Helping computers communicate: The Open Systems Interconnection model promises compatibility for a variety of computer systems, although not all its functions are yet defined

Computers made by different companies ordinarily do not “talk” to one another. This aloofness sometimes applies even to different types of computers made by the same company. And when it comes to computerized systems, like machine tools and automatic teller machines, the communications problems can be nightmarish. Aside from expensive customized adapters and software links, compatibility remains an elusive target of the computer industry.