8 Bit Computer: A Blast from the Past
The 8-bit computer era lasted from the mid-1970s till the mid-1980s and is widely known as the era of the home computer revolution. During this time, the personal computer market skyrocketed, as technology advances led to the development of smaller, faster, and cheaper computers that the general public could afford. In this article, we’ll talk about the 8-bit computers, explore why they’re still remembered, and how they paved the way for modern-day computers.
What is an 8-bit computer?
8-bit computers were desktop personal computers designed with an 8-bit processor, which means it could process up to 8 bits of data at a time. These computers were typically sold in kit form or built for enthusiasts, and there was a vast range of them available. However, two of the most popular 8-bit computers of that era were the Apple II and the Commodore 64.
These computers were equipped with a TV tuner and a floppy disk drive that could hold data of about 240 kilobytes. They also had applications like basic programming, gaming, and word processing. However, modern-day computers have gigabytes of storage, high-end graphics cards, and CPU’s that can process billions of bytes in a matter of seconds.
Why is it still remembered today?
Although 8-bit computers are no longer in use today, they still hold an important place in computer history. The 8-bit computer era revolutionized the concept of the personal computer, and it’s hard to imagine where we would be today without it. It’s also worth noting that this era was an inspiration to many in the current generation of programmers, historians, and enthusiasts, as they are still building systems that run on 8-bit processors.
The influence of the 8-bit era
The development of the first hardware and software tools back in the 8-bit era had a significant impact on modern-day computers. One such example is the use of BASIC programming language, which was widely used during that time to program the computers. BASIC laid the foundation for modern programming languages and helped many of the early programming enthusiasts to develop their skills and establish themselves in the field.
Conclusion
Although the 8-bit computers are no longer in use today, their impact on computer history is undeniable. They were the foundation of personal computing, and they paved the way for better, faster, and more powerful machines. From Apple II to Commodore 64, these computers still evoke nostalgia among many computer enthusiasts today and make for a good topic on how technology has come a long way.
