San Jose, CA 5/25/2009

Bob Pease Dear Bob;

My friends and I are not able to accept that you and National Semiconductor are two separate entities. To us, you and National Semiconductor are one.

We met at Wescon some 16 years ago. About 10 years ago I went to one of your talks. You had a teeter tooter balancing a marble, and your VW is something I will always remember. Would like to have been at one of your presentations at one of your world tours, but was not able. About two years ago, at DesignCon, I talked to Brain Halla, (I am also a University of Nebraska BSEE) regarding how you were doing, and told him you were the best PR the company could have.

Read about your parting ways in the Mercury News, Mike Cassidy. Great article. Can’t wait to see what happens when you contact Cisco and other companies in the area, I’m staying tuned. Are you currently doing any articles?

I worked at Hughes Aircraft, Memorex, and most recently Apogee Power. All three companies are no longer. I am helping my wife Pearl Bell, who is a Silicon Valley real estate veteran. She is with Alain Pinel Realtors in Saratoga. We are both Brokers Associates. Our combined years of experience and knowledge in this field are a real plus.

By the way, there is a good program broadcasted on PBS Nova called fractals.

Our email is rudometkin@sbcglobal.net and pbell@apr.com. 408-204-7077-Direct

Thanks Bob, the best to you!

Greg Bell

As a tech with an abiding love for Electronics, when I worked in a place where ED was available I always grabbed the first "loose" copy and turned to Bob's Column.

Even after he thumped me rather soundly. :)

I look forward to reading Bob's future columns, and any media expansion that could further harvest his fertile mind.

Bob has been a life-long outside-the-box thinker.

With his long experience, he also contributes from history, which is outside the box of young minds.

Long live and prosper, -Joe Sousa

I've enjoyed Bob's writing for years and I'm awfully happy you've continued to make them available on the web. They're a wonderful reference. I look forward to many more years of happy reading.

Thanks, Preston

I started to read Bob's column in the early 90s. And liked the informal tone. Bob's columns are the only reason I return to this website every other week. It must have been quite a shock for Bob. It a bit like losing a family not having to go to work every day. I hope to hear from him soon on the web, on video or in real life.

Bob is awesome and an engineering national treasure(no pun intended). I always read his page.Would like to see more videos, books etc from him. The bean counters are idiots, as usual.

I am sure glad to hear that you are keeping Bob's column. Yes it is the first think I read from your mag.

If it wasn't for us old analog guys these young kids with their digital toys wouldn't have anything to play with.

Great Job, Bob !!

First thing I turn to in each issue, and a lot of them get torn for my files.

I love Bob's column since my first Electronic Design subscription back in the 90's. I am looking forward to read a lot more. Wish him be in top shape over the age of 100 and congratulations to Electronic Design for being an excellent magazine in a world full of meaningless information.

Very much enjoy your column. Hope to see many more!

Hi Richard, This may be the result of another shortsighted action of the "ROI"(return on investment) practice, that is being unscientifically used by some "non Science/Engineering" professionals, whose other activities include buying and selling companies, besides pampering themselves with Czar like salaries and a superb severance package. I still hope that National does not belong to this set of companies and that this is not true.It may be true that Bob is not earning money directly by designing Band gap references or "Charge balancing V/Fs" now.But he is doing something that is helping a bigger community better understand things around them.Who can let us know the hidden link betweem the employee gender and the failing potted hybrids? Bob thrives wherever he is. May be Bob also needs some rest. It is heartening to note your assurance that Bob is not leaving Electronic design and that you are going to run his columns.

It would be great if you run some columns of other legends besides Bob like Don, Jim, Forrest Mims, Horowitz amongst others.

Bob's column is one I always read when I get my ED magazine. I would really miss it. He amazes me with his understanding of electronics.

what's all this about retiring? Bob's the best

Bob Pease came across in his columns as a real crotchety old fart, but the kind you grow to love. I picture him in my mind driving around California in an old Volkswagen Bug or sitting around the fire in Nepal cranking his hand generator for his camcorder batteries. HA HA!!

I am one of the few who use turn to the "Pease Porridge " Column. Bob and NSC were like twins. I hope Bob continues writing and we get to read columns.

I've searched for Bob Pease in the National Semiconductor web site, and found about 300 mentions. But all of them refer to his contributions. None refers to his layoff, and none gives him a farewell.

Earlier, I've sent an email about my old company, Microsemi, decided to keep its CEO after he was caught lying about his qualifications, because it credited him with the company's prosperity in the last 9 years, rather than its engineers.

When I worked there, a marketing guy told me to design a new product line of battery chargers. The catch was that I had to implement his block diagram.

Based on Bob Pease, as well as on inputs from other design engineers, I protested that I cannot guarantee the stability of the control loop, and proposed an alternative concept.

The marketing guy said:

"We'll sell those IC's to the Taiwanse. They're so stupid they don't give a damn about control loop stability. They only want it cheap"

I told him that many Taiwanese I've worked with are very knowledgeable, often possessing advanced degrees from good American Universities, and that, anyhow, the silicon does care about control loop stability.

