A new ‘cone ratio’ data envelopment analysis (DEA) model that substantially generalizes the Charnes-Cooper-Rhodes (CCR) model and the Charnes-Cooper-Thrall approach characterizing its efficiency classes is developed and studied. It allows for infinitely many decision-making units (DM Us) and arbitrary closed convex cones for the virtual multipliers as well as the cone of positivily of the vectors involved. Generalizations of linear programming and polar cone equalizations arc the analytical vehicles employed.