early-personal-computer
The Kenbak-1 represents one of the earliest attempts to create a personal computer accessible to individuals.
2 chapters across 1 book
Core Memory: A Visual Survey of Vintage Computers (2007)John Alderman, Mark Richards
The chapter discusses the Kenbak-1, created in 1971 by the Kenbak Corporation, which is considered the first personal computer sold as a kit. Despite its limited capabilities—256 bytes of memory, no microprocessor, and basic input/output via switches and lights—it was designed primarily for educational purposes. Only around forty units were produced before the company closed in 1973 due to poor sales.
The chapter details the creation and early limitations of the Altair 8800, a pioneering personal computer kit released in 1975 by MITS. It highlights the vision of Ed Roberts in marketing to hobbyists, the initial technical constraints of the machine, and the significance of Altair BASIC, developed by Bill Gates and Paul Allen, which catalyzed software development despite controversies over software copying and pricing. The narrative also touches on the evolving hobbyist culture and the tensions between software creators and users.