Saturday, August 18, 2012

Scientists study the world as it is ...

Scientists study the world as it is, but engineers build a world that has never been.
- The Jet Propulsion Lab's Theodore von Kármán
Atomic Fungus informs us of the death of Hans Camenzind, inventor of the 555 timer - the most used integrated circuit in history.  It is so venerable that I had them on my breadboards these thirty years ago.

The Choir Invisible perhaps now keeps better time.  Resquiescat in pace.

7 comments:

Old NFO said...

Yep, RIP Sir, you did well, and you will always be remembered for the triple nickel!

Dave H said...

I wouldn't say the 555 was the most accurate timer, but it was certainly the easiest to use. I think the first project I ever designed completely from scratch that actually worked was a programmable car horn that used two 555s.

Thank you, Mr. Camenzind. I hope Heaven will soon be buzzing with the sound of cheap home-made synthesizers.

SiGraybeard said...

Tough news. I've never met Hans, but like Widlar, Pease, and Jim Williams, one of the few whose writings are inspirational. Were you aware that Hans gave away his text on designing analog ICs? Designing Analog Chips. Hard to know how long that will be available.

BobG said...

Anyone who doesn't know the 555 doesn't know shit about computers or electronics.

SiGraybeard said...

And BTW, I had a long discussion this week with a guy who was of the opinion that trying to save the US and restore limited government was a lost cause and not worth trying to do, basically because it has never been done before.

I was sorely tempted to say - but didn't - something like "I'm an engineer; I do things that have never been done every day". It's a bit of an exaggeration. Maybe I do things that have never been done every couple of months. I ultimately didn't say it because I don't know how germane it is to idea. Technical problems vs. societal problems and all...

Anonymous said...

The Valley was once such an amazing place full of amazing people. Perhaps it still is in a way, but not the same way.

My professional heroes are leaving the Grey Havens ...

RIP Mr Camenzind
Q

kx59 said...

"Scientists Study the World as it is"
Unless they are a climate scientists.
then they just make it up to fit the narrative.