Structure and performances of a campus-wide IBM token ring multi-network

Abstract

The present paper describes the structure and the services provided by an heterogeneous computer system, constituted by several classrooms, equipped with personal computers, and various minis/mainframes, used for interactive teaching activities; the system is based on a multi-network supported by a fiber-optics, token ring backbone spreading over the entire campus of our University.

In the sequel, main objectives of a joint project involving the Politecnico di Milano and IBM Italia are outlined, followed by a discussion of the various services provided by the multi-network and of the results of some preliminary performance evaluations.