The World's First Microprocessor: F-14 Central Air Data Computer

The history of the first microprocessor is murky and ill-defined. For years, the Intel 4004 was generally accepted to hold the title. However, in 1998, the historical record was rewritten as the existence of an earlier system was revealed to the world.

In this video, we'll learn about the MP944, and why many now consider it the first microprocessor. Regardless of whether it was or not, it was extremely complex for its day.

3D Modelling by Artem Tatarchenko:
https://www.instagram.com/artem.iskustvo?igsh=MWJ3ejI5dGcyanduYg==

Sources available at: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/33zge1lfef4fxqsxmcp33/f14-sources.ods?rlkey=tmpdkjaf2n4tzr38y2th1owes&dl=0

F-14 footage from US National Archives

Thumbnail inspired by:
https://www.f14flybyphoto.com/

Mainframe computer footage from:
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Opening_gemeenschappelijk_administratie_kantoor_in_Amsterdam-

IBM 1401 Model by Breno Valli:
https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/ibm-1401-mainframe-date-1959-0d5ead7d38c84a5c916b214c50ca0a77

PDP-1 Model by eastcoastinteractive:
https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/pdp-1-computer-2bf2f166747643eea4a82030b33e461e

VW Beetle model by hegedusflorin:
https://www.cgtrader.com/free-3d-models/car/antique-car/vw-kafer-1963

Intro music by Karl Casey @ White Bat Audio:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=de68pYYHbks

00:00 Intro
04:35 The need for a flight computer
13:45 What IS a microprocessor?
24:30 MP944 Capability
28:40 System architecture
41:00 Programming the CADC
45:42 Intel 4004, the next best thing
52:01 Conclusions