The Evolution of 'Macs' in the PC World
Are Macs still technologically classified as personal computers (PCs) even though the term 'PC' is often used to refer to non-Mac computers? The answer is unequivocally yes. Macs are indeed PCs, but they represent a unique subclass within this broad category. This article delves into the historical context and technical distinctions that make Macs notable within the realm of personal computing.
Historical Context: A Break from Terminals
Before stand-alone computers, people used terminals connected to mainframes. The advent of personal computers marked a significant shift from these centralized systems. Initially, the term 'personal computer' was a powerful marketing tool but less useful in technical discussions. Today, when people refer to desktops, laptops, or tablets, they often use the term 'PC' to denote Microsoft Windows-based systems. The term 'MAC' is more succinct and widely understood to indicate Apple's macOS-based systems.
Technical Underpinnings: The Xerox Alto Precedent
The foundation of the MAC, or Macintosh, goes back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, with the Xerox Alto being a key precursor. The Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) developed a groundbreaking 32-bit system that influenced computing in several ways. Key concepts such as windows, icons, bit-mapped graphics, print servers, and Smalltalk programming language were introduced and later adopted by Apple and Microsoft.
The Xerox Alto and Predecessors
The Xerox Alto was the pioneering model, which was briefly sold as the Xerox Professional Workstation. Both Xerox and Apple faced challenges in selling these high-end systems, with prices around US$18,000. The sales figures failed to meet expectations, highlighting the initial unpopularity of these advanced systems.
Apple's Macintosh and the Lisa
In response to the market realities, Apple developed a more accessible version called the Lisa. However, the Lisa still required a significant financial investment. Apple then launched the first Macintosh with a smaller and more affordable screen, which was due to the 16-bit system's limitation in addressing only about 640K of bit-mapped graphics. This early Macintosh marked a pivotal moment in personal computing history.
Technical Differences: Mac vs. PC
The technical divide between Macs and PCs (or Windows-based systems) is significant. Due to the distinct operating system and hardware architecture, most PC software is incompatible with Mac, and vice versa. This compatibility issue underscores the differences in underlying technologies and user experiences.
From Open Systems to Proprietary Names
The legal battles over proprietary naming rights were also formative in the evolution of personal computing. IBM's initial claim to the 'Personal Computer' name was legally contested, while Xerox eventually lost its attempt to sue Apple and Microsoft for their delayed legal actions.
Conclusion
While Macs are technically PCs, their unique history and technological innovations have carved out a distinct identity. From the Xerox Alto's early influences to Apple's pioneering work, Macs represent a distinct branch within the broader category of personal computers. Despite the evolution of technology, Macs continue to stand out with their distinct identity and technical prowess, making them a vital part of the personal computing landscape.