Communications networks for computers—an introduction to the technical details

Abstract

Discusses similarities and differences in the various definitions of the word network. It has come to have two meanings in the library and information science field. Firstly there are bibliographic or logical networks and secondly there are computer or physical networks. All definitions comply to it being a series of points interconnected by communications chAnnels. In the past, libraries have used postal, telephone, van and telex services to communicate with other libraries. Increasingly they will need to receive and transmit digital information—information going to and from computer systems. Describes and illustrates the equipment needed to transmit such information on‐line: terminals; modems and acoustic couplers; and telecommunications chAnnels—their speed, mode of sending information, and types. In the context of physical networks, explains and assesses packet‐switching, and discusses: the protocol X25, to be used in EURONET; possible shapes of computer networks; physical networks of use to libraries. Mentions a number of logical networks, and refers to published literature.