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Sat, December 14, 2024

Donald Bitzer, a pioneer of cyberspace and plasma screens, dies at 90


Published on 2024-12-14 03:22:17 - MSN
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  • He helped shape cyberculture as the father of PLATO, a computer-based educational network that sparked the development of plasma screens and digital messaging.

Donald Bitzer, a pioneering computer scientist who significantly influenced the development of cyberspace and plasma screen technology, passed away at the age of 90. Bitzer was instrumental in creating PLATO (Programmed Logic for Automatic Teaching Operations) at the University of Illinois, which was one of the first computer-assisted instruction systems and a precursor to modern online learning platforms. PLATO not only facilitated educational advancements but also introduced features like message boards, online games, and instant messaging, laying foundational elements for today's internet culture. Additionally, his work on plasma displays led to the development of flat-screen technology, which has become ubiquitous in modern displays. His contributions have left an indelible mark on both educational technology and consumer electronics.

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[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/technology/tech-companies/donald-bitzer-a-pioneer-of-cyberspace-and-plasma-screens-dies-at-90/ar-AA1vPRBQ ]
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