Britannica
Sources used in this answer
Why is the Altair considered an early personal computer?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
personal computer
Programmers may use computer science to design portable computers such as laptops.
The Altair is considered an early personal computer because it was one of the first machines small and inexpensive enough to be purchased by individuals for home use, a feasibility made possible by the development of the microprocessor on a single semiconductor chip in the 1970s.12
Developed in 1974 by the firm MITS, the Altair utilized the Intel Corporation 8080 microprocessor. While it lacked a keyboard, monitor, or pre-installed software—requiring users to input programs via front-panel switches—it was a landmark for the following reasons:2
- Hobbyist Impact: It sparked significant interest among electronics enthusiasts, notably influencing groups like the Homebrew Computer Club.3
- Architecture: It featured a bus structure that allowed for add-on circuit boards, which encouraged the development of the S-100 bus standard and a market for peripheral devices.34
- Industry Catalyst: Although its commercial appeal was limited compared to later mass-produced machines like the Apple II, the Altair provided the foundation for the personal computer industry by giving hobbyists the confidence to innovate.234