limited ("Valstar")
located in Aberdeen, Scotland. Valstar's MES component provides integration
services and support and distribution in Europe for ICC's Shop Floor Data
Manager Software.

    Consideration paid for Valstar's MES business totaled $3.2 million in cash,
including acquisition costs, funded through internally generated funds. As part
of the acquisition, the Company entered into a two-year consulting and services
agreement with Valstar that includes securing certain Valstar personnel and
other resources to transition the business to GenRad. Of the $3.0 million
purchase price, $2.0 million was paid on April 9, 1998 and $1.0 million was
released from escrow on October 7, 1998 as certain contingencies were achieved.
Direct costs of the acquisition totaled approximately $0.2 million and consisted
primarily of legal and accounting fees.

LIQUIDITY AND SOURCES OF CAPITAL

SOURCES AND USES OF CASH

    Cash and cash equivalents at October 2, 1999 totaled approximately
$7.0 million, compared to approximately $13.0 million at January 2, 1999. The
Company's current ratio at October 2, 1999 and January 2, 1999 was 2.3 and 2.5.
Net cash used in operating activities was $14.6 million for the nine months
ended October 2, 1999, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of
$15.0 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998.

    The change in cash (used in) provided by operating activities during the
nine months ended October 2, 1999 as compared to the nine months ended
October 3, 1998 is primarily driven by significant inventory investments, which
used incremental cash of $5.4 million, related to the Company's contract with
Ford and payment of $7.0 million, net of insurance proceeds, related to the
settlement of arbitration recorded in 1998 offset by increased net income,
improved inventory management, improved payment timing on long-term contracts,
and better cash management related to timing of vendor payments.

                                       24
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

SOURCES AND USES OF CASH (CONTINUED)

    During the three months ended October 2, 1999, the Company's accounts
receivable turnover was approximately 6.6 (annualized) compared to approximately
4.0 (annualized) for the three months ended October 3, 1998. The improvement
reflects management's continued focus on cash collections, offset by continued
customer demands for more favorable payment terms during the three months ended
October 2, 1999.

    During the nine months ended October 2, 1999, net cash used in investing
activities was $17.9 million, compared to $18.8 million for the nine months
ended October 3, 1998. Capital expenditures totaled $13.8 million for the nine
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to $12.3 million for the nine months ended
October 3, 1998. Cash used in the acquisition of certain intangible assets
totaled $4.1 million for the nine months ended October 2, 1999 compared to
$3.4 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. The purchase of
Industrial Computer Corportion ("ICC") and Valstar Systems Limited during the
nine months ended October 3, 1998 used cash of $3.1 million.

    The increase in capital expenditures during the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 compared to the nine months ended October 3, 1998 is
attributable to the Company's new business system implementation. Beginning in
1998, the Company began efforts to implement SAP R/3-TM- ("SAP"), an enterprise
resource planning system. During the nine months ended October 2, 1999, total
capital expenditures related to the Company's SAP implementation totaled
approximately $5.6 million. At the end of 1998, the Company had completed Phase
I of this project with the successful implementation of certain modules of the
SAP ERP system. During the quarter ended April 3, 1999, the Company began Phase
II of this project, which involves the implementation of certain other modules
of SAP, including sales, manufacturing and distribution related modules. Total
capital expenditures related to SAP in 1999 are expected to approximate
$7.0 million to $8.0 million. Expenditures in 2000 through the targeted go-live
date are expected to approximate $4.0 million to $5.0 million. After go-live,
the Company expects to continue to incur certain capital expenditures and
on-going expenses related to the implementation of SAP, however such
expenditures are expected to be significantly less than those made in 1998 and
expected to be made in 1999 and 2000 through the go-live date.

    Cash used in the acquisition of certain intangible assets of $4.1 million
represents the costs of software capitalized in accordance with Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 86 as well as the direct purchase of certain
intangible assets from third parties.

