This week marks the start of the 50th anniversary of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Every year for the past half-century, CES has given conference-goers a glimpse of the future.

The first CES was held in New York in 1967.Among the marvels on display were black-and-white television sets and new designs for radios.Succeeding decades brought cordless phones, VCRs, microwave ovens, personal computers, and more.

From its modest beginnings, the show has grown to a must-attend event for manufacturers, high-tech start-ups, the press, and technology buffs.CES will take place over 2.6 million square feet of carpeted exhibit space this year, organizers say, and more than 850 exhibitors will be appearing for the first time.

Some of the most memorable product launches of the past 30 years have taken place at CES, including computer systems, software, cellular phones, video games, and other high-tech wares.While it is important for exhibiting companies to preview products to consumers, they also count on heavy press attendance to ensure that word of their innovative new products is communicated worldwide.

Don't look for boom boxes on the show floor this year.Instead, you're likely to find home robots, self-driving cars, and artificial intelligence systems.

CES is scheduled for January 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Photo: Airman 1st Class Joshua Magbanua