The Clapper: Light work
Summary
Host David Pierce and guests Heidi Ledford and Alison Marsh explore the history of the Clapper, a 1980s device that turned lights on and off via sound. They discuss its flawed technology, which caused false triggers from barking dogs and TV noises, and its iconic marketing campaign. The episode highlights the product's cultural impact despite its technical failures and legal battles.
Topics discussed
Introduction to the Clapper and the concept of cursed objects
The 1980s context: early home automation and answering machines
The invention story: Peter Lilliquist and the initial prototype
Joseph P. Dot: The marketing genius behind Chia Pets
Early failures: The device breaking appliances and initial testing
The lawsuit and the transfer of rights to Joseph P. Dot
Engineering the Clapper: Carlisle Stevens and the 'crapper' nickname
The patent language and the problem of remote controls
The iconic commercial: 'Clap On, Clap Off' and cultural impact
How it works: Two-clap sequences and timing requirements
User complaints: False positives from dogs, babies, and TV shows
Market performance and the 'smart home' pitch of the 90s
Clapper Plus: Adding remote controls and the cycle of tech
Why clapping? The cultural staying power of the interaction
The Cricket: A failed attempt to use sound instead of clapping
The Clapper as a novelty item and its place in tech history
The modern Clapper: Amazon sales and current user reviews
Who buys the Clapper today? Nostalgia and holiday lights
The Time Matrix: Was it the right idea at the right time?
What should modern smart homes steal from the Clapper?
Legacy and ethics: Did the Clapper change history or just hope?
Final verdict: The Clapper's place in the Hall of Fame
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