PDP-1 as minicomputer [was RE: OT - sort of]

[Chuck Guzis]

On 17 Aug 2010 at 17:21, Ethan Dicks wrote:

> So perhaps the PDP-1 was a minicomputer before they had the word for
> it, but I am far too young to comment if it was then _called_ a
> minicomputer, after the word was coined.

I've heard the PB250 and the CDC 160A both called "minicomputers"--
both are substantially smaller in size than the PDP-1.  So it's a 
judgement call.

My own personal yardstick is that a "minicomputer" is something that 
can be run from a single 120V 20A lighting circuit.  The PB250 
qualifies; the 160A does not--and neither does the PDP-1.

Others may use their own yardsticks.

--Chuck