System/7 in a hierarchical laboratory automation system

The enhancement of research and development, product test, and process control by computer assisted data capture, analysis, storage, and display have been well demonstrated. Experience in laboratory automation at the IBM Research Center at Yorktown indicates that more users can take advantageo f enhanced instrumentation and analytic capabilities as computing power continues to become more economical. A hierarchy of computer elements offers an opportunity to provide these resourcesw ith a degree of compatibility that minimizes the support required.