--------------------
We call the transfer of programs and files from a remote computer
for downloading. It means "transfer of data to your computer AND
storage of the data (down) on YOUR local disk."
You are downloading, when you call my board to retrieve a
program.
When you, overwhelmed by gratitude, send one of your favorite
programs TO my bulletin board, then we call it uploading.
Data can be many things. It may be news from Washington Post, a
digital picture, an executable program, a pile of invoices, a piece
of music, a voice file, an animated sequence of pictures and music,
or compressed library files.
Downloading "plain text" (also called "plain ASCII" or "DOS
text" on MS-DOS machines) is relatively easy. Such text usually
only contains characters between number 32 (space character) and
126 (the ~ character) in the ASCII table.
Characters with lower numbers have special functions (like the
control characters ESCape and CTRL+C). These may not even be
displayed on your screen. Characters with higher numbers are used
for graphics, special national characters, and other applications.
Special transfer methods are often required, when your data
contains text with characters outside ASCII number 32 through 126.
Read under "Protocol transfers" below for more information about
how to do this.
Downloading text
----------------
Most communication programs require that you begin by opening a
file. They ask you to enter a file name. From this point and
onwards all incoming text will be stored in this file until you say
stop.
Communication programs do this in different ways. Some let
incoming data flow through a temporary storage area using the
principle first in, first out. When you open a file, it starts
storing data from the beginning of the temporary storage area,
though this text may have scrolled off your screen some time ago.
Most communication programs start storing data from NOW.
Procomm works this way. You start downloading of text by pressing
the PgDn key. A window will appear on your screen giving you a
choice between various methods. Select ASCII.
In another window, you are asked to enter a file name. When
done, storage of incoming data starts. You stop the process by
pressing the ESC key.
Procomm has another method called "file logging." You start
this by pressing ALT-F1. Procomm requests the file name, and the
storage process starts. (Read under "Strip" about the difference
between these methods.)
If you forget to tell Procomm to store incoming data, then
you will most probably lose this data for ever.
Do not waste time and money by forgetting to store what you
receive!
The term "append"
-----------------
When downloading text - or anything - it is important to know
whether you are appending information to an existing file, or
overwriting it (i.e., destroying the old text).
Most communication programs complain with an audible signal,
when you try to overwrite an existing file. They will ask you if
you really want to delete it, or append the current data.
The term "strip"
----------------
The purpose of 'strip' is to remove something from incoming data or
to change it on the fly.
When you use ASCII downloading with Procomm, ALL incoming data
are being stored. This includes so-called ESCape sequences. If you
use File Logging, all control characters (except the line feed and
new page characters) are being removed (filtered).
If you download text from a computer that uses other ASCII
characters for linefeed and return, save time by having the
communications program convert them on the fly to their correct
form for your computer.
You define strip procedures through Procomm's SetUp menu (ALT-
S). You can also request automatic conversion of characters to
graphics values, or local language variants.
National characters
-------------------
Special national characters cause problems in many countries. One
reason is that they are represented by different internal codes on
various hardware platforms, and that some networks are unable to
transmit 8-bits data.
Some systems represent these special characters by a 7-bit
code, others by an 8-bit code. Some depend on the computer having
an internal national language ROM, or that it uses a special
(resident) conversion program.
What gives good results on an MS-DOS computer, may give rubbish
on a Macintosh, Amiga, Atari, or a PC using MS Windows.
Many communication programs have features that can help you
solve at least some these problems. They let you make translation
tables for automatic conversion of special incoming and outgoing
characters.
If you call a Scandinavian online service using 7 bits even
parity, many transfer the national special characters using the
ASCII code equivalents of number 91, 92, 93, 123, 124, and 125.
Similar, more or less formal standards are in place in other
countries.
Protocol transfers
------------------
If your purpose is to transfer digitized pictures, a computer
program, a batch of invoices, a piece of music or an animated
sequence of pictures, it's important that each character (bit)
arrives correctly. We achieve this by using protocol transfers.
These files often contain control or binary characters. You
cannot transfer binary files without the use of special methods.
It is easy to understand why we need protocol transfers when
retrieving plain text as tables of numbers, statistics, and
financial reports. Transfer errors may have fatal consequences.
Protocol transfers are also required when transferring word
processor text files having imbedded control codes (like text made
with WordPerfect), and compressed files.
Here is an example:
Downloading public domain software
----------------------------------
First, you need the names and features of the programs that can be
downloaded from a service. On most bulletin boards, you must enter
a command to navigate to the File Library. Here, they normally
greet you with a menu listing available commands.
Try H (for Help!) or ? when you are stuck.
Public domain and shareware programs are stored in subdirectories
on my bulletin board. The directories have numerical names. Utility
programs for MS-DOS computers are stored in directory 10. Games are
stored in directory 17.
Enter L for a list of available directories (other bulletin
boards may use different commands). Enter "L 17" to list the files
in directory 17. This will give file names, lengths in characters
(to help you estimate download time), creation dates, and a short
description of each file.
You can search for files of interest. When looking for programs
that can help you get more out of a printer, you may search using
keywords like "printer."
Some programs are made available in text form. This is the case
with older BASIC programs. (The file name extensions .BAS, .ASC or
.TXT suggest that the files contain plain text.) You can download
these files using ASCII.
Most programs are stored in their executable form, or as one
executable file among several in a compressed transfer file (a
library of files). On my board, most of these files have the file
name extension .EXE or .COM.
What transfer protocol to use, depends on what is available in
your communications program.
The protocol transfer method explained
--------------------------------------
The protocol transfer algorithms use methods to check the transfer
with automatic error correction. In principle, they work like this:
The sending program calculates a check sum based on the
contents of the file. The receiving program does the same
calculation and compares the result with the senders' check sum. If
the figures match, the transfer was successful. If not, all or part
of the file will be retransmitted.
These are some popular protocols:
XMODEM
------
has automatic error detection and correction. Most modern programs
have this feature. XMODEM exists in programs for MS-DOS computers,
CP/M computers, Apple, TRS-80 Model 100, etc. It is the most
commonly used transfer protocol.
XMODEM assumes 8-bit settings in your communications program.
The file to be sent is split up into 128 bit sized blocks (or
"packets") before transfer. The sender calculates the check sum and
adds a check sum bit at the end of each packet. (Packing, sending
and checking is done automatically by the software.)
The receiving program calculates its own check sum and compares
with the sender's. If an error is detected, XMODEM will request
retransmission of the last block.
XMODEM is reasonably good when there is little noise on the
telephone line is low. When the line is bad, however, there is
always a chance that the transfer will stop. You cannot use XMODEM
on computer networks that use ASCII flow control or ESCape codes.
The transfer commands must be given to both computers. You can
only transfer one file per command.
XMODEM's "packet size" (block length) is short. This has an
impact on transfer speed, and especially when downloading from
timesharing systems, packet switched networks, via satellites, and
when using buffered (error correcting) modems.
The control method (8-bit check sum) and unprotected
transactions give a low level of safety against errors in the
transmission. The transferred file may contain 127 bytes with noise
characters (at the end). The creation date of the file is lost in
the transfer.
