The First Laptop Was Made In 1981
The laptop, as we know it today, has an interesting legacy. In 1981 a rather clumsy and heavy portable computer was made. It was called Osborne. Even though it was far removed from modern day laptops, it was highly celebrated because, for the first time in computer history, people could actually transport a computer for use at another venue.
In 1983 the Compaq Portable was launched. Although its ‘portability’ was questionable because it was just as cumbersome as Osborne, it was transportable and could operate on an MS-DOS platform. However it could only operate with electricity.
The first computer that resembled the laptops of today was one designed by Bill Moggridge. Released in 1982, it was called the GriD Compass 1101. Its magnesium case even resembled the clam-shelled style of modern laptops.
It’s worth mentioning two others that came out in the early 80s. These were the Sharp PC-5000 and the Gavilan SC. In fact, the Gavilan was the first computer that carried the name ‘laptop’ when it was marketed. However, the block-buster of that early era was the Kyocera 85. Perhaps this was the first genuine portable computer since it could run off batteries.
Then came three commercial IBM-compatible laptops. Two of these were made by Toshiba, the T1200 and the T1000, and the other was the IBM PC Convertible. The two Toshibas were released in 1987, and the IBM was released in 1986. Over the following few years there were major developments in computer technology and, by 1995, the word ‘laptop’ was a household name.
Now that we have reached the 21st Century, laptops have become a way of life. Just about everyone has one. Technology has advanced so fast that we forget that it was not long ago that owing a computer was considered to be a luxury. Today it is a necessity and we use our computers for everything.
With the convenience of laptops, we are not bound to our homes or offices. Just walk into any restaurant, hotel or other public place and you will see men, women and children busy on their laptops. They are used for entertainment purposes, business purposes and research purposes.
There is no doubt that the laptop caused a mini revolution. Our laptops enable us to sit in any corner of the globe and pay our bills, book flights, or converse face-to-face with our family and friends, no matter where they live. Accessories for laptops include USB cables, battery packs, webcam and, for those PC gaming addicts, you can get a joystick.
Andrew Johnson is an expert in computer consumables. If you would like more information about types of laptop computers or are searching for a reputable computer retailer please visit http://www.ebuyer.com