The History and Progression of Laptops

The evolution of laptops has taken place at breakneck speed over the past thirty years since the first portable computing device was invented. There are many interesting facts regarding the history of notebooks the varieties available components included advantages versus the disadvantages and possible complications to one's health as a result of using laptops.

The history of laptop technology is a timeline dotted with innovation and creativity. As the components of the personal computer shrunk the new technology was continually adapted to work in portable models known as laptops. In 1968 Alan Kay proposed a “personal portable information manipulator” and seven years later the first commercial model became available from a popular manufacturer. It wasn't until 1980 that the first flip or clamshell form factor models were introduced and in 1983 the term laptop was first applied to a small portable computer processing unit.

As the popularity for these versatile and cutting-edge technologies grew so did the number of improvements in laptop designs. Touchpads and pointing sticks were next introduced as navigating and directional aides to improve maneuverability and user-friendliness. In the late 1980's the 3.5 inch disk drives were introduced to the PC market and after the customary lag time were finally retrofitted into laptop designs. These were soon followed by the 2.5 and smaller drives in the early 1990's. The new millennium saw the evolution of read-only and rewritable disk drives and Blue Ray players.

The classifications of the various models of laptops available are as numerous as the potential uses for them. While the majority of portable computers fall under the name laptop the invention of the touch screen tablet PC attempts to break free of any sort of classification. With a swiveling monitor that turns 180 degrees to lay flat on the keyboard thereby providing a flat writing surface this model is as revolutionary as the technology has come so far.

Desktop replacement units are emerging as a cost-effective solution to purchasing a PC for home and a laptop for traveling. Larger faster portable computers are becoming available that have all of the capabilities of bulkier stationary PC's and rival them in screen size and clarity. In contrast the subnotebook also known as the ultraportable has become a favorite for children and college students because of their smaller price tags and more compact design. The performance capabilities are severely restricted in subnotebooks due to smaller and slower processors; however it is more than adequate for the needs of these individuals.

Lastly rugged and durable laptops were designed to fulfill the original purpose of the portable computer. Many outdoor jobs and applications call for high-tech solutions often while experiencing adverse and inclement weather. Because of this need manufacturers have developed models that are shock-resistant repel water and dust and are not prone to the breakdowns associated with humidity and freezing temperatures.

The evolution of the laptop owes its path to the diverse economy and demanding nature of instant gratification. The speed of economies and international business dictated a need for mobile solutions and laptops stepped up to fill that demand.