TYMNET - A tutorial survey of a computer communications network

Describes the special features of TYMNET, a computer communications network developed in 1970 by Tymshare, Inc., of Cupertino, CA. Although originally developed for time-shared purposes, TYMNET has taken on a network function as well, much like the GE network [I]. In addition to providing connection to its own computer systems for interactive processing, remote job entry (RJE), and other user data processing requirements, TYMNET provides routing and connection capability to the customer's own facilities. As an example, the U.S. National Library of Medicine uses TYMNET to provide access by remote terminals located anywhere in the United States to its own computer facilities distributed at several locations. Aso f September 1975,40u ser computers,roughly half the computer systems in the network, were connected into the network to be accessed by user terminals.