These weaknesses have given us better methods. Here are some of
them:
XMODEM/CRC
----------
CRC is an abbreviation for Cyclical Redundancy Check. The method
guarantees 99.9969 percent free transfer. It still has the other
weaknesses of ordinary XMODEM transfers.
YMODEM Batch
------------
is faster than XMODEM and gives a high level of safety in the
transfers. When used with some programs, YMODEM can transfer the
files' creation time/date. You can transfer updated documents. This
will replace documents with an older creation date. Only one party
must enter the file name. YMODEM takes care of the rest.
Kermit
------
is used on many computer platforms, and especially where they use a
terminal emulation mode (like VT-100) which makes the use of XMODEM
impossible. Kermit is one of the few asynchronous error correction
protocols that functions well when exchanging files having half
duplex IBM front-end machines.
Kermit can transfer more than one file at the time.
Super-Kermit
------------
is also called Kermit with Sliding Windows. It can transfer many
packets before stopping to check the transfer. The protocol is
much faster than XMODEM.
ZMODEM
------
is currently the fastest transfer protocol for many applications.
All transactions are protected with a 16-bit or 32-bit CRC. ZMODEM
is immune against most error conditions that prevent traditional
protocols to achieve correct transfer.
ZMODEM transfers the creation date of the file and its exact
contents. The file name is read once, and all transfer commands may
be given by the sending program.
Decompression of files
----------------------
If a file has name extensions like ZIP, LZH, ARC, PAK, LQR, LBR,
ZOO, ARJ, or QQQ, you are facing a compressed file. We use such
files to achieve faster transfers.
Files having the extension .EXE or .COM may be compressed files
that have been converted into a self-extract format. To retrieve
the files from a self-extract compressed file, just enter the
file's name.
To decompress files that have not been made self-extract,
you need a utility program. These programs have many names and are
available through most bulletin boards.
Transfer problems
-----------------
Most transfer problems are caused by the communication programs
and their (lack of) features.
Some Procomm users have problems with the Kermit protocol. Tip:
use 8 bit world length and no parity in your program setup. 7 bits
and even parity does not always work (on version 2.4.2).
Uploading
---------
The transfer of data "the other way," i.e., from your disk to a
remote computer, requires that you start by making some decisions.
Is the file to be sent as plain ASCII? Should I compress it in a
distribution file to reduce transfer time, and make it easier to
handle for the recipient?
If you are transferring a text file containing special national
characters, then these may have to be converted to another format.
If your text contains blank lines (like blank lines between
paragraphs), you may have to insert a space character at the start
of all such lines. Some systems interpret a blank line as a signal
telling that transmission is done. The invisible space character
prevents this.
Some hosts have limitations on line length. They may require
that lines be shorter than 80 characters. If you send lines that
are too long, the result may be fatal.
Sending electronic mail
-----------------------
If you send your mail too fast, some online services tend to get
digestion problems. You must be very accurate with the format of
your message. It has to agree with the host machine's rules about
line length, and maximum number of lines per message.
Let's assume that you want to send the following message to an
electronic mailbox:
To: Datatid
cc: Anne-Tove Vestfossen
Sj: Merry Christmas!
Text: Thanks for the box with herring. The taste was
formidable. etc .. etc... etc...
Greetings, Odd
If this is all you have to say, doing it manually may be as fast as
doing it automatically. However, if the line containing "etc .. etc
.." is two full pages of text, you may feel differently. Then, the
best may be to upload a prewritten letter.
Many Procomm users prefer to split the job in two. They enter
the first four lines manually, and upload the body of the text
(when the remote computer is ready to receive).
Press PgUp to get a menu of various uploading protocols. Select
ASCII for transfer of plain text. Procomm will ask for the name of
the file, which contains your letter. Enter the name, and the file
will be sent.
Slow down with "pacing"
-----------------------
Sometimes, the PgUp method is just what you need. On other days,
strange things may stop you in the middle of your transfer. One
typical reason is that Procomm is sending it too fast for the
recipient.
"Pacing" is a method used to slow the speed of the transfer to
a level that the recipient can handle.
Procomm lets you set a tiny pause after each line sent. Another
technique is to ask the program to wait for a given character (a
"Go-character"), before allowing it to send the next line. For
example: the character ":" is often used in the prompts for the
next line on bulletin boards.
Protocol transfers may be easier
--------------------------------
You may find it easier to use a transfer protocol. With Procomm,
press the PgUp key, and the program will ask for a protocol. Select
Kermit or something else. The program will ask for a file name, you
enter it, and off it goes. You will have no problems with blank
lines, or lines that are too long.
At times, even this will fail. The most common reasons are:
* The recipient requires that Procomm be set for 8-bits word
length, no parity, 1 stop bit, when using this protocol, but you
have it set differently.
* You think that the recipient's version of YMODEM is the same
that you have. Wrong! Total failure.
Do the following to upload the file TEST.TXT to my bulletin
board using XMODEM:
1. Navigate to the file area. Tell SHS what you want by using
the following command:
u;test.txt;x
2. Press PgUp, select XMODEM, enter a file name (TEST.TXT), and
the transfer will start. (If you're too slow, SHS may be
tired of waiting for your commands . . .)
3. When the transfer is completed, my board will ask for a
short description of the file. Enter it, and you're done.
Enter G (for Goodbye), and disconnect.
Appendix 4:
Explanation of some frequently used terms
=========================================
We have included some terms that are commonly used in the online
world. For more information, get a copy of "FYI: Internet User's
Glossary." To get this file, send email to SERVICE@NIC.DDN.MIL with
the following command in the Subject of your mail: RFC 1392 .
Address
-------
The string of characters that you must give an electronic mail
program to direct a message to a particular person.
The term "Internet address" often refers to an assigned number,
which identifies a host on this network.
Anonymous FTP
-------------
The procedure of connecting to a remote computer, as an anonymous
or guest user, to transfer files back to your computer. See FTP for
more information.
ANON-FTP
--------
See Anonymous FTP.
ANSI
----
(1) ANSI is an organization that sets standards.
(2) 'ANSI graphics' (ref. the term ANSI-BBS) is a set of cursor
control codes that originated on the VT100 terminal. Many online
services use these codes to help improve the sending of characters
to communication programs. It uses the escape character, followed
by other characters, to move the cursor on the screen, change
color, and more.
Archie
------
An electronic directory service for locating information throughout
the Internet. You can use Archie to locate files on anonymous ftp
archive sites, other online directories and resource listings. It
is useful for finding free software.
Archie offers access to the "whatis" description database.
This database contains descriptions that include the name and a
brief synopsis of the large number of public domain software,
datasets and informational documents located on the Internet.
