Analog Guru Jim Williams dies after stroke

[JonMarsh]

Jim Williams, the world-famous analog guru that helped found and expand Linear Technology, passed away at 10:15pm pacific time Sunday night. He suffered a massive stroke on Thursday night, June 9, 2011. He was 63 years old.



Those of you who are into high performance analog electronics maybe familiar with some of his books; his approach to electronics was very much based on the physics of it, and developing a strong conceptual understanding as opposed to filling pages with detailed math. "The Art and Science of Analog Circuit Design" is probably one of his most popular. The passing of this talented and outgoing non-credentialled engineer is very much a sad day.

~jon

[Johnloudb]

Yes, that is sad news. I do have the book you mentioned but haven't dug into it too much. Though, I've read some interesting stories in it as well as some practical information by the other authors in the book. So, after seeing your post I read "The importance of fixing" by Jim Williams. Interesting read and good practical lessons about the knowledge that's gained by repairing and understanding others design decisions.

How does a 20 year old college drop out get a teaching job at MIT? He didn't go into his previous experience in electronics, but I'm curious what his background was that got him that job. I'll look it up.

[JonMarsh]

He got a job at MIT as a janitor, as I hear it, then talked his way into a technician job, and moved up from there.

[wkhanna]

How sad.

But what a story!

I will make it a point to do some reading of Jim's.

[JonMarsh]

If you're interested in high performance analog electronics, especially high speed, Jim's work is very useful. He has a reputation as being a very down to earth kind of guy, though he did very well for himself getting on board early at Linear Technology. Always liked talking to engineer's about their design problems.

[maddog33]

I'm speechless

Jesus.

http://www.eetimes.com/electronics-news/4217077/Analog-expert-Bob-Pease-dies-in-tragic-accident

[JonP]

Speechless as well... another very sad day....

Jesus.

http://www.eetimes.com/electronics-n...ragic-accident

[JonMarsh]

Bob Pease...

Jesus.

http://www.eetimes.com/electronics-n...ragic-accident

Yeah, it's turned into a very strange month- heard about this last Sunday when I was flying to Detroit on business. Very sad.

Regards,

Jon