Who Really Invented The Internet? Pray tell . . .

HISTORY OF THE COMPUTER!

 

 

Although, the big joke eight years ago during the Presidential election was that Al Gore invented the internet, here are the facts:

In 1989, while working at CERN, Switzerland, Tim Berners-Lee invents an Internet-based hypermedia enterprise for information sharing. Berners-Lee will call this innovation the World Wide Web.

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In 1937, the computer was invented. Dr. John V. Atanasoff and  Clifford Berry design and build the first  electronic digital computer. Their machine, the Atanasoff-Berry-Computer, or ABC, provides the foundation for advances in electronic digital computers.

In 1943, during World War II, British scientist Alan Turing designs the Colossus, an electronic computer created for the military to break German codes. The computer’s existence is kept secret until the 1970s.

In 1945, Dr. John von Neumann writes a brilliant paper describing the stored program concept. His breakthrough idea, where memory holds both data and stored programs, lays the foundation for all digital computers that have since been built.

In 1946, Dr. John W. Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert, Jr. complete work on the first large-scale electronic, general-purpose digital computer. The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator And Computer) weighs thirty tons, contains 18,000 vacuum tubes, occupies a thirty-by-fifty-foot space, and consumes 160 kilowatts of power. The first time it is turned on, lights dim in an entire section of Philadelphia.

In 1947, William Shockley, John Bardeen, and Walter Brattain invent the transfer resistance device, eventually called the transistor. The transistor would revolutionize computers, proving much more reliable than vacuum tubes.

In 1951, The first commercially available electronic digital computer, the UNIVAC I (UNIVersal Automatic Computer), is introduced by Remington Rand. Public awareness of computers increases when the UNIVAC I, after analyzing only five percent of the popular vote, correctly predicts that Dwight D. Eisenhower will win the presidential election.

My father worked on the UNIVAC computer after he left the Marine Corp., where he obtained training in electronics engineering.  UNIVAC was later bought by Burroughs Corporation, and my father helped save my job as a systems administrator at a thirty-person law firm in Coconut Grove (1980-1994) when my three-tiered Syntrex proprietary system kept losing power. Evidently, there were spikes in the Grove’s FPL grid which created mini-brown-outs with some of our equipment.  The Burroughs line conditioners kept the electricity flowing smoothly and my nerves in check. Later than three-tiered system found its way to my parents’ home in Weston after we rescued it from the Coconut Grove Bank Building after Hurricane Andrew in 1992.  The attorneys would drive up to Weston to get their schedules because I had all the information! ha! Power!

In 1952, Dr. Grace Hopper (a woman, by the way) considers the concept of reusable software in her paper, “The Education of a Computer.” The paper describes how to program a computer with symbolic notation instead of the detailed machine language that had been used.

In 1953, the IBM model 650 is one of the first widely used computer systems. Originally planning to produce only 50 machines, the system is so successful that eventually IBM manufactures more than 1,000. With the IBM 700 series of machines, the company will dominate the mainframe market for the next decade.

Core memory, developed in the early 1950s, provides much larger storage capacity than vacuum tube memory.

IBM and Sperry (Remington Rand) were rivals.  I believe IBM won some battles, but where are they today? I am sure some of the IBM System 36s are still around in a cold room somewhere. . .

In 1957, The IBM 305 RAMAC system is the first to use magnetic disk for external storage. The system provides storage capacity similar to magnetic tape that previously was used, but offers the advantage of semi-random access capability.

FORTRAN (FORmula TRANslation), an efficient, easy-to-use programming language, is introduced by John Backus.

In 1958, computers built with transistors mark the beginning of the second generation of computer hardware.

In 1959, more than 200 programming languages have been created. IBM introduces two smaller, desk-sized computers: the IBM 1401 for business and the IBM 1620 for scientists. The IBM 1620 initially is called the CADET, but IBM drops the name when campus wags claim it is an acronym for, Can’t Add, Doesn’t Even Try.

In 1960, COBOL, a high-level business application language, is developed by a committee headed by Dr. Grace Hopper (that lady, again). COBOL uses English-like phrases and runs on most business computers, making it one of the more widely used programming languages.

In 1964, The number of computers has grown to 18,000.

Third-generation computers, with their controlling circuitry stored on  chips, are introduced. The IBM System/360 computer is the first family of compatible machines, merging science and business lines.

In 1965, Dr. John Kemeny of Dartmouth leads the development of the BASIC programming language. BASIC will be widely used on personal computers.

Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) introduces the first mini-computer, the PDP-8. The machine is used extensively as an interface for time-sharing systems.

In 1968, Alan Shugart at IBM demonstrates the first regular use of an 8-inch floppy (magnetic storage) disk.

In a letter to the editor titled, “GO TO Statements Considered Harmful,” Dr. Edsger Dijsktra introduces the concept of structured programming, developing standards for constructing computer programs.

Computer Science Corporation becomes the first software company listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

In 1969, Under pressure from the industry, IBM announces that some of its software will be priced separately from the computer hardware. This unbundling allows software firms to emerge in the industry.

