Blog Post #4

 PERSONAL COMPUTER 

Technology has transformed the world since 3500 BC, but the personal computer has had the greatest impact. The personal computer or 'PC' is a digital computer designed for the use of one individual. It is commonly used for personal and professional purposes. The invention of personal computers resulted from technological advancements, and societal needs, by the creative efforts of engineers, and entrepreneurs. There isn't a single inventor or specific circumstance that led to the creation of the PC, but rather it was a gradual process driven by several key factors. The development of microprocessors and the miniaturization of electronic components allowed for the creation of smaller, more affordable devices. This innovation evolved into a revolution that has forever changed the way we live, work, and connect within society.

In 1975, the public was introduced to the personal computer by John Blankenbaker of Kenbak Corporation. This PC intended for education use, is called the Kenbak-1 Computer. This is widely considered the first-ever PC and significantly influenced the personal computer industry. Blankenbaker himself designed, built, and marketed the Kenbak-1 as a computer for learning machine code programming but, ultimately was unsuccessful.  

After the failure of Kenbak in 1975, the MITS Altair 8800, designed and marketed by hobbyist Ed Roberts, was one of the first commercially successful microcomputer kits. Establishing clear goals made Ed Roberts more successful in enhancing the PC industry, unlike Blankenbaker. Later in 1977, the industry boomed with ready-to-use computers with the Apple II, TRS-80, and Commodore Business Machines PET, among other start-ups. The Apple II revolutionized the industry by introducing the first-ever color graphics.

In the early 1980s, Radio Shack, Commodore, and Apple collectively dominated the microcomputer market, accounting for the production of approximately half a million in existence at that time. The publication of "Domesticated Computers" in Byte magazine in January 1980 marked a turning point as component prices began to decrease, allowing an influx of companies. This triggered an increase in affordable machines called home computers, which achieved remarkable sales figures, reaching millions of units sold. The home computer was utilized for communication with colleagues on your business or office's network, gaming, and executing administrative tasks such as word processing or spreadsheet applications. 

The 1990s was a significant time for PCs and technology in general. This was a dynamic period for personal computers, including rapid expansions of advancements, the internet, and the growth of software and gaming on personal devices. This also was another foundation for computing trends that continue to influence technology today.

Between the 2000s and 2010s, personal computing saw major shifts. First, it witnessed the widespread adoption of the iconic Microsoft Windows XP, which offered improved stability and user-friendliness. Ultrabooks, MacBooks, and gaming PCs gained distinction, while Chromebooks and convertible laptops (2-in-1 devices) became popular. Virtual reality and advancements in hardware were key trends in this era. Simultaneously, desktop computers experienced a decline in sales and usage, while laptops and mobile devices flourished.

The invention of the personal computer has had a profound and wide-ranging impact on our world, transforming various aspects of society, the economy, and communication. Personal computers were conceived to address diverse challenges, such as data processing, word processing, revolutionizing education, boosting productivity, and entertainment.

   Today, PCs come in various forms, including desktops, workstations, laptops, notebooks, and tablets. In 2022, 260 million notebook units were projected to be shipped worldwide, highlighting a substantial surge in global demand and their increasingly multifunctional nature. Personal computers have also revolutionized communication by amping up the speed, reach, and accessibility of global interactions. Tools like email, social media, and video conferencing have become components of communication, both in personal and professional realms.

   However, there are some negative effects the personal computer has on society. The use of personal computers has raised privacy and security concerns, as there is a higher risk of cybercrime. Secondly, there is an increase in health issues amongst users of computers, most popularly Musculoskeletal problems.  Headache and back pain are the most common symptoms associated with prolonged use of computers and the internet. Additionally, the use of personal computers can increase depression and or acts of anti-social behaviors as users can feel the need to not interact in real life as well as constantly compare themselves to what they see with this easy access. Finally, this hinders creativity and increases dependency from the user to the PC. There are a multitude of beneficial tools, like GPS devices, grammar checkers, and calculators. Nevertheless, if you become too reliant you may be in a vulnerable position when it fails to work.

Overall, the personal computer, or PC, has been a transformative force since the mid-late 1970s. It has revolutionized personal and professional life, driven by technological advancements and societal needs. This evolution, marked by the miniaturization of electronic components, has forever changed the way we live, work, and connect with one another. The PC is a testament to the enduring impact of innovation and technology on our world.