Title
Ethernet 20th Birthday, Early History of the EthernetCatalog Number
102639147Type
Moving ImageDescription
A panel discussion featuring four pioneer developers of Ethernet: Robert Metcalfe, David Boggs, John Shoch, and Ron Crane.This talk details the specifications, standardization, and adoption of Ethernet from the 1970s through the 1980s. Metcalfe begins by recounting the phases of development for Ethernet recounting earlier networking methods at Xerox PARC, the influence of ALOHAnet, and the development of the famous “Ethernet memo” in 1973. Dave Boggs notes that on joining the Office Systems group at PARC, he came to work with Metcalfe on Ethernet, and discusses his role in the collaboration with Metcalfe. John Shoch recounts his arrival at PARC, working for Alan Kay, and the early software he developed for use with the Ethernet system. Ron Crane describes some of the limitations of the early system, and details the design limitations of early transceivers. The panel is peppered by audience questions throughout.