AllYouCanTech

Computers used to occupy an entire room. Indeed. A single, low-powered computer that was significantly less capable than the phone you carry today was also exponentially larger. But that wasn’t the only oversized aspect of that era. Older computer hard drives, featuring interchangeable disk packs, were roughly the size of an average washing machine. Notable models included the IBM Model 1311, which utilized Model 1316 disk packs.

Each disk pack had a capacity of approximately 2 million characters, equivalent to 12 million bits (1.5 megabytes). Even the disk packs alone — not the full hard drive — weighed around nine pounds, which is astonishing compared to today’s storage solutions. A flash drive weighs merely a fraction of that and offers much greater storage capacities.

Their size was primarily due to the large 14-inch platters inside, similar to conventional hard drives, used for data storage. The platters were so sizable and stacked that the pack resembled a large metal canister rather than a contemporary hard drive. Most were designed for accountants managing extensive and diverse datasets, and they came with a hefty price tag. The disks in the IBM 1311 could be swapped out, but the process was quite challenging due to the need for precise alignment of the disk head — the component responsible for reading the drives.

Consider how these massive systems were managed or retired once they reached the end of their lifespan. Especially since there are numerous practical applications for old work computers today. Laptops are portable enough to be repurposed, but if they were the size of a room or washing machine, that would certainly not be feasible.

How were the interchangeable drives connected to computers back then?

Nowadays, there are countless storage options beyond traditional hard drives, all compact and portable. You can easily carry them in a purse, backpack, or pocket. Additionally, they can be quickly connected to USB ports on laptops or phones. The classic disk drives, however, functioned differently.

The Model 1311 was available in five versions, from Model 1 to Model 5, and generally served as the first or master drive when linked to specific mainframe computers. For instance, Model 1 would operate as the master when connected to either an IBM 1440 data processing system or an IBM 240 bank data processing system. However, for the IBM 1401 data processing system, Model 4 was designated as the master. Similarly, Model 3 served as the master for an IBM 1620 data processing system. The arrangement varied for each type of computer and drive, meaning they couldn’t just be plugged into any system arbitrarily.

The initial drive functioned as the controlling unit with the necessary circuitry, lights, and switches and was directly connected to the compatible computers. Additional drives could be linked through the 1311, expanding storage as long as the correct master unit was in use.

Picture the amount of space needed in a computing room, particularly when multiple disk units were attached. Future innovations eventually led to the technologies we have today, making hard drives and SSDs significantly more compact. Ultra-compact drives that can connect to your phone now store millions more bytes of data. My, how everything has evolved.

personal laptops capable of playing the newest games while being slimmer than books. Nonetheless, due to recent changes in the industry, they may be replaced by a rather distinctive kind of computer: the mini PC. This doesn’t imply that individuals will forsake laptops; rather, mini PC sales could surpass those of laptops and traditional desktops.

As the name suggests, mini PCs are computers with incredibly compact designs. They can be entirely concealed and mounted behind a monitor, making them ideal for users who lack the space for a full-sized tower PC. Contrary to their palm-sized dimensions, mini PCs remain fully operational computers equipped with all essential components, merely condensed into a tiny casing. Unlike laptops, mini PCs cannot be used unless you supply an external power source (like a wall outlet) or connect a monitor, mouse, and keyboard, but they are still portable.

Theoretically, if you possess a hybrid job that allows you to work both in the office and at home, you could utilize a mini PC at your cubicle for all professional tasks, tuck the device into your pocket, and then pick up right where you left off the next day in the comfort of your residence. While this could also be accomplished with a laptop, you would need a backpack for storage. Mini PCs are set to become the new standard due to advancements in technology and upheavals in the computer sector. Generally, consumers prefer low-power devices that occupy minimal desk space.

Smart TVs have evolved significantly from the flat screens that initially succeeded bulky television sets. They have transformed into technology-driven entertainment centers that can stream, game, and surf the web. The market is saturated with choices, and there is practically a smart TV available for every budget these days. For casual viewers, nearly any contemporary smart TV will suffice. However, for those looking to enhance their movie-watching experience, selecting the right television can make a notable impact. Cinematic enthusiasts expect more from a smart TV, and we’ve embarked on a quest to find models that meet those standards.

The distinction between a cinematic movie-watching experience and a regular afternoon in front of the TV is determined by a few key features and picture technologies that contribute to an immersive viewing setting. Aspects like color precision, filmmaker modes, HDR capabilities, and even viewing angles that can accommodate a full group of movie buffs on screening night are significant here. Rtings evaluates over 500 recently launched smart TVs with a home theater rating, and keeping that in mind, we have chosen some smart TVs that particularly excel for film aficionados.