The Apple II Computer (released in 1977) was collected because:

1. The Apple II Computer was the first commercially successful mass market personal computer to be designed as a household or small business item with a moulded plastic case, integrated keyboard, colour graphics and sound. The Apple II could be carried around and any TV set used as a display screen. A subsequent more compact model, the IIc, featured an integrated floppy drive, a carry handle and optional LCD screen, making it the first truly mobile personal computer. They were widely used in businesses and schools.

The Apple II introduced a generation of school children, teachers and businesses to desktop computing.

The Apple II was followed by several other computers such as the Apple II+, Apple Euro, Apple IIe, Apple IIc and Apple IIgs as well as an Apple III. None of these computers has been collected as this line of computer development was ultimately terminated and incorporated few innovations. The Apple II started with cassette storage and then used 5.25 inch floppy disks. Later models used 3.5 inch floppy disks. The Apple IIgs used a mouse, but this was after the release of the Lisa and Macintosh, which also used such a device.

2.The Apple II paved the way for the subsequent development of the Lisa and Macintosh with their graphical user interface and Windows, Icons, Menus and Pointing device (WIMP), characteristics, which became universal in personal computing.

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