Thinking Computers? Think Small
They're everywhere—simple-to-operate, desk-top electronic calculating instruments
By MELVIN WHITMER
AS RECENTLY AS 15 YEARS AGO, ACCORDing to the American Federation of Information Processing Societies (AFIPS), there were fewer than 25 computers at work in all of the US. That number has grown today to well over 35,000, and the AFIPS predicts that by 1975 there will be more than 85,000— representing an annual investment of $30 billion.
Understandably, the greatest increase—because of their lower initial cost—will come in the area of compact and desk-type computers. Though physically small, many of this new generation of time-savers are capable of a wider range of computations than some of the huge multi-rack installations of a decade or so ago.
Not experimental, but commercial, instant worldwide information transmission by satellite
By RAY D. THROWER
In the 17th century, it took about 4 months for news of the New World to reach Europe. Now, with satellite communication, news whips around the globe in seconds. In less than 3 years, instant global communication will be a reality. Advanced communications equipment and the space-age vehicle, the Communications Satellite Corp. and its international partner, Intelsat, are all together responsible for that.
Airlines have been showing movies on jet flights for some time. The first system used a single projector and a single screen (like a conventional theater). But it was hard for some passengers to see the screen, so a video system was tried.
They're everywhere—simple-to-operate, desk-top electronic calculating instruments
By MELVIN WHITMER
AS RECENTLY AS 15 YEARS AGO, ACCORDing to the American Federation of Information Processing Societies (AFIPS), there were fewer than 25 computers at work in all of the US. That number has grown today to well over 35,000, and the AFIPS predicts that by 1975 there will be more than 85,000— representing an annual investment of $30 billion.
Understandably, the greatest increase—because of their lower initial cost—will come in the area of compact and desk-type computers. Though physically small, many of this new generation of time-savers are capable of a wider range of computations than some of the huge multi-rack installations of a decade or so ago.
