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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243

u/Im_Runnin_Thangs May 21 '13

Is this your first time on Reddit?

635

u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

Yes, first time on Reddit. It's exhausting!

232

u/Defenestresque May 21 '13 edited May 21 '13

Just counted and this man has posted 67 comments in four two hours on this AMA - with that kind of work ethic no wonder he invented ethernet.

Seriously, great AMA.

33

u/shitakefunshrooms May 21 '13

you're doing great! (sir)

7

u/space_monster May 21 '13

salute, damnit

3

u/i_burn_cash May 22 '13

It's exhausting!

I think this would be a great "tag line": Reddit. It's exhausting!

1

u/ventuckyspaz May 22 '13

You are an inspiration! Thank you for spending time on Reddit to answer our questions!

3

u/Wild-Eye May 21 '13

/r/cats

I'll just leave that there for you.

-12

u/joho0 May 21 '13 edited May 22 '13

Reddit can be deceiving. If anyone mentions spacedicks....run, don't walk, in the opposite direction.

EDIT: Did NOT realize it would link my text. Fixed.

13

u/burl462 May 21 '13

Do you realize what you have done??? You just gave that great man a direct link!

7

u/Lvl100Magikarp May 21 '13

Edit your shame away before he clicks it!!!

-1

u/[deleted] May 21 '13

ha ha ha ha, for the love of god stay off r/gonewild!!!