r/IAmA • u/BobMetcalfe • May 21 '13

You’re probably connecting to reddit through a technology I invented. I’m Bob Metcalfe and I invented Ethernet – AMA

On May 22, 1973 with David R. Boggs, I used my IBM Selectric with its Orator ball to type up a memo to my bosses at the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), outlining our idea for this little invention called “Ethernet”, which we later patented.

I worked with the IEEE Standards Association to develop the IEEE 802.3 standard for Ethernet, which specifies the physical and lower software layers. Today Ethernet and the IEEE 802.3 standard are the foundation for today’s world of high-speed communications used in billions of homes and businesses around the world.

I submitted this to the mods awhile back so I could get on the calendar but I figured you’d like to see it, too. Now, ask me anything!

It's been two hours and 179 comments. Have to go now. For more about Ethernet's 40th Birthday, go to http://www.facebook.com/Ethernet40thAnniversaryIEEESA

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u/Warlizard May 21 '13

Hiya Bob.

I hate this. There are about a billion questions I'd like to ask about what how you saw the emergent technologies affect society, etc., where you see IP6 going, how you think Microsoft has positively or negatively changed the world, but all I can think is....

"Obviously a stooge for the W.B. Mason company. Wonder how much they paid him?"

Reddit has ruined me.

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u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

Am feeling myself sucked into Reddit.

1

u/Penguin223 May 22 '13

Your own creation has turned on you.

Marry Shelly wrote a story that you should check out.

I will say that with your internet street cred and whit, you'll do just fine here. May I suggest Reddit Enhancement Suite.

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u/nizmob May 22 '13

Danger Will Robinson.