I built a couple of lab experiments (a la Bob Pease)to prove that his control loop was unstable and mine was. He sued to management and I lost my job.

Ironically, recently I worked for a start-up company headed by a Taiwanese possessing a Ph. D. from a good American University.

Whenever I made a technical argument with him, he screamed "I pay your salary. You have to do exactly what I tell you", banged his fists on a table and spewed saliva on my face. My protests "but the silicon won't do exactly what you tell it, even if you pay for all its design and fab" only enraged him further, until I found another job.

So who gives a damn about engineering (and engineers), anyhow?

Not Amrerican. Not Taiwanese.

Maybe Mainland Chinese? Maybe Tibetan? Maybe Inner Mongolian? Maybe Indian?

Hi Bob. I registered a domain name for you (www.robpease.com) and set up an email account on my hosting provider. I tried to contact you via your czar44 email address to let you know that this was available if you wanted it and that I can transfer everything over to you if you get set up with your own provider. If you're still interested, you can contact me at chris(at)freaklabs.org

Regardless, good luck with this next chapter in your life!

I was wondering why i saw a flock of pigs fly over while a devilish looking guy was buying up all remnant of winter clothing at the store.. I also read in the newspaper that national is moving in to solar power now ...

First thing I read. The Bean Counters rule supreme.

I ALWAYS read Bob's column first. He is a great source of good info---- and besides, it's fun to read!!

As another collector of Bob's publishings (I even Emailed him, once!), I too regret his uninvited "early retirement".

All I can say is that I hope this gives him more time to participate in his love of "globetrotting".

And Bob, take care (and keep those feet warm).

Good fortune and good health, my friend.

Bob is a great teacher, especially his analog power point slides.

Good luck!

I am sorry to hear that Bob is no longer with National. He was always a great contributor to their products, but what was more of a contribution was his personal help to fellow engineers. I always read his colomn and learn just a little bit more each time I read them. Please continue to keep Bob's knowledge flowing in this field !!!

Good Luck Bob and keep going !!!!!

I read Mr. Pease's articles first or second only because they are towards the back. His old school vocabulary and knowledge and in depth understanding of current digital approaches is invaluable and irreplaceable. It has saved/made me income from time to time.

Everyone knows Bob Pease as that “Master of Analog Design”. Always eager to assist in problem solving; talented, knowledgeable, experienced…

We should all remember which political party is anti-capitalist, once the 2010-2012 elections come around.

Meanwhile… Bob- why not start a new company titled “Bob Pease Consulting”. And, when NSC needs to beg an answer… you can charge them your going rate.

Best Regards, Steve

Mr. Bob Pease has an irreplaceable knowledge of analog design; I always read his columns, even if it the only article I read that day. I would enjoy more knowledge transfer/teaching-in blogs, videos, or appearances. Noise is always a problem, it seems.

P.S. Wonder when people will wake up and realize that now it may be their turn. It's always happening to someone else until all of a suuden it's your ball of wax.

--Extract, History of Europe(nope!),1938

OK, now I'm ready for the Vatican to lay off the Pope. The goundwork has been done. National - the place that introduced me to Floobydust. There must be a recession or something.....

I'm glad you are continuing to feature Bob Pease's column. I always read that before the rest of the magazine. Bob is a truly original thinker. His electronic roots go all the way back to G. A. Philbrick Co. His troubleshooting book is an industry classic. On subjects as diverse as how to drive safely and hiking in Nepal, he has never been afraid to tell it like it is. It's one more measure of corporate cluelessness that NatSemi would lay him off. Thanks for giving us a forum to show support for Bob.

I'm sorry to hear that National will laid-off Bob. Bob is great man, and I enjoyed his presence on National's seminars. I enjoyed his writings for your magazine. I appreciate that you are going to keep his column. Thank you, Goran

Even as a retired analog engineer, I still read Bob's column. As a practicing engineer, I utilized his insight through his writings and in person. Thanks Bob for sharing your God given talent. What's All This Retirement Stuff, Anyhow?

Oops...I meant "What's all this..."

Chalk it up to stupid corporate management to get rid of a living legend in the analog world, especially at an analog/mixed-signal company. I've been reading Bob's "What's up with" articles in ED for longer than I can remember and always learn something I didn't know. Thanks Bob, for teaching this analog newbie the ropes.

Akiba FreakLabs Open Source Zigbee Project http://www.freaklabs.org

Bob is a GOD!

That will give him more time to write a longer column?? Just kidding, what a crazy move!!

Bob's column is the first piece I read. As a good engineer, I always read the magazine from back to front. It is absolutely incredible that they would lay Bob off!

