DECnet-11M

Overview

DECnet-11M Version 4.2 provides networking capabilities for the RSX-11M system, allowing it to function as a routing or non-routing (end) node within a DECnet Phase IV network.

Key Features

• Communications: Supports task-to-task communications, network file operations, and remote terminal support using DIGITAL Network Architecture (DNA) protocols. Communications are supported over synchronous/asynchronous lines, Ethernet, and parallel interfaces. Integration with X.25 Packet Switched Data Networks is possible via the optional RSX-11 PSI/M product.
• Routing: Features adaptive routing for message forwarding between nodes. Provides specific capabilities for both routing nodes (which forward data for other nodes) and end nodes (which do not).
• Network Management: Includes the Network Control Program (NCP) for displaying statistics, testing, and controlling network components. Features include upline dumping, down-line loading, and event logging.
• Resource Access: Offers utilities for remote file transfer and explicit file access (READ, WRITE, etc.) for both sequential and random access files.

Configuration and Hardware

• Performance: Node performance depends on CPU type, memory size, line speed, and concurrent application load.
• Hardware Requirements: Supported on various PDP-11 processors (UNIBUS and QBUS). Detailed load tables are provided to guide system configuration based on specific communications hardware and processor types.
• Optional Software: Includes various high-level language compilers (FORTRAN, BASIC-PLUS-2, COBOL-81) and specialized network interface products like RSX-11 PSI/M.