The ARPANET network, a predecessor of the Internet, is established.

In 1970, Fourth-generation computers, built with chips that use LSI (large-scale integration) arrive. While the chips used in 1965 contained as many as 1,000 circuits, the LSI chip contains as many as 15,000.

 In 1971, Dr. Ted Hoff of Intel Corporation develops a microprocessor, or microprogrammable computer chip, the Intel 4004.

In 1975 (the year I graduated high school), MITS, Inc. advertises one of the first microcomputers, the Altair. Named for the destination in an episode of Star Trek, the Altair is sold in kits for less than $400. Although initially it has no keyboard, no monitor, no permanent memory, and no software, 4,000 orders are taken within the first three months.

In 1976, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak build the first Apple computer. A subsequent version, the Apple II, is an immediate success. Adopted by elementary schools, high schools, and colleges, for many students the Apple II is their first contact with the world of computers.

In 1979, VisiCalc, a spreadsheet program written by Bob Frankston and Dan Bricklin, is introduced. Originally written to run on Apple II computers, VisiCalc will be seen as the most important reason for the acceptance of personal computers in the business world.

The first public online information services, CompuServe and the Source, are founded.

In 1980, Alan Shugart presents the Winchester hard drive, revolutionizing storage for personal computers.

IBM offers Microsoft Corporation co-founder, Bill Gates, the  opportunity to develop the operating system for the soon-to-be announced IBM personal computer. With the development of MS-DOS, Microsoft achieves tremendous growth and success.

In 1981, The IBM PC is introduced, signaling IBM’s entrance into the personal computer marketplace. The IBM PC quickly garners the largest share of the personal computer market and becomes the personal computer of choice in business.

In 1982, 3,275,000 personal computers are sold, almost 3,000,000 more than in 1981.

Hayes introduces the 300 bps smart modem. The modem is an immediate success.

Compaq, Inc. is founded to develop and market IBM-compatible PCs.

In 1983, Lotus Development Corporation is founded. Its spreadsheet software, Lotus 1-2-3, which combines spreadsheet, graphics, and database programs in one package, becomes the best-selling program for IBM personal computers.

In 1984, IBM introduces a personal computer, called the PC AT, that uses the Intel 80286 microprocessor.

Hewlett-Packard announces the first LaserJet printer for personal computers.

In 1987, Several personal computers utilizing the powerful Intel 80386 microprocessor are introduced. These machines perform processing that once only large systems could handle.

In 1988, Microsoft surpasses Lotus Development Corporation to become the world’s top software vendor.

IN 1989, While working at CERN, Switzerland, Tim Berners-Lee invents an Internet-based hypermedia enterprise for information sharing. Berners-Lee will call this innovation the World Wide Web.

In 1991, AskERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) starts up as a project of the ERIC Clearinghouse on Information and Technology at Syracuse University. Today, the federally funded AskERIC provides an extensive and searchable database of documents and resources; educators can send questions on any educational topic to AskERIC and receive a response within 48 hours.

In 1992, Microsoft releases Windows 3.1, the latest version of its Windows operating system. Windows 3.1 offers improvements such as TrueType fonts, multimedia capability, and object linking and embedding (OLE). In two months, 3,000,000 copies of Windows 3.1 are sold.

The law would have it that you cannot copyright a number; therefore, Intel had to change to the word “Pentium” to describe its product (which would have been a 586 processor).

In 1993, Several companies introduce computer systems using the Pentium® processor from Intel. The Pentium® chip is the successor to the Intel 486 processor. It contains 3.1 million transistors and is capable of performing 112,000,000 instructions per second.

In 1994, Jim Clark and Marc Andreessen found Netscape and launch Netscape Navigator 1.0, a browser for the World Wide Web.

The Clinton Administration creates the Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program (TIIAP), which supplies grants to public institutions to fund the installation of advanced communications technologies. Over the next four years, TIIAP awards 378 grants of approximately $118 million in federal grant funds, which are matched by more than $180 million in nonfederal funds.

In 1995, Microsoft releases Windows 95, a major upgrade to its Windows operating system. Windows 95 consists of more than 10,000,000 lines of computer instructions developed by 300 person-years of effort. More than 50,000 individuals and companies test the software before it is released.

In 1996, President Clinton launches a $2 billion, five-year, Technology Literacy Challenge – a program designed to catalyze and leverage state, local, and private sector efforts so American schools can provide students with the skills they need to succeed in the next century.

In 1996, Google was born. “Larry and Sergey decide that the BackRub search engine needs a new name. After some brainstorming, they go with Google — a play on the word “googol,” a mathematical term for the number represented by the numeral 1 followed by 100 zeros. The use of the term reflects their mission to organize a seemingly infinite amount of information on the web.”

In 1997, Intel introduces the Pentium® II processor with 7.5 million transistors. The new processor, which incorporates MMX^TM technology, processes video, audio, and graphics data more efficiently and supports applications such as movie-editing, gaming, and more.