I read that Bob Pease will be leaving National Semiconductor and that he is still working for Electronic Design. Thank you for keeping Mr. Pease on, he is a master of design and a beacon for those of us who really care about good design. Thank you for your excellent magazine and journal, and for being able to keep Bob on the payroll. Ideas For Design and Bob Pease's mailbox are the two places I open your magazine to first,and then I read all of the rest. Thank you for a good magazine, and helping me personally,

Bob Pease is a legend in the engineering world. Losing him is not only a blow to the NSC team, its just plain bad marketing. His column isn't necessarily the first I read in ED, but its definitely up there. I enjoyed his books and look forwards to a chance to meet him in person - he has been a practicing engineer for almost twice as long as I have been alive!

It's the second one I read. I even asked for his help when he was with Philbrick. Abe Z.

Small and warped minds produce the Empire for Layoffs, the same small and warped minds that gave us TOday's gutted Infrastructure-Less Corporations, thrive on more Lay-Offs from their stupid children,.... called MBAs. Bob has simply become a temporary victim, while those small, warped & waisted CorpoRat tweezer-beek little minds will all get what's due them, when they go reaching for that next bigger chunk of cheese. As for analog, maybeit's time that with microcircuitry so refined and relatively stable as it can be, that perhaps a new form of Digital is perceived, one that has the ability to work at more than a few voltage or current levels, into ultra-stable comparator circuits that make a true marriage between the best of Analog and Digital, so everyone can have their cake and eat it too. As to more powerful thinking in these and other direction, well I'll leave that up to Bob and other Engineers who still give a damn about real life!

Late 1975, a magazine landed in my lap, voice informed me the recipient was no longer with the company, some one should renew it so the rest of the lab could read it. That was my intro to Electronic Design.

I doubt Mr. Pease would remember the awkward questions a tech from an East Coast company was given the task of getting answered from that far back. I do remember his patient and concise help on using the components and can say they indeed did work as he said they would function.

I can say that over the years his articles have always been a reminder to me of that time.

Thanks for being there and hope you keep on as long as you want to do so, Mr. Pease.

Take care and be safe pfb

I'm another who doesn't necissarily look at Bob's column first, but always. And I was just on the fringes of his topic. I used to call on National in the old days. I thought it was a treat. Can I assume he was in the meeting that decided to let him leave? I've thought of him as repreenting those of us who are a bit long in the tooth and not interesting in stopping.

Some staffing errors are really quite amazing. It is a shame to see some of the most capable and valuable people be terminated before some of the less valuable employees.

I was at National too. Whether I personally like or admire Bob Pease, or don't, is besides the point here. What no one can deny is that Bob is always a pleasure to read, he literally draws in the crowds like no other person at National (past or present) can even pretend to. He is certainly very iconic --- he is the part of National perceived by others (justifiably or not) to be greater than the whole. Therefore his layoff does smack of rank stupidity. The same stupidity behind all the other situations since a few years ago. Situations that Bob was (I hope) being too "PC" (politically correct)to point out. Now I hope he abandons his misplaced sense of loyalty, and like a good engineer, finally speaks the TRUTH --- about those idiots-in-charge and the culture they have created (with sad help from Bob in the past too, I admit). I also admit the same culture propped up Bob himself in a way for years, to make him so arrogant that they obviously wanted to finally send a message to him too. The problem is, they are still far more dispensable than Bob, and certainly far less useful, to be telling him where to get off. What a joke. They should lay themselves off and then we would be even.

I'm reading the book and love the column and can't believe the incredibly small thinking that it took to decide to lay off Bob. My guess is there are 3 idiots involved. For some reason, it always seems to take 3 of them in a group to make the most obvious blunders. As a personal protest, I'll be checking National parts out ONLY as a last resort.

I would welcome more of Bob Pease! I find his Porridge column entertaining as well as informative.

I remember being surprised how easily I reached him by phone some years ago when I hit a technical brick wall. He quickly conceived an approach to solving my challenge (while I furiously attempted to take notes). Some months later I noticed that he incorporated this idea into his column.

I also enjoy his seminars - always entertaining and technically stimulating.

Keep him coming and feel free to increase the quantity!

I would welcome more of Bob Pease! I find his Porridge column entertaining as well as informative.

I remember being surprised how easily I reached him by phone some years ago when I hit a technical brick wall. He quickly conceived an approach to solving my challenge (while I furiously attempted to take notes). Some months later I noticed that he incorporated this idea into his column.

I also enjoy his seminars - always entertaining and technically stimulating.

Keep him coming and feel free to increase the quantity!

Well Bob, you can see you have quite some audience that likes you including me. An engineer as skilled and with such a broad interest can get a job anywhere, eventhough you are already 115, right ;) ? Maybe they never forgave you the temporary disappearance of that instrument that was not so 'safely secured by a steel wire'. A logic or spectrum analyser if I recall correctly. I like your style and hope to read much more from you. Enjoy life and engineering ! All the best.

Bob is the main reason I follow ED. Would love to read more of him.

Great engineer with dedication and excellent real-world insight. Pease Porridge is why I read ED starting at the back cover.

Bob P.

Great engineer with dedication and excellent real-world insight. Pease Porridge is why I read ED starting at the back cover.

Bob P.

Yes, is the first I turn to, and thank you for keep him there.

