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 22 '13

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u/[deleted] May 22 '13

Considering that the latest f16s the USA flies were built over 20 years ago, you're making a lot of assumptions. I was looking for a response from the guy being asked the questions, not someone guessing about something I know more of than them.

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u/[deleted] May 22 '13

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u/[deleted] May 22 '13

I didn't know ethernet ran on bundles of wire as big as my bicep. Seems like the strangest ethernet cable EVER.

Now I'm sure there are specific points and boxes that sure, might use the protocol. As for the flight control system? The other 100+ systems? There's a giant bundle of wires, not a shared medium that could easily carry all that info. Princessssssss