Ethernet Specifications Published by Xerox

September 30th, 1980

September 30th, 1980

Ethernet Specifications Published by Xerox
How Long Ago?

44 years, 5 months, 15 days ago

Location

Palo Alto, California, USA

Category

Science & Technology

People
  • Robert Metcalfe
  • David Boggs
  • Vincent G. Cerf
Links & References
Tags

Ethernet Specifications Published by Xerox

Xerox, alongside Intel and Digital Equipment Corporation, finalized the specifications for Ethernet technology. This standardization marked a significant development in networking, establishing a framework for local area networks (LANs) that would soon be crucial in computing. Ethernet's ability to connect multiple devices over a cable system, utilizing a simple protocol, laid the groundwork for modern networking as we know it today.

Ethernet allows multiple devices on a single network.

Developed by Xerox's Palo Alto Research Center.

Specifications included collision detection methods.

Set the stage for local area network standardization.

What Happened?

The publication of Ethernet specifications by Xerox Corporation, in collaboration with Intel and Digital Equipment Corporation, represented a pivotal moment in the realm of computer networking. These specifications outlined how computers could connect within a local area network (LAN), thereby revolutionizing the communication between devices. Developed out of research conducted at Xerox's Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), Ethernet technology was designed to create a network that was simple, robust, and efficient in transmitting data over coaxial cables. The specifications included technical details about the physical and data link layers of the new networking standard, which utilized a methodology for broadcasting messages to all devices on the network, effectively managing collisions in data transmission.As Ethernet began to gain traction, its adoption transcended company boundaries, impacting various sectors, including business, education, and eventually homes. The establishment of Ethernet as a standard played a significant role in cultivating a connected world that relies heavily on digital communication. By providing a uniform approach to networking, companies found it easier to develop compatible products, creating an ecosystem that would eventually lead to the widespread proliferation of LANs in organizations and everyday use. The simple yet effective nature of Ethernet set the groundwork for future advancements in networking technology, including the evolution towards faster versions and adaptations, such as Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, which have become the backbone of modern digital communication systems.

Why Does it Matter?

The establishment of Ethernet specifications was crucial in making networking technology accessible and standardized, paving the way for the rapid expansion of computer networks globally. This marked a shift towards more effective and efficient communication in professional and personal environments, leading to the interconnected digital age we experience today. Ethernet remains a cornerstone of networking technology, influencing design and implementation even in contemporary infrastructures.

Discover More Historic Events from September 30th

Arts & Culture

Two Stolen Van Gogh Paintings Recovered

September 30th, 2016 8 years ago

Two invaluable paintings by Vincent van Gogh, stolen from the Van Gogh Museum in 2002, were recovered by Italian authorities. The masterpieces, valued at $100 million combined, were taken during a brazen nighttime heist. This recovery marked a significant moment for art theft and cultural heritage preservation in Italy.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Hurricane Matthew Reaches Category 5 Status

September 30th, 2016 8 years ago

Hurricane Matthew intensified into a Category 5 hurricane, becoming the strongest hurricane in the Caribbean Sea since 2007. The hurricane had formed earlier in September and brought high winds and heavy rainfall to several Caribbean islands. This powerful storm significantly impacted Haiti, Cuba, and the Bahamas, raising concerns for potential destruction due to its strength.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Sumatra Earthquake Causes Significant Casualties

September 30th, 2009 15 years ago

A powerful 7.6 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, resulting in extensive devastation and a tragic loss of life. Occurring in the afternoon, the quake was followed by numerous aftershocks and landslides, complicating rescue efforts. The hardest-hit areas included Padang and its surrounding districts, with buildings collapsing and communication disruptions in the aftermath. An estimated 1,115 people were confirmed dead, with many others injured and displaced, highlighting the region's vulnerability to seismic activity due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Danish Newspaper Publishes Muhammad Drawings

September 30th, 2005 19 years ago

The Danish newspaper Jyllands-Posten published drawings depicting the Prophet Muhammad, sparking widespread controversy and protests across the Muslim world. Initially published as part of a discussion on self-censorship in the context of criticism of Islam, the cartoons resulted in a significant backlash, including calls for boycotts of Danish goods and violent protests in various countries. The drawings included representations that many viewed as disrespectful, igniting debate over freedom of expression and religious sensitivities.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Death of Muhammad al-Durrah During Conflict

September 30th, 2000 24 years ago

In a dramatic scene broadcast worldwide, twelve-year-old Muhammad al-Durrah was shot and killed while seeking shelter with his father during a confrontation between Israeli soldiers and Palestinian rioters in the Gaza Strip. The footage captured by a France 2 television crew became an emblematic representation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, igniting global outrage and drawing attention to the humanitarian consequences of military actions. The images of the young boy, who was caught in crossfire, circulated widely and sparked intense debates about the impact of war on civilians.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Nuclear accident in Tokaimura claims lives of technicians

September 30th, 1999 25 years ago

In a severe nuclear accident at the JCO uranium processing plant in Tokaimura, Japan, two workers, Yoshihiro Yamashita and Masato Shinohara, died following a criticality incident caused by negligence and improper procedures. The incident led to widespread contamination and initiated a national debate over nuclear safety protocols and regulations. Emergency responders struggled to contain the radioactive leak while the local community was alerted and evacuated nearby areas as a precautionary measure. The event drew attention to the vulnerabilities in Japan’s nuclear energy practices and reinforced the need for stricter safety measures.

Continue Reading