I eagerly await every issue of Electronic Design specifically to see the wit and wisdom that awaits in the Pease Porridge column. Although I have never met Bob personally he has been one of the single biggest influences in shaping my understanding of good analog design -- and for that I am indebted. I also found his Troubleshooting book a valuable resource and enjoyed seeing him in action in the Analog Webcasts he put on while at National. I'm glad to see that ED recognizes the value that Bob contributes to the industry and that you will continue to bring us more Pease Porridge -- I still have a lot to learn.

Bob Pease, great guy.

Bob Pease, great guy.

YES! Bob's articles are my favorite part of the magazine. I appreciate his old school philosophy and I'll never be the engineer he is.

Back in the 90's, I worked as a Distributor FAE supporting National. On training in Boston, I spent some time testing beverages with one of the NSC Area Technical Managers. One of the things we discussed was the Olde Linear Applications Handbooks that NSC used to put out; I was suggesting some topics for an updated version. This conversation continued via email after the conference. That a senior field person at NSC saw fit to copy Bob on our discussion...... well, let's just say I don't get my comments advanced to a Living Legend every day (or even every other blue moon....).

It's great to see Bob's commentary will still be widely available, he is a tremendous resource for the industry. DM.

Yes, it's the first thing I read. And Bob's book "Troubleshooting Analog Circuits" is still my all time favorite I've ever bought! I had all of his magazine articles that ended up making the book clipped out and saved but when they were compiled into the book I bought it. Should be a required text book in EE school in my opinion. Best wishes Bob!

Hi, Guys, thanks for all the kind words.

ED will help you find me through my new e-mail address, czar44@me.com - - on my new Mac.

I'm still trying to be a helpful ANALOG guy. / rap

Welcome to a new chapter in your life Bob. Somehow I think you parted with National on your terms and not theirs. Enjoy an active retirement, keep your control loop oscillation free and continue to keep us properly biased and with just the right amount of feedback on your future adventures.

Bob Pease may no longer be a National asset, but he is certainly still a national asset. Keep the columns coming!

I ALWAYS read his column and ALWAYS enjoy it!

Now I know the world is upside down!! National is losing a great asset in Bob Pease! His column in Electronic Design is one of the highlights of each month when the magazine arrives. Bob is one of the few people in the industry that is rooted in reality and who actually understands the physics behind the design. Glad he will still be a part of Electronic Design!!!

Glad to hear Mr. Pease will be staying with Electronics Design. He is why I read the magazine. In fact his column is the first place I turn & read.

The more of Bob's writings the better!

National sounds like the big corp. where I once worked. Lay off your good/great engineers and keep the people who are newer and earn less.

Good luck Bob.

Bob has been an inspiration to me since he sent me samples of LM3914s and xeroxes of preliminary data sheets for them in...1978?

Is someone at National saying that they have more valuable people on staff? What a mistake to lay off Bob! Speaking of poor corporate decision making....

For National to layoff someone of Bob's caliber said a lot about the shape they are in, but even more about the gluttony of poor choices America has seen from the executive level. I have been designing circuits for 20 years and it is still my hope to be half the engineer he is. I have never met Bob, but through the articles and books you almost feel you know him. Fantastically brilliant - Far Side humor funny.

I read the articles first - then Bob's notes. I save the best for last!!

I'm sadden to here that Bob Pease is leaving Nation after all he has done for them and as the result of layoffs. Bull S !!! I always looked at National parts first when I needed a new part. Not anymore. I know layoffs happen, but why is it the older more experienced who go first. And yes, I ALWAYS read Bob's page first. Good Luck and Best Wishes Bob

So sad to see you go, Bob - you are the analog man. Another fine example of US semiconductor short-sightedness. Hmmm. Maybe they outsourced Bob to an analog call center in India??

Even though you moved Bob to the back of the Bus, the last page is where I go first. Analog is my bag and I love his column even if he sometimes gets onto a path other than analog.

When I heard National was crazy enough to let him go, I was worried that it might mean the end of his writing for you. I'm very glad to hear that he will continue with the column. Us Old Analog Far-- need it.

First article I read in the magazine. Very much like his analog articles. Good luck Bob. Duncan

I look forward to reading whatever his unique and wonderful mentation produces for us now that he has use of the time previously devoted to NS. I hope he finds he has more fun (and cash) from writing articles, books, for us and from whatever he does for himself...

Bob's column is the first thing I read in ED. I like the way he writes about other issues besides analog design. This keeps the columns interesting, even though I enjoy the analog ones the most.

I worry about him driving that old VW bug though.

$100 says he shows up at consulting or working for LT. At least they value their engineering talent...(I think).

Good luck Bob!

It is always a pleasure reading Bob's column. Wish you all the best and keep writing about the art of analog engineering.

I like to save Bob's page for dessert.

Amazing National would give up such a resource.

This country needs to learn it need's more like Bob Pease and less lawyers and MBA's.

Wonder what Mark Twain would say about the mess this world is in?

