What better place to go and learn about technology than the heart of technology in North America, none other than Silicon Valley itself? Here in San Jose, the main centerpiece for hands on learning about the tools and innovations which drive our society today is the Tech Museum of Innovation.

The Museum itself has been at least in the planning stages for 32 years. Conceived in 1978, it took a dozen years for the first drive pulleys to be put to work in creating what is today the largest museum of its kind on the Pacific Coast. The first display of the museum was opened in 1990, a temporary exhibit called The Garage. It was an instant hit, featuring displays explaining modern car technology and robotics.

Since that time, The Tech as it is called locally has expanded significantly. It now has over 132,000 square feet of space, and has hosted over four million visitors. Today, the museum includes the only domed IMAX theatre in the United States as well as several display floors. It's all made possible through the hidden elements of technology, such as the VS31 Titan strapping head and other equipment which doesn't hold the attention of the public in the way that a robot might.

But those robots are definitely what helps to pay the bills, as seen on the ground floor of the Tech Museum of Innovation whenever a person enters. The robot displays, both interactive and eyes only, are largely located right here, where a person will see the interior of the center for the first time. At different times you may see the robot displays using woodworking machinery, repairing vehicles, and so on.

While modern and futuristic technology may be a big draw for a lot of people, including most kids, many are interested in finding out how we go where we are today. That is best seen through displays dedicated to the people who laid the foundation for our modern technologies. There would be no amprobe clamp meter if it was not for people such as Leonardo da Vinci; the museum has included displays specifically honouring his work as well as that of other important innovators.

Today, the Tech continues to marry modern entertainment and practical innovation in a way that attracts visitors and educates them about science. A case erector may be used to create a display capitalizing on the popularity of Star Trek to explain concepts of physics to an eager public, and so on.