What was the first software available for microcomputer
As we journey through time, let’s take a closer look at the evolution of microcomputer software, starting with the very first software available for microcomputers. This timeline will provide you with an overview of how far we have come and give you a better understanding of the impact of microcomputers on our lives today.
1974: Altair 8800 and BASIC
The Altair 8800, launched in 1975, was one of the first widely available microprocessors. The software that came with it was called BASIC (Beginner’s All-purpose Symbolic Instruction Code), which allowed users to write simple programs and games in a language that resembled English.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in BASIC is "Pong" by Steve Jobs, which was created as part of a competition between Apple Computer and Atari. Pong was a simple ping-pong game that showcased the potential of microcomputers for gaming and entertainment.
1975: Altair’s BASIC Software
In 1975, Microsoft launched its first version of BASIC, which would become the de facto standard for programming on microprocessors. This was a major milestone in the history of computer software, as it paved the way for more advanced programming languages and applications.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in BASIC is "Altair’s BASIC Software", which was designed specifically for the Altair 8800. This software allowed users to write simple programs and games using a language that resembled English, making it easy for beginners to get started with programming.
1976: Apple II and Applesoft BASIC
In 1976, Apple Computer launched the Apple II, which quickly became one of the most popular microprocessors of all time. The software that came with it was called Applesoft BASIC, which was similar to Microsoft’s version but included additional features and libraries that made it easier for programmers to create complex applications.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in Applesoft BASIC is "King’s Quest: A Crystal Adventure", which was created by the legendary game designer, Roberta Williams. This adventure game showcased the potential of microcomputers for gaming and storytelling, and remains a classic to this day.
1977: TRS-80 and Tandy BASIC
In 1977, Radio Shack launched the TRS-80, which was another popular microprocessor that came with its own version of BASIC. This software allowed users to write simple programs and games using a language that resembled English, making it easy for beginners to get started with programming.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in Tandy BASIC is "TRS-80’s BASIC Software", which was designed specifically for the TRS-80. This software allowed users to write simple programs and games using a language that resembled English, making it easy for beginners to get started with programming.
1978: Atari 2600 and Assembly Language
In 1978, Atari launched the Atari 2600, which quickly became one of the most popular gaming consoles of all time. The software that came with it was written in assembly language, which is a low-level programming language that allows programmers to write code that is optimized for speed and efficiency.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in assembly language is "Space Invaders", which was created by Tomohiro Nishikado. This game showcased the potential of microprocessors for gaming and entertainment, and remains a classic to this day.
1979: Commodore PET and BASICA
In 1979, Commodore Computer launched the Commodore PET, which was another popular microprocessor that came with its own version of BASIC. This software allowed users to write simple programs and games using a language that resembled English, making it easy for beginners to get started with programming.
One of the earliest examples of a program written in BASICA is "Commodore’s BASIC Software", which was designed specifically for the Commodore PET. This software allowed users to write simple programs and games using a language that resembled English, making it easy for beginners to get started with programming.
1980: IBM PC and MS-DOS