IEEE Virtual Museum

Thomas Edison didn't invent the light bulb, so why does everyone think he did? What was the first computer? How did the patterns in a Utah cornfield lead to the development of television? What is the "X" in an X-ray? Why are Alvin and the Chipmunks part of a museum about technology?

The answers to these questions and more are found in the new IEEE Virtual Museum launched at http://www.ieee.org/museum. Designed for educators, students, and the general public, the Virtual Museum debuted with two exhibits containing audio/video clips and interactive features: "Socket to me! How electricity came to be" and "The beat goes on: How sounds are recorded and played."

Three more exhibits are in production and are scheduled for release by the third quarter of 2002. These will explore the different applications of microwaves, the works of Thomas Edison, and contributions women have made to electrical and information technologies. The IEEE Virtual Museum explores the global social impact of electrical and information sciences and technologies and demonstrates the relevance of engineering and engineers to society. It is supported by the IEEE Foundation, the IEEE Life Members, and the Trustees of the IEEE History Center.