Jonathan Zenneck

Jonathan Adolf Wilhelm Zenneck (April 15, 1871 – April 8, 1959) was a physicist and electrical engineer. Zenneck was born in Ruppertshofen, Württemberg. Zenneck contributed to researches in radio circuit performance and to the scientific and educational contributions to the literature of the pioneer radio art. Zenneck improved the Braun cathode ray tube, by adding a second deflection structure at right angles to the first, which allowed two-dimensional viewing of a waveform. This two-dimensional display is fundamental to the oscilloscope.

Early years

In 1885, Zenneck entered the Evangelical-Theological Seminary in Maulbronn. In 1887, in a Blaubeuren seminary, Zenneck learned Latin, Greek, French, and Hebrew. In 1889, Zenneck enrolled in the Tübingen University. At the Tuebingen Seminary, Zenneck studied mathematics and natural sciences. In 1894, Zenneck took the State examination in mathematics and natural sciences and the examination for his doctor's degree.

In 1894, Zenneck conducted zoological research (Natural History Museum, London). Between 1894-1895, Zenneck served in the military.