Flashback ’71
40 Years Ago Today the Intel 4004 Microprocessor was Born
FLASHBACK ‘71: As part of J&R’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, we are looking back to the technologies and product wizardry from bygone epochs (like the, uh, ’70s and ’80s).
Intel has become synonymous with the term innovative. There’s a good chance that the computer you’re reading this on has an Intel processor inside. 40 years ago today, Federico Faggin completed the 4004 processor, ushering in the modern computer age. Please watch the video for a few words from this brilliant designer.
Typewriters – What are they?
FLASHBACK ‘71: As part of J&R’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, we are looking back to the technologies and product wizardry from bygone epochs (like the, uh, ’70s and ’80s).
In 1971, virtually no desk had a computer upon it. Many had a typewriter. Most typewriters were electric and had changeable type styles using replaceable balls or print wheels. Large offices owned word processors that were computers specifically dedicated to typing letters. Within a few years, broad ranges of open-ended computers will emerge and start a revolution that will create the digital age. Typewriters, the miracle invention from the 1890’s, was ready for the challenge. Have you ever used a typewriter?
The Saga of VHS and Betamax
FLASHBACK ‘71: As part of J&R’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, we are looking back to the technologies and product wizardry from bygone epochs (like the, uh, ’70s and ’80s).
Sony establishes solid grounding as an innovative manufacturer with tight patents and trademarks. Their products often rely on Sony dedicated parts to help assure integrity and quality control. When it came to creating a home video system, Sony introduced an open-reel video recorder that only had 30 minutes recording time. It never attracted consumer attention. At one point, videocassettes came in two formats and customers needed to choose among them. Sony exclusively supported their format. Consumers, over time, shifted to the other format. As a result, Sony’s Betamax videocassette system is relegated as one of the once promising technologies that passed away.
