Distributed Computing, Links and Networks
D.M. Sendall · Physica Scripta · 1981
In many large high-energy physics experiments, the online data-processing (data acquisition, monitoring, control, etc.) is distributed between several computers. This can result in a more powerful and flexible system. In addition, links to large computers and computing centres can be used to extend the resources available locally at the experiment. This brings greater computer power for event analysis, and opens up better facilities for program development and software support, as well as access to specialized facilities (such as graphics stations). Links to other laboratories allow the sharing of facilities to go still further. All this presupposes a well-developed network for computer-computer communication. This talk presents a brief survey of present practices and trends, with some discussion of the impact of standardisation in this field.