paul@msdc.UUCP (Paul Manno) (07/12/84)
This is a request for opinions about local area networks. The funding
has just been approved, so we must make a final decision in a month or
two. We did a survey about a year ago, but the LAN market has exploded
since then, so it's back to the drawing board.
The constraints of the network's operation are more severe (see below)
than the usual LAN applications. Any help, pointers, experiences,
etc. will be greatly appreciated. Please mail responses. As usual,
if there is sufficient interest, I'll be happy to post the collected
comments to the net (unless otherwise requested).
The network must support more than 400 asynchronous terminals. Some
terminals must access hosts that use a non-polled, block-mode protocol
(non-Unix); some must access hosts without cognition of flow control
(also non-Unix); and all must access several VAXen (4.xBSD). The
network must also have no single component (including the medium) whose
failure would bring down more than half of the network. All of the
terminals and hosts are in the same building, but cabling runs of
several thousand feet may be necessary. Dial-in access must also be
supported. It is best if the network hardware is distributed to cut
down on cabling costs. Yes, it needs to handle port contention, name
service and most of the usual LAN-style features.
Information based upon experience is preferred but any opinions,
thoughts and "I heard that"s are most welcome.
Paul Manno, Medical Systems Development Corp.
{akgua,gatech,sb1,mcnc}!msdc!paul