Why is the computer called PC?

PC (personal computer), the word personal computer originated from IBM's first desktop computer model PC in 1978, before which there was Apple II's personal computer. A personal computer that can run independently and complete specific functions. Personal computers can work independently without having to enjoy the processing, disks, printers and other resources of other computers. Today, the term personal computer refers to all personal computers, such as desktop computers, notebook computers, or personal computers compatible with IBM systems.

In the history of computer development, there were ten periods when computers were divided into supercomputers, large computers (supercomputers), medium-sized computers, small computers and microcomputers according to their functions and sizes. In the 2 years after the invention of computers, supercomputers are generally the mainstay. Generally speaking, programmers are responsible for programming, while special input personnel are responsible for input and output. Therefore, the popularity and wide application of microcomputers should be attributed to the invention of Apple computer (the product of Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple Computer Company) and the PC produced by IBM. Therefore, the difference between PC and Apple computer is that one uses DOS operating system, and the other uses the proprietary operating system of Apple computer.

Because Macs are exclusively produced, IBM has published the standards of each module component of its products, so that other companies can produce compatible computers according to these interface standards, thus, the concepts of PC and compatible computer have become popular.

Therefore, PC and Mac stand for two types of machines respectively. At the same time, the concept of compatible computer has also emerged. A compatible computer refers to a computer compatible with IBM PC.

From the above, it can be seen that both PC and Mac belong to microcomputer (microcomputer for short).