History of Personal computer in Timeline
A personal computer (PC) is a computer designed for individual use, commonly used for tasks like word processing, internet browsing, and gaming. Unlike large minicomputers and mainframes, PCs are meant for a single user. The term "home computer" was also used in the late 20th century. The rise of personal computers and the Digital Revolution have significantly impacted people globally.
1946: ENIAC: Single-User Operation
The ENIAC computer, operational in 1946, marked an early example of a computer that could be operated by a single highly trained person.
1956: Single-User Computers for Specialized Purposes
Computers like the Bendix G15 and LGP-30, released in 1956, were designed for specific tasks in laboratories, instrumentation, or engineering, and allowed for interactive use by a single person.
1959: Invention of the Integrated Circuit
Robert Noyce at Fairchild Semiconductor developed the silicon integrated circuit (IC) chip in 1959, a pivotal moment in the history of electronics.
1964: Commercialization of the MOS Integrated Circuit
RCA commercialized the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) integrated circuit in 1964, paving the way for more compact and efficient electronics.
1965: Soviet MIR Series: Pioneering Interactive Computing
The Soviet MIR series of computers, developed between 1965 and 1969, offered single-user interactive capabilities, foreshadowing the personal computing experience.
1968: The Mother of All Demos
Douglas Engelbart's demonstration in 1968 showcased groundbreaking concepts like email, hypertext, word processing, video conferencing, and the mouse, foreshadowing the future of personal computing.
1968: Development of the Silicon-Gate MOS IC
Federico Faggin at Fairchild developed the silicon-gate MOS integrated circuit in 1968, a crucial step towards the microprocessor.
1969: Rise of Time-Sharing Systems
By 1969, time-sharing systems on mainframe computers allowed multiple users to connect through terminals, changing the landscape of computer access.
1970: Datapoint 2200: Precursor to x86 Architecture
Although not using the Intel 8008 as intended, the Datapoint 2200, released in 1970, laid the groundwork for the x86 architecture found in IBM PCs and their successors.
1971: Birth of the Microprocessor
Federico Faggin used silicon-gate MOS technology to create the Intel 4004 in 1971, the world's first single-chip microprocessor, revolutionizing computer technology.
1972: Alan Kay Describes Dynabook
In 1972, Alan Kay described the concept of the Dynabook, an early vision of a portable computer. Although no hardware was developed at the time, it laid foundational ideas for future portable computing.
1972: Micral N: The First Commercial Microcomputer
The Micral N, using the Intel 8008 microprocessor, emerged as the earliest commercial, non-kit microcomputer in 1972, marking a significant step in personal computing history.
1973: Hewlett Packard Enters the Microcomputer Market
In 1973, Hewlett Packard introduced fully BASIC programmable microcomputers that fit on a desk, including a keyboard, display, and printer.
1973: Community Memory Project
In 1973, the Community Memory project demonstrated experimental public access to a shared mainframe computer system, showcasing early possibilities for computer communication.
1973: IBM SCAMP: A Revolutionary Prototype
The IBM Los Gatos Scientific Center developed the SCAMP prototype in 1973, a portable computer emulating an IBM 1130 minicomputer, considered by some as the first personal computer.
1973: MCM/70: Another APL Machine Emerges
The MCM/70, a desktop portable APL machine using the Intel 8008 processor, was demonstrated in 1973.
1974: Altair 8800: Igniting the Microcomputer Revolution
Considered by many as the first true personal computer, the Altair 8800, released in 1974, sparked the microcomputer revolution and introduced the S-100 bus standard and Altair BASIC.
1974: MCM/70 Ships to the Market
Following its demonstration in 1973, the MCM/70, an early APL machine, began shipping in 1974.
1975: Launch of the IBM 5100 Portable Microcomputer
Building on the success of the SCAMP prototype, IBM launched the 5100 portable microcomputer in 1975, offering both APL and BASIC programming for professionals.
