Computers started to become popular with big companies in the 1960s. 　　Computer 　　You’ve probably known about computers your whole life. But computers have not really been around for very long. Computers started to become popular with big companies in the 1960s. Computers didn’t become widespread in homes and schools until the 1980s. 　　HOW DO PEOPLE USE COMPUTERS? 　　People use computers in many ways. Stores use computers to keep track of products and check you out at the cash register. Banks use computers to send money all over the world. 　　Computers help teachers keep track of lessons and grades. They help students do research and learn. Computers let you hook up to networks (many computers hooked together). They let you hook up to a worldwide network called the Internet. 　　Scientists use computers to solve research problems. Engineers use computers to make cars, trucks, and airplanes. Architects use computers to design houses and other buildings. The police use computers to track down criminals. The military uses computers to make and read coded messages.