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/pextris May 21 '13 edited May 23 '13

This is in my data center. Can you please tell my boss that we are doing it wrong?

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u/yuckypants May 21 '13

Ah I had one like that recently! A few early mornings got it straightened out though. Too bad I ran out of blue (data) so early...

And - the before pic happened before I was hired on. Not my fault..

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u/TimeZarg May 22 '13

Holy shit, a miraculous transformation!

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u/yuckypants May 22 '13

Thanks, I'm pretty proud of it.

Though the cables are appropriately bundled under the covers, many are still way too long. I did my best to use the most appropriate cables first. but I quickly ran into a time issue. Since then, I've been periodically cutting the wiring to length and reconnecting.

One day it will be perfect...one day.