Networking Concepts

Network Environment Design Considerations

use a Point-to-Point network if the distance between some nodes on the network will be greater than the maximum distance allowed between nodes on a LAN. Bridges, hubs and routers are commonly implemented to extend LANs.

FDDI networks also offer greater distances than LAN, Token Ring, 100VG-AnyLAN, or 100Base-T networks. FDDI networks can be up to 200 kilometers in length, with nodes up to 2 kilometers apart.

If you need to connect nodes that are geographically distant (for example, HP e3000s located in different cities) you might choose to connect them via a dial link. For NS dial links, you can use the Point-to-Point 3000/iX Network Link.

Finally, if you need to use satellite transmission because of the large geographical distance between nodes, or if you need to have access to other nodes on a public or private X.25 network, you might wish to use the DTC/X.25 iX Network Link.

Special Cases

The following sections describe certain design requirements for special situations, such as shared dial links, personal computers, and using non-HP e3000 minicomputers on an NS network.

Shared Dial Links

Shared dial links have two limitations that must be considered when designing a network. First, a shared dial link cannot be used as an intermediate link in a Point-to-Point network. Any other kind of dial link can be used for intermediate links, but shared dial links can be used only to connect leaf nodes (that is, nodes that receive messages targeted only for themselves, also referred to as end nodes). Second, cannot dial out on SMUX, shared dial links cannot be used as gateway halves.

Non-HP e3000 Nodes (Including PCs)

LAN, Token Ring, FDDI, 100VG-AnyLAN, 100Base-T, and X.25 networks can access non-HP e3000 nodes. Point-to-Point networks must be composed of only HP e3000s.

Applicable SYSGEN Parameters

VT terminals are not physical devices, instead they are virtual devices created dynamically at remote logon, header entries are created for the maximum number of VT terminals at system boot time. The exact number of head entries created for VT terminals will depend on the value of MAXDYNIO (which is configurable in SYSGEN).

The exact number of remote sessions which can be supported on a given system will depend on the exact mix of jobs and sessions (remote and local, active and inactive) on that system.

Chapter 2

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HP E3000/IX, E3000 MPE/IX Special Cases, Shared Dial Links, Non-HP e3000 Nodes Including PCs, Applicable Sysgen Parameters
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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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