1973

• Intel files a patent application for a "memory system for a multichip digital computer".

• Design work is completed on the Micral, the first non-kit computer based on a microprocessor (the Intel 8008). Built in France, the Micral is advertised in the U.S., but is not successful there.

• The term "microcomputer" first appears in print, in reference to the Micral.

• (late) Gary Kildall writes a simple operating system in his PL/M language. He calls it CP/M (Control Program/Monitor).

• Bill Millard founds IMS.

• Michael Cowpland and Terence Matthews found Mitel, in Canada.

• Stephen Wozniak joins Hewlett-Packard.

• Gary Kildall creates PL/M for the Intel 8008, based on PL/I.

• IBM develops a cheap disk and drive.

• IBM introduces the IBM 3340 hard disk unit, known as the Winchester, IBM's internal development code name. The recording head rides on a layer of air 18 millionths of an inch thick.

• David Ahl protests Digital Equipment cutbacks of educational products, and is fired. He is soon rehired.

• Gary Kildall begins consulting work at Intel.

• Scelbi Computer Consulting Company offers the first computer kit in the U.S. using a microprocessor, the Intel 8008-based Scelbi-8H, for US$565, with 1KB programmable memory. An additional 15KB is available for US$2760.

• Bob Metcalfe invents the Ethernet connectivity system.

• The Alto workstation computer is built at Xerox' Palo Alto Research Center. It uses the advanced Smalltalk language, a mouse input device, and the Ethernet technique of linking Alto computers to each other. Less than 2000 are built in total.

GO BACK