November 15, 1971
Intel 4004 microprocessor introduced
Intel introduced the 4004 on November 15, 1971 — the first commercially available microprocessorA CPU on a single integrated circuit — the heart of personal computers and countless embedded devices., a 4-bit CPUCentral processing unit — the primary chip that executes program instructions. with about 2,300 transistorA tiny semiconductor switch that can amplify or gate signals — replaced relays and enabled compact computers.s.
What it was for
Designed for Busicom calculators, the 4004 proved a full CPUCentral processing unit — the primary chip that executes program instructions. could live on one chip — enabling embedded systemA computer built into a device for a dedicated task — from car brakes to router firmware.s, hobby computers, and the personal computer revolution. Intel followed with the 8-bit 8008 and 8080 that powered the Altair and early PCPersonal computer — a computer designed for individual use, especially desktop or laptop machines.s.
Companies
- Intel
Why it's here
The 4004 was the first microprocessorA CPU on a single integrated circuit — the heart of personal computers and countless embedded devices. sold as a commercial product.
Why it mattered
Putting a CPUCentral processing unit — the primary chip that executes program instructions. on a chip made computers cheap enough to embed everywhere.
What it solved
Logic boards needed many discrete chips; a single programmable processor cut cost and size.
Media
ImageIntel 4004 microprocessorLucaDetomi, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Related
- Intel 8086 introducedJune 1978
- Altair 8800 releasedJanuary 1975
- Gordon Moore and Robert Noyce found IntelJuly 18, 1968