🚀 go-pugleaf

	After reading an acticle in MacWorld (June 1988) about remote
networks, I decided to try some options for dialup access to
appletalk->kinetics_fastpack->campus network. The article tested 3
"bridges" for appletalk: Hayes Interbridge, Solana Electronics
R-Server, and Shiva NetModem. I happen to have two Hayes Interbridge and
two 2400 baud Hayes-compatible modems for testing (playing) purposes.
	Following the instructions for setting up both the interbridge
and the modem, I was able to connected to our campus network using a
phone line. Since, we are using NCSA Telnet (using Columbia KIP/CAP
software) for access to our network for the Mac, I decide to see the
what the performance it would have compared to using terminal
emulator. Accept for 1 second delay, once in while, I couldn't tell
the difference. So I had multiple windows to multiple hosts,
vt100/tek4014 emulation, ftp access, and access to campus
appletalk-ethernet network. This means I can print to laserwriters,
imagewriters or access appleshare volumes (including UNIX/VMS
machines). Boy I love networking :-).
	Now for the bad news. This setup required an interbridge ($799
each), modem (~$200 each) and localtalk cabling for the mac and
interbridges on both sides of this remote network. Next, DO NOT plan
to run applications across this set-up unless you have 9600 baud
modems and are willing to wait (2.4Kbits/sec is not equal to
230Kbits/sec). I ran NCSA Telnet off a floppy disk on the remote mac.
I plan to test the Solana Electronics R-server, also, since it is
cheaper ($549) and only one is required. If the R-server works, it a
cheaper solution. I like the interbridge because it has the capability
to have two dialups (remote bridges) and connect (bridge) two
localtalk network, simultaneously. Great for dormitories/offices not
yet networked to the campus ethernet.
	I know buying a Kinetics Fastpack, maybe some modems (null
modem?), maybe bridge device, and cables is extreme. But I eventually
want to be able to work from home in the same environment as the
office give student/faculty/staff the same privileges.
	Hope this helps.
-- 
Kevin Hobson - Telecommunications Analyst IV	ARPANET: hobson@rutgers.edu
Rutgers, The State University			UUCP: {backbone}!rutgers!hobson
P.O. Box 879, CCIS, Hill Center, Busch Campus	BITNET: hobson@cancer.BITNET
Piscataway, N.J. 08855-0879			PHONE: (201) 932-2351