This book emphasizes email access to Archie. You can also reach
archie servers by telnet to one of the following addresses:
archie.au 139.130.4.6 (Australian server)
archie.mcgill.ca 132.206.44.21 (Canada)
archie.funet.fi 128.214.6.100 (Finland/Europe s.)
archie.th-darmstadt 130.83.128.111 (Germany)
archie.cs.huji.ac.il 132.65.6.15 (Israel server)
archie.kuis.kyoto-u.ac.jp 130.54.20.1 (Japan)
archie.sogang.ac.kr 163.239.1.11 (Korea)
archie.nz 130.195.9.4 (New Zealand)
archie.ncu.edu.tw 140.115.19.24 (Taiwan)
archie.doc.ic.ac.uk 146.169.11.3 (UK/England server)
archie.rutgers.edu 128.6.18.15 (U.S.A.)
Archie server
-------------
An email-based file transfer facility offered by some systems
connected to the Internet.
ASCII
-----
The American Standard Code for Information Interchange. A standard
seven-bit code created to achieve compatibility between various
types of data processing equipment. ASCII, pronounced "ask-key,"
is the common code for microcomputer equipment.
The Standard ASCII Character Set consists of 128 decimal
numbers ranging from zero through 127 assigned to letters, numbers,
punctuation marks, and the most common special characters.
The Extended ASCII Character Set also consists of 128 decimal
numbers and ranges from 128 through 255 representing additional
special, mathematical, graphic, and foreign characters.
ASCII download
--------------
Retrieval of plain ASCII text (without special codes). Normally, it
takes place without automatic error correction, but it is typically
managed by XON/XOFF flow control.
Asynchronous transfer
---------------------
Serial communication between two computers. When signals are sent
to a computer at irregular intervals, they are described as
asynchronous. Data is sent at irregular intervals by preceding each
character with a start bit and following it with a stop bit.
Asynchronous transmission allows a character to be sent at
random after the preceding character has been sent, without regard
to any timing device. Consequently, in case of line noise, the
modem can find out right away where the next byte should start.
Autodial
--------
When a modem dials a telephone number automatically. Autodial may
be started by the user entering the number manually, or the number
may be sent automatically by the communications program (for
example after having been selected from a phone register).
Baud
----
A unit of measurement that shows the number of discrete signal
elements, such as bits, that can be sent per second.
Bits per second (bps) is the number of binary digits sent in
one second. There is a difference between bps and baud rate, and
the two are often confused. For example, a device such as a modem
said to send at 2400 baud is not correct. It actually sends 2400
bits per second.
Both baud rate and bps refer to the rate at which the bits
within a single frame are sent. The gaps between the frames can be
of variable length. Accordingly, neither baud rate nor bps refer
accurately to the rate at which information is actually being
transferred.
BBS
---
Bulletin Board or Bulletin Board System. See Bulletin Board.
Bell
----
Standard frequencies used in older modems made in the United
States. The standard for 300 bps is called Bell 103. The standard
for 1200 bps full duplex is called Bell 212A. Modems using these
standards are normally unable to communicate with CCITT standard
modems at these speeds.
Big5
----
Coding scheme developed in Taiwan for using Chinese on computers.
There are different varieties of Big5 codes, the most common being
ET Big5 (the code used by the Taiwanese program ETen, pronounced
Yi3tian1) and HKU Big5 (the code used for programs developed at
Hong Kong University).
ET Big5 files must be read with the ETen operating system.
Binary
------
The base 2 number system in which only the digits 1 and 0 are used
is called the binary system. The binary system lets us express any
number, if we have enough bits, as a combination of 1's and 0's.
Also used to express conditions like on/off, true/false, yes/no.
Bits
----
Bit is an abbreviation for Binary digIT. Computer words and data
are made-up of bits, the smallest unit of information.
A bit can be either zero or one, represented in a circuit by an
off or on state, respectively. The bits are set on or off to store
data, or to form a code that in turn sends instructions to the
computer's central processing unit.
Bits per second (bps)
---------------------
Bits per second (bps) is the number of binary digits sent in one
second. It refers to the rate at which the bits within a single
frame are sent ('frame' is another term for 'packet'). The gaps
between frames can be of variable length. Accordingly, bps does
not refer to the rate at which information is actually being
transferred.
We usually estimate the amount of characters transferred per
second (cps) by dividing the number of bps by 10. Example: 2400 bps
transfers around 240 characters per second.
Boolean
-------
Search algorithm built on the algebraic theories of the English
mathematician George Booles. Boolean algorithms are used in online
databases to help narrow down the number of hits using the words
AND, OR, and NOT.
Bounce
------
The return of a piece of mail because of an error in its delivery.
Bps
---
Abbreviation for bits per second. See above.
Browse
------
To view and possibly edit a file of data on screen similar to
handling text in a word processing document.
Bulletin board
--------------
A computer, often a microcomputer, set up to receive calls and
work as an online service. The BBSes let users communicate with
each other through message bases, and exchange files. They and may
also offer other services (like news, data base searches, and
online shopping).
Carrier
-------
The tone that the modem sends over a phone line before any data is
sent on it. This tone has a fixed frequency and a fixed amplitude.
It is then modified to indicate data.
Character
---------
Here used about a letter, a number or another typographical symbol
or code.
CCITT
-----
The Consultative Committee for International Telephony and
Telegraphy. An international consultative committee, organized by
the United Nations. Membership includes Telephone, governmental
Post, and Telegraph Authorities, scientific and trade associations,
and private companies. CCITT is part of the International
Telecommunications Union, a United Nations treaty organization
based in Geneva, Switzerland.
CCITT sets international communications recommendations. These
are often adopted as standards. It also develops interface, modem,
and data network recommendations. The X.25 protocol for access to
packet-switched networks was originally a recommendation of CCITT.
A wide range of CCITT documents is available through The
Teledoc database of The International Telecommunication Union
(ITU):
* CCITT and CCIR administrative documents
* lists of contributions (substantive input/proposals)
to CCITT and CCIR study groups
* lists of CCITT reports and Recommendations
(i.e., standards)
* summaries of CCITT new or revised Recommendations
* CCITT and CCIR meeting schedules and other
information concerning Study Groups structures
and activities.
For information, write to shaw@itu.arcom.ch or bautista@itu.arcom.ch
The database is at teledoc@itu.arcom.ch .
COM port
--------
A COM port (or communication port) is a communications channel or
pathway over which data is transferred between remote computing
devices.
MS-DOS computers may have as many as four COM ports, COM1, COM2,
COM3, and COM4. These are serial ports most often used with a
modem to set up a communications channel over telephone lines. They
can also be used to send data to a serial printer, or to connect a
serial mouse.
Conference
----------
Also called SIG (Special Interest Group), Forum, RoundTable, Echo.
A conference is an area on a bulletin board or online service set
up as a mini board. Most conferences have separate message bases
and often also file libraries and bulletins. Conferences are
focused on topics, like politics, games, multimedia and product
support.
Connect time
------------
A term used for the hours, minutes, and seconds that a user is
connected to an online service. On several commercial services,
users have to pay for connect time.
CPS
---
Characters per second. See Bits per second.
Data
----
Information of any kind, including binary, decimal or hexadecimal
numbers, integer numbers, text strings, etc.
