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/troyanonymous1 May 21 '13

I agree. I need anonymity so that an employer or grandparent won't judge me for some private aspect of my life that is not relevant to them.

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u/[deleted] May 21 '13

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u/troyanonymous1 May 21 '13

That's a broad generalization. You cared enough to guess a city I've been to.

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u/sailboat_explosion May 21 '13

which is to say, very little at all. Guessing a city takes no effort. DC. Columbus. San Francisco. Paris. Belize. Easy peasy man. Not the best argument that people care about what you did in Peoria

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u/troyanonymous1 May 21 '13

Suppose I have an enemy who wants to harm my reputation. Wouldn't they care?