Feasibility study of networks. Progress report, December 15, 1976--December 14, 1977. [Lab. for Nuclear Science, Massachusetts Inst. of Tech]
E.J. Campbell, M.T. Ford, Lyman R. Hazelton, M.S. Kannel · 1977
The Laboratory for Nuclear Science (LNS) has continued its study of resource sharing via general-purpose computer networks. This report describes experiments performed with the Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory and the Argonne National Laboratory in using the network for off-loading calculations and obtaining access to unique hardware and software. It also gives performance statistics of the network and cost comparisons. Continued investigation of message and teleconferencing systems is described. Plans for improved usage of the ARPANET, for expansion of computer-aided communications facilities, and for investigation of networks other than the ARPANET are proposed. To date the study has demonstrated that resource sharing via networks will provide LNS with access to computer facilities not available on site, and thus improve the quality of energy research done in the laboratory. However, certain barriers, both technical and nontechnical, exist that must be overcome. In the technical area continued investigation is planned into improving the user interface to the network with cooperative projects at other sites, such as the development of a standard command language, expanded network oriented documentation, and consulting facilities. Methods of managing network services and allocating costs will be studied in an effort to eliminate some of the nontechnical barriers.