Personal Computing
Altair 8800 microcomputer, 1975
The Altair, designed around Intel’s 8080 microchip, launched the personal computer industry in the United States. By 1977 a host of companies produced microcomputers.
Personal computing gave individuals access to tools previously available only to businesses and corporations. The advent of microprocessors, which included all the basic functions of computers on a single chip, brought prices down and expanded the market. Hobbyists eagerly bought machines they had to program themselves. Most consumers, however, waited until PCs could play games, do word processing, and manage spreadsheets.
Intel 8080A 8-bit microprocessor, 1974
Generally considered the first usable microprocessor CPU design, this chip became the central processing unit in traffic lights and the Altair computer.
TRS-80 model 1 monitor, 1977
Produced and sold by Radio Shack, the TRS-80 offered consumers a complete and easy-to-use microcomputer.
