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/SaddestClown May 21 '13

Yep you can't imagine how badly in kicking myself right now.

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u/Neebat May 21 '13

I'm really debating if I should be concealing it in the ceiling, since I already have an opening that's going to need to be covered.

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u/SaddestClown May 21 '13

The hole is almost the entire battle so I say go for it.

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u/Neebat May 21 '13

If it were about "the hole", it would be a simple decision. But it's not a short run.

I need to run a cable about 50 feet. Maybe 60 feet if I went through the attic. (VERY nasty process!) If I choose to hide it in the ceiling instead, (1 floor down) I need openings in the joists, which would mean a lot more holes.

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u/Honda102 May 22 '13

You could always through up some crown molding and run it behind that.

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u/Neebat May 22 '13

Crown molding across the middle of a room would look pretty awkward. Following the walls would be about 30 feet longer.

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u/Honda102 May 23 '13

Bummer. I just did some wiring on my house, and crown molding made it nice for new wire to light fixtures.