Database
--------
A database is a highly structured file (or set of files) that tries
to provide all the information assigned to a particular subject and
to allow programs to access only items they need.
Online services offer databases that users can search to find
full-text or bibliographic references to desired topics.
DCE/DTE
-------
Data Communications Equipment/Data Terminal Equipment. Equipment
connected to an RS232 connector must be either a DCE (like a modem
or a printer) or a DTE (computer or terminal). The term defines the
types of equipment that will "talk" and "listen."
Default
-------
When a value, parameter, attribute, or option is assigned by a
communications program, modem, or online system unless something
else is specified, it is called the default.
For example, communication programs often have prespecified
values for baud rate, bit size and parity that are used unless
alternative values are given. These prespecified values are called
the defaults.
Some services give users a choice between two or more options.
If a selection is not made by the user, then a selection is
automatically assigned, by default.
Discussion list
---------------
See Mailing list.
Domain Name System (DNS)
------------------------
Email addressing system used in networks such as Internet and
BITNET. The Internet DNS consists of a hierarchical sequence of
names, from the most specific to the most general (left to right),
separated by dots, for example nic.ddn.mil.
Doors
-----
A service offered by many bulletin boards to allow the user to
leave the (remote) main software system to use one or several
independent programs, like games and databases.
Downloading
-----------
The transfer of data from an online service and "down" to your
computers' disk.
DTR
---
Data Terminal Ready is a circuit which, when ON, tells the modem
that your computer is ready to communicate. Most modems are unable
to tell your computer that a connection has been set up with a
remote computer before this circuit has been switched off. If your
computer turns this signal OFF, while it is in a dialog with a
remote computer, the modem will normally disconnect.
Duplex
------
Describes how you see text entered by the keyboard. When the
setting is HALF DUPLEX, all characters entered on your computer for
transfer to an online service (or your modem) will be displayed. In
addition, you will normally receive an echo from the online service
(or modem). The result will often 'bbee lliikkee tthhiiss'.
When using the setting FULL DUPLEX, typed characters will not
be shown. What you see, are characters echoed back to you from the
online service and/or your modem.
ECHO
----
(1) When data is being sent, the receiving device often resends the
information back so the sending device can be sure it was received
correctly.
(2) Term used on FidoNet for this network's system of exchanging
conferences (parallel conferencing).
-----
Abbreviation for Electronic Mail.
FAQ
---
"Frequently Asked Questions" about services on the Internet. A list
of FAQ documents is posted every four to six weeks to the Usenet
newsgroup news.announce.newusers.
File server
-----------
A file server is a device that "serves" files to everyone on a
network. It allows everyone on the network to get files in a single
place, on one computer. Typically, it is a combination computer,
data management software, and large capacity hard disk drive.
File transfer
-------------
The copying of a file from one computer to another over a computer
network.
Finger
------
A program on computers directly connected to the Internet that
returns information about a registered user on a system. Finger is
useful before initiating chats, known on the Internet as "talk."
Flame
-----
A "flame" is a conference message sent by someone who generally
disagrees so violently that they are willing to sink to personal
attacks. Flames can be extremely annoying, and can get the writer
banished from several conference networks.
Fractal
--------
A mathematical algorithm from which an image can be created. A
fractal formula generates a fractal picture composed of an image
based on a basic pattern. An outgrowth of chaos mathematics, it is
being used for compressing and decompressing high quality images.
Generally, a fractally compressed image has an extremely small file
size.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
----------------------------
A program on the Internet for sending and receiving files to and
from a remote computer to your local host. FTP lets you connect to
many remote computers, as an anonymous or guest user, to transfer
files back to your computer.
FTP only lets you list file directories on foreign systems, and
get or retrieve files. You cannot browse menus, send email, or
search databases.
Usually, type ftp at your system prompt, login on the remote
system, and ask for the file you want to receive. It transfers to
your local host machine. (For more on this, read under "Internet"
in appendix 1.)
Unless your computer is directly connected to the Internet, the
retrieved software will have to be transferred from your local host
machine to your PC.
Where ftp is not available, you may use FTPMAIL (see chapter
12).
Full duplex
-----------
The term full-duplex means the transmission of data in two
directions simultaneously as from a terminal to a computer or from
the computer to the terminal. Full-duplex is simultaneous two-way
communication.
Full-text database
------------------
A database containing the full text of an article, a chapter in a
book, or a book. The contents are not limited to abstracted
information (indexes, bibliographic information).
FYI
---
"For Your Information." On the Internet, a subseries of RFCs that
are not technical standards or descriptions of protocols.
Gateway
-------
Here, we use the term gateway about an interconnection between two
(or more) online services, set up to allow a user of one service to
use the other service's offerings through the first service's user
interface.
The term also has other meanings:
A gateway provides an interconnection between two networks with
different communications protocols. Gateways operate at the 4th
through 7th layer of the OSI model. For example, a PAD (a packet
assembler/disassembler) is a device used to interface non-X.25
devices to an X.25 network. The PAD serves as a gateway. Protocol
converters are gateways between networks.
The gateway, provided by an adapter card in a workstation,
enables the network to perform as if it were a mainframe terminal
connected directly to the mainframe.
Gopher
------
A world wide information service with many implementations. It
works from a top-level subject-oriented menu system that accesses
other information services across the Internet. Gopher combines a
finding and fetching capability in one tool.
Gopher gets information from certain locations on the Internet
to which it is connected, and brings the information to your
computer. It can also get information via other Gophers at other
locations connected to yet other hosts. The Telneting or file
transfer protocols are transparent to the user.
"Common Questions and Answers about the Internet Gopher" are
posted to the following Usenet newsgroups comp.infosystems.gopher,
comp.answers, and news.answers every two weeks.
The most recent version of this FAQ is also available by
anonymous ftp from rtfm.mit.edu in the /pub/usenet/news.answers
directory. The file is called gopher.faq.
To get it by email, write mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu with the
command "send usenet/news.answers/finding-sources" in the body of
the text.
GuoBiao
-------
Coding scheme for using Chinese on computers developed in mainland
China. For more information, send email to LISTSERV@UGA.BITNET with
one of the following commands in the text of your mail:
GET PC HELP (for PC users)
GET MAC HELP (Macintosh users)
GET CXTERM HELP (X Windows users)
Half duplex
-----------
The term half-duplex means the transmission of data in either
direction but only one direction at a time.
Ham
---
Amateur radio.
Handle
------
An alias used on a bulletin board or online service instead of your
real name. Often used in chats.
Header
------
(1) In an email message, the part that precedes the body of a
message and contains, among other things, the message originator,
date and time.
(2) On a packet switched network, the portion of a package,
preceding the actual data, containing source and destination
addresses, and error checking and other fields.
Host
----
A term for host computer, remote computer or online service. Here,
we use it about a timesharing computer, a BBS system, or a central
computer that controls a network and delivers online services.
Hytelnet
--------
(1) An Internet service offering access to many other services,
including university and library catalogues around the world.
Prefers VT-100 emulation. (telnet herald.usask.ca. Login: hytelnet)
The Hytelnet anonymous ftp archive is at ftp.usask.ca. Get the
README file in the /pub/hytelnet directory.
