Re: 42??
Arguably, the first real home computer WAS released in 1977[0], but it wasn't a toy like the TRS-80, Apple II and PET ... it was the Heath H11. A 16-bit PDP11 built for home use. Most of us bought them in kit form, but you could purchased a fully assembled, ready to run version.
[0] Wiki says '78, but mine was my Xmas present to myself in '77. I have the invoice to prove it.
Biting the hand that feeds IT