    Net cash provided by financing activities was $24.9 million for the nine
months ended October 2, 1999 compared to net cash used in financing activities
of $8.4 million for the nine months ended October 3, 1998. The increase in cash
provided by (used in) financing activities during the nine months ended
October 2, 1999 as compared to the nine months ended October 3, 1998 is
primarily attributable to the Company's borrowings on its line of credit
facility during the nine months ended October 2, 1999. Net borrowings totaled
$20.3 million during the nine months ended October 2, 1999 and were made
principally for inventory investments related to the Company's contract with
Ford and on-going software development efforts in the Company's GRS segment.
Proceeds from employee stock plans provided incremental cash from investing
activities of $5.9 million as compared to the nine months ended October 3, 1998.
Offsetting these increases was a lessened cash outlay of $7.2 million related to
the Company's stock repurchase program for the nine months ended October 2,
1999.

                                       25
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

STOCK REPURCHASE PROGRAM

    During the second quarter of 1998, the Company commenced a stock repurchase
program whereby the Company will purchase, in the open market, shares of its
stock. The Company intends to buy back its stock at times when the market price
of the stock presents opportunities to do so. The Company's stock repurchase
plan is intended as a means to partially mitigate the dilutive impact of stock
options and to provide an alternative investment for the Company's excess cash.
The program has been funded entirely through operating cash flow, however, the
Company may if it considers it prudent, utilize its available credit facilities
in connection with its stock repurchase program. Through October 2, 1999, the
Company had utilized approximately $18.7 million to repurchase 1,225,600 shares
of its common stock.

CREDIT FACILITY

    The Company has a $50.0 million credit facility, which requires the Company
to maintain certain financial and operating covenants and expires in July 2001.
Borrowings on the line are payable on demand and bear interest, which is payable
quarterly in arrears, at the lesser of the bank's prime rate (for borrowings
designated as "prime rate" borrowings) or LIBOR plus a range from 0.75% to 1.50%
(for borrowings designated as "LIBOR" borrowings), as determined from time to
time by the bank. Under the terms of the credit facility, the Company is
required to pay a commitment fee on the unused portion of the line ranging from
0.25% to 0.50% of the total unused portion of the line dependent on the
Company's operating performance. At October 2, 1999, borrowings outstanding
under the line totaled $20.3 million, of which $10.0 million was designated as a
LIBOR borrowing and $10.3 million as a prime rate borrowing.

SUMMARY

    The Company's primary source of liquidity is internally generated funds. For
the remainder of 1999, the Company anticipates it will fund its working capital
and capital expenditure requirements, make principal and interest payments on
its borrowings and meet its cash obligations from internally generated funds and
from its available credit facility.

EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE

    Although the Company cannot accurately determine the precise effect of
inflation on its operations, it does not believe inflation has had a material
effect on its revenues or its results of operations. The Company attempts to
mitigate inflationary cost increases by continuously improving manufacturing
methods and technologies. Management does not expect inflation to have a
significant impact on operations in the foreseeable future.

    The Company maintains development, sales and support facilities in several
locations worldwide, including, England, France, Germany, Switzerland,
Singapore, and Mexico, among others. A significant amount of the Company's
business is conducted with companies located in these and other countries and
certain transactions may be denominated in currencies other than the US dollar.
As a result, the Company may experience transaction gains and losses as a result
of currency fluctuations. In order to minimize its exposure to loss from changes
in foreign currency exchange rates, the Company mitigates its risk using foreign
currency forward exchange contracts. The Company's currency risk mitigation
strategies are designed to reduce the Company's vulnerability to certain foreign
currency exchange exposures. In executing its strategies, the Company actively
monitors foreign currency exchange rates and executes foreign currency forward
exchange contracts, primarily with financial institutions. These contracts serve
to

                                       26
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

EFFECTS OF INFLATION AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE (CONTINUED)

offset the impact of actual foreign currency changes, e.g. if currency rates
changed with respect to a certain transaction resulting in a loss to the
Company, the forward contract would be structured to result in a gain, thereby
minimizing the actual loss incurred, if any.

    The Company may be subject to losses resulting from unanticipated changes in
foreign currency exchange rates. The market factors that expose the Company in
this regard include economic conditions in which the Company conducts business
as well as the Company's ability to effectively and efficiently engage in
foreign currency forward exchange contracts at competitive rates with financial
institutions or others. The Company expects to continue these or similar
practices in the future to the extent appropriate. Historically, actual results
of the Company's foreign currency risk management procedures have been in line
with management's expectations and have not resulted in significant gains or
losses, however, there can be no assurance that these results will continue in
the future.

