Minicomputers

PDP-8 family advertisement

A later model in the PDP-8 family of minicomputers is under the heel of a miniskirted young woman.

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Less is More: Smaller, Simpler, Cheaper

This new kind of computer, smaller and simpler than mainframes, was designed to interact directly with users and the outside world. A flexible, inexpensive tool, it brought computers within the reach of a larger and more diverse range of customers.

Minis also sparked a new generation of computer companies. Competition accelerated innovation and reduced prices, spurring broad adoption.