In 1998, Microsoft ships Windows 98, an upgrade to Windows 95. Windows 98 offers improved Internet access, better system performance, and support for a new generation of hardware and software. In six months, more than 10,000,000 copies of Windows 98 are sold worldwide.

 Apple Computer introduces the iMac, the next version of its popular Macintosh computer. The iMac abandons such conventional features as a floppy disk drive but wins customers with its futuristic design, see-through case, and easy setup. Consumer demand outstrips Apple’s production capabilities, and some vendors are forced to begin waiting lists.

In 1999, Intel releases its Pentium® III processor, which provides enhanced multimedia capabilities.

Microsoft introduces Office 2000, its premier productivity suite, offering new tools for users to create content and save it directly to a Web site without any file conversion or special steps.

In 2000, Shawn Fanning, 19, and his company, Napster, turn the music industry upside down by developing software that allows computer users to swap music files with one another without going through a centralized file server. The Recording Industry of America, on behalf of five media companies, sues Napster for copyright infringement.

In 2001, Microsoft releases Microsoft Office 2001 suite for the Macintosh, which includes Word, Excel, Entourage, and PowerPoint.

Telemedicine uses satellite technology and videoconferencing to broadcast consultations and to perform distant surgeries. Robots are used for complex and precise tasks. Computer-aided surgery uses virtual reality to assist with training and planning procedures.

Apple Computers releases Mac OS X, the latest version of its popular operating system. Apple claims that Mac OS X is the most advanced and easiest-to-use operating system in history.

In 2002, In January 2002, President Bush signs into law the No Child Left Behind Act – the most sweeping reform of federal education policy in a generation. The act creates strong standards for what every child should know and learn in reading and math in grades 3-8 and states that student progress and achievement will be measured for every child, every year.

In 2003, Wireless desktop computer components such as keyboards, mouse devices, home networks, and public Internet access points become commonplace. Latest operating systems include support for both the Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) and Bluetooth standards. Wireless capabilities are standard on many PDAs and Tablet PCs.

Intel releases its new Centrino mobile technology designed specifically for mobile computing with built-in wireless LAN capability, breakthrough mobile performance, and Intel’s first integrated computing technology designed from the ground up for wireless notebook PCs.

In 2004, Companies such as RealNetworks, Microsoft, Sony, and Wal-Mart stake out turf in the online music store business started by Apple Computer. In the previous year, Apple’s iTunes Music Store Web site sold nearly 20 million songs for 99 cents each.

Flat-panel LCD monitors overtake bulky CRT monitors as the popular choice of computer users. Although flat-panel LCD monitors cost more, they offer several advantages including physical size, weight, true display size, better power consumption, and no radiation emission.

In 2005, Microsoft unveils Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. This operating system allows users to access the routine capabilities of a Windows XP-based PC while focusing on delivering media content such as music, digital photography, movies, and television.

To date, Microsoft has sold over 300 million copies of its Windows XP operating system. By early January, Microsoft automatically downloaded to its users’ computers over 100 million copies of Service Pack 2 (SP2), its latest update to Windows XP. In addition to a new security center and firewall, SP2 adds a pop-up blocker in Internet Explorer and updated support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless technologies.

In 2006, The federal Education Rate, or E-Rate program, invests more than $18 billion, since 1998, to connect libraries and K-12 classrooms to the Internet. As a result, virtually all U.S. students now have access to the Internet from school – many have high-speed or broadband access.

By the end of 2006, experts predict that the number of e-mail messages sent daily will exceed 60 billion worldwide and slightly more than half of these messages will be person-to-person e-mails.

Even though e-mails created a back-n-forth conversation (as well as IM – instant messaging), the internet has moved to a Web 2.0 environment, creating communities where opinion and information abound.

In 2007 and 2008, blogging (web logs) and social networks, such as MySpace and Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, as well as others are a part of the Web 2.0 environment.

RSS (Real Simple Syndication) is a “must have” for all websites and blogsites so that anyone can feed all his interests into one area — i.e., his igoogle page.

2008 — Google is having a 10th birthday and a contest giving away $10 Million Dollars.  Contest information.

Fox News reported:  “Google’s motto has always been “Don’t be evil.” Now it’s willing to pay $10 million to prove it.

On Wednesday the Internet search giant unveiled an altruistic scheme called Project 10¹⁰⁰, pronounced “ten to the one hundredth,” which invites anyone and everyone to submit ideas that can “change the world by helping as many people as possible.”

As one example, the company, currently valued at about $140 billion, cites the Hippo Roller, a plastic water container that poor people in Third World countries can roll along the ground instead of carrying.

The deadline for submissions is Oct. 20th. Google will then pick the 100 best ideas.

Online voters will select the top 20, and in January judges will winnow them down to a maximum number of five that split a pot of $10 million that Google will grant for research and development.”

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Thompson Course Technology TimeLine* (this is an audio/visual timeline from an educator)

*This information was gleaned (partly) from the timeline for EWM TECH educational (internal) purposes only and may not be duplicated into any e-mail or into your kid’s homework.  Thank you.