One of the most important technological innovations of the 20th century has been the development and use of the high-speed, multipurpose computer. For many, actual interaction with a computer has become a part of daily life, be it at work, school, or home. This report provides a first attempt to provide information about how computers are distributed, who uses them, and how they are being used. Data are from the October 1984 CPS, which included questions sponsored by the National Center for Education Statistics on the availability of computers to persons at home and the use of computers when one was present at home, work, or school.

Appendicies

Appendix A. Survey Definitions and Explanations [<1.0 MB]

Appendix B. Source and Reliability of Data [<1.0 MB]

Appendix C. Computer Ownership and Use Questions: October 1984 CPS [<1.0 MB]

Tables

Table 1. Households with Computers and Year of Purchase, by Presence of Children, Family Income, and Age of Householder: October 1984 [<1.0 MB]

Table 2. Use of Computers at Home and School, by Persons 3 to 17 Years Old: October 1984 [<1.0 MB]

Table 3. Purposes and Frequency of Computer Use at Home by Persons 3 to 17 Years Old: October 1984 [<1.0 MB]

Table 4. Use of Computers at Home, School, and Work by Persons 18 Years and Older: October 1984 [<1.0 MB]

Table 5. Purposes and Frequency of Computer Use at Home by Persons 18 Years and Over: October 1984 [<1.0 MB]

A Note on Language

Census statistics date back to 1790 and reflect the growth and change of the United States. Past census reports contain some terms that today’s readers may consider obsolete and inappropriate. As part of our goal to be open and transparent with the public, we are improving access to all Census Bureau original publications and statistics, which serve as a guide to the nation's history.

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Related Information

Computer and Internet Use Publications

Current Population Survey Publications

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