Interface Message Processors for the ARPA Computer Network

Abstract

The ARPA computer network provides a communication medium which allows dissimilar computers (Hosts) to interchange information. Each Host is connected to an Interface Message Processor (IMP), and IMPs are interconnected by leased common carrier circuits. There is frequently no direct circuit between two communicating Hosts, and the intermediate IMPs store and forward the information. IMPs regularly exchange information which is used to adapt routing to changing network conditions. IMPs also report a variety of parameters to a Network Control Center, which coordinates diagnosis and repair of malfunctions. The Terminal IMP (TIP) permits the direct attachment of 63 character-oriented terminals. The Satellite IMP (SIMP) will allow multi-station use of a single earth satellite channel. A High Speed Modular IMP (HSMIMP) is under development; one goal of this effort is to increase IMP performance by an order of magnitude. Specialized mini-Hosts under development will provide for: connection of remote batch terminals; simulation of a leased point-to-point circuit; encrypted Host communication.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1973
Accession Number
AD0768417

Entities

People

  • Frank E. Heart

Organizations

  • BBN Technologies

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Artificial Satellites
  • California
  • Computer Networks
  • Computers
  • Contracts
  • Data Sets
  • Frequency
  • Magnetic Tape
  • Measurement
  • Networks
  • Personality
  • Simulations
  • Simulators
  • Software Development
  • Terminals

Fields of Study

  • Computer science

Readers

  • Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Data Science/Digital Signal Processing.
  • Facility/Structural Engineering.
  • Tactical Satellite Communications Systems Engineering.

Technology Areas

  • Space