Recalling the First Computer: A Personal Journey Through Time

The journey of personal computing begins with the simplest and most impactful devices that sparked curiosity and revolutionized everyday life. My own experience in this world of computing started very early, and it was an experience that has left an indelible mark on my life.

The DEC PDP-8 (1973)

My first interaction with a computer dates back to 1973, when I received a DEC PDP-8. This computer was a fascinating piece of technology, equipped with 4 kilobytes of 12-bit memory and an RS232 Teletype machine for input and output. The cost was approximately 5,000 U.S. dollars, which was quite a significant investment for its time.

Although I justified this acquisition by saying it would assist surveyors in performing traverse closure, the truth was that I was simply captivated by the idea of having a computer to play with. One of my projects involved calculating the value of Pi, using a random number generator. The process was time-consuming, taking nearly an hour to complete, but it was infinitely rewarding.

The Analog Computer (1956)

Before the PDP-8, I had an even earlier encounter with computing, albeit much simpler and more rudimentary. In 1956, I constructed my very first computer, an analog device that could add two numbers by manipulating voltages. Programming was done by setting switches to select the numbers and another switch to indicate the sum. This unassuming device won me first prize in a school-wide hobby show, reflecting my passion for computing even at a young age.

The COSMAC Elf II (1976)

Transitioning into the realm of solid-state electronics, my next significant computer was a COSMAC Elf II. This was a kit built from components and operated using audio cassette tapes for storage. This kit computer represented a significant step forward in terms of programmability and portability, even though it was not as sophisticated as later models.

The Original Radio Shack Color Computer (1981)

As I grew older, I acquired my first truly personal computer. The Original Radio Shack Color Computer was a standout model in the early 1980s. This machine, while strictly a personal computer in the modern sense, was a further evolution from the PDP-8. It offered a rich platform for programming and game development, making it a popular choice among hobbyists and professionals alike.

A Personal Computer (1982)

My next significant computer acquisition was an Apple II in 1982. This machine not only defined the beginning of the personal computer age but also played a crucial role in how I approached coding and computing. The Apple II was a massive leap from my previous models, featuring floppy disks and a graphical user interface that made the experience more intuitive and user-friendly.

Compaq in 1999

By the late 1990s, I had upgraded to a Compaq machine, which was undoubtedly a step beyond the Apple II. One distinct feature of this computer was its Superdisk drive, which was a favorite because of its reliable speed and capacity. My memories of the Compaq are nostalgic, and there's still a special place in my heart for the Superdisk drive – perhaps a testament to the enduring appeal of early computing technology.

These devices represent not just pieces of hardware but also a journey through the evolution of computing, from the rudimentary to the sophisticated. Each computer I've owned, from the DEC PDP-8 to today's advanced models, has played a vital role in the development of my passion for technology.

Keywords: first computer, personal computer, early computers