Final answer:
Hobbyists made important contributions to the growth and development of personal computers through their enthusiasm, sharing of knowledge, software and hardware modifications, and community-building efforts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hobbyists made several important contributions to the development of personal computers. Firstly, they played a crucial role in the popularity and growth of personal computers, as they were early adopters and enthusiasts who shared their knowledge and passion with others. Secondly, hobbyists often developed and shared software and hardware modifications, pushing the boundaries and expanding the capabilities of personal computers. Lastly, hobbyists fostered a sense of community and collaboration, which led to the creation of user groups, forums, and bulletin board systems that allowed for the exchange of ideas and information among computer enthusiasts.