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Lee De Forest, US radio pioneer
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Lee De Forest, US radio pioneer
Lee De Forest (1873-1961), American radio pioneer, holding the triode valve, or Audion tube, that he invented. De Forest studied at Yale, gaining his doctorate with a thesis on radio waves. In 1907 he patented the Audion tube. This was an adaptation of a diode, with a third electrode between the cathode and anode. The Audion was used as a detector of radio signals, an amplifier of audio and an oscillator for transmitting. In 1913, AT&T installed audions to boost voice signals as they crossed the US continent and not long after, they were being used in radios. De Forest is considered to be one of the fathers of the electronic age
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Media ID 6411026
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Amplification Amplifier Electronics Engineer History Of Science Inventor Pioneer Portraits Radio Scientist Sepia Sound Telephone Tube Us A Valve Vertical Waves De Forest Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures Lee De Forest, the brilliant US radio pioneer who revolutionized the world of communication. With a determined gaze and an air of confidence, De Forest holds in his hand the groundbreaking triode valve, also known as the Audion tube, which he invented. A highly educated individual, De Forest pursued his studies at Yale University and earned his doctorate with a thesis focused on radio waves. In 1907, he patented the Audion tube—an ingenious adaptation of a diode that featured a third electrode positioned between the cathode and anode. This invention proved to be pivotal in various aspects of radio technology. The Audion tube served as both a detector for receiving radio signals and an amplifier for audio transmission. It even functioned as an oscillator for transmitting signals itself. Its significance was quickly recognized by AT&T, leading to its installation across the United States to boost voice signals during long-distance communication. Deemed one of the founding fathers of electronics, Lee De Forest's contributions paved the way for countless advancements in science and engineering. His audacious innovations forever changed how we perceive sound and communicate through radios. This sepia-toned portrait not only immortalizes this remarkable man but also serves as a testament to his immense impact on history—ushering in what would become known as the electronic age.
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