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The History of the Computer
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Precursor to IBM is Founded
The Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company, the "precursor" to IBM, was founded on June 16, 1911. It was a merger of 3 manufacturing businesses, combined by the hands of Charles Flint. This is important because it is from these beginnings that sprang the company that Thomas Watson Sr. would shape into a global force in technology, management and culture. -
First "Computer"
The first freely programmable computer iis invented, called the Z1. It was a mechanical calculator created by Konrad Zuse, considered a binary computer. This event is vital to the timeline because it marks the take-off point; it started it all. This advancement in technology led to the next, and to the next, etc. It all began somewhere. -
The Transistor
The transistor was not technically a computer, but it was a greatly influential device to the history of computers nonetheless. A transistor was the first device designed to act as both a transmitter, converting sound waves into electronic waves, and resistor, controlling electronic currents. Transistors transformed electronics and future computers' designs. Transistors replaced the original bulky vacuum tubes made to make electronics, therefore making it use less power and space. -
The First Language
The first successful, high-level programming language is created called Fortran. This is ESSENTIAL to the history of computers because without its invention, we would literally have nothing we do today. This universal language was key to developing working computers and computer accessories! -
The Mouse
The mouse is created, called that because the cord at the end of it resembled a tail. This is important because it is what started the concept of people physically communicating with computers and seeing this reaction reflect onscreen. -
ARPAnet
The original Internet--also known as the grandfather" to the Internet we know and love today. This is important because in the future, ARPAnet would introduce several major innovations to the future of computers; e-mail, telnet, and file transfer protocol among others. -
First RAM Chip
The world's first available dynamic RAM (random access memory) chip is created. This is important because we still use variations of this original mold today; RAM is found in computers everywhere in modern times. -
Microprocessor
The first microprocessor is invented by a company called Intel. The Intel 4004 is important because after the invention of integrated circuits revolutionized computer design, they thought to make it smaller. The Intel 4004 chip placed all the parts that made a computer "think", like the central processing unit, memory, input, and output controls, on one small single chip. Programming intelligence into inanimate objects had now become possible and shaped future opportunities. -
Networking
In 1973, Robert Metcalfe began working on a "network" to connect computers. The network had to be fast enough to drive the very fast new laser printer and it had to connect hundreds of computers within the same building--this was Robert Metcalfe's challenge. This is important because if this were not done, computers would be solitary instruments. This inevitably leads to a broader expanse of networks connecting people from all around the world in ways previously unimaginable. -
Microsoft VS Apple
Microsoft officially begins its friendly rivarlry with another computer company, Apple. This rivalry is extremely important because it creates many technological advancements, spawned from their competitiveness.
