The name of the small computer introduced in 1975 by Micro Instrumentation Telemetry Systems of New Mexico is the Altair 8800. This groundbreaking device is considered one of the first personal computers ever created, paving the way for the technological revolution that would follow. The Altair 8800 was a kit computer, meaning users had to assemble it themselves. Despite this, it quickly gained popularity among hobbyists and tech enthusiasts for its relatively low cost and impressive capabilities. The computer featured an Intel 8080 microprocessor and could be programmed using the BASIC programming language. One of the key features of the Altair 8800 was its expandability. Users could add additional memory, input/output devices, and other components to customize their computer to suit their needs. This flexibility made the Altair 8800 a versatile and powerful tool for experimentation and learning. The Altair 8800 also played a significant role in the early days of the personal computer industry. It inspired a generation of computer enthusiasts to start their own companies and develop new innovations in the field. Some of the most well-known figures in the industry, such as Bill Gates and Paul Allen, got their start by programming for the Altair 8800. Today, the Altair 8800 is considered a collector's item and a piece of computing history. It is a reminder of how far technology has come in just a few decades and a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of its creators. To learn more about the Altair 8800 and its impact on the history of computing, visit the Computer History Museum's website at computerhistory.org. You can also explore the Altair 8800 exhibit at the museum in Mountain View, California, to see this iconic computer up close and learn more about its significance in the evolution of technology.

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