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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Tech This Out: $avings Edition

Are you looking to cut down on your household expenses? Well, this is the article for you. With the right technology, you can save money on both bills and groceries. Here are some smart tech options available that can help you start to achieve just that:

 Energy Savings 

Smart Thermostats: Install a smart thermostat like the Amazon Smart Thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule and preferences. This can help reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling bills.

LED Lighting: Switch to LED light bulbs such as the Philips Hue White A19 LED Smart Bulbs. They use less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Invest in energy-efficient appliances like the Kenmore 24" Front Control Built-In Dishwasher with the Energy Star label to ensure they meet high efficiency standards.

Smart Power Strips: Use smart power strips like the TP-Link Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip to cut off power to devices that are not in use.

 Water Savings 

Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow showerheads and faucets such as the Niagara Conservation Earth Massage Handheld Showerhead to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance. I haven't had an issue since replacing my showerhead with a Niagara.

Smart Irrigation Systems: Use smart irrigation systems like the Orbit B-hyve Smart Sprinkler Timer to optimize watering schedules based on weather conditions and soil moisture levels.

 Groceries Savings 

Grocery Apps: Use Amazon's grocery section of the app + Walmart to compare prices, find discounts, and create shopping lists.

Meal Planning Apps: Plan your meals using apps like Mealime or Paprika. Meal planning helps you buy only what you need, reducing food waste and saving money on groceries.

Online Coupons: Use Amazon coupons, Walmart savings, or an app like Rakuten to find digital coupons and cashback offers for groceries.

Subscription Services: Consider using discount grocery subscription services like Imperfect Foods or Misfits Market to get discounted groceries delivered to your door. Walmart & Amazon both allow you to do subscriptions of desired items as well, but the main options we highlight here are for discount focused options.

 General Savings 

Home Automation Systems: Implement a home automation system like the Amazon Echo Hub to control various devices in your home.

Smart Plugs: Use smart plugs like the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Plug to control and schedule the operation of your appliances.

Energy Monitoring Devices: Use energy monitoring devices like the Sense Energy Monitor to track your energy consumption in real-time.

Gasoline savings: Use free gas station memberships to save on gas periodically or use the Prime Earnify deal to save 10 cent per gallon if you're a Prime subscriber.

By budgeting and incorporating smart tech options into your home, you can make significant savings on both your bills and groceries. Happy saving and game on!

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