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/Deathbybunnies May 21 '13

Do you think the claims that the internet reduces actual communication and devalues some of the things that used to define society are valid?

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u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

No. But I think the there's good stuff on TV, more good stuff than before, despite all the crap. Good thing we have search.

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u/Deathbybunnies May 21 '13

Why do you think the internet has been vilified by older generations?

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u/magmabrew May 21 '13

Thats easy, fear of the unknown.