The year 1968 was pivotal not just for its social and political upheavals but also for its groundbreaking contributions to technology and innovation. Here, we explore the top 10 inventions of 1968 that have had a lasting impact on our world.
1. The First RAM Chip
In 1968, IBM introduced the first dynamic random-access memory (DRAM) chip. This was a significant breakthrough in computer technology, as it allowed for much greater storage capacity and faster processing speeds compared to previous memory systems. The DRAM chip, which utilized capacitors and transistors to store each bit of data, became a foundational component in the evolution of computers.
The introduction of DRAM changed the landscape of computing by enabling more complex and powerful applications. Prior to DRAM, computers used magnetic core memory, which was bulky and slow. With the advent of DRAM, computers could handle larger programs and datasets, paving the way for the development of modern operating systems and applications. This innovation was a crucial step in the miniaturization and performance enhancement of computers, ultimately leading to the advanced technology we use today.
2. The Computer Mouse
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| Photo: Courtesy of Time |
The mouse allowed users to point and click on a computer screen, making computing more intuitive and accessible. This invention laid the groundwork for the development of personal computers and user-friendly software. The impact of the computer mouse is still felt today, as it remains a ubiquitous input device in desktop computing environments. Engelbart's visionary work in human-computer interaction has left an indelible mark on technology and how we engage with digital information.
3. The 747 Jumbo Jet
Boeing introduced the 747 jumbo jet, known as the "Queen of the Skies," in 1968. This aircraft was the first wide-body airplane, significantly increasing passenger capacity and reducing costs per seat-mile. The 747's design included a distinctive hump on its upper deck, allowing for a luxurious lounge area or additional seating. The first 747 rolled out of the factory on September 30, 1968, and it made its maiden flight on February 9, 1969.
The introduction of the 747 revolutionized air travel by making long-haul flights more affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the population. Its range and capacity enabled airlines to offer non-stop transcontinental and transoceanic flights, fundamentally changing global travel patterns. The 747 became an icon of the jet age and set new standards for comfort, safety, and efficiency in aviation. Over its decades of service, the 747 has transported millions of passengers and played a vital role in the globalization of commerce and tourism.
4. The Apollo Guidance Computer
The Apollo Guidance Computer (AGC) was an essential component of NASA's Apollo missions, including the successful Apollo 8 mission in 1968. Designed by MIT engineers, the AGC was one of the first computers to use integrated circuits, making it compact and reliable enough for space travel. On December 21, 1968, Apollo 8 launched with the AGC guiding astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders to become the first humans to orbit the Moon.
The AGC's role in the Apollo missions was critical, as it handled navigation, guidance, and control functions necessary for lunar exploration. Its development marked a significant advancement in computer technology, utilizing real-time processing capabilities and pioneering software engineering techniques. The success of the AGC demonstrated the feasibility of using computers in complex, mission-critical applications, influencing the design of future spacecraft and other high-reliability systems. The legacy of the AGC continues to inspire advancements in aerospace and computer engineering.
5. The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)
Invented by Richard Morley in 1968, the first programmable logic controller (PLC) revolutionized industrial automation. PLCs replaced hard-wired relay systems with programmable electronic devices, offering greater flexibility and efficiency in controlling manufacturing processes. The first PLC, the Modicon 084, was designed for General Motors to automate assembly lines, significantly improving reliability and ease of reprogramming.
The introduction of PLCs transformed the manufacturing industry by enabling more sophisticated and adaptable automation solutions. PLCs could be easily programmed to handle different tasks and processes, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. Their robustness and scalability made them ideal for a wide range of applications, from automotive manufacturing to chemical processing and beyond. The impact of PLCs on industrial automation continues to be profound, as they remain a cornerstone of modern automated systems.
6. The Liquid-Crystal Display (LCD)
In 1968, George Heilmeier, a researcher at RCA, made significant advancements in the development of liquid-crystal display (LCD) technology. Heilmeier's work on dynamic scattering mode (DSM) LCDs paved the way for the widespread use of this technology in digital displays. LCDs use liquid crystals sandwiched between glass panels, with electrical currents aligning the crystals to modulate light and produce images. This technology allows for thin, lightweight, and energy-efficient screens compared to the bulkier cathode-ray tube (CRT) displays.
The practical applications of LCD technology were immediately apparent, initially finding use in digital watches and calculators. Over time, improvements in LCD technology enabled its adoption in computer monitors, televisions, and mobile devices. The development of LCDs marked a significant advancement in display technology, providing clear, vibrant images while consuming less power. Today, LCDs are ubiquitous in consumer electronics, significantly influencing the design and functionality of modern gadgets.
7. The Laser Printer
Gary Starkweather, a researcher at Xerox, began developing the laser printer in 1968. This invention revolutionized office and home printing by enabling high-speed, high-quality printouts. The laser printer uses a laser beam to produce an image on a drum, which is then transferred to paper using toner. Starkweather's prototype led to the creation of the Xerox 9700, the first commercial laser printer, released in 1977.
The laser printer's impact on document management and production has been profound. It provided a significant improvement in print quality and speed compared to previous printing technologies. The ability to produce crisp, clean text and graphics made laser printers indispensable in business environments. Over time, laser printers became more affordable and accessible, finding their way into homes and small offices. This innovation has greatly enhanced productivity and efficiency in document handling and remains a vital tool in modern workplaces.
8. The ARPANET
The groundwork for ARPANET, the precursor to the modern Internet, was laid in 1968 by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) of the U.S. Department of Defense. ARPANET was designed to be a robust, fault-tolerant network for communication between computers at different locations. The first successful message transmission over ARPANET occurred on October 29, 1969, linking computers at UCLA and Stanford Research Institute.
ARPANET's development introduced key concepts such as packet switching, which became fundamental to the design of the modern Internet. The network allowed researchers to share data and resources efficiently, fostering collaboration and innovation. ARPANET's success demonstrated the feasibility of wide-area networking and set the stage for the development of the global Internet. The principles and technologies pioneered by ARPANET continue to underpin the structure and operation of the Internet today, connecting billions of people and devices worldwide.
9. The DynaTAC Cell Phone Prototype
In 1968, Martin Cooper and his team at Motorola began working on the DynaTAC (Dynamic Adaptive Total Area Coverage) project, which aimed to create the first handheld mobile phone. Although the first public demonstration of the DynaTAC prototype occurred in 1973, the foundational research and development work began in 1968. The DynaTAC was a revolutionary step towards mobile communication, featuring a compact and portable design compared to the car phones of the time.
The initial DynaTAC prototype weighed around 2.5 pounds and measured about 10 inches in length, with a battery life of approximately 20 minutes. Despite its size and limited battery life, the DynaTAC represented a significant leap forward in telecommunications technology. This invention laid the groundwork for the modern mobile phone industry, ultimately leading to the development of sleek, powerful smartphones that are now an integral part of daily life. The pioneering work of Cooper and his team at Motorola highlighted the potential for personal, portable communication, changing how people connect and communicate globally.
Conclusion
The inventions of 1968 have had a profound impact on technology and society, laying the foundation for many of the devices and systems we rely on today. From computing and aviation to industrial automation and display technology, these innovations have transformed our world in countless ways. As we reflect on these remarkable achievements, we can appreciate the ingenuity and vision of the inventors who helped shape the future.