Tools

These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.

Background

Digital computers have existed in various forms since the early 1940s. One of the most prominent computers of the time, the ENIAC, used vacuum tubes and was considered to be the first general purpose electronic computer. However, computer manufacturers in the early 1960s started using transistors. The development of integrated circuits (ICs) made computers steadily increase in computing power, all the while bringing down costs of manufacture and power consumption.

By the 1980s the first personal computers came on the market, giving the casual user unparalleled computing abilities at home.

Identification

Identifying exactly which computer you own can sometimes be a challenge, depending on the manufacturer. Usually the manufacturer name is listed on the front, while the exact model number may be found on the back. You may also be able to get the device itself to provide more information by accessing files stored on the machine.

Additional Information