THE INTRODUCTION OF THE EURO

    The Company is aware of and has developed systems designed to handle the
introduction of the Euro as an effective currency in Europe. Although the
Company believes the systems that have been implemented are sufficient for the
Company to be able to process Euro denominated transactions, there can be no
assurances that such systems will continue to function as designed. If they do
not so function, GenRad's financial results could be adversely affected. To
date, the Company has not encountered any significant processing issues related
to the introduction of the Euro. The introduction of the Euro has not materially
affected the manner in which the Company conducts its operations, nor has it
required the Company to alter any significant contracts with suppliers and/or
financial institutions.

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS

    This Quarterly Report may contain forward-looking statements within the
meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company's actual results of operations and
future financial condition may differ materially from those expressed in any
such forward-looking statements as a result of many factors that may be beyond
the Company's control. Factors that might cause such differences include, but
are not limited to, those discussed below.

    The Company has experienced and expects to continue to experience
fluctuations in its results of operations, particularly on a quarterly basis.
The Company's expense levels are based, in part, on expectations of future
revenues. If revenue levels in a particular period do not meet expectations, due
to the timing of the receipt of orders from customers, customer cancellations or
delays of shipments, then operating results could be adversely impacted.

    The market for the Company's products is characterized by rapid
technological change, an increased demand for specific feature requests by
customers, evolving industry standards, and frequent new product introductions.
The introduction of products embodying new technology or the emergence of new
industry standards or practices could render the Company's existing products
obsolete or otherwise unmarketable. Future operating results are dependent upon
the Company's ability to develop, design, manufacture and market technologically
innovative products that meet customer needs.

    Competition in the markets where the Company operates is intense. The
Company continues to invest in manufacturing productivity to try to minimize the
impact of competitive pricing pressures, fluctuations

                                       27
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

FACTORS THAT MAY AFFECT FUTURE RESULTS (CONTINUED)

within the Company's product mix, potential inventory obsolescence exposure and
start-up manufacturing costs for new product introductions.

    The Company is dependent upon a number of suppliers for several key
components of its products. The loss of certain of the Company's suppliers,
supply shortages or increases in the costs of key raw materials could have a
material adverse effect on the Company.

THE YEAR 2000 ISSUE

    Many computer systems and other equipment with embedded chips or processors
use only two digits to represent the year. Consequently, they may be unable to
process certain dates before, during and after the Year 2000. As a result,
entities are at risk for possible miscalculations or system failures causing
disruptions in their operations. GenRad has evaluated its operations to assess
modifications needed for this issue. A full time project manager position was
established in 1998 to address the Year 2000 issue.

    In October 1999, GenRad completed a comprehensive worldwide program that was
intended to identify and correct potential material problems related to the Year
2000 in its products, information systems, infrastructure and manufacturing
facilities. The work plan established involved the following phases:

    - Inventory GenRad products, assets, facilities and manufacturing and
      business processes;

    - Assess the risk associated with that inventory;

    - Correct business systems impacted by Year 2000 issues;

    - Identify and communicate to customers those products that will be Year
      2000 compliant, that have a remediation path to make those products Year
      2000 compliant and that have no remediation path and will not be Year 2000
      compliant; and

    - Test and document all of the above that must be or are represented to be
      compliant.

    All inventory reviews have been completed and they will continue to be
updated in the future through the advent of the Year 2000. Software and
hardware, as well as tools to test, age and evaluate data, were acquired,
installed and utilized in completing the Year 2000 compliance work plan. Test
plans for items identified as critical were developed and deployed.

    Prior to addressing the Year 2000 issue, GenRad had decided to replace all
of its business system software. GenRad is replacing its worldwide business
systems with systems that use programs primarily from SAP America, Inc. ("SAP").
SAP has advised GenRad that its programs are Year 2000 compliant. The financial
system replacement was completed in the first quarter of 1999, while the
manufacturing, materials, order entry and service portions are scheduled for
completion in the Year 2000. The existing business systems have been corrected,
tested and believed to be Year 2000 compliant. Although the results have been
tested, there can be no assurances that such systems will function as tested, if
necessary, in the Year 2000.