1975: IBM 5100 Portable Computer
In 1975, the IBM 5100 was introduced. It could be transported in a case, but its 50-pound weight earned it the nickname 'luggable' from journalists, highlighting early challenges in portable computing.
1975: Altair Kit Released
The Altair kit was released in 1975 for around US$400, but required customers to assemble it. Peripherals for alphanumeric interaction added another US$2,000, making it a product primarily for hobbyists.
1976: Apple I: A Kit Computer for a Wider Audience
Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak sold the Apple I computer circuit board in 1976, a pre-assembled board that aimed to reach a broader user base beyond just electronics hobbyists.
January 1977: Commodore PET: A Mass-Market Personal Computer
The Commodore PET, announced in January 1977, emerged as one of the first successfully mass-marketed personal computers, though it faced initial backorders.
June 1977: Apple II: A Defining Moment in Personal Computing
The Apple II, released in June 1977, became a cornerstone of the personal computer revolution, solidifying the shift towards user-friendly software applications.
August 1977: TRS-80: Completing the "1977 Trinity"
The TRS-80 from Tandy Corporation, launched in August 1977, joined the Commodore PET and Apple II as part of the "1977 trinity," marking the arrival of mass-market, ready-assembled computers.
1977: Heathkit Enters Personal Computing with Kits
Heathkit introduced personal computer kits, starting with the Heathkit H8 in 1977, allowing users to assemble their own computers.
1977: PC Shipments in 1977
In 1977, only 48,000 personal computers were shipped worldwide. This marked the early stages of the personal computer market, which would grow exponentially in the following decades.
1978: Xerox NoteTaker Experimental Batch
Around 1978, Xerox produced a small experimental batch of the NoteTaker, an early portable computer. This was part of the ongoing development of portable computing technology.
1978: Emergence of Bulletin Board Systems
By 1978, bulletin board systems became more commonly available, allowing personal computers to communicate and interchange information more effectively.
1978: Heathkit H11: A Short-Lived 16-Bit Venture
The Heathkit H11, released in 1978, was an early 16-bit personal computer, but its high price led to its discontinuation in 1982.
1979: Heathkit H89: Expanding the Kit Line
Heathkit followed up with the Heathkit H89 personal computer kit in late 1979, offering users more options for building their own systems.
1980: Introduction of Sinclair ZX80
In 1980, Sinclair Research, a UK-based company, introduced the ZX80 home computer. It was designed for household use and could be connected to a television. This marked the beginning of Sinclair's ZX series.
August 1981: Introduction of IBM PC
IBM introduced its first personal computer, the IBM PC, on 12 August 1981. This event set the standard for PC architecture and significantly impacted the personal computer market.
1981: Introduction of Sinclair ZX81
In 1981, Sinclair Research launched the ZX81, an improved version of the ZX80. It continued the trend of home computing, offering basic functionality and affordability for households.
1981: Osborne 1 and Kaypro Released
The Osborne 1 and Kaypro, released in 1981, were priced at US$1,795, considered attractive for systems with text-only displays and floppy disk storage.
1982: Launch of ZX Spectrum and Time Magazine's Machine of the Year
1982 saw the introduction of the Sinclair ZX Spectrum, which sold 8 million units worldwide. Time magazine also named 'The Computer' as Machine of the Year in 1982, highlighting the growing importance of personal computers.
1982: Heathkit H11 Discontinued
Due to its high cost, the Heathkit H11, an early 16-bit personal computer, was discontinued in 1982.
1982: Michael Dell's Observation on PC Pricing
Michael Dell observed that in 1982, the components of a PC retailing for about US$3,000 only cost dealers around US$600, with a typical gross margin of US$1,000 per unit.
1983: SCAMP Recognized as a "Revolutionary Concept"
In 1983, PC Magazine hailed the IBM SCAMP, developed in 1973, as a "revolutionary concept" and "the world's first personal computer."
1983: Introduction of Commodore 64 and Galaksija
In 1983, the Commodore 64 was introduced, eventually selling 17 million units. The same year, the Galaksija home computer was launched in Yugoslavia, adding to the diversity of personal computer options available.