(2) A memory resident utility (MS-DOS) that provides instant
information on Internet-accessible library catalogues, Free-Nets,
Campus Wide Information Servers, Gophers, WAIS, and much more.
The program is available by ftp from access.usask.ca in the
/pub/hytelnet/pc/ directory. File name is hytelnxx.zip where xx is
the number of the latest version.
HYTEL-L@KENTVM.BITNET is a mailing list for announcements of new
versions.
Information utility
-------------------
A term often used about online services (not unlike the term power
utility).
Internet
--------
See appendix 1.
Internet number
---------------
See IP Address
IP (Internet Protocol)
----------------------
The Internet standard protocol that provides a common layer over
dissimilar networks, used to move packets between host computers
and through gateways if necessary.
For more information, send a message to service@nic.ddn.mil with
the following text in the subject title: RFC 791 .
IP Address
----------
Every machine on the Internet has a unique address, called its
Internet number or IP address. Usually, this address is represented
by four numbers joined by periods ('.'), like 129.133.10.10.
The first two or three pieces represent the network that the
system is on, called its subnet. For example, all of the computers
for Wesleyan University in the U.S.A. are in the subnet 129.133,
while the number in the previous paragraph represents a full
address to one of the university's computers.
IRC
---
Internet Relay Chat is a worldwide "party line" protocol that
allows one to converse with others in real time.
ISDN
----
An emerging technology being offered by many telephone carriers of
the world. ISDN combines voice and digital network services in a
single medium, making it possible to offer customers digital data
services as well as voice connections through a single "wire." The
standards that define ISDN are specified by CCITT.
ISO
---
The International Organization for Standardization. A voluntary,
nontreaty organization responsible for creating international
standards in many areas, including computers and communications.
Its members are the national standards organizations of the 89
member countries, including ANSI for the U.S.
ISO is coordinator of the main Internet networking standards
that are in use today.
ISO@NIC.DDN.MIL is a mailing list focusing on the ISO protocol
stack.
JIS
---
A Japanese industry standard code for presenting the Japanese
character set Kanji on computers. JIS defines special ranges of
user-defined characters. Only the most popular ones are included.
The newer Shift JIS standard sets aside certain character codes
to signal the start of a two-character sequence. Together, these
define a single Kanji metacharacter.
There are many oddities to be found in handling Kanji over the
network. Sending JIS-encoded messages through the Internet is done
using a 7-bit code (standardized on JUNET). Unfortunately, it
incorporates the ESC character, which some systems will filter out.
(This problem can be overcome by using UUENCODing.)
Some services, like APICNET in Tokyo, converts outgoing Kanji
messages automatically to 7-bit format.
JVArcServ
---------
Archive server for FidoNet modelled after Archie for the Internet.
It maintains file lists from FidoNet systems throughout its area
and will do searches on these file lists based on netmail requests
made to it by remote systems.
JVArcServ lets you search through file listings for the program
you are looking for. It will send you an email message back telling
you the BBS name, phone number, and file section of all the systems
in the network that match the given criteria.
KB
--
Kilobyte. A unit of data storage size which represents 1024
characters of information.
Kbits
-----
1,000 bits.
Kermit
------
Protocol designed for transferring files between microcomputers and
mainframe computers developed by Catchings at Columbia University.
There are both public domain, and copyrighted Kermit programs.
Some of these programs are complete programs in themselves offering
the communication functions needed for the particular machine on
which they are running.
The complete Kermit protocol manual and the source code for
various versions are available from:
Kermit Distribution, (212) 854-3703
Columbia University Center for Computing Activities
612 West 115 Street, New York, NY 10025
Knowbot
-------
Experimental directory services using intelligent computer programs
that automate the search and gathering of data from distributed
databases. The concept behind the Knowbot is that it is supposed to
be a Knowledge Robot -- something that goes hunting for information
on the Internet.
To reach a Knowbot: telnet CNRI.Reston.va.us port 70
LAN
---
Local Area Network. A data network intended to serve an area of
only a few square kilometers or less.
LAP-M
-----
Link Access Procedure for Modems is a CCITT standard for modem
modulation and error control. It is the primary basis for the CCITT
V.42 protocol.
Library
-------
is used on online services about a collection of related databases
(that you may search in) or files (that may be retrieved).
List
----
File-viewing program for MS-DOS computers (see chapter 14).
Registration: US$37 to Buerg Software, 139 White Oak Circle,
Petaluma, CA 94952, U.S.A. (1993).
LISTSERV
--------
An automated mailing list distribution system enabling online
discussions of technical and nontechnical issues conducted by
electronic mail throughout the Internet. The LISTSERV program was
originally designed for the BITNET/EARN networks.
Similar lists, often using the Unix readnews or rn facility,
are available on the Internet.
LOOKFOR
-------
Fast and flexible shareware program for boolean searches in text
files. Registration: US$15 plus postage to David L. Trafton, 6309
Stoneham Rd., Bethesda, Md. 20817, U.S.A.
Lurking
-------
No active participation by a subscriber to a mailing list, a
conference, or Usenet newsgroup. A person who is lurking is just
listening to the discussion.
MAILBASE
--------
A program functioning like a LISTSERV. For more information about
the Mailbase at Newcastle University (England), send email to
MAILBASE@MAILBASE.AC.UK containing the following commands:
send mailbase overview (for a general guide to Mailbase)
send mailbase userhelp (for a User Guide)
lists (for a list of available forums)
This mailbase managed 403 mailing lists in July 1993.
Mail Gateway
------------
A machine that connects to two or more electronic mail systems
(including dissimilar mail systems) and transfers messages among
them.
Mailing list
------------
A possibly moderated discussion group on the Internet, distributed
via email from a central computer maintaining the list of people
involved in the discussion. Anyone can send a message to a single
mailing list address. The message is "reflected" to everyone on the
list of addresses. The members of that list can respond, and the
responses are reflected, forming a discussion group.
(See LISTSERVers)
Mail path
---------
A series of machine names used to direct electronic mail from one
user to the other.
Mail server
-----------
A software program that distributes files or information in
response to requests sent by email.
MHS
---
(1) Message handling Service. Electronic mail software from Action
Technologies licensed by Novell for its Netware operating systems.
Provides message routing and store and forward capabilities. MHS
has gateways into PROFS, and X.400 message systems. It has been
augmented with a directory naming service and binary attachments.
(2) Message Handling System. The standard defined by CCITT as X.400
and by ISO as Message-Oriented Text Interchange Standard (MOTIS).
MHS is the X.400 family of services and protocols that provides the
functions for global email transfer among local mail systems.
MNP
---
Microcom Networking Protocol. A proprietary standard of error
control and data compression.
Modem
-----
An acronym for MOdulator-DEModulator. It is a device that converts
digital data from a computer or terminal into analog data that can
be sent over telephone lines. On the receiving end, it converts
the analog data back to digital data.