    With respect to GenRad products, the Company has designed and executed
scripted tests that determined the impact of the Year 2000 on each currently
manufactured GenRad product. GenRad treated all Year 2000 issues discovered
during this process as important product maintenance issues and made reasonable
efforts to provide available fixes to all worldwide GenRad customers. The
on-going status

                                       28
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

THE YEAR 2000 ISSUE (CONTINUED)

of GenRad's Year 2000 compliance for each product it manufactures is posted on
the Company's home page at the following web address: http://www.genrad.com.

    GenRad has initiated formal communications with all significant external
interfaces, including customers, banks and municipal agencies, and suppliers, to
determine the extent to which GenRad is vulnerable to failures by third parties
to correct their own potential Year 2000 problems. The Company's banking service
providers provide necessary service to the Company in the area of cash
management. Certain municipal agencies in the municipalities in which GenRad
operates provide necessary water and sewerage services to the Company. GenRad's
formal communications with suppliers and other significant external interfaces
have resulted in 65% of those contacted responding. As of the date of this
report, the Company has not identified any suppliers or external interfaces
which it believes critical to have a definitive Year 2000 compliance problem.
GenRad's formal communications with its customers have resulted in a 13%
response rate of those contacted responding. A failure of any of these
interfaces to adequately address their Year 2000 issues could adversely affect
the Company.

    The results to date have been evaluated in the context of GenRad's
contingency plans. To date, GenRad has not identified any specific external
interfaces which it considers to place the Company at significant risk. However,
a portion of the Company's direct or indirect external interfaces are solely
based in, or have headquarters in, Southeast Asia. Many publicly available
surveys suggest that, of all major global economic regions, Southeast Asia is
the least ready for the Year 2000, driven by the lack of solid information from
the region concerning the region's Year 2000 readiness.

    Costs incurred to date for the Year 2000 issue, primarily related to
software corrections, are approximately $1.3 million with estimated future costs
of approximately $0.4 million, which the Company expects it will incur, if
necessary, over the remainder of 1999 and 2000. The costs were and will continue
to be funded through internally generated resources, without cannibalizing the
Company's information technology budget or resources, and expensed as incurred
in accordance with EITF 96-14, "Accounting For the Costs Associated with
Modifying Computer Software for the Year 2000." Management believes that its
internal Year 2000 issues have been addressed in a manner that will prevent such
issues from having a material adverse effect on GenRad results of operations,
financial position or cash flows. However, there can be no assurances that
management will be successful in addressing all its internal Year 2000 issues or
that all of the Company's external interfaces will be successful in addressing
their Year 2000 issues. If management or any significant external interfaces is
not, the Company's operating results and financial position could be materially
and adversely impacted. In the worst case, although not anticipated or
considered likely by GenRad management, the Company may not be able to operate
manufacturing facilities or other support functions which would have a material
adverse effect on the Company's financial position and results of operations for
periods subsequent to 1999. Management believes that its contingency plans,
which include the use of alternative manufacturing facilities currently
available to the Company, and business systems, which the Company currently
utilizes, are adequate to mitigate the risk associated with the Company's worst
case scenario.

OTHER FACTORS

    Other factors which could impact future results are past and future
acquisitions, strategic alliances, patent or product liability claims in excess
of available insurance coverage, changes in the Company's

                                       29
<PAGE>
                         GENRAD, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

OTHER FACTORS (CONTINUED)

effective tax rates, new regulatory requirements, political and economic
changes, tariffs, trade restrictions, transportation delays, foreign currency
fluctuations and inflation.

    The Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking
statements that may be included in this report. Additionally, there can be no
assurance that other factors, not included above, could impact future results.

IMPACT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

    On June 15, 1998, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting
Standards No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities" ("SFAS 133"). This Statement is effective for all fiscal quarters of
all fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2000 (which the Company will adopt in
fiscal year 2001, starting on December 31, 2000) and requires that all
derivative instruments be recorded on the balance sheet at their fair value.
Changes in the fair value of derivatives are recorded each period in current
earnings or other comprehensive income, depending on whether a derivative is
designated as part of a hedge transaction and, if it is, the type of hedge
transaction. The Company is currently determining the impact of the adoption of
SFAS 133 to its operating results or financial position.

