Jack Kilby
An American electrical engineer who, along with Robert Noyce, invented the integrated circuit while working at Texas Instruments.
Most quoted
"I don't recall ever hearing Jack Kilby speak in a way that would be described as 'philosophically deep' or 'existentially profound.' His focus was always on the practical application of technology."
— from Historical accounts and interviews with colleagues
"The integrated circuit was not an invention in the sense of a single 'aha!' moment, but rather the culmination of a lot of hard work and many small steps."
— from Nobel Lecture, 2000
"We were trying to solve the 'tyranny of numbers' problem—the fact that as circuits became more complex, the number of connections became unmanageable."
— from Technical Explanation
All quotes by Jack Kilby (402)
It was a team effort, even though I'm often credited individually.
The future of electronics is always smaller, faster, and more powerful.
The integrated circuit is a prime example of how basic research can lead to revolutionary technologies.
I never set out to change the world, just to build a better circuit.
Keep an open mind and be willing to explore new ideas.
The integrated circuit made possible the personal computer, the internet, and countless other technologies.
It's rewarding to see how something you worked on has impacted so many lives.
The greatest inventions often seem obvious in retrospect.
The integrated circuit is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
I was just doing my job, trying to solve a problem that needed solving.
Don't be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. That's how progress happens.
The integrated circuit has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate.
It's a privilege to have contributed to such a fundamental technology.
The key to innovation is often simplification.
The integrated circuit is a cornerstone of modern technology.
I'm proud of the work we did and the impact it has had.
Never underestimate the power of a simple idea.
The integrated circuit is a testament to the power of collaboration and interdisciplinary research.
It was a very challenging problem, but that's what made it so interesting.
The future belongs to those who can imagine it.
Contemporaries of Jack Kilby
Other Inventions born within 50 years of Jack Kilby (1923–2005).