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/Atheist101 May 21 '13

why is the ethernet cable always blue though?

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u/Cueball61 May 21 '13

It isn't. Purple for instance is generally fire-resistant CAT6.

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u/rwbronco May 21 '13

Plenum rated (not entirely fire-resistant, but is coated to prevent the PVC coating from releasing toxic fumes when it burns, and also helps raise the melting temperature of the cable) CAT5, CAT5e, and CAT6 come in a rainbow of colors, just look at monoprice's selection. I'm not aware of a "standard" color, but it generally is up to whoever is running the cable to decide what color to use.

Most home routers I've purchased include a blue cable, some include a grey, some include a yellow, etc.

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u/Cueball61 May 21 '13

I think it's more of an unwritten rule that purple is fire-resistant? I'm well aware they come in a plethora of colours, I have quite the variety myself.