                                       30
<PAGE>
                           PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) The following Exhibits are filed as part of this report:

<TABLE>
<C>    <S>
 3.1   Articles of Organization of GenRad, Inc. as amended to
       May 21, 1980, incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
       the Company's report on Form 10-K for the year ended
       January 3, 1981.

 3.2   Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Organization of
       GenRad, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
       the Company's report on Form 10-K for the year ended
       December 31, 1983.

 3.3   Articles of Amendment to the Articles of Organization of
       GenRad, Inc., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to
       the Company's report on Form 10-K for the year ended
       January 2, 1988.

 3.4   By-laws of GenRad, Inc. (as amended) incorporated by
       reference to Exhibit 3.2 of the Company's report on
       Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1990.

10.    Lease agreement dated July 26, 1996 between GenRad, Inc. and
       Michelson Farm-Westford Technology Park Trust, incorporated
       by reference to Exhibit 10 to the Company's report on
       Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 29, 1996.

10.1   Facility agreement dated June 26, 1997 between GenRad
       Limited and BankBoston, N.A. London Branch, incorporated by
       reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's report on
       Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 28, 1997.

10.2   Amended and restated revolving credit agreement dated
       May 6, 1997 between GenRad, Inc. and BankBoston, N.A.
       incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company's
       report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended June 28,
       1997.

10.3   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Kevin R.
       Cloutier effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by
       reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company's report on
       Form 10-Q for the three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.4   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Paul Geere
       effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by reference to
       Exhibit 10.4 to the Company's report on Form 10-Q for the
       three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.5   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Lori B. Hannay
       effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by reference to
       Exhibit 10.5 to the Company's report on Form 10-Q for the
       three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.6   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Sarah H. Lucas
       effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by reference to
       Exhibit 10.6 to the Company's report on Form 10-Q for the
       three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.7   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and James F. Lyons
       effective as of May 8, 1997, incorporated by reference to
       Exhibit 10.7 to the Company's report on Form 10-Q for the
       three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.8   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Paul Pronsky,
       Jr. effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by reference
       to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company's report on Form 10-Q for the
       three months ended September 27, 1997.
</TABLE>

                                       31
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<C>    <S>
10.9   Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Michael W.
       Schraeder effective as of May 9, 1997, incorporated by
       reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the Company's report on
       Form 10-Q for the three months ended September 27, 1997.

10.10  Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Walter A.
       Shephard effective as of October 24, 1997, incorporated by
       reference to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company's report on
       Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 1998.

10.11  Severance Agreement between GenRad, Inc. and Gary H. Mueller
       effective as of October 24, 1997, incorporated by reference
       to Exhibit 10.10 to the Company's report on Form 10-K for
       the year ended January 3, 1998.

10.12  Agreement dated February 12, 1997 between GenRad Limited and
       Ford Motor Company, incorporated by reference to
       Exhibit 10.12 of the Company's report on Form 10-K for the
       year ended January 2, 1999.

10.13  Settlement agreement and Mutual General Release dated
       April 7, 1999 between William E. Gaines, William E.
       Massaker, Frank B. Wingate and Heritage Investment Limited
       Partnership and GenRad, Inc., James F. Lyons and Paul
       Pronsky Jr., incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 of
       the Company's report on Form 10-K for the year ended
       January 2, 1999.

27     Financial Data Schedule
</TABLE>

(b) There were no reports on Form 8-K filed during the three months ended
October 2, 1999.

                                       32
<PAGE>
                                   SIGNATURES

    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

<TABLE>
<S>                                                    <C>  <C>
                                                       GENRAD, INC.

                                                       By:  /s/ WALTER A. SHEPHARD
                                                            -----------------------------------------
                                                            Walter A. Shephard
                                                            Vice President and
                                                            Chief Financial Officer and Clerk
</TABLE>

Date: November 16, 1999

                                       33