RFC 241 (rfc241) - Page 2 of 2

Connecting computers to MLC ports

RFC # 241




   used on the IMP/IMP circuits, and that attempts to use minimal error
   control (e.g., character parity) is an undesirable technical choice.
   Strong error control, with its retransmission scheme, not only would
   imply significant changes in the Terminal IMP, but a non-trivial
   hardware/software implementation at the remote computer end of the
   circuit.


        (2) Because the Terminal IMP has many obligations, the share of
   its bandwidth which can be given to a Host coming in over the MLC
   will be small.


        (3) The command language provided at a port of the Multi- Line
   Controller was designed with terminals and people in mind.  It
   provides very few of the capabilities which a computer requires in
   order to effectively utilize the communication network.  For example,
   only a single pair of connections can be made from a given Terminal
   TMP port; Host computers generally desire a larger number of
   simultaneous connections to other Hosts on the network.  Assuming the
   present Host/Host protocols, such a Host could not conveniently act
   as a server.


        If, despite these potential difficulties, connection of a
   computer to the network through an MLC port appears to be useful, BBN
   has no objection.  In fact, we would be extremely interested in
   hearing about actual experience with this type of network connection.



   AMcK:jm

         [ This RFC was put into machine readable form for entry ]
         [ into the online RFC archives by BBN Corp. under the   ]
         [ direction of Alex McKenzie.                   12/96   ]