The evolution of the computer -- from 1613 to 2013
My first computer was the Sinclair ZX81 which, unsurprisingly, came out in 1981. It had 1kB of memory (but this could be expanded with the addition of a 16kB RAM pack) and a monochrome display. Compare that machine with today’s computers and tablets (and smartphones for that matter), and the advancement is clearly staggering.
The history of the computer is littered with milestones. In 1822 Charles Babbage began work on the Difference Engine, the first automatic computing engine. In 1936 Alan Turing submitted a paper describing a device that could be programmed using symbols on tape. In 1953 IBM released the first mass-produced commercial computer, and in 1976 Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak created the Apple I.
Ebuyer has put together an infographic detailing the history of the computer from the origins of the word to the introduction of modern-day tablets. While most of the major firsts and important moments are included, some are missing (such as any reference to the home micro boom of the 1980s).
The Infographic offers up plenty of interesting nuggets of information, including that IBM’s first PC, the IBM 5150 PC, cost $1,565 at launch, which is equivalent to approximately $4,010 in today's money.
It's a very interesting read that makes you appreciate just how far things have come, particularly in recent years.
What was your very first computer?
