How Much Did the First Computers Cost And Evolved Over Time

From the invention of the first general-purpose electronic computer to the widespread use of personal computers, the cost of computing devices has undergone significant changes. This article explores the cost evolution of computers, from the early mechanical and electronic machines to today's affordable personal computing options.

The First General-Purpose Electronic Computer: ENIAC

The first general-purpose electronic computer, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), was completed in 1945 at the University of Pennsylvania. This groundbreaking machine cost approximately $500,000, which would be equivalent to several million dollars today when adjusted for inflation. ENIAC was a massive machine, requiring significant funds and resources to build.

Early Mechanical Computers: Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine

Before ENIAC, Charles Babbage designed the Analytical Engine in the 1830s, but it was never completed. Estimates suggest that the cost of building such a machine during that era could have been in the thousands of pounds. Despite not being fully built, Babbage's design laid the theoretical groundwork for modern computing.

The IBM PC: A Game-Changer in the 1980s

The IBM PC, released in 1981, brought computing into homes and businesses. A basic configuration of the IBM PC, including 16KB of memory, started at $1,565. However, a monitor was a separate purchase, costing between $500 to $700. Over time, as technology advanced and production costs decreased, the price of PCs plummeted, making computing much more accessible to the general public.

Cost Evolution of Early Computers

The first computers were invented in the 1940s during World War II. Mechanical and electromechanical machines like the Colossus and ENIAC were incredibly expensive, costing millions of dollars. As technology advanced, computers became smaller, faster, and cheaper. Here are some examples:

Early Computers

Colossus:
Developed by the British in 1943, it cost ￡100,000.

ENIAC:
Developed in 1946, it cost $6 million.

EDSAC:
Developed in 1949, it cost $120,000.

By the late 1960s, computers cost around $100,000. In the mid-1970s, the price dropped to around $25,000. By the mid-1980s, computers cost around $2,000, making them more accessible to businesses and individuals.

Conclusion

The evolution of computing technology has been a fascinating journey from costly, large-scale machines to affordable, everyday devices. The development of the IBM PC in the 1980s exemplifies how innovations can transform entire industries. As technology continues to advance, one can only imagine the cost and capabilities of computers in the future.