"Reader, suppose you were an idiot. And suppose you were a member of Congress. But I repeat myself." -- Mark Twain

I have read all of column articles in ED by Bob and enjoyed watching his training videos on NSC website. Bob is really an analog genius with so many insightful ideas. What a surprise to read the news today! I don't even understand the decision of current NSC mgmt.

All the best from China, Mr Pease. I will keep on following your wit and wisdom on analog circuits.

Bob, I had the pleasure of working with you when I was at NSM up till 1990 when I got laid off. I always remember you could straighten out the toughest customer problems without ruffling their feathers. I can still see you sorting out a problem with a matched transistor pair with schematic in one hand and a drink in the other.

Good Luck to you Bob from a former FAE

Bob Pease plays with electronics in a way no one else can. He is such an inspiration for engineers worldwide.

All the very best Mr. Pease.

When I think National, I think Bob Pease! He is/was the true face of National. I'll never forget seeing him in action at a conference. All those overhead slides were the best! Hmm, I wonder if he's just plain retiring and not being laid off. There's no way the big-wigs at National would be dumb enough to lay him off. Good luck Bob!

You have got to be KIDDING! I don't care how bad things get, you don't EVER get rid of your key staff. When things turn around for Nat Semi they won't have Bob anymore. What a dumb decision!!! Bob, you are a champion!

Bob's column is the FIRST one read.. and I re-read it after reading everything else. The column wasn't always on the back page. The stuff he does is just NOT taught right in the schools. Bob: best of success to you. National: you've fouled up Big Time on this one.

Unbelievable. The pointy-haired-boss syndrome must be alive and well at NS. Whenever I've had an issue of Electronic Design, I never fail to read Bob's column. At least ED recognizes Bob's depth of knowledge AND writing skill.

73 de AE6HC

Craig

www.fmsgps.com

At least Bob won't be beholden (anymore) to use NSC parts in his articles even when the other analog guys' parts were better suited (or superior). I'd like to say that this boneheaded decision of NSC put the final nail in the coffin but, I can't recall the last time (>20 years?) I chose to put an NSC component in my designs. Not that I didn't try -I just found better features or better specs from the other guys. Keep up the good work at ED Bob and remember; a little dlife/dt rejuvenates the soul. Before you know it, your back in the game!

I'm a back to front reader of ED also, and like many others have said, I head for Bob's column first. I became a "Brass Rat" a few years before Bob and put in about 45 years as a EE, mostly in aerospace work. I've had the pleasure of meeting Bob at National Seminars here in Red Sox Nation. I sure hope Bao (and I) stay on the right side of the grass for a long, long time.

What kills me is that guys like Bob have an encyclopedia of knowledge in their heads that you CAN'T find in another source. All those 'rules of thumb' and 'old Indian tricks' and 'ancient Chinese secrets' are hard-won tidbits of empirical data that just can't be book-learnt. So, maybe now Bob can increase his musings and pontifications, of maybe Elecdesign will give him a clerk to start a new book. Cheers to a life well-lived. I'm glad I can say it while he's still here to receive it. TR would say "Bully!" GLB

Bob's columns have always been a pleasure to read, as much for his technical expertise as for his enthusiasm and joy in his work. Electrical engineering has been in my blood since high school, as a hobby, as an amateur radio operator, and as a career, continuing as a hobby into retirement. I wish Bob many years of enjoyment, and look forward to his future columns.

Thanks, Bob,

RG

I am a big fan of Bob Pease's column. He may remember me from 1974-77 when I was working at National Semi with Tim Isbell and others on the analog team to develop the LM1853/LM1854 chipset for a quadraphonic sound decoder I invented. Even then, Bob was the analog guru. As an analog engineer myself, I know it's a dying art but even after retirement I can still work part time on my pet projects.

I normally scan most of the magazine, but I almost always make the time to read Bob's articles. Even when I don't understand them (I have been out of engineering for about 20 years) I find them interesting. And I was really impressed when I wrote him with a question and even got an answer. He is one great person.

Fred Sparrevohn

It's good for ED that Bob is staying. Everyone reads his column. I hope National Semi has sharp analog engineers on staff for future products. (Are they planning future products?)

What's with all this layoff stuff, anyhow?

Yes, I always read magazines from the back to the front, (must be some engineer thing) so Bob's column is always the first I read. Sometimes, I just stop there if I don't have time to read the rest of the issue, but I ALWAYS read Bob's thoughts and rants. His writings are always interesting and enjoyable, no matter the subject.

73-OM de KB0HAW

Sorry to hear Bob is being laid off from National. Very Glad he will be in the pages of Electronic Design. His Column is the first page I turn to. His breadboards are amazing. He is old school and Modern school at the same time, A little bit Country a little bit Rock and Roll. Refreshing insight on pretty much everything going on. Like Tom Edison "interested in everything" . Thanks for the good news that Bob will be around for more great columns.

Take Care

Don

Yes, RAP's column *is* the first one that I turn to each issue of electronic design. He and I are about the same age, got started in electronics about the same time, and we both enjoy teaching new or simplifying techniques. I love his columns.