Most modern modems can handle the dialing and answering of a
telephone call and generate the speed of the data transmission,
measured in bits per second, or baud rates. The telephone industry
sometimes refers to a modem as a dataset.
Moderator
---------
A person, or a small group of people, who manage moderated mailing
lists and newsgroups. Moderators are responsible for deciding which
email submissions are passed on to list.
MUD
---
Multi-User Dungeon. A multi-user, text based, virtual reality game.
NAPLPS
------
North American Presentation-Level Protocol Syntax. A text and
graphics data transmission format for sending large amounts of
information between computers.
It was designed for the encoding of alphanumeric, alpha-mosaic,
alpha-geometric and alpha-photographic constructs. The standard is
resolution independent and device independent, and can easily
accommodate international character sets, bit-mapped images in
color, animation and sound.
NAPLPS was originally developed for videotext and teletext
systems through the Canadian Standards Association (CSA-T500-1983.
It was later enhanced by AT&T, and in 1983 became an ANSI standard
(ANSI-X3.110-1983).
Some videotext systems, including Prodigy (U.S.A.), are based
on NAPLPS. On CompuServe, NAPLPS has been replaced with a newer
protocol called GIF, Graphics Interchange Format.
Netfind
-------
Internet directory services that allow users to get information
about individuals. Search by name and organization/location.
For more information, send email to LISTSERV@brownvm.brown.edu
with the following text in the body of your mail "GET NETFIND
HELP".
Netiquette
----------
A pun on "etiquette" referring to proper behavior on a network.
Netnews
-------
See: Usenet.
Network
-------
A data communications system which interconnects computer systems
at various sites.
NIC
---
Network Information Center. An organization that provides users
with information about services provided by the Internet network.
NREN
----
The National Research and Education Network. A proposed computer
network to be built in the U.S.A.
NUA
---
Network User Address. The network address in a packet data network.
The electronic number that is sent to the network to connect to an
online service. Also, called X.121 address.
NUI
---
Network User Identification. The user name/password that you use to
get access to (and use) a commercial packet switched network.
Offline
-------
has the opposite meaning of "Online" (see below). It signifies
that your computer is not in direct communication with a remote
online service.
Offline Reader
--------------
A computer program making the handling of mail and files from
online services easier (and cheaper). Some also provides automatic
mail and file transfers.
Typically, you first connect to an online service (often a BBS)
to capture new mail in a compressed file (typically through a
"QMail door program.") Many offline mail reader programs are idle
while this goes on, while others can do communications as well.
When disconnected from the service, the offline reader works as
a combination message data base and message editor. It gives you
the feeling of still being connected to the online service, while
actually being completely disconnected.
When you have read and replied to all messages offline, the
offline reader creates a compressed "packet" containing any replies
entered. Some also let you prepare packets containing commands to
join or leave conferences, subscribe to or signoff from special
services, and download files.
Then, you dial back to the BBS to upload (send) the packet,
either using the offline reader's communications module, or another
communications program.
Readers are available for MS-DOS, MS-Windows, Macintosh, Amiga,
Atari ST, Unix, and CP/M computers. The programs may be downloaded
from many BBSes, and commercial services.
Online
------
In this book, it signifies the act of being in direct communication
with a remote computer's central processing unit.
An online database is a file of information that can be directly
accessed by the user.
OSI
---
Open System Interconnection. A set of protocols designed to be an
international standard method for connecting unlike computers and
networks.
OZCIS
-----
DOS-based program that automates access to CompuServe using an
elaborate array of menus. Free for personal use. Contact: Ozarks
West Software, 14150 Gleneagle Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921,
U.S.A.
Packet
------
(1) A group of bits sent by a modem that comprise a byte of
information.
(2) A group of bytes sent by a file transfer protocol.
Packet data networks
--------------------
Also called Packet Switching Networks (PDN). Value added networks
offering long distance computer communications. They let users
access a remote computer, by dialing a local node, or access point.
The packet data networks use high speed digital links, which
can be land lines or satellite communications, to transmit data
from one computer to another using packets of data. They use
synchronous communications, usually with the X.25 protocol. The
routes are continually optimized, and successive packets of the
same message need not necessarily follow the same path.
Packet switching
----------------
Sending data in packets through a network to some remote location.
The data to be sent is subdivided into individual packets of data,
each having a unique identification and carrying its destination
address. This allows each packet to go by a different route. The
packet ID lets the data be reassembled in proper sequence.
PC
--
Personal computer.
PDN
---
See Packet data networks.
Postmaster
----------
On the Internet, the person responsible for handling electronic
mail problems, answering queries about users, and other related
work at a site.
Prompt
------
Several times during interactive dialogs with online services, the
flow of data stops while the host computer waits for commands from
the user. At this point, the service often presents the user with a
reminder, a cue, a prompt. These are some typical prompts:
?
!
WHAT NOW?
(Read) next letter -
ulrik 1>
System News - 5000>
Enter #, <H>elp, or <CR> to continue?
Action ==> (Inbox)
Command:
Enter command or <RETURN>
-->
Protocol
--------
A formal description of message formats and the rules two computers
must follow to exchange messages. Protocols can describe low-level
details of machine-to-machine interface (e.g., the order in which
bits and bytes are sent across the wire), or high-level exchanges
between allocation programs (e.g., the way in which two programs
transfer a file across the Internet).
ProYam
------
Powerful script-driven communications program. US$139 + $5 for
postage from Omen Technology Inc., 17505-V NW Sauvie Island Rd,
Portland, Oregon 97231, U.S.A. (VISA and Eurocard - 1992)
PSS
---
British Telecom's Packet Switch Stream, an X.25 packet data
network.
PTT
---
Postal Telegraph and Telephone. A telephone service provider, often
a monopoly, in a particular country.
QWK
---
Qwikmail. A common offline message file format for bulletin boards
offering mail through a QMail Door. The .QWK door and file format
has been used to develop entire BBS networks (example: ILINK.)
See "offline reader."
RFC
---
The Internet's Request for Comments document series. Working notes
of the Internet research and development community.
Script files
------------
A set of commands that enable a communications program to execute a
given set of tasks automatically (macro commands).
Server
------
A provider of resources (e.g., file servers and name servers).
SIG
---
Special Interest Group.
Snail mail
----------
A pejorative term referring to the national postal service in
different countries.
String search
-------------
A method for searching a database. Works like the search function
in a common word processor program.
On online services, your commands will often search the full
document (including the title, subtitles, keywords, and the full
text). Sometimes, string searches just return a line or a few lines
around the hit. In other cases, they return the full screen or the
full document.
Sysop
-----
Common name used on bulletin boards for System Operator. This is
the person in charge of maintenance and helping users.
System
------
Generic name for a computer with connected equipment or for an
online service or bulletin board.
Talk
----
A command on the Internet, which may remind of IRC, but is a single
link between two parties only.
TAPCIS
------
A program for automatic access to CompuServe. It lets callers read
and respond to personal email and forum message threads offline,
and download files. Contact: Support Group, Inc., Lake Technology
Park, McHenry, MD 21541, U.S.A. Also: TAPCIS Forum. Internet mail:
74020.10@compuserve.com. On CompuServe: 74020,10. Registration: US$
79.00.
