EOTO: What I learned About The Invention of Personal Computers

Now in days many of us go by our daily routines and open up our laptops or get on our desktops and browse what the internet has to offer. However, many of us don't take the time and think about these devices in which we spend a lot of our time. 

The idea of the personal computer is one that may not have the same connotation as it once had when it was first invented. But with an open mind and being willing to do some research upon learning about this topic which was presented by one of my peers, I was able to recognize the long process it required for the development of this technology for it to ultimately reach the average consumer. 

One of the first personal computers that were recognized as having a great impact in this marketplace was known as the Kenbak-1 created by John V. Blankenbaker in 1971. These computers were manufactured by the Kenbak Corporation company and were sold for approximately $750.

The aim of the personal computer was directed to the educational sector mainly targeting the average consumer. With hopes of facilitating contact between people and bringing them closer together through the means of accessible computers. However, it struggled to convince the average person that they could acquire this type of computer at this price since a lot of the public sentiment towards computers was associated with the working professionals.

A lot of the development that went to the Kenbak-1 originally started with John Blankenbaker. As he has always had an interest in computers and in their specific programming. There are different reports and articles mentioning that Blankenbaker, "hoped to provide a machine that was low enough in cost, though perhaps limited in capability, to provide education and fun for individuals.”

Even though this was a quick overview of some of the key points about this topic, one can see the intention that this technology was invented for. Not only did it seek to be more accessible to the public but in doing so it created a new marketplace for devices such as these personal computers that you and I may very well be involved in.