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Difference Engine (Stem Calculator)
The Difference Engine was first made public by Charles Babbage on June 14, 1822. This mechanical calculator was designed to automatically compute mathematical tables, marking a significant step in the evolution of computing technology. The Difference Engine demonstrated the potential for machines to perform complex calculations, laying the groundwork for modern computers. -
Hollerith Punchcard
Herman Hollerith invented the punchcard on September 23, 1884. The punchcard was significant for its time because it mechanized data processing, which was revolutionary in handling large datasets. This innovation dramatically increased the speed and accuracy of data processing, laying the groundwork for modern computing and data management systems. Additionally, the punchcard system was later adapted for various business applications, including tracking employee work hours. -
Turing (Father of Modern Computing)
Alan Turing introduced the concept of the Turing Machine on May 28, 1936. This theoretical model became foundational in computer science, showing how a machine could perform any algorithmic process. Turing also contributed to breaking the German Enigma code during World War II, helping change the course of the war. His work formed the basis for modern computing and artificial intelligence. -
HP
HP (Hewlett-Packard) was founded on January 1, 1939, by Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard. Their first product, the HP Model 200A audio oscillator, quickly established HP as a leader in electronic test equipment. HP's significance lies in its pioneering innovations in technology and its expansion into computing, which made technology more accessible. The company's management philosophy, "The HP Way," influenced modern business practices, and HP's impact has shaped the global tech industry. -
Grace Hopper (COBOL)
The development of COBOL (by Grace Hopper) began on May 28, 1959. She was an American computer scientist, mathematician, and U.S. Navy rear admiral. She was a pioneer of computer programming. Hopper was the first to devise the theory of machine-independent programming languages, and used this theory to develop COBOL, the early high-level programming language still in use today. It's significant because it uses English words and phrases to make it easier for ordinary business users to understand. -
Engelbart (GUI)
Engelbart (an inventor) made GUI public on December 9, 1968. He made computers more user-friendly. He received more than 20 patents. Engelbart’s work (GUI) is a program that allows the user to communicate with a computer through graphics and pointing devices such as a mouse, rather than through a difficult text-only interface. -
Creation of Apple
Apple was founded by college dropouts Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, in Jobs' garage, on April 1st, 1976. They wanted to create a computer that was user-friendly. For example, the Apple I, was being sold by the two without a monitor, keyboard, or casing. Apple's work throughout the years has profoundly influenced the tech industry, shaping the development of personal computers, smartphones, and digital media. -
Windows
Microsoft Windows was first released on November 20, 1985. It introduced graphical user interface (GUI) to the MS-DOS (Microsoft Disk Operating System), making computers more user-friendly and accessible. Windows quickly became the dominant operating system for personal computers, transforming user interaction by replacing text-based commands with mouse-driven navigation. Its widespread adoption supported the growth of a wide range of software, significantly influencing modern computing. -
Tim Berners Lee
Tim Berners Lee publicly introduced the World Wide Web on August 6, 1991. He invented the Web while working in CERN, aiming to create a system for sharing information over the internet using hypertext. The significance of the WWW lies in its transformation of the internet into a user-friendly platform, enabling global access to information, and revolutionizing how people communicate, work, and learn. -
WiFi
WiFi was introduced on September 15, 1999, by the WiFi Alliance to certify wireless networking products. It enabled wireless internet access, transforming how people connect to the internet and paving the way for the widespread use of mobile devices, transforming communication and daily life. WiFi also boosted the adoption of broadband internet by making it easier to connect multiple devices in homes and businesses. -
iPhone
The iPhone was first introduced by Apple on January 9, 2007. It changed the mobile phone industry by combining a phone, iPod, and internet communication device into a single, touch-screen device. It is significant because it was made to be user-friendly, has an integration of multiple functions, and created an app ecosystem that reshaped how people interact with technology. It set the standard for smartphones and has had a deep impact on communication, entertainment, and daily life globally. -
Chromebook
The Chromebook was made public on May 11, 2011. A Chromebook is a low-cost alternative to traditional laptops from Google. There are several models available for less than $300. These devices are powered by ChromeOS. They are known for being light and affordable. -
Apple Watch
Apple Watch was made public on September 9, 2014. It was considered the most personal device ever. It features revolutionary technologies and it incorporates things such as fitness tracking, health-oriented capabilities, and wireless telecommunication, and integrates with watchOS and other Apple products and services.