The Genesis of USB: Who Invented the Universal Serial Bus?

The Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a versatile interface that has revolutionized the way we connect electronic devices. But do you know who invented the USB?

Who Invented USB?

The USB was co-invented and established by Ajay V. Bhatt, an Indian-born American computer architect who worked for Intel. Bhatt played a crucial role in defining and developing several widely used technologies, including the USB and Platform Power Management architecture.

According to various sources, a committee of seven major technology companies began developing the USB in 1994. These companies included Intel, Compaq, Microsoft, IBM, Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), Nortel, and NEC Corporation. However, Ajay Bhatt was the key figure behind the invention, leading the development efforts as part of Intel's team.

The Genesis of USB: An Intel Project

Intel arranged a group of companies to work on the USB project. Their objective was to create a standardized and versatile interface that could replace the multitude of I/O ports that were prevalent at the time. The group called themselves the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), and they launched the USB 1.0 in 1995. This was a strategic move against Apple's then-popular Desktop Bus (ADB), which was being used in their Macintosh computers.

The Development of USB Standards

Over time, several generations of USB standards were developed, each improving upon the previous ones. These are:

Each version brought enhanced performance and compatibility, ultimately making the USB the most widely used external bus standard today.

Apple's Response with FireWire

Apple responded to the USB development with its own technology, FireWire, which was initially called IEEE 1394. FireWire offered better performance at the time, but it was not standardized as widely as USB. Despite its initial success with FireWire, USB outperformed and eventually overtook FireWire, becoming the standard interface for connecting a wide range of devices.

Ajay V. Bhatt: A Visionary in Computer Architecture

Ajay V. Bhatt's contribution to the USB revolution is significant. His work not only led to the development of USB but also to various chipset improvements. Despite the myth of it being a committee effort, many sources attribute the core idea and architecture of USB to Bhatt's vision and leadership.

Bhatt's work on USB and other technologies continues to influence the computer industry. His legacy is celebrated in the realm of computer architecture and digital device connectivity.

While Ajay Bhatt passed away in 2009, his invention and the impact of the USB on modern technology remain a testament to his brilliance and foresight.