1983: US PC Market Reaches US$4 Billion
In 1983, total personal computer purchases in the US reached approximately US$4 billion, comparable to the total sales of pet food.
1984: Introduction of Mass-Market Graphical User Interfaces
By 1984, mass-market computer systems with graphical user interfaces became available. This marked a significant shift from command line interfaces to more user-friendly graphical interfaces, revolutionizing personal computing.
July 1985: Launch of Amiga 1000
On 23 July 1985, Commodore unveiled the Amiga 1000. It featured advanced capabilities such as a multitasking operating system, 4096-color graphics, and stereo sound, making it a revolutionary personal computer of its time.
1985: PC Adoption in Western Europe by 1985
By 1985, almost half of all households in Western Europe had a personal computer. In the United Kingdom, 40% of homes had a computer compared to only 13% in 1985, demonstrating the rapid increase in PC adoption.
1991: Public Availability of World Wide Web
In 1991, the World Wide Web was made available for public use. This, combined with powerful personal computers and standardized web browsers, laid the foundation for many aspects of modern life, including online information sharing and access.
1995: Growing Pains of Personal Computers
In 1995, a CBS segment highlighted the growing popularity of personal computers, but also acknowledged the "Pain and Confusion" many newcomers associated with them.
1998: Average PC Price Drops Below US$1,000
By late 1998, the average selling price of personal computer systems in the United States had dropped below US$1,000.
1998: Global PC Shipments in 1998
In 1998, 93.3 million personal computers were shipped globally, setting the stage for the significant growth observed in the following years.
1999: Global PC Shipments in 1999
In 1999, global personal computer shipments surpassed the 100-million mark for the first time, reaching 113.5 million units. This milestone highlighted the rapid growth of the PC market.
2000: Global PC Shipments in 2000
In 2000, 140.2 million personal computers were shipped worldwide, valued at an estimated $226 billion. This reflected the increasing importance of PCs in both personal and professional settings.
2001: PC Shipments in 2001
In 2001, 125 million personal computers were shipped globally, a significant increase from the 48,000 units shipped in 1977. This showcased the rapid growth and adoption of personal computers in households and businesses.
2002: PC Usage and Market Distribution in 2002
By 2002, more than 500 million personal computers were in use globally, with the United States receiving 38.8% of the shipments. The Asia-Pacific region emerged as the fastest-growing market, emphasizing the expanding global reach of personal computers.
2002: Global PC Shipments in 2002
In 2002, global personal computer shipments reached 136.7 million units, valued at around $175 billion. This marked another year of growth for the PC industry.
2003: Global PC Shipments in 2003
In 2003, 152.6 million personal computers were shipped worldwide, valued at approximately $175 billion. This indicated significant growth in the PC market.
2004: Global PC Shipments in 2004
In 2004, global personal computer shipments were 183 million units, an 11.6% increase over 2003. This demonstrated the continued expansion and demand for personal computers.
2006: Global PC Shipments in 2006
In 2006, 239 million personal computers were shipped globally, highlighting the steady growth in the PC market.
2007: Name Change from Pocket PC to Windows Mobile
In 2007, Microsoft released Windows Mobile 6 and dropped the name Pocket PC. Devices without an integrated phone were called Windows Mobile Classic, while those with an integrated phone and touch screen were called Windows Mobile Professional.
2007: Global PC Shipments in 2007
In 2007, global personal computer shipments reached 264 million units, up 11.2% from the previous year. This marked a significant increase in the adoption of PCs worldwide.
June 2008: One Billion PCs in Use Worldwide
In June 2008, the number of personal computers in use worldwide reached one billion. At this time, mature markets like the United States, Western Europe and Japan accounted for 58% of the worldwide installed PCs.
August 2008: Average Selling Price of Windows Systems Declines
In August 2008, the average selling price (ASP) for Microsoft Windows systems declined, possibly due to low-cost netbooks. Desktop computers averaged US$569, while laptops were US$689 at U.S. retail.
