How Long Has The Laptop Computer Been Around?
The laptop computer has a long history which began in 1981 when a portable computer known as ‘Osborne’ was made. Although it was rather heavy and clumsy, with a tiny screen, it had a major impact on computer technology. For the first time, business people were able to transport data if they had to attend out of town meetings.
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.
Three other commercial laptops that were compatible with IBM were two Toshiba models, the T1000 and the T1200, and the IBM PC Convertible. The Toshiba models were introduced in 1987, while the IBM one was launched the year before. During the next few years, there was rapid progress in the technology of laptops and by 1995 they were common place.
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.
No longer are we chained to our offices or homes if we want to use a computer. Everywhere you look, you will see women, men and even children clicking away on their laptops. We use them for research, we use them for entertainment and, of course, we use them for business.
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.