The First Personal Computer

 Intro

Over the last two hundred years, there has been a revolution in developing new technology that has led to the advancement of our world. However, one technological development may be more essential to the everyday user than others. This item was the creation of the first personal computer.

Back in the day, computers were made for specialized fields. The majority lay in the government, military, and scientists while not being available to the common user. The computers these specialized fields possessed were also just not practical to the common everyday American. They were very large and required immense amounts of power that just weren't used in the common household. 

Altair 8800

This would all change in the year 1974 when a man named Ed Roberts along with the company he worked for Micro Instrumentation Telemetry System (MITS) created the first personal computer. The device would be named the Altair 8800 which was sold for 395 dollars which was sold as a kit, while the assembled sold for 495 dollars

There was a variety of different abilities the computer would possess. The Altair 8800 included a two type memory program while possessing a specialized coding system, and the ability to create simulations whether it be for work or entertainment. The creation led to the first personal computer where everyday individuals had the ability to use. 

Today and looking to the future

Around fifty years later, personal computers have progressed immensely from their days as an Altair 8800. Nowadays personalized computers have significant amounts of software processors and hardware that allow for coding to be processed quickly while being able to store a lot of data and different applications. Having the internet as your feet has also been revolutionized as former computers didn't possess that ability, now any individual can have a question they may have answered. Also with the development of streaming and gaming now, individuals can be entertained through streaming sites like Netflix, and Hulu that allow people to be able to watch their favorite movies or tv shows. This applies to gaming as well, as through the application of STEAM people can download their favorite game, and have the ability to play. The personal computer has also revolutionized working at the home, through emailing and differing
communication methods. Employees are able to receive documents and be able to work on them while possessing the ability to conference with other employees through Zoom. These abilities only seem to be growing with potential

Looking towards the future, computers are rearing towards being embedded with Artificial Intelligence. This will allow for complicated data to be analyzed in near seconds while understanding and detecting patterns that have been personalized to the individual. Through a newer technology in development called Neuralink by Elon Musk plans to one day have computers controlled through one's thoughts. The future of personal computers appears to be heading in a strong direction