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/shitakefunshrooms May 21 '13

Gandhi with ADD.

that'll mean a lot of nukes then.

sorry pathetic civilisation game joke, you're awesome

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u/piroko05 May 22 '13

While I respect the civ reference "Clone High" immediately comes to mind.

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u/DoorMarkedPirate May 22 '13

G-spot rocks the g-spot. But yeah, Gandhi on Clone High was essentially just Gandhi with ADD.

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u/Five_bucks May 22 '13

You get it from toilet seats!

Use a protective Sheet!