Stephen R. Kimbleton

Comparing equivalent network services through dynamic processing time prediction

Computer networks provide the potential for resource sharing. Realization of this potential requires knowledge of the available resources within the network. Moreover, if a given resource is available at more than one host, selection of the most appropriate host is required. This paper develops a dynamic means for host selection assuming that the evaluation metric is processing time. An experiment is described which provides an initial evaluation of the key component of the methodology on two separate systems. The paper concludes with a discussion of some overall insights into the applicability of the methodology and its implementation requirements.

A function oriented corporate network

The ITT/NET is an internal corporate network built to satisfy the distributed programming requirements of ITT technology and engineering communities. This paper describes the network: its goals, its architecture, its operational environment and prototype development activities. The various issues involved in the construction of a Corporate Network based upon diverse, existing systems and communication methods are described in detail. The architectural and implementation decisions are discussed and justified. The programming process and the methodologies adopted are presented and some conclusions are drawn as to the practicality and usefulness of formal development methods in the context of this particular project.

Data sharing protocols: structure, requirements and interrelationships

Computer networks provide the basic mechanism for accessing programs and data. Effective use of networks requires appropriate protocols to preserve the meaning of data being transmitted between heterogeneous systems. Currently existing protocols were developed to support the requirements of scientists and engineers. Information processing support, for example remote database access, requires substantially more sophisticated protocols. This paper describes a spectrum of data sharing protocols, identifies the need for a Structure Transport Protocol (STP), describes the nature of an STP, and discusses its utilization in the context of remote database access.