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Minicomputers & Workstations

DEC PDP-8

The first computer to sell for under $20,000, introduced on March 22, 1965 at $18,500.

The PDP-8 was a 12-bit minicomputer from Digital Equipment Corporation. The first model, later called the Straight-8, was introduced on 22 March 1965 for $18,500.

A basic PDP-8/S later sold for under $10,000, the first computer to reach that price. Over 50,000 units were sold. Edson de Castro was chief engineer of the first version. He later founded Data General.

Why it matters

It was the first computer sold for under $20,000 and the best-selling computer in history at the time. It defined the minicomputer class.

Key facts

  • Introduced March 22, 1965 at $18,500.
  • 12-bit word size.
  • Over 50,000 units sold.
  • The PDP-8/S was the first computer under $10,000.
  • Edson de Castro was chief engineer.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, "PDP-8", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/PDP-8, accessed October 14, 2026.
  2. Wikipedia, "Digital Equipment Corporation", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Digital_Equipment_Corporation, background reading, accessed October 14, 2026.