Networking Concepts

Network Environment Design Considerations

Network Environment Design Considerations

Network and internetwork design must take many factors into consideration: the desired physical location of the computers comprising the network, the volume of projected communications traffic between nodes, communications traffic patterns, and the possibility of connections to other types of nodes (such as those in a public data network) are just some of the criteria to consider.

These factors will affect your choice of NS network type (LAN, Token Ring, FDDI, 100VG-AnyLAN, 100Base-T, Point-to-Point, X.25) as well as choice of specific links. They will also affect how you design your network layout. You may want to create subnetworks within your network by configuring IP subnet addresses. You may, on the other hand, need to join several networks together to form an internetwork or internet.

Line Speed

Line Speed is a measure of the rate at which data is transmitted by a physical link (usually measured in kilobits or megabits per second). The maximum line speed varies among different NS links. Line speed may therefore influence your choice of link. Although line speed does not indicate the exact throughput of a particular link, it can be used on a comparative basis to indicate relative throughput.

In general, an IEEE 802.3/Ethernet LAN or Token Ring network will be faster than a Point-to-Point or X.25 network because the bus or ring topology provides a faster routing mechanism than a series of Point-to-Point hops. FDDI, 100VG-AnyLAN, and 100Base-T links will be an order of magnitude faster than LAN or Token Ring. Links using leased lines will have a higher line speed than links using normal telephone lines.

Consult your Hewlett-Packard representative for line speeds and the most up-to-date performance data for various links.

Geographical Location

The geographical location of the computers that will be part of your network or internet will be an important factor in deciding both the physical topology and the link types that you should use.

If all of the nodes you want to connect are located relatively close to each other (in the same building, for example) you might choose to connect them via a LAN, Token Ring link, 100VG-AnyLAN, or 100Base-T.

Another option for nodes located in the same geographic location is to use hardwired (direct-connect) Point-to-Point links. You might wish to

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Chapter 2

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HP E3000 MPE/IX, E3000/IX manual Network Environment Design Considerations, Line Speed, Geographical Location
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E3000 MPE/IX, E3000/IX specifications

The HP E3000 series, particularly the E3000/IX and E3000 MPE/IX, represents a significant milestone in the evolution of business computing, developed by Hewlett-Packard (HP) during the late 1970s and early 1980s. These systems were designed to provide robust, reliable, and efficient operation for mid-sized businesses, leveraging the power of the MPE (Multi-Programming Executive) operating system.

One of the main features of the HP E3000 series is its multitasking capability. MPE/IX allows for multiple applications to run concurrently, maximizing the utilization of system resources. This is particularly beneficial for organizations that require simultaneous access to various business applications, ensuring enhanced productivity and efficiency.

The HP E3000/IX architecture is built on a powerful 16-bit or 32-bit microprocessor, enabling it to handle substantial workloads. The system architecture is known for its modular design, which allows for easy upgrades and customization. This flexibility is essential for businesses that need to adapt to changing demands without overhauling their entire computing infrastructure.

Another notable technology incorporated into the HP E3000 series is its support for a range of storage solutions. The E3000 systems were compatible with various disk drives, providing organizations with options for data storage that matched their performance and capacity requirements. Additionally, they featured advanced data management capabilities, such as built-in backup and recovery systems, ensuring that critical business information remained secure and accessible.

Beyond hardware capabilities, HP E3000/IX and MPE/IX systems provide extensive programming support. They included tools for developing custom applications, with support for languages such as COBOL, BASIC, and FORTRAN. This versatility made it easier for businesses to tailor their software solutions to their specific needs, enhancing operational effectiveness.

Networking capabilities were also a significant innovation of the E3000 series. The systems offered robust support for various networking protocols, allowing for seamless integration with other computing environments. This facilitated communication and collaboration within an organization, as well as with external partners and clients.

In summary, the HP E3000/IX and E3000 MPE/IX systems were pivotal in delivering reliable computing power to mid-sized enterprises. With their multitasking operating system, modular architecture, advanced data management, and programming support, these systems provided an adaptable and comprehensive solution for evolving business needs. The legacy of the E3000 series is evident in how it paved the way for modern enterprise computing, focusing on flexibility, scalability, and efficiency.
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