Celebrating Mark Dean: The Pioneer of Personal Computing

As we celebrate Black History Month, it's essential to recognize the remarkable contributions of Black Americans who have shaped our world. One such individual is Dr. Mark Dean, a trailblazing computer scientist and engineer whose work has had a profound impact on personal computing and, by extension, our daily lives.

The Genius Behind the Personal Computer

Dr. Mark Dean, born on March 2, 1957, in Jefferson City, Tennessee, is a name synonymous with innovation in the field of computing. Dean's journey began with a passion for technology and invention, which he pursued through his education and career. He holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Tennessee, a master's degree from Florida Atlantic University, and a Ph.D. from Stanford University.

Dean's most notable achievement came during his tenure at IBM, where he played a pivotal role in the development of the IBM personal computer (PC) released in 1981. He co-created the Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, which allowed additional components to be connected to the PC, making it more versatile and user-friendly. Dean holds three of IBM's original nine PC patents, a testament to his invaluable contributions to the field as a Black American.

The Impact of Personal Computing

The advent of personal computing revolutionized the way we live, work, and play. Computers have become an integral part of our daily lives, influencing everything from communication and education to healthcare and entertainment. The accessibility and affordability of personal computers have democratized technology, allowing individuals from all walks of life to harness its power.

One of the most significant impacts of personal computing is in the realm of gaming. The PC gaming market has grown exponentially over the years, with a global market size valued at USD 50.23 billion in 2022 and expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.9% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is fueled by the rising number of professional gamers, the popularity of esports, and the increasing interest in virtual entertainment.

PC Gaming: A Thriving Industry

PC gaming continues to grow beyond a cultural phenomenon, attracting millions of players worldwide. From big-budget titles to indie releases, the diversity and creativity in PC gaming are unparalleled. Games developed on PCs have pushed the boundaries of storytelling, graphics, and gameplay, providing immersive experiences that captivate players.

The impact of PC gaming extends beyond entertainment. It has fostered communities, created careers, and even influenced technological advancements. The development of high-end gaming hardware, such as powerful graphics cards and monitors, has driven innovation in the tech industry.

Food for thought: Imagine if anti-Black racism got in the way of Mark Dean, where would we be today?

Fun fact: In 2005, Lenovo acquired IBM's Personal Computing Division, which included the ThinkPad line of laptops. This acquisition allowed Lenovo to expand its presence in the global market and leverage IBM's established reputation in the PC industry. Today, Lenovo operates as an independent multinational technology company headquartered in Beijing, China, and Morrisville, North Carolina. They continue to produce and innovate in the personal computing space, among other technology sectors.

A Tribute to Mark Dean

As we reflect on the contributions of Black people during Black History Month, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Mark Dean. His pioneering work in personal computing has touched the lives of nearly everyone, making technology more accessible and transforming the way we interact with the digital world. So, thank you, Dr. Mark Dean. Happy Black History Month, and game on!

More on Mark Dean | Wikipedia | Famous Black Inventors

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New Survey - Wants VS Needs: Ease the fight for entertainment and wants!

According to a Mind & Money Connection survey, people are refusing to give up certain expenses even though they are considered non-essential.

The top expenses include:

• 'Treat Yourself' Purchases (like morning coffee) - 30.1%
• Health & Wellness (gym memberships, therapy, etc.) - 29.3%
• Media & Entertainment (streaming, music subscriptions) - 26.9%
• Experiences (movie tickets, concerts, theme parks) - 26.7%
• Social Activities (dining out, clubs, sports) - 22.5%

I can understand the desire to maintain certain health/wellness, and some extras to add normalcy during tough times, but there are options worth considering.

For those who want to hold onto non-essentials, I suggest exploring more affordable alternatives:

• Amazon Prime provides good entertainment value in addition to free shipping
  - Amazon offers monthly payment plans
  - Amazon provides TV/Film, Games, Music, and More in one service
  - Grubhub orders are free through Amazon Prime
• Free streaming services like FreeVee, Pluto TV, Tubi
• Buy good coffee to make at home
• Free-to-play gaming options, discounts/bundles and games you already own
• Thrift stores and second-hand shops for clothing
• Travel or enjoy a nice affordable staycation

The key is to budget and do your research, get creative with free/low-cost options, and prioritize covering essential expenses first. Resources like the $30 Now Home Internet service can help make entertainment and work accessible if you need to cut a cost.

Remember, there are also assistance programs in the U.S. for the less fortunate. With discipline and a good plan, you can hopefully get through this challenging time and establish a budget. For saving, Paypal actually has a saving account option that provides you with 4.30%, so if you plug a small amount of money into it on a consistent basis you can benefit.

Lastly, Rideshare drivers, you can make $1200/year without additional work by signing up for a tablet to entertain your passengers. There is no charge for you and tips may increase due to the added entertainment.

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