• We’re currently investigating an issue related to the forum theme and styling that is impacting page layout and visual formatting. The problem has been identified, and we are actively working on a resolution. There is no impact to user data or functionality, this is strictly a front-end display issue. We’ll post an update once the fix has been deployed. Thanks for your patience while we get this sorted.

Americans can't handle the metric system

Page 2 - Seeking answers? Join the AnandTech community: where nearly half-a-million members share solutions and discuss the latest tech.
NAC4EV said:
I can't remember if a gallon is 144 oz. or 160 oz.
Click to expand...

You could try remembering that it's neither...

That part of the Imperial system is all binary counting anyway. 8, 16, 32, 64, 128... these are not difficult to remember. Especially if you followed videogames in the late 80s through the 90s (8 bit, 16 bit, 32 bit, etc). Or built computers and had to buy RAM. Or have spent any amount of time considering common screen resolutions and aspect ratios. Base 2 is pretty common in the tech world.
 
TheGardener said:
And while we are at it, we need to come up with a new currency system, not based on 10. Heck, we are changing our bills and coinage all the time, what's a bit more confusion.
Click to expand...
How about we try a currency with quarters and nickels. Then we won't be based on 10!
 
I'm an American and I prefer metric. I'm a CAD drafter by trade, and can do some machining as well. Metric just makes more sense because everything works in variables of 10s. Most machine shops in the USA have already transitioned to metric.
 
Humpy said:
You're holding up the line writing that shit!!!!
Click to expand...

With the chips that are now coming in credit cards I think I can write a check faster. Not only do I have to swipe a card, now I have to wait for it to tell me to shove it back into the machine, then wait for it to process, then take it back out. And depending on the purchase/retailer I have to sign a pad too.

May as well just prepare a checkbook while I'm waiting in line and have it ready to go.
 
vi edit said:
I need a board cut from 3ft and 9/16 down to 2 feet and 5/8ths.

How much do I need to take off?
Click to expand...

The amount you need to take off is irrelevant to that particular task. You grab the 3ft 9/16th piece, measure to 2ft 5/8ths, mark a line, then cut it. Done. The part you cut off is going in the scrap bin most likely.
 
Chaosblade02 said:
The amount you need to take off is irrelevant to that particular task. You grab the 3ft 9/16th piece, measure to 2ft 5/8ths, mark a line, then cut it. Done.
Click to expand...

For the pedantic challenged it's just an example why imperial measurements can be a pain in the ass. Especially if it's not something you use every day.
 
vi edit said:
With the chips that are now coming in credit cards I think I can write a check faster. Not only do I have to swipe a card, now I have to wait for it to tell me to shove it back into the machine, then wait for it to process, then take it back out. And depending on the purchase/retailer I have to sign a pad too.

May as well just prepare a checkbook while I'm waiting in line and have it ready to go.
Click to expand...

You carry a pen and a check book and all your other stuff in some sort of fanny pack or sumthin'? 🙂

Even if you were fast I would still be all upset if you wrote a check in front of me in line. Might even post about my outrage on the ATOT. :|
 
vi edit said:
For the pedantic challenged it's just an example why imperial measurements can be a pain in the ass. Especially if it's not something you use every day.
Click to expand...
Because measuring and cutting off 0.28575 m is easy? (Assuming your 9/16 and 5/8 were in the same feet units)
 
Last edited:
28951640.jpg
 
I'm all down with metric. Just used a 12.7mm wrench. Americans use metric tools all the time, it's the rest of the world who cant handle metric wrenches that are not in round units.
I asked my BIL who was born into the metric system to hand me the 11.1125mm wrench, the dumb ass couldnt even figure out what I wanted.
 
waffleironhead said:
I asked my BIL who was born into the metric system to hand me the 11.1125mm wrench, the dumb ass couldnt even figure out what I wanted.
Click to expand...
But the 11.1125 mm wrench has to be one of the most commonly used wrench of all. Your BIL really doesn't know his tools.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

TRENDING THREADS

Back
Top