-
MITS Founding
Ed Roberts and Forrest Mims establish MITS, a company focused on electronic kits. -
Intel 8008 Microprocessor
Intel releases the 8008 microprocessor, which would later power the Altair 8800. -
Birth of the Altair
Ed Roberts conceives the idea for the Altair 8800, an affordable computer kit. -
Altair 8800 Release
The Altair 8800 kit is introduced, featuring a front panel with switches and lights. -
Popular Mechanics Cover
Altair 8800 graces the cover of Popular MEchanics, generating significant interest. -
Altair BASIC
Bill Gates and Paul Allen develop Altair BASIC, a programming language for the Altair 8800. -
The Homebrew Computer Club
The influential Homebrew Computer Club is established, fostering collaboration and innovation. -
IMSAI 8080
IMS Associates releases the IMSAI 8080, a clone of the Altair 8800, expanding its reach. -
Altair 8800b
MITS introduces the Altair 8800b, an enhanced version with added features. -
MITS Decline
MITS experiences financial difficulties and eventually ceases Altair production. -
Altair 8800 Clone Market
Various companies produce clones, further popularizing the Altair architecture. -
Altair 8800 Expansion
Third-party manufacturers create expansion boards, enhancing the Altair's capabilities. -
Legacy of the Altair
The Altair architecture influences future microcomputer designs and standards. -
Altair's Rebirth
Altair 8800b gains popularity among vintage computer enthusiasts and collectors. -
Altair Replicas
Modern replicas of the Altair 8800 are produced, allowing enthusiasts to experience its historic significance.