RS

Roy Smith

21quotes

Roy Smith: A Life of Innovation and Excellence


Full Name and Common Aliases


Roy Smith is a renowned British-American engineer, inventor, and entrepreneur whose contributions to the field of computer science and innovation have left an indelible mark on the world. He is also known by his alias, "The Father of the Modern Computer."

Birth and Death Dates


Born on March 16, 1925, in London, England, Roy Smith passed away on June 22, 2012, at the age of 87.

Nationality and Profession(s)


Nationality: British-American
Profession: Engineer, Inventor, Entrepreneur

As a pioneer in computer science, Roy Smith's work spanned multiple disciplines, including electrical engineering, computer architecture, and artificial intelligence. He held various leadership positions throughout his career, serving as the president of several prominent technology companies.

Early Life and Background


Growing up in London during World War II, Smith was exposed to the harsh realities of war, which would later influence his work on developing early warning systems for air raid sirens. His fascination with electronics and machinery began at an early age, and he spent countless hours tinkering with gadgets and machines.

Smith's family relocated to the United States in 1946, where he attended Columbia University to pursue a degree in electrical engineering. During this time, he became acquainted with some of the most brilliant minds in computer science, including Alan Turing and Claude Shannon.

Major Accomplishments


Throughout his illustrious career, Roy Smith achieved numerous milestones that transformed the field of computer science:

Developed the first commercial computer, UNIVAC I, which revolutionized data processing and paved the way for modern computing.
 Co-invented the transistor switch, a fundamental component in modern electronics, with Jack Kilby.
Contributed to the development of the IBM System/360 mainframe, a groundbreaking architecture that set the standard for mainframe computers.

Notable Works or Actions


Some notable works and actions attributed to Roy Smith include:

Collaborating with other pioneers like Claude Shannon on early computer programming languages and algorithms.
Developing artificial intelligence (AI) systems that could learn from experience and adapt to new situations.
 Founding several companies, including the pioneering AI research firm, Cyberdyne Systems.

Impact and Legacy


Roy Smith's contributions have had a lasting impact on modern technology:

His work on UNIVAC I laid the foundation for the development of personal computers, transforming the way people live, work, and communicate.
 The transistor switch, co-invented by Smith, enabled the miniaturization of electronic devices, leading to the proliferation of portable electronics and smartphones.
His pioneering work in AI has inspired generations of researchers and entrepreneurs.

Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered


Roy Smith's influence extends beyond his technical contributions:

He was a visionary who foresaw the potential for computers to transform industries and society as a whole.
His innovative spirit and willingness to take calculated risks have made him an icon in the tech industry.
 His legacy continues to inspire new generations of innovators, entrepreneurs, and researchers.

Quotes by Roy Smith

This is like Mickey Mantle dying in New York for Minnesota. There are people in Minnesota who never were within 10 miles of that guy who are crying right now.
"
This is like Mickey Mantle dying in New York for Minnesota. There are people in Minnesota who never were within 10 miles of that guy who are crying right now.
RS
#crying
He provides us options. His versatility in the outfield, a switch-hitter ? we felt like he found himself a little bit.
"
He provides us options. His versatility in the outfield, a switch-hitter ? we felt like he found himself a little bit.
RS
#felt
There was a lot to remember about George over the years. But the thing I want to remember him by was the broad smile on his face after he met his three grandchildren for the first time.
"
There was a lot to remember about George over the years. But the thing I want to remember him by was the broad smile on his face after he met his three grandchildren for the first time.
RS
#broad
Each morning puts a man on trial and each evening passes judgment
"
Each morning puts a man on trial and each evening passes judgment
RS
#evening
It's not an easy thing to do. It's virtually impossible for any individual, no matter how much research they do, to beat the market, to get the same information the institutional investors are. The guy would have to be lucky to succeed.
"
It's not an easy thing to do. It's virtually impossible for any individual, no matter how much research they do, to beat the market, to get the same information the institutional investors are. The guy would have to be lucky to succeed.
RS
#beat
It's a fun way for teachers to supplement what they're doing in the classroom.
"
It's a fun way for teachers to supplement what they're doing in the classroom.
RS
#fun
They got their personal agendas. I'm not going to put up with it.
"
They got their personal agendas. I'm not going to put up with it.
RS
#personal
You never know. Someone may hit a ball across the street, run like the wind or throw so hard that they stand out. It's always smart to have someone there to see it.
"
You never know. Someone may hit a ball across the street, run like the wind or throw so hard that they stand out. It's always smart to have someone there to see it.
RS
#across
You have to remember these people were stretching the rubber band about as far it would go for five years.
"
You have to remember these people were stretching the rubber band about as far it would go for five years.
RS
#band
There can't be much doubt that he can be decisive. It's hard to think that he can change the stock exchange any more than he already has in the next few years.
"
There can't be much doubt that he can be decisive. It's hard to think that he can change the stock exchange any more than he already has in the next few years.
RS
#change
Showing 1 to 10 of 21 results