When we think of Apple computers today, we envision modern, sleek, and powerful devices. However, it wasn’t always this way. The first computer presented by Steve Jobs dates back to 1984, and it was significantly different from the Apple computers we know today.
Not only did it differ in terms of features and functions, but it was also much smaller in size, with a screen that was even smaller than that of an iPad. Let’s delve into the details of this groundbreaking computer that paved the way for the Apple we know today.
The Birth of the Macintosh 128K: On January 24, 1984, Apple introduced the Macintosh 128K, marking its 40th anniversary in just a few days. At the time, it was nothing short of a revolution, even though it possessed characteristics that might seem quaint today.
One of the most striking differences was its 9-inch black-and-white screen, which, by today’s standards, seems incredibly tiny. Additionally, the Macintosh 128K was not flat and thin like modern Macs. Despite its relatively small dimensions, it was quite heavy and had considerable thickness.
In 1984, the Macintosh 128K came with a hefty price tag of $2,495. Adjusted for inflation, this would be equivalent to approximately $6,000 today, or a little over 5,000 euros. It’s important to note that computers at that time were primarily used by businesses and not typically found in households due to their high cost.
Design and Features: Examining its design, you would find that, aside from the screen, there were not many features. It had a power button, the iconic Apple logo, and a prominent 3.5-inch floppy disk drive—a technology that many of today’s readers might never have used.
At the back of the computer, you’d spot a DE-9 connector (no USB ports) and some ventilation slots. There weren’t many ports or connectors compared to today’s computers.
One interesting aspect of the Macintosh 128K was its integrated screen, making it somewhat similar to today’s iMacs and all-in-one computers, rather than traditional PCs with separate components and external monitors. Steve Jobs was already pioneering the concept of an all-in-one computer.
Accompanying the computer was an Apple-branded mouse, the M0100, which was quite different from the mice we use today, but it effectively served its purpose.
Looking Back: It’s fascinating to think about how far we’ve come in terms of technology. While the Macintosh 128K struggled with a mere 8 MHz of processing power and 128 KB of RAM, today’s computers boast multi-core processors and gigabytes of RAM, if not terabytes. We’ve witnessed remarkable progress in a relatively short period, and it’s exciting to contemplate how much further technology will advance in the years to come.
In conclusion, the Macintosh 128K, Apple’s first computer, holds a special place in the history of personal computing. Its introduction in 1984 marked the beginning of a journey that has led to the powerful and sleek Apple computers we use today.
