Ed Smith

Ed Smith is recognized as a significant figure in the history of technology, particularly for his contributions as one of the few African American engineers involved in video game design during the 1970s. Smith was the first African American to work on the design of a personal computer, specifically the only hybrid video game and personal computer ever released. He co-created APF Electronics' game console, the "MP1000," and its companion device, "The Imagination Machine," both of which hold a place in the evolution of consumer electronics and video game history. During a period when Black Americans faced ongoing challenges for social justice, APF Electronics hired Smith to design core elements of its electronics business in Manhattan.

Smith's entry into engineering followed an unconventional path. At 14, his father encouraged him to pursue a chauffeur's license, but Smith focused on academics and secured a position at Marbelite, a major manufacturer of traffic signals in Brooklyn. With a strong interest in electronics, Smith studied computer science and worked on traffic control signals at Marbelite, where he learned early microprocessor-based circuit design at Fairchild. These skills led to his recruitment by APF Electronics in New York, where he contributed to hardware design, prototype development, and joystick and I/O port design for the "MP1000" video game console, which competed with Atari and Coleco in the first generation of cartridge-based games.

Following the "MP1000," Smith and the APF design team developed "The Imagination Machine," the first combined home video game console and personal computer. As part of a small engineering team, Smith played a key role in designing both the "MP1000" and its computer expansion module. His work was featured in Black Enterprise magazine, highlighting the contributions of African Americans to the video game industry. Throughout his tenure at APF, Smith remained aware of the lack of technology education and exposure for youth in underserved communities, and he distributed free game consoles to children in public housing to encourage interest in technology.

After leaving APF, Smith transitioned out of the video game industry. He managed an Apple dealership in upstate New York, worked at a computer dealer in Albany, helped expand The Computer Factory to Philadelphia, and later joined PC networking company Novell during its early years. Smith built a career as a business development executive with more than 30 years of experience in strategic partner engagement and management across the hardware, software, and services sectors.

Smith has become a public voice on technology, diversity, and perseverance. His pioneering work in the video game and personal computer industries has been recognized by publications including Fast Company, Vintage Computing, and PC Magazine, which listed him among Black tech pioneers. Smith owns Imagine That, a company focused on technology consulting and public speaking, with a website featuring photos, podcasts, a blog, and video interviews with Smith and other technology historians. His autobiography, "Imagine That!," is available on Amazon. Smith is an active speaker at corporations, organizations, high schools, and universities, sharing his experiences as an African American engineer and advocate for diversity in technology.