October 2008: Average Selling Price of Windows Portable PCs
Research firm NPD reported that the average selling price of all Windows portable PCs was US$659 in October 2008.
2008: Second Billion PCs Expected to be Sold by 2008
By 2008, the second billion personal computers were expected to be sold worldwide, reflecting the continued growth and widespread adoption of PCs in both professional and personal settings.
2008: Netbooks Impact PC Market
Following the introduction of the One Laptop per Child foundation and its low-cost XO-1 laptop in 2007, 14 million netbooks were sold in 2008, impacting the computing industry's pursuit of lower prices.
2008: Global PC Shipments in 2008
In 2008, global personal computer shipments were 302.2 million units, indicating robust demand for PCs during that period.
October 2009: Average Selling Price of Windows Portable PCs Declines
By October 2009, the average selling price of all Windows portable PCs had fallen to US$519, according to research firm NPD.
2009: Netbooks Offered with Cellular Data Plans
By mid-2009, netbooks were being offered to users free of charge with the purchase of an extended service contract for a cellular data plan. This marked a significant trend in the accessibility and marketing of portable computing devices.
2009: Global PC Shipments in 2009
In 2009, global personal computer shipments were 308.3 million units. This continued the trend of increasing PC shipments observed over the years.
2010: Global PC Shipments in 2010
In 2010, global personal computer shipments reached 350.9 million units, reflecting a growing demand for PCs worldwide.
2011: Smartphones & Tablets Predicted to Surpass PC Sales
Deloitte Consulting firm predicted in 2011 that smartphones and tablets would surpass PC sales, which happened in 2012.
2011: China Surpasses US in PC Shipments
For the first time in 2011, China surpassed the US in PC shipments, with 18.5 million and 17.7 million shipments respectively. This reflects the rise of emerging markets and the stagnation of mature markets.
2012: Smartphones & Tablets Outsell PCs
As predicted in 2011, smartphones and tablet computers outsold PCs in 2012.
2013: PC Sales Decline as Consumers Shift to Mobile Devices
By 2013, global PC sales began to decline as consumers favored tablets and smartphones. The first quarter of 2013 saw a record 14% decline year-over-year, marking the fifth consecutive quarter of declining PC sales.
April 2018: PC Gaming Market Analysis by Newzoo
In April 2018, a market analysis by Newzoo revealed that PC gaming was the third largest gaming sector with a 24% market share. This highlighted the growing importance and popularity of PC gaming.
2018: First PC Sales Growth Since 2012
The second quarter of 2018 marked the first time PC sales grew since the first quarter of 2012. Research firm Gartner attributed this growth to the business market, while the consumer market continued to decline.
2019: Esports Revenue Projections for 2019
By 2019, esports, led by PC games like League of Legends and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, was expected to surpass a billion dollars in revenue, underscoring the economic impact of competitive gaming.
2020: PC Gaming Surpasses Console Market Revenue by 2020
By 2020, the revenue generated by the PC gaming sector had surpassed that of the console market, highlighting the growing financial success of PC gaming.
2020: PC Sales Surge Due to COVID-19 Pandemic
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in PC sales, with a 26.1% growth compared to the previous year. This was attributed to increased remote work and learning. Canalys reported that 2020 saw the highest PC market growth rate since 2011.
2021: PC Gaming Revenue Projections for 2021
In 2021, the PC gaming market was expected to generate $32.3 billion in revenue, reflecting its significant growth in the gaming industry.
2022: PC Gaming Valuation in 2022
As of 2022, the PC gaming sector was valued at US$45 billion, making it the second-largest gaming category across all platforms, according to a market analysis by Visual Capitalist.
December 2023: PC Gaming Market Analysis by Visual Capitalist
A December 2023 market analysis by Visual Capitalist showed that the PC gaming sector was the second-largest category across all platforms, valued at US$45 billion, surpassing console market revenue by 2020.
