The IBM PC @ 20

August 10, 2001 12:00 PM ET

The 20th anniversary of the introduction of the IBM PC is a fine time to reflect on the progress and direction of personal computing. But when all the hoopla dies down, IT managers will still have to deal with reliability issues associated with the dreaded PC crash.

Table of Contents:

Crashing the Party Some amazing advances have taken place in the two decades since IBM introduced what was to become the industry-standard personal computer. Now if only we could get rid of those blue screens.

Gates Weighs In Microsoft Corp. Chairman and Chief Software Architect Bill Gates reflected on the future of the PC during a recent conversation with Computerworld senior editor Carol Sliwa.

You Never Forget Your First Readers share memories of their first experiences with personal computers. See the sampling of comments published in our print edition, then head to our online forum to read more comments and post your own

Thinking Small Computerworld covers the introduction of IBM's "smallest system to date" in the Aug. 17, 1981 issue. Read the complete article.

Timeline A look at the history of desktop computing, starting with the Apple II in 1977 and Sinclair ZX80.

Almanac The spacecraft Columbia circles the earth, The Dow Jones sinks below 890. What else was happening around the world in August 1981?
ONLINE EXCLUSIVES:
Flashback Computerworld rounds up a history of the computer industry from 1950, when Engineering Research Associates delivered the first commercially produced computer.
Wireless may revamp future PC design and usage A proliferation of wireless networks could spark fundamental changes in the design and use of PCs. Some corporate users even predirect the death of the hard-wired desktop.
Peering into the Future Experts say the PC of the future might include vision, handwriting recognition and built-in wireless.
Stats and Numbers How many computers get shipped each year? Who sells the most worldwide? In the U.S.? Find out here.
Resource Links A listing of resources from around the Web on the history of computing.

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