The laptop, as we know it today, has an interesting legacy. In 1981 a rather clumsy and heavy portable computer was made. It was called Osborne. Even though it was far removed from modern day laptops, it was highly celebrated because, for the first time in computer history, people could actually transport a computer for use at another venue.
Next was the Compaq Portable in 1983. Although called ‘portable’, like its predecessor it was just has heavy and cumbersome. But it was the first transportable computer that was IBM compatible. Although it needed electricity to operate, it ran off MS-DOS.
The first laptop that came close to the ones we are familiar with today was the GriD Compass 1101, designed by Bill Moggridge, and released during 1982. This computer was housed in a magnesium case which is similar to the clam shell casings that we see on modern laptops.
Two other attention-grabbers came out in the 1980s, namely the PC-5000 made by Sharp and the Gavilan SC. It was the Gavilan that evoked the most interest because the word ‘laptop’ was used to market it. But the biggest seller was the Kyocera 85 which operated with batteries and therefore it was genuinely portable.
Then came three commercial IBM-compatible laptops. Two of these were made by Toshiba, the T1200 and the T1000, and the other was the IBM PC Convertible. The two Toshibas were released in 1987, and the IBM was released in 1986. Over the following few years there were major developments in computer technology and, by 1995, the word ‘laptop’ was a household name.
So here we are in the 21st Century, and laptops form an integral part of our lives. We just can’t do without them! We often forget that in the not too distance past, a computer was considered a luxury item. These days, it is an essential component of modern society and the entire world is reliant on them.
With the convenience of laptops, we are not bound to our homes or offices. Just walk into any restaurant, hotel or other public place and you will see men, women and children busy on their laptops. They are used for entertainment purposes, business purposes and research purposes.
There is no doubt that the laptop caused a mini revolution. Our laptops enable us to sit in any corner of the globe and pay our bills, book flights, or converse face-to-face with our family and friends, no matter where they live. Accessories for laptops include USB cables, battery packs, webcam and, for those PC gaming addicts, you can get a joystick.
Andrew Johnson is an expert in computer consumables. If you would like further information about types of laptop computers or are looking for a reputable computer retailer please visit http://www.ebuyer.com