The MITS Altair 8800 is widely considered the spark that ignited the personal computer revolution. Based on the Intel 8080 microprocessor, it was sold as a kit for hobbyists for about $400. It had no keyboard or monitor; users programmed it using switches on the front panel and read results via blinking LEDs. Despite its limitations, it proved there was a massive demand for individual computing power. The Altair is also historically significant because it inspired Bill Gates and Paul Allen to write a BASIC interpreter for it, leading to the formation of Microsoft. Shortly after, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak developed the Apple I, further moving the computer out of large institutional basements and onto the desks of everyday people.