Introduction
When we think of innovation, we often think of the big names like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs. However, there are countless other innovators who have made significant contributions to technology and engineering. One such person is Glen Housman. Despite his numerous contributions, many people may not have heard of him. Here are 10 things you didn’t know about Glen Housman, the man behind the innovations.
Early Life and Education
Glen Housman was born in 1954 in South Dakota. He grew up in a small town and was fascinated with electronics from an early age. As a child, he would constantly take apart and reassemble electronics to see how they worked. He went on to attend the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, where he earned a degree in electrical engineering.
Work at IBM
After graduating, Housman began working at IBM. He quickly rose through the ranks and became known for his innovative ideas and problem-solving skills. He was instrumental in developing IBM’s first personal computer, which revolutionized the way people used technology in their daily lives.
Co-founder of Sun Microsystems
In 1982, Housman left IBM and co-founded Sun Microsystems with Vinod Khosla, Andy Bechtolsheim, and Bill Joy. Sun Microsystems became one of the most successful technology companies of the 1980s, with its workstations and servers becoming a mainstay in businesses around the world.
Innovations in Network Computing
At Sun Microsystems, Housman was responsible for a number of innovations in network computing. He helped develop the Network File System (NFS) protocol, which allowed computers to share files over a network. He also developed the Network Information System (NIS), which allowed for centralized management of network resources.
Work at Diba
In the 1990s, Housman left Sun Microsystems and went on to co-found Diba, a company that focused on developing user-friendly information appliances. At Diba, Housman was responsible for the development of the first web-enabled set-top box, which paved the way for modern smart TVs.
Contributions to High-Speed Internet
In the early 2000s, Housman worked on developing high-speed internet technology at a company called Siros Technologies. He helped develop a technology that allowed for high-speed data transfer over existing telephone lines, paving the way for broadband internet connections.
Work at Jadoo Power
After Siros Technologies, Housman joined Jadoo Power, a company that focused on developing clean energy solutions. At Jadoo Power, Housman developed fuel cells that could be used to power portable electronics and even automobiles.
Innovations in Energy Storage
Housman’s work at Jadoo Power focused on developing energy storage solutions that were more efficient and environmentally friendly than traditional batteries. He was involved in the development of a “smart” battery that could communicate with other parts of a device and adjust its output accordingly.
Contributions to the Electric Car Revolution
Housman’s work in clean energy eventually led him to become involved in the electric car revolution. He founded a company called 24M Technologies, which focused on developing high-capacity, low-cost batteries for electric cars.
Conclusion
Glen Housman may not be a household name, but the innovations he contributed to have had a significant impact on technology and engineering. From his work at Sun Microsystems to his contributions to the electric car revolution, Housman’s legacy continues to influence the way we live and work today.
FAQs
Q: What is Glen Housman known for?
A: Glen Housman is known for his pioneering work in network computing, high-speed internet technology, energy storage solutions, and the electric car revolution.
Q: What did Glen Housman develop at IBM?
A: Glen Housman was instrumental in developing IBM’s first personal computer.
Q: What is the Network File System (NFS)?
A: The Network File System (NFS) protocol was developed by Glen Housman and allows computers to share files over a network.
Q: What did Glen Housman develop at Diba?
A: Glen Housman developed the first web-enabled set-top box at Diba, paving the way for modern smart TVs.
Q: What is 24M Technologies?
A: 24M Technologies is a company founded by Glen Housman that focuses on developing high-capacity, low-cost batteries for electric cars.