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In BugBook Micro Museum '08 - Mark 8 Microcomputer of 1974

Submitted by LCF Group - David, Gaynell & Dee on 2008-01-17 and viewed 12451 times.
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David Larsen describes the significance of this Mark 8 microcomputer from 1974. His former colleague, Jon Titus, designed it.



Another display item from Dave's historical collection ofmicrocomputers-- a 1974 Mark 8 Microcomputer-- at the "micro" museum at Floyd Village Green, Floyd Virginia.  

THE MARK 8 MICROCOMPUTER - 1974

This computer is consideredto be the first one available for an individual to actually own and use—his or her very own computer!  David's colleague, Dr. Jon Titus, designed the Mark 8 while still a graduate student atVirginia Tech in 1974.

David says:

Jon published the construction details in Radio Electronics May/June/July issues 1974.  The original Mark 8 shown on the cover of Radio Electronics is on display in the SmithsonianMuseum in Washington, DC.  Jon received much recognition and wonderful awards including the “George R. Stibitz Computer & Communications Pioneer Award”for his pioneering work which led the way for personal microcomputing.  He was a major partner in the BlacksburgGroup as a writer/editor and designer of computers.  The Blacksburg Group finished its publishing and product development efforts in the early 80’s.  Jon continued his career in electronics aseditor of several major electronic publications for many years.  He has retired from the publishing field; heand his wife Jane now live in Utah and Jon does consulting and enjoys family time.

There is a lot of information about Jon Titus’s creation of the Mark 8 Microcomputer on the web. One site is www.bycollector.com/mark_8html   take a look here or just Google Mark 8 microcomputer.

For history buffs like me,this is a fascinating story and I was lucky to have worked with Jon for over 10 years in a really great and successful adventure at the very start of the microcomputer revolution.


This 1974 Mark 8 is on display at Floyd Professional Center,at the Village Green in Floyd (Suite #8).

Floyd Professional Centerhighlights the skills and talents ofFloyd County's people, while coaxing visitors and residents toward a strong, wealthy, technology-based future. Floyd Professional Center is an appealing stop at the Village Green for visitors and customers, so come on by!!

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