Just noticed these top article stats! 1) Bob Pease Is Leaving National, But Not Electronic Design (5442 views today) 2) What's All This Analog Engineering Stuff, Anyhow? (894 views today) 3) What's All This Rock-Hopping Stuff, Anyhow? (630 views today)

#4 348 Views.

Top Three to Bob by a long shot!

I always read Bob's column first, and often rip it out and save it. Also sometimes make a copy and hand it to another engineer.

This event causes me to loose considerable respect for National. What will happen to their new analog designs without the benefit of Bob's mentoring capability?

I am sure that NSC's loss will turn out to be every present or former electronic/electric engineer's gain. I can speculate that he will become a very prolific writer. I always read his column first

Yes, Bob's column is the first I read. I was wondering if Bob would be axed, because according to the reports, Nat Semi is laying of a quarter of its workforce. Sounds like they are in real trouble.

--Rich

Bob's column is the first and sometimes the only one I read. I have met him personally at a seminar e-mailed him and received personal replies back. I proudly display a signed poster of him "Walking on Water" at my desk. The situation at National must be desperate or they are just plain nuts.

Bob's column is always an interesting read. It's a loss for NSC and a gain for Elctronic Design. I would like to see more stuff from Bob...practical stuff!

I always read Bob's column first. Even if it's on a topic that has nothing to do with my job I find it interesting. As far as National letting him go, knowing him, he probably volunteered for the layoff (he is of retirement age after all) so that some other employee who could ill afford to lose their job would be kept on. Bob's like that...

|Steve|

I sick of the arrogant fools at the top. Its prevalent in our government and industry. Its pathetic when the layoff the "face" of the company. They probably made the decision over a game of golf. Bad publicity for sure.

I have met Bob at several trade show dating back to Wescon and others. I have a treasured signed photo of Bob as the "Tsar of Band Gaps". His words and approach are much appeciated. Don't forget digital is just a special case of Analog! Good luck and good travels Bob.

Ken

Bob's column has always been interesting. It might appear that age and experience are not valued any more in this country. Or is it due to sky rocketing health care cost which favor the young and shun the old? All I know is, that since I hit 50 it much harder finding employment!!

How foolish of National. They are doing the same as too many other companies these days, and cutting their best assets. Bob is the Grand Master of analog design, right from the start. He was there with the other two Bobs.

I too have met Bob a couple of times. He gives great seminars, and is a joy to talk with.

Good luck Bob. Now you will have the time for more trekking adventures. Keep those columns rolling.

Rick

I start at the back of the magazine and Bob's stuff is the very first thing I read......I have just designed in my last Nat'l Semi part.....

Even when I didn't read his column first his was the one I'd remember. Thanks Bob.

ALWAYS read his column, my favorite feature in the magazine...

I always read Bob's column. He is timeless.

Always interesting articles, he is a walking book of knoledge and I am sure will be back in the business somewhere. Thanks ED for insuring him that he will be kept on board. Looking forward to many more articles and ideas from Bob

Absolutely, I first go to Bob's page, read it, then scan the rest of the magazine. I look forward to his insights.

I guess it can happen to anyone...best of luck!

Bob P. is not always the first column I read, but he is the only column that I always read.

I loved Bob's writing and the education and laughs his column provided. The richness and fun of analog design is something other design disciplines don't always offer.

Aside from all the wonderful analog stuff, Bob convinced me to organize my refrigerator with baskets. Soon there were dozens of baskets organizing things all over the house. It's a great idea and a heck of an additional legacy!

I loved Bob's writing and the education and laughs his column provided. The richness and fun of analog design is something other design disciplines don't always offer. Bob captured that richness.

Aside from all the wonderful analog stuff, Bob convinced me to organize my refrigerator with baskets. Soon there were dozens of baskets organizing things all over the house. It's a great idea and a heck of an additional legacy!

Bob is simply the sin qua non of analog design advocacy. I have read and loved him for years, and have found him intensely human and on the mark discussing fundamental principles and design arcania that seem to have soaked primarily into the bones of us scarred old timers. He is unusually eclectic, and the range of both his technical and non-technical interests always fascinating to experience in print. I hope he's getting a good retirement package, but probably is OK, since he is financially-- and design-wise-- a conservative. I assume National will continue to use him as a consultant and educator; to my mind he appears to be leaving a huge hole in their applications staff expertise--the deep knowledge and intuitive grasp of design which is necessary to successfully attack the most labyrinthine design issues. I wish him well, and am pleased you all at the magazine realize what an asset he is, and will continue to carry the journalistic manifestations of the musings of his fine mind.

Forrest Gale

Yes, I read Bob's column first. I am first and foremost an analog engineer. It is a sad commentary when fine minds like Bob's are discarded. I am glad to hear that he will still be writing for ED. I wish him the best as his career takes a new direction. I am assuming that he is not planning to retire and will continue to be active in the technical fields. After all, he is younger than I am and I have not retired nor do I plan to. I'm having too much fun. Solving challenging problems is a lot of fun and I hope that Bob continues to have fun.

