In the history of artificial intelligence hardware, specialized computers designed to run LISP efficiently were commonly referred to as what?

Introduction / Context:
During early AI research, performance needs for symbolic processing led to specialized hardware optimized for the LISP language. These systems influenced the evolution of workstation design and the concept of AI-focused computing hardware. The question asks for the common label applied to such machines.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• LISP machines were purpose-built for symbolic computation.
• They operated as standalone computers, not mere terminals.
• They predated commodity multicore workstations with general-purpose operating systems.

Concept / Approach:
LISP machines from vendors such as Symbolics and Lisp Machines Inc. were widely called AI workstations because they were engineered to accelerate AI workloads, especially LISP and related symbolic operations. They were not simple time-sharing terminals (which rely on a host) nor generic minicomputers; rather, they were specialized workstations with dedicated microcode and environments.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Historical catalogs and retrospectives consistently refer to Symbolics 3600 series and others as AI workstations optimized for LISP.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Equating any powerful machine with a workstation; here the defining feature is LISP specialization, hence AI workstation.

Final Answer:
AI workstations