INITIAL DESIGN FOR INTERFACE MESSAGE PROCESSORS FOR THE ARPA COMPUTER NETWORK
Abstract
The basic function of the IMP computer network is to allow large existing time-shared (Host) computers with different system configurations to communicate with each other. Each IMP (Interface Message Processor) computer accepts messages for its Host from other Host computers and transmits messages from its Host to other Hosts. Since there will not always be a direct link between two Hosts that wish to communicate, individual IMPs will, from time to time, perform the function of transferring a message between Hosts that are not directly connected. This then leads to the two basic IMP configurations -- interfacing between Host computers and acting as a message switcher in the IMP network. The message switching is performed as a store and forward operation. Each IMP adapts its message routine to the condition of those portions of the IMP network to which it is connected. IMPs regularly measure network performance and report in special messages to the network measurement center. Provision of a tracing capability permits the net operation to be studied comprehensively. An automatic trouble reporting capability detects a variety of network difficulties and reports them to an interested Host. An IMP can throw away packets that it has received but not yet acknowledged, transmitting packets to other IMPs at its own discretion. Self-contained network operation is designed to protect and deliver messages from the source Host to the destination Host.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1969
- Accession Number
- AD0682905
Entities
Organizations
- BBN Technologies