This book introduces the history of the invention of computers, including John V. Atanasoff and Clifford E. Berry’s Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC), the Harvard Mark I, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), the Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic Computer (EDVAC), the Universal Automatic Computer (UNIVAC), William “Bill” Henry Gates, Paul Allen, Microsoft Corporation, and software development, Steven P. Jobs, Stephen G. Wozniak, and Apple Computer Inc., and supercomputers such as IBM’s BlueGene/L, the world’s fastest supercomputer. Other chapters delve into computer parts from software and hardware to microprocessors and the graphical-user interface (GUI). Other sections cover different kinds of computers, including digital, analog, and hybrid computers, personal computers, Macs, desktops, laptops, notebooks, and personal digital assistants (PDAs), as well as the game designers, programmers, and salespeople who work with computers. Fun facts discuss J. Presper Eckert Jr., John Mauchly, and Stephen G. Wozniak’s induction into the Inventors Hall of Fame, Douglas Engelbart’s invention of the mouse, Charles Babbage’s Analytical Engine, and Augusta Ada King, the Countess of Lovelace’s early work with computer programming. The book also addresses the computer as a homework tool, the importance of computer safety and supervision, networks, servers, and the history of the Internet, including ARPANet, the World Wide Web, and browsers. Full-color photographs, informative diagrams, glossary words in bold, a graphic timeline, and an index enhance this engaging, easy-to-read text about computers, a continually improving everyday invention. Checkerboard Library is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.