1999 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights
1999 Computing & Technology Events — Verified Historical Highlights | TakeMeBack.to
- 26 Feb Intel launches 500 MHz Pentium III processor: On February 26, 1999, Intel officially launched its 500 MHz Pentium III processor, marking a significant advancement in computing technology. This new processor was designed to enhance performance for both personal and business computing applications. The launch was part of Intel's strategy to maintain its leadership in the semiconductor industry. source: intel.com
- 25 Mar Melissa computer worm attacks internet infrastructure: On March 25, 1999, the Melissa computer worm was released, causing widespread disruption to email systems and internet infrastructure. It exploited Microsoft Word and spread rapidly, affecting thousands of users. source: cnet.com
- 26 Mar Melissa computer virus global attack: The Melissa virus, which began spreading on March 26, 1999, led to significant disruptions in email services worldwide. It was one of the first major email viruses, highlighting vulnerabilities in digital communication. source: cnet.com
- 01 Apr Melissa Virus Creator Arrested: David L. Smith, the creator of the notorious Melissa computer virus, was arrested at his brother's home in Eatontown, New Jersey, just six days after introducing the virus to the internet. This arrest was a significant moment in early cybercrime enforcement.
- 28 Apr Arthur Leonard Schawlow: Nobel Prize physicist: Arthur Leonard Schawlow, an American physicist, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1981 for his work on laser spectroscopy. He made significant contributions to the field of optics and laser technology, which have had lasting impacts on science and technology. source: britannica.com
- 31 Aug Apple introduces Power Mac G4: Apple unveiled the Power Mac G4, its next-generation desktop computer, at the Seybold conference in San Francisco. Powered by the new PowerPC G4 processor, the G4 chip incorporates the Velocity Engine, delivering supercomputer-level performance to the desktop. source: apple.com
- 21 Sep Chi-Chi Earthquake Technical Details: The Chi-Chi earthquake, also known as the 1999 Jiji earthquake, occurred on September 21, 1999, with a magnitude of 7.6. It resulted in significant ground displacement and triggered numerous landslides, causing extensive damage in central Taiwan. source: pubs.usgs.gov
- 01 Oct Open Computing Center established in Sarov: The Open Computing Center was established in Sarov, Russia, on October 1, 1999, aimed at promoting open access to computing resources and fostering collaboration in scientific research. This initiative marked a significant step in the post-Soviet era for scientific transparency. source: sciencedirect.com
- 23 Oct Apple Releases Mac OS 9: Apple Computer released Mac OS 9 on October 23, 1999. This operating system introduced features like improved performance, enhanced networking, and better integration with the internet. source: en.wikipedia.org
- 13 Dec Charles Hatfield's controversial rain-making incident in San Diego: On December 13, 1999, Charles Hatfield's rain-making efforts in San Diego were met with controversy. His methods, which involved the use of chemicals, raised questions about their effectiveness and safety, leading to public debate. source: bbc.com
- 31 Dec Y2K Computer System Concerns: Widespread global anxiety emerged about potential computer system failures due to the Year 2000 (Y2K) bug, with fears of widespread technological disruptions as the new millennium approached.
What happened in 1999?
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