I have been impressed that Bob is a man who thinks with his mind first, not his computer. I must say that I hope National and other analog IC companies still realize that some really good analog designs might not all come from their pre-packaged web site design generation software, but rather from those experienced in the lab who have been reading many technical papers and quality application notes, like Bob has produced over the decades. Best of luck to National Semi., Bob Pease should do just fine anywhere.

Maybe Bob took a package?

Bob's column is the first one I turn to when I get a new issue. I look forward to your future articles. Best of luck Bob, I'm sure you'll be scooped up in no time.

Bob Pease is one of the best parts of the magazine. I would enjoy reading more of his work.

73 Bob de AA9UC

Pease's column is in fact the first palce that I turn to every month when I receive my copy of ED. I've been reading this since his first column (around 1990?), and it's the reason I first became interested in reading ED. Please keep publishing Bob's stuff whether it be in print or on-line. I'm sure we will all miss him on the lecture tour! I know I'll miss "analog powerpoint"!!

Paul D.

Bob Pease is the second best columnist in the entire electronics publishing industry. He is the first one I read. Keep him around. I would love to see him on video.

I doubt Mr. Pease will be languishing for long. National Semi's loss will surely be anothers gain. Go get 'em Bob. I've learned quite a bit from reading your work in ED. Thanks.

I've had the great good fortune to meet Bob in person, and I'd certainly like another opportunity if he ever gets back to Texas again! I read his column(s) almost religiously. How about putting together a compendium of his columns over the years (yes, including his trekking adventures, VW problems and so on)? You could put it in .PDF format and publish it on the Web, OR, print and bind it and sell it via some reasonable outlet. I'm sorry that NatSemi is losing such a valuable member of their staff -- they will regret their decision, I'm sure! Tons of luck, Bob! Karl

The ousting of your most influential figures is telling. It tells me that Nat is no longer interested in its domestic image.

I, too, always look to see what Bob has to say first. I also have the books he has written and editied.

I think of him every time someone shoves a printout in my face and says, "Look at this simulation!" I ask them if the circuit works. They say, "No, but look at this simulation!" In their minds reality is irrelevant. Bob Pease is like a 1" braid hose-clamped to cold water pipe. We need his common sense to keep us grounded--and always will.

Bob's article is the one I definitely read, I often skim the rest. Live long and prosper, Bob. Maybe some of that hair will grow back, now that you're not pulling it out on a daily basis.

Bob's article is the one I definitely read, I often skim the rest. Live long and prosper, Bob. Maybe some of that hair will grow back, now that you're not pulling it out on a daily basis.

For those of use who enjoy Bob's column but are less computer averse, an "What's all this Stuff Anyhow" RSS feed would be very nice. Is it hidden somewhere on the site?

Bob's column is always the first read for me. Without Bob I might not even pick up the magazine. Whatever you do keep Bob on the staff. And other media approaches for Bob sound great! I for one would love to meet him in person.

I always read Pease Porridge and usually clip and save it. I especially like his hand-drawn schematics. Bob replied to at least one e-mail from me. I can't imagine National Semi without Bob, and I'm glad he's still with ED.

What is this world coming to? Bob is and will always be #1 to us lesser EEs out here!

Looks like Mr. Pease will not be languishing for long. National Semi's loss will surely be anothers gain. Go get 'em Bob. I've learned quite a bit from reading your work in ED. Thanks.

I do always read Bob's column first. Even though most of my day-to-day work is related to digital stuff, VHDL, simulation and software, I always like to keep in touch with the "real world", and it doesn't get more real than analog and linear through the eyes of Bob. I'm delighted that you're keeping him around.

I always read Bob's column first. Never get rid of it.

No, it's not the article I read first - it's the one I save for last.

I don't even work with analog, but I find the circuits interesting anyway.

I'm glad you're keeping him around...that is definitely Nationals loss. More writing / media online would be awesome...his column is the one I always read!

No more National in my designs (unless I really have to). ;P

Yep, I always read his column first....

You nailed it....Pease Porridge is the first page I turn to in ED. Sorry to see that National deems Bob expendable. Recent layoffs at our office have seen engineers with decades of experience turned out on the street. It seems a sad comment on present managerial thinking. Maybe Pease's insight will be more available now for the public at large.....?

Perhaps he and the value and visibility he provided, just no longer fit into their bottom line.

Good for ED. I still read Bob every issue. I have not designed for a living for about 15 years, but I still learn something from Bob in every column.

Pease has been been my favorite from college in the 70s on.

So much so that when my career began to shift away from engineering to something resembling (but not quite) marketing --in the market where I work I have a name almost as well known as he in his-- he was the role model for the pitch I made to corporate higher-ups to complete the transition. And it was bought.

Being an OLD analog man myself, his is one of the first articles I look for and enjoy. Sorry to hear he is leaving National but then as long as we can still hear from him through Electron Design maybe it's a good thing. Chuck Simpson

The first page I turn to as well.