TCP/IP
------
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. Set of
communications protocols that internetwork dissimilar systems
connected to the Internet. TCP/IP supports services such as remote
login (telnet), file transfer (FTP), and mail (SMTP).
Telnet
------
A program on the Internet that allows logins to another computer to
run software there. Telnet allows a user at one site to interact
with a remote system at another site as if the user's terminal was
connected directly to the remote computer.
With telnet, you can browse menus, read text files, use gopher
services, and search online databases. Sometimes, you can join
live, interactive games and chat with other callers. Usually, you
cannot download files or list file directories.
Telnet is not available to users who have email only access to
the Internet.
To telnet a remote computer, you must know its name. This can
either be in words, like "vm1.nodak.edu", or a numeric address,
like "134.129.111.1". Some services require that you connect to a
specific "port" on the remote system. Enter the port number, if
there is one, after the Internet address.
For a list of SPECIAL INTERNET CONNECTIONS, send email to
bbslist@aug3.augsburg.edu. You can also get it by ftp or gopher to
csd4.csd.uwm.edu, and through alt.internet.services on Usenet.
Terminal emulator
-----------------
A program that allows a computer to emulate a terminal. The
workstation appears as a given type of terminal to the remote host.
TRICKLE
-------
Servers on the Internet offering the SIMTEL20 shareware and public
domain files by email (uuencoded). These servers include:
TRICKLE@TREARN.BITNET (Turkey)
TRICKLE@BBRNSF11.BITNET (Belgium)
TRICKLE@TAUNIVM.BITNET (Israel)
TRICKLE@IMIPOLI.BITNET (Italy)
TRICKLE@DB0FUB11.BITNET (Germany)
TRICKLE@AWIWUW11.BITNET (Austria)
TRICKLE@UNALCOL.BITNET (Colombia)
For more information and a list of TRICKLE servers, send a message
to one of these addresses with the command "/HELP" in the body of
your text.
TTY
---
Abbreviation for TELETYPE, a special type of writing terminal
(electrical/mechanical). Also, known as 'dumb terminal'.
TTY mode
--------
This is when a communications program emulates a TTY machine, which
only involves printing characters and recognizing the linefeed,
carriage return and backspace characters.
Unix
----
An operating system that supports multi-user and multitasking
operations.
Uploading
---------
The act of transferring data from your computer's disk (up) to an
online service and storage there.
Usenet
------
A global bulletin board, of sorts, in which millions of people
exchange public information on every conceivable topic. For more
information, see appendix 1.
UUCP
----
See appendix 1.
Veronica
--------
A service on the Internet. Maintains an index of gopher items, and
provides keyword searches of those titles. The result of a search
is a set of gopher-type data items, which is returned to the user
as a gopher menu. The user can access any of these data items by
selecting from the returned menu.
WAIS (Wide Area Information Servers)
------------------------------------
A kind of indexed online search tool to locate items based on what
they contain - usually keyword text searches. It is a powerful tool
for concurrent searches of large databases and/or newsgroups on the
Internet.
Example: Telnet QUAKE.THINK.COM (or Telnet 192.31.181.1). Login
as "wais".
WAN
---
Wide Area Network.
The 'whatis' database
---------------------
Archie (see above) also permits access to the whatis description
database. It contains the names and brief synopses of over 3,500
public domain software packages, datasets and informational
documents located on the Internet.
Whois
-----
An Internet program that lets users query a database of people and
other Internet entities, such as domains, networks, and hosts, kept
at the NIC (see above).
For example, Whois lets you scan through a registry of
researchers in the network field to find an Internet address, if
you have only the last name or part of it. It will give you the
person's company name, address, phone number, and email address. It
had around 70,000 listings in December 1992.
To access the WHOIS, telnet to rs.internic.net. When greeted by
the host, type "WHOIS" and press RETURN. It also has a gopher
service (type "gopher" go access, instead of "wais").
WWW (World Wide Web)
--------------------
is much like Gopher in that it provides top level access down to
other services on the Internet. WWW uses a hypertext interface with
cross links between things. You can use highlighted words to jump
off onto another track.
WYSIWYG
-------
What You See is What You Get.
X.25
----
A CCITT standard communications protocol used internationally in
packet data networks. It provides error-checked communication
between packet data networks and their users or other networks.
Rather than sending a stream of bits like a modem, an X.25
router sends packets of data. There are different packet sizes and
types. Each packet contains data to be transmitted, information
about the packet's origin, destination, size, and its place in the
order of the packets sent. There are clear packets that perform
the equivalent of hanging-up the phone. There are reset, restart,
and diagnostic packets. On the receiving end, the packet
assembler/ disassembler (PAD) in the router translates the packets
back into a readable format.
X.400
-----
The CCITT and ISO standard for electronic mail.
X.500
-----
The CCITT and ISO standard for electronic directory services.
Appendix 5:
Books, articles, newsletters, etc. for further reading
======================================================
Internet
--------
"The Matrix: Computer Networks and Conferencing Systems
Worldwide," John S. Quarterman, Digital Press, Bedford, MA, 719
pages, 1990. (Internet address: mids@tic.com. Gopher service at
gopher.tic.com.)
"Matrix News," a newsletter about cross-network issues. Networks
frequently mentioned include USENET, UUCP, FidoNet, BITNET, the
Internet, and conferencing systems like the WELL and CompuServe.
Matrix News is about all computer networks worldwide that exchange
electronic mail.
Online subscription: US$25 for twelve monthly issues, or US$15
for students. Paper subscriptions: US$30 for twelve monthly
issues, or US$20 for students; for overseas postage, add US$10
(1992).
Contact: Matrix News, Building 2 Suite 300, 1120 South Capitol
of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78746, U.S.A. Email: mids@tic.com .
"!%@:: A Directory of Electronic Mail Addressing and Networks," by
Donnalyn Frey and Rick Adams (O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 632
Petaluma Avenue, Sebastopol, CA 95472, U.S.A.). 408 pages, US26.95.
Write to nuts@ora.com for ordering information.
"The User's Directory of Computer Networks" by Tracy L. LaQuey
(Ed.), University of Texas, Digital Press, 12 Crosby Drive,
Bedford, MA 01730, U.S.A. 630 pages, 1990.
"Zen and the Art of the Internet: A Beginner's Guide, Second
Edition" by Brendan P. Kehoe, Prentice-Hall Series in Innovative
Technology, 1993. 112 pages, ISBN 0-13-010778-6, US$22.00.
"The Whole Internet User's Guide and Catalog," by Ed Krol. 1992.
Published by O'Reilly and Associates, Inc., 103 Morris Street,
Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472, U.S.A.. 400 pages, US$24.95. ISBN 1-
56592-025-2. Email questions to nuts@ora.com or uunet!ora!nuts .
"A Guide to Electronic Mail Networks and Addressing," by Donnalyn
Frey and Rick Adams. 1989. O'Reilly & Associates, Inc., 103 Morris
Street, Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472, U.S.A. Email address:
nuts@ora.com .
