Systems Approach to Data Transmission
P G Barnes · ITNOW · 1963
A full house met for a symposium on the systems approach to data transmission, which was organised by the Society's Data Transmission Committee and held on the 12 March at Northampton College of Advanced Technology. The Data Transmission Committee was formed two and a half years ago to study the user problems of data transmission. It has investigated several data transmission installations and made contact with trade associations to determine user requirements. The Committee realised, however, that the study of user requirements could not be confined to the immediate area of transmission but must include the study of the overall system. “Total Systems Approach” became the phrase at Committee meetings. The Committee attached much importance to this subject and decided to organise a one-day symposium devoted entirely to the theme. It must be admitted that, in relation to computers, there is not a lot of data transmission experience in the country. It was decided, therefore, that whilst as much practical experience as possible would be presented, ample time would be allowed for discussion. As soon as it was announced the symposium aroused considerable interest and confirmed the Committee’s view that the time was appropriate for a discussion on the subject. Catering and administrative problems limited the members attending to 200. As a demonstration of the interest almost an equal number had to be turned away.