Jacques Bessenger

Jacques Bessenger: A Trailblazing Engineer and the Father of the USB

A Pioneer in the Tech World

Jacques Bessenger, a prominent figure in the technology industry, passed away on March 3, 2023, at the age of 78. Bessenger's contributions to the development of the Universal Serial Bus (USB) earned him the title "Father of the USB." His groundbreaking work has significantly impacted the way we connect devices today.

The Birth of the USB

Bessenger's journey began at Intel in 1983, where he oversaw the development of the Intel Microcontroller. His expertise in microcontrollers and serial interfaces led him to recognize the need for a standardized connection to peripherals. This idea eventually evolved into the concept of the USB.

In 1994, Bessenger spearheaded the formation of the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), a consortium of industry leaders tasked with developing and promoting the USB standard. Bessenger's vision of a universal, high-speed, and reliable connection system laid the foundation for the USB's success.

The Impact of USB

The introduction of the USB in 1996 revolutionized the way devices connected to computers. Prior to USB, connecting peripherals required a variety of ports and cables, leading to compatibility issues and a cluttered workspace. The USB's simple, plug-and-play design and backward compatibility solved these problems, making it the go-to choice for connecting devices ranging from keyboards and mice to external hard drives and printers.

Bessenger's Legacy

Bessenger's contributions extend beyond the USB. He played a key role in the development of other industry standards, including the PCI Express bus and the SATA (Serial ATA) interface. His work has shaped the way we interact with technology, making it more convenient, efficient, and accessible.

Jacques Bessenger's legacy as the "Father of the USB" will forever be etched in the annals of tech history. His vision and dedication have transformed the way we connect devices, making our lives easier and more connected.