I second the FLOOBYDUST! emotion.

Bob is an iconic wonder, and the highlight of the magazine. I read his column religiously, and it's always entertaining. Thanks for all the great info over the years, Bob.

Yes, of course I'm a fan, and sad to see him leaving National.

Are they nuts?

It's a tragic mistake for National to let Bob go. Throwing away all those years of experience and Bob's unique point of view is enough to make me rethink about using any more analog parts from National. I'd suggest that anyone with stock in this company sell it today.

Yep...first thing to turn to. The man's incredible! Some of the best applications on the back of a napkin. Analog is always "in" for us pro-audio guys and so it is w/Bob. Looking forward to the Blog.

Pep

To National and all the other organizations that in their current panic are getting rid of their "silverbacks" I say FLOOBYDUST!

sk

I always read Bob's column whether in print or online. On many occasions I find myself pondering Bob's analysis. Many times it's back to the books the refresh my knowledge of a subject or to learn it for the first time. On the non-electrical subjects, Bob could be just as technical (hiking and knots come to mind) in his analysis. When he chooses to quit writing, his wit and wisdom will be sorely missed.

Bob's good name and reputation will secure his future. As for his past employer, someone may fill the office may be filled but it will be a long time before anyone truely fills the position.

My best wishes to Bob as he starts out on some new adventures. From what I have seen, Bob relaxes and enjoys himself the most when he is doing something. I'm certain we'll be seeing and hearing more from Bob very soon.

Even Bob Pease got laid off!

That means not only Analog Engineering is dead, but Engineering is dead, or at least walking dead!

If Bob had gone into management instead, either he would get filthy rich off his golden parachute, or he would keep his job no matter what!

Compared to my ex-boss, the Microsemi CEO, I'm sure Bob did not lie about his qualifications.

Microsemi let the CEO keep his job after his lie was exposed, because it credited him with the company's performance over the last 9 years, while crediting none of the hundreds of its much higher qualified and honest engineers (many of whom lost their job for the flimsiest of reasons).

If Bob is smart enough to know where the money is, he should start writing for the Wall Street Journal, not Electronic Design.

It figures! Take one of your most prolific analog design engineers and toss him out on the street. Or they probably made him retire because he's too expensive to keep around. Either way, I'm done designing-in National Semi parts into my boards. Who's next??? Jim Williams of LT

I am a power circuit guy, going back to the 1940's, with peripheral contact with IC's. I have followed Bob's column for many years, and a good deal of my understanding of analoguerry comes from those columns. This is a sad commentary on National's management. The best to you, Bob!

Laying off Bob Pease? Have they no fear? This is an articulate, well-known and highly respected public figure - with a publisher. They should lay off Brian Halla - nobody's ever heard of HIM.

Often, Bob's page is the ONLY thing I read.

I agree! Bob's column is the most interesting piece in any publication that I read - and always the first thing that I turn to. National Semi is doing themselves irreparable harm to let him get away. I'd bet he's worth at least 10X his salary in PR alone - and I don't have an inkling how much he makes.

It's funny - back in the haydays of analog - like the 1970s - National Semi made a killing. They did so, in my opinion, not because they made the first-to-market and best products (though they often were). Not because they had great support and marketing (they didn't). It was on account of a great catalog, that was every analog engineer's bible - with all kinds of cookbook circuits and stuff. When it said "LM324" or whatever, you just went out and ordered the Natl Semi device (without questioning) using the P/N in the recipe that you were following. No doubt Natl Semi is still in business today in no small part due to the convenience of that old analog catalog. Bob is another of these "old" conveniences (and I'm not referring to his chronological age) - jettisoned by another Natl Semi faux pas.

I read and enjoy reading Bob Pease columns, be they technical or other. Yes, I do tend to read his work first! Letting Pease go was not a very smart move for National. I wonder if he "ticked off" some high placed management "weeney"? I'll look forward to reading his columns in Electronic Design, hopefully, for a long time to come!

Bob...

Yup, look forward to every Pease Porridge. things in general must be worse than I'd realized if he's getting layed off!

Yes, always the first page is the Pease Porridge. Best of everything, Mr. Pease!

MT

I don't know to what extent Bob contributes to new part designs, but National will be losing a huge PR and 'institutional' image.

Bob's article is always the first place I turn. He's a flicker of sanity in a world which assumes computer-aided (fill in the blank) can do all the thinking for us. Automation is no replacement for experience and wisdom.

Favorite Bob Pease quote: If you're not the best, be different; if you are the best, be different.

Rock on, Bob!

Most times it is the only page I read. (sorry guys)

Bob, best of luck to you in your new found freedom!

Good show ED, I have had the pleasure of meeting Bob here in Germantown Maryland and yes Bob's column is often the first place I go when I open each issue...

Good Luck Bob.

Yes – I definitely check his column out first!

Best wishes Mr. Pease.

MRDPE

http://TheProfessionalEngineer.com

Yes, in fact that is the first page I turn when I receive each issue.