Robert Metcalfe

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Robert Metcalfe

Robert Melancton Metcalfe (born April 7, 1946) is an American engineer and entrepreneur who is best known for his work in the development of Ethernet technology. He is a co-founder of 3Com and has made significant contributions to the field of computer networking.

Early Life and Education

Robert Metcalfe was born in Brooklyn, New York City. He attended Mitchell College and later transferred to Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. Metcalfe then went on to earn his Master's degree in applied mathematics from Harvard University and completed his Ph.D. in computer science at Harvard University.

Career

Development of Ethernet

While working at the Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center) in the early 1970s, Metcalfe was part of a team that developed Ethernet, a technology that allows computers to communicate over a local area network (LAN). Ethernet has since become the standard for wired networking in both homes and businesses.

Founding of 3Com

In 1979, Metcalfe co-founded 3Com, a company that aimed to commercialize Ethernet technology. Under his leadership, 3Com became a major player in the networking industry, providing hardware and software solutions for computer networks.

Later Career

After leaving 3Com, Metcalfe became a venture capitalist and a professor of innovation at the University of Texas at Austin. He has also been involved in various technology startups and continues to be an influential figure in the field of computer networking.

Awards and Honors

Robert Metcalfe has received numerous awards for his contributions to technology, including the IEEE Medal of Honor, the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.

Personal Life

Metcalfe is married and has two children. He is also an avid writer and has contributed to various technology publications.

Related Pages

• Ethernet
• 3Com
• Xerox PARC
• Computer networking
• IEEE Medal of Honor
• National Medal of Technology and Innovation
• National Inventors Hall of Fame