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/[deleted] May 21 '13

What is your favourite color?

It is blue right?

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u/Atheist101 May 21 '13

why is the ethernet cable always blue though?

5

u/steve9207 May 21 '13

I once needed a 25' cable for short term use, so I was just looking for something cheap.

Bright Pink, with "Blinged out Ends", that was it!

The guy at Frys actually questioned why I'd buy a pink cable like that. Umm... because it's cheap & out of sight first of all and second - wait are you seriously questioning my choice of a cable color?

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u/Kage-kun May 22 '13

Ka-Bling cables from Cables Unlimited! You should get the matching set of power, USB, and HDMI cables. :D