Bob Pease: Analog Engineering Legend | Generated by AI
Comprehensive Introduction to Bob Pease
Robert A. “Bob” Pease (August 22, 1940 – June 18, 2011) was a legendary analog engineer, author, and industry icon known for his deep expertise in analog circuit design, his witty and opinionated writing style, and his eccentric personality. He worked at National Semiconductor for over 30 years and was one of the most respected figures in the electronics engineering community.
1. Early Life and Education
- Born in Rockville, Connecticut, Pease developed an early interest in electronics.
- He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1961.
- His passion for analog circuits and troubleshooting began during his college years.
2. Career Highlights
Notable Employers:
- George A. Philbrick Researches (1961–1976) – Worked on early operational amplifiers (op-amps).
- National Semiconductor (1976–2009) – Became a Staff Scientist, designing analog ICs and writing technical articles.
- Linear Technology (after National Semi acquisition) – Continued as a consultant.
Key Contributions:
- Designed numerous analog ICs, including voltage regulators, op-amps, and temperature sensors.
- Held 21 patents in analog circuit design.
- Known for his work on the LM331 voltage-to-frequency converter, a widely used component in data acquisition systems.
- Advocated for robust, reliable analog design over excessive simulation reliance.
3. Writing and Publications
Pease was a prolific writer, known for his engaging and sometimes controversial style:
- “Troubleshooting Analog Circuits” (1991) – A highly regarded book on practical debugging techniques.
- “Analog Circuits” (World-Class Designs) – Another influential book.
- “Pease Porridge” Column – A long-running column in Electronic Design Magazine, where he shared insights, rants, and troubleshooting tips.
4. Personality and Eccentricities
- Known for driving a ancient, rusty Volvo (which he claimed was the most reliable car).
- Disliked SPICE simulations, preferring hand calculations and real-world testing.
- Outspoken and humorous, often criticizing poor engineering practices.
- Famous quotes:
- “When a problem comes along, you must whip it.”
- “If you don’t know what it’s supposed to do, you’ll never figure out what’s wrong.”
5. Legacy and Death
- Died in a car accident in 2011 while returning from a memorial service for fellow engineer Jim Williams.
- Remembered as a mentor and inspiration to analog engineers worldwide.
- The “Bob Pease Award” was established in his honor by Electronic Design.
Conclusion
Bob Pease was a giant in analog electronics, blending deep technical knowledge with a unique, no-nonsense approach. His books, articles, and designs continue to influence engineers, and his troubleshooting philosophy remains a cornerstone of practical electronics. His legacy lives on through his writings, his circuits, and the engineers he inspired.
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