Bendix G-15 - Significance

Significance

The G-15 is sometimes described as the first personal computer, because it had the Intercom interpretive system. The title is disputed by other machines, such as the LINC and the PDP-8, and some maintain that only microcomputers, such as those which appeared in the 1970s, can be called personal computers. Nevertheless, the machine's low acquisition and operating costs, and the fact that it did not require a dedicated operator, meant that organizations could allow users complete access to the machine.

Over 400 G-15s were manufactured. About 300 G-15s were installed in the United States and a few were sold in other countries such as Australia and Canada. The machine found a niche in civil engineering, where it was used to solve cut and fill problems. Some have survived and have made their way to computer museums or science and technology museums around the world.

Huskey received one of the last production G15s, fitted with a gold-plated front panel.