What machine or technology has made the biggest difference in the world?

[Krummhorn]

In your own words, explain 'why' if you so desire.

My response: RF transmissions for radio, television, and communications. It still baffles me how radio signals can pass through most solid objects. I understand the theory and all, but how something we cannot 'see' can travel through glass and walls still boggles my mind.

[Ouled Nails]

Any electricity producing technology. I am reminded of our great need for electricity every time there occurs a power outage, like the great ice storm in the Northeast a few years back. No power for several days, in the middle of winter, completely changed our lives. And, by the way, the old portable radio was one of the few things that still worked!

[JLS]

I'm having difficulty choosing between fire and the wheel...

[Simon Jansfort]

I'd say fire! It's the prerequisite for ALL the other inventions you can mention!! (Almost, that is!)

[pnoom]

I'd say fire! It's the prerequisite for ALL the other inventions you can mention!! (Almost, that is!)

Fire's not an invention, however.

[Corno Dolce]

Semi-Conductor Technology.

[Krummhorn]

I'll agree with that, Corno Dolce ... worked for nearly 25 years for a government contractor in electronics ... that stuff still amazes me.

[Corno Dolce]

Hi Krummhorn,

Quantum Computing is the next up and coming field where much research is happening and the fruits are ripening but there is still much to do before it can be used by John and Mary Q. Public.

Cheers,

Corno Dolce

[methodistgirl]

The pipe organ and the synthesizer.
judy tooley

[jhnbrbr]

The hinge.

[marval]

Medical equipment that can save lives.

[sunwaiter]

the can opener

[sunwaiter]

let's chill out a bit...

ok, i would say, as a music addict (like you if got it well), laser technology.

[Corno Dolce]

Fly-by-light technology(using laser light pulses) has been in use for flight control since 1970 on experimental aircraft and it is starting to become standard on certain military aircraft.

[C5Says]

the internet!!! communication got faster, which solves problems faster...or at least made known faster...and a lot cheaper than snail mail...

i recall the movie THE POSTMAN by Kevin Costner...nice film.