Did You Know? Season 1 Episode 2
Did You Know?
Season 1

Ep 2. How the Computer Became Personal

  • G
  • May 18, 2009
  • 2 min

Did You Know? is an enlightening show that explores various historical inventions, events, and breakthroughs that revolutionized our society. Season 1 Episode 2 titled 'How the Computer Became Personal' uncovers the fascinating history of computers, from their origins as room-sized machines to the personal computers we use today.

The episode delves into the early days of computing, where only a handful of institutions and large corporations had access to massive mainframe computers. However, in the early 1970s, a small team of engineers and computer enthusiasts started to envision a future where computers were available to the masses. The story follows the journey of these pioneers who played a crucial role in making personal computing a reality.

The episode features interviews with some of the industry's pioneers, who share their insights and memories of this technological revolution. It includes a rare interview with Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple Computer, who shares his experience of building the first-ever personal computer, the Apple I.

The show also explores the role that IBM played in popularizing personal computing. In the early 1980s, IBM released its first personal computer, which quickly became the industry standard. The episode features interviews with former IBM employees who reflect on the company's decision to enter the personal computing market and the success they achieved.

In addition to the historical perspective, the episode also covers the technical innovations that made personal computing possible. It covers the key developments in microprocessor technology, such as the Intel 4004 and 8008, which paved the way for faster and more efficient computing. It also discusses the impact of graphical user interfaces (GUIs), which made computers more accessible and intuitive to use.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to rare archival footage and images of early computers, showcasing their size, complexity, and limited functionality. The show covers the challenges faced by early adopters of personal computing, including the lack of software and practical applications.

The episode concludes with a look at the impact of personal computing on modern society and how it continues to shape our world. It acknowledges the contribution of these early pioneers, whose vision and determination made computing accessible to everyone.

Overall, Did You Know? season 1 episode 2 is an engaging and informative exploration of the history of personal computing. It blends archival footage, expert insights, and personal anecdotes to create a compelling narrative that highlights the challenges and triumphs of computing pioneers. The show offers valuable lessons on innovation, perseverance, and the power of technology to transform our world.

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Description
  • First Aired
    May 18, 2009
  • Content Rating
    G
  • Runtime
    2 min
  • Language
    English