The Evolution of Altair 8800: Revolutionizing Personal Computing

By zaneali
  • MITS Founding

    MITS Founding

    Ed Roberts and Forrest Mims establish MITS, a company focused on electronic kits.
  • Intel 8008 Microprocessor

    Intel 8008 Microprocessor

    Intel releases the 8008 microprocessor, which would later power the Altair 8800.
  • Birth of the Altair

    Birth of the Altair

    Ed Roberts conceives the idea for the Altair 8800, an affordable computer kit.
  • Altair 8800 Release

    Altair 8800 Release

    The Altair 8800 kit is introduced, featuring a front panel with switches and lights.
  • Popular Mechanics Cover

    Popular Mechanics Cover

    Altair 8800 graces the cover of Popular MEchanics, generating significant interest.
  • Altair BASIC

    Altair BASIC

    Bill Gates and Paul Allen develop Altair BASIC, a programming language for the Altair 8800.
  • The Homebrew Computer Club

    The Homebrew Computer Club

    The influential Homebrew Computer Club is established, fostering collaboration and innovation.
  • IMSAI 8080

    IMSAI 8080

    IMS Associates releases the IMSAI 8080, a clone of the Altair 8800, expanding its reach.
  • Altair 8800b

    Altair 8800b

    MITS introduces the Altair 8800b, an enhanced version with added features.
  • MITS Decline

    MITS Decline

    MITS experiences financial difficulties and eventually ceases Altair production.
  • Altair 8800 Clone Market

    Altair 8800 Clone Market

    Various companies produce clones, further popularizing the Altair architecture.
  • Altair 8800 Expansion

    Altair 8800 Expansion

    Third-party manufacturers create expansion boards, enhancing the Altair's capabilities.
  • Legacy of the Altair

    Legacy of the Altair

    The Altair architecture influences future microcomputer designs and standards.
  • Altair's Rebirth

    Altair's Rebirth

    Altair 8800b gains popularity among vintage computer enthusiasts and collectors.
  • Altair Replicas

    Altair Replicas

    Modern replicas of the Altair 8800 are produced, allowing enthusiasts to experience its historic significance.