Microcomputer

The term microcomputer is an umbrella term used to describe all computers (personal and small-scale systems) whose operations depend on microchips rather than large and cumbersome processors. This group includes laptops, smartphones, tablets, and small single-board computers, such as the Raspberry Pi, used for education and specialized tasks, and devices such as the automated teller machines (ATMs). The microcomputer has been in use since the 1970s, and computer scientists continue to work to find ways to make this type of computer more useful.

History

The path toward making microcomputers widely available began in 1971. That year, the Intel Corporation presented the first microprocessor to the public. This microprocessor, the Intel 4004, was part of a system known as the MCS-4, which included a set of four microchips. A microchip is a very small computer component that aids in specific computer functions. The MCS-4 had a central processing unit (CPU) microchip that was called the 4004. The microprocessor was fairly basic but highly programmable, which allowed computer engineers to utilize these components in different machines. In 1974, Intel introduced the 8080, which was another microprocessor. Later microprocessors were designed with far more transistors and higher processing speeds, allowing them to perform more complex tasks.

The 8080 was soon used in a computer called the Altair 8800, produced by Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS). The Altair 8800 was sold as a kit that could be assembled at a user’s home. Because the computer was cumbersome, it presented obvious problems. It was also limited in its functionality.

Around this time, a young computer programmer named Bill Gates and his business partner Paul Allen developed a version of the computer language BASIC that they believed would make the Altair much more functional. After changes to the computer’s software and hardware had been made, it was only a few short steps to creating a radically different experience for the home computer user. The key was to merge microchip technology with computer hardware and the BASIC programming language. Gates and Allen used this trifecta as the basis for their company, Microsoft, which later developed the popular Windows operating system and became one of the most successful technology companies in the world.

The development of microcomputer technology continued into the mid-1970s, when Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak started Apple Computer, Inc. The company made a huge impact on the microcomputer industry with the launch of the Apple II microcomputer in 1977. Given its small size and affordable price, the Apple II became one of the company’s most successful products. At the start of the 1980s, the International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) introduced its own personal microcomputer, the IBM PC. This machine eventually became one of the best-selling computers in history.

Microcomputers became popular with consumers because they provided people with useful applications. One such early application was VisiCalc. This program was an early example of an electronic spreadsheet. VisiCalc performed calculations based on the values users entered into its cells. Other useful applications included Apple Writer and WordStar, two early word processing programs.

The first Windows software for IBM computers was introduced in 1985. After that point, developments in both IBM and Apple microcomputers have made them more useful. The popularity of a particular microcomputer brand depends on the needs of the consumer. Windows microcomputers tend to be less expensive than Apple microcomputers, though some users consider the ease of use and increased functionality of Apple products to make the extra expense worthwhile. Other operating systems, such as Linux, Android, and iOS, are also used in different types of microcomputers.

Function

A microcomputer, despite the suggestion of smallness in its name, is best thought of as a team of computer parts, working together to assist the user in completing a particular task. All of these parts function smoothly because they are linked by an integrated circuit (IC). This circuitry is typically contained within a circuit board inside the computer.

One of the most important and obvious parts of a microcomputer is the keyboard. The keyboard, along with the mouse or touchpad, is an input device. An input device allows the user to give the computer specific commands.

Once the commands are given, they run through the computer’s CPU. When information is entered into a microcomputer, it is stored in the computer’s memory. Computers often have two types of memory: random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). RAM stores data temporarily while programs are running, while ROM is primarily linked to the programs and software that help the computer operate. RAM can be altered, but ROM cannot.

Finally, users respond to computer processes and input additional commands based on what they see on the computer monitor. This output device links the user to the internal workings of the machine.

Another important element of the microcomputer’s functionality is its ability to interact and communicate with other computers through the Internet. This communication often takes place through wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks. Microcomputers are also used in small connected devices, often called the Internet of Things, which perform specific tasks in homes, industries, and cities. Of course, the hardware of the microcomputer should not be overlooked either. A microcomputer’s hardware includes components such as ports, speakers, and networking features. Some microcomputers also include specialized processors that support artificial intelligence tasks, such as recognizing speech or images.

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