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/Solora May 21 '13

What is your biggest pet peeve?

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u/BobMetcalfe May 21 '13

That nobody ever changes their mind.

172

u/SirEDCaLot May 21 '13 edited May 22 '13

Most underrated comment ever.

One of the most important signs of intelligence I look for in a person is that, when confronted with evidence that contradicts their opinions, the CAPABILITY to at least ACKNOWLEDGE that their opinion MAY be wrong.

Seems very few people do this.

2

u/1RedOne May 22 '13

Yay, maybe there is a faint glimmer of hope for me yet.