CP/M forty years on – what it was, and why it still matters

CP/M, the first significant operating system for microcomputers, marked its 40th anniversary, having been widely adopted in the early 1980s. It was compatible with various desktop computers, including those from Apple, and was prevalent in UK schools. However, its dominance ended with the rise of MS-DOS, as CP/M struggled to adapt to evolving hardware capabilities. CP/M's success stemmed from its ability to provide a standardized operating environment across diverse hardware, allowing programmers to write software without needing to tailor it for each machine. It featured a layered design with a Basic Input Output System (BIOS) and a Basic Disk Operating System (BDOS), which simplified hardware interactions. Despite its limitations, such as only running one program at a time and lacking memory management, CP/M supported essential applications like word processors and spreadsheets. Its programming interface laid the groundwork for modern operating systems, influencing subsequent systems like MS-DOS and Linux. While CP/M has a niche following today, its legacy highlights the importance of simplicity and maintainability in computing, especially in light of current global supply chain challenges. The ongoing relevance of CP/M serves as a reminder of the foundational principles of computing that continue to resonate in today's technology landscape.

- CP/M was the first major operating system for microcomputers, widely used in the early 1980s.

- It provided a standardized environment for diverse hardware, enabling easier software development.

- Despite its obsolescence, CP/M's design principles influenced modern operating systems.

- The current global supply chain issues highlight the importance of maintainable and robust technology.

- CP/M retains a loyal following, reflecting its historical significance in computing.