"Managing UUCP and the Internet." Published by O'Reilly and
Associates, Inc., 103 Morris Street, Suite A, Sebastopol, CA 95472,
U.S.A. Email address: nuts@ora.com .
"The Internet Companion: A Beginner's Guide to Global Networking"
by Tracy LaQuey, with Jeanne C. Ryer. Addison-Wesley, 1992, $10.95,
p. 196, ISBN 0-201-62224-6. Order direct from Addison-Wesley
Publishing Co., Inc., 1 Jacob Way, Reading, MA 01867, U.S.A.
"Internet: Getting Started," April Marine, ed., SRI International,
Menlo Park, CA, May 1992. ISBN: none, US$39.
"The New User's Guide to the Internet" by Daniel P. Dern, McGraw-
Hill, New York, USA. 1993. ISBN 0-07-016510-6 (hc). ISBN 0-07-
16511-4 (pbk).
"An Internet Primer for Information Professionals: A Basic Guide to
Networking Technology," by Elizabeth S. Lane, and Craig A.
Summerhil, p. 200, Meckler Corp., Westport, CT, USA. US$37.50. ISBN
0-88736-831-X.
"Crossing the Internet Threshold," by Roy Tennant, John Ober, and
Anne G. Lipow, p. 134, Library Solutions Press, 1100 Industrial
Rd., Suite 9, San Carlos, CA 94070, U.S.A. 1993. ISBN: 1-882208-01-
3 . US$45.00 plus shipping and handling.
"The Internet Passport: NorthWestNet's Guide to Our World Online"
by Kochmer, Jonathan and NorthWestNet. 4th ed. 515p. Bellevue, WA,
USA: NorthWestNet, 1993. ISBN: 0-9635281-0-6. Price: US$39.95.
(US$19.95 nonprofit and educational). Fax: +1-206-562-4822.
"Internet: Mailing Lists 1993 Edition." Franklin F. Kuo, SRI
Internet Information Services. Published by PTR Prentice Hall, New
Jersey, USA. ISBN: 0-13-327941-3. Paperback, 356 pages.
"Internet Connections: A Librarian's Guide to Dial-Up Access and
Use" by Mary E. Engle, Marilyn Lutz, William W. Jones, Jr., and
Genevieve Engel. Library and Information Technology Association's
Monographs Series, #3, 1993. 166 pages. ISBN 0-8389-7677-0.
"Internet World magazine", Meckler Corporation, 11 Ferry Lane West,
Westport, CT 06880, U.S.A. (meckler@jvnc.net)
"The Internet Business Journal," 1-60 Springfield Road, Ottawa,
CANADA, K1M 1C7. Fax: +1-613-564-6641. Publisher: Michael
Strangelove <72302.3062@compuserve.com>.
"Netpower: Resource Guide to Online Computer Networks," by Eric
Persson, Fox Chapel Publishing, Box 7948, Lancaster, PA 17604-7948,
U.S.A. US$ 39.95. 1993. 800+ pages. Email: NetPower1@aol.com .
"Information Highways." Magazine. Annual subscription: $98.00CDN.
Information Highways, 162 Joicey Blvd., Toronto, Ontario, M5M 2V2,
Canada. Fax: +1-416-488-7078.
Bulletin Board systems and networks
-----------------------------------
BoardWatch Magazine, 7586 Weat Jewell Ave., Suite 200, Lakewood,
CO 80232, U.S.A. Email: jrickard@boardwatch.com .
CompuServe
----------
"CompuServe from A to Z," by Charles Bowen, Bantam Computer Books,
1991. US$24.95. Paperback, 520 pages.
GEnie
-----
"Glossbrenner's Master Guide to GEnie," Alfred Glossbrenner,
Osborne/McGraw-Hill, 1991, US$39.95, paperback, 616 pages.
Various
-------
"EcoLinking: Everyone's Guide to Online Environmental Information,"
by Don Rittner. Peachpit Press, 1992, US$18.95, paperback, 352
pages, appendices, index.
"Online Information Hunting," by Nahum Goldman, TAB Books, Inc.,
1992, US$19.95, paperback, 236 pages.
"SysLaw: The Legal Guide for Online Service Providers" by Lance
Rose, Esq., and Jonathan Wallace, Esq. Sold by PC Information
Group, 1126 East Broadway, Winona, MN 55987, U.S.A. US$34.95 plus
$3.00 shipping.
"The Information Broker's Handbook," by Sue Rugge and Alfred
Glossbrenner, Windcrest/McGraw-Hill.
"Dvorak's Guide to PC Telecommunications," John Dvorak and Nick Anis
(1992, 1128 pages, US$39.95). Second edition.
Articles
--------
The following articles are available by email from LISTSERV@UHUPVM1
(BITNET) or LISTSERV@UHUPVM1.UH.EDU (Internet). In the TEXT of your
message, write the GET command shown after the article's citation
below:
Bailey, Charles W., Jr. "Electronic Publishing on Networks: A
Selective Bibliography of Recent Works." The Public-Access
Computer Systems Review 3, no. 2 (1992): 13-20. GET BAILEY PRV3N2
F=MAIL.
Harnad, Stevan. "Post-Gutenberg Galaxy: The Fourth Revolution in
the Means of Production of Knowledge." The Public-Access Computer
Systems Review 2, no. 1 (1991): 39-53. GET HARNAD PRV2N1 F=MAIL.
Halbert, Martin. "Public-Access Computer Systems and the
Internet." The Public-Access Computer Systems Review 1, no. 2
(1990): 71-80. GET HALBERT PRV1N2 F=MAIL.
Arms, Caroline R. Review of Library Resources on the Internet:
Strategies for Selection and Use, by Laine Farley, ed. In The
Public-Access Computer Systems Review 3, no. 2 (1992): 29-34. GET
ARMS PRV3N2 F=MAIL.
Barron, Billy. Review of Zen and the Art of the Internet: A
Beginner's Guide to the Internet, by Brendan P. Kehoe. In The
Public-Access Computer Systems Review 3, no. 1 (1992): 57-59. GET
BARRON PRV3N1 F=MAIL.
Cook, Dave. Review of The User's Directory of Computer Networks,
by Tracy L. LaQuey, ed. In The Public-Access Computer Systems
Review 2, no. 1 (1991): 177-181. GET COOK PRV2N1 F=MAIL.
Appendix 6:
International Standard Top-level Country codes
==============================================
Top-level country codes derived from the International Standards
Organization's international standard ISO 3166, except United Kingdom
that should be called Great Britain (GB) instead of UK.
Domain Country Comments
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
AD Andorra
AE United Arab Emirates
AF Afghanistan
AG Antigua and Barbuda
AI Anguilla
AL Albania
AM Armenia Ex-USSR
AN Netherland Antilles
AO Angola
AQ Antarctica
AR Argentina
AS American Samoa
AT Austria
AU Australia
AW Aruba
AZ Azerbaidjan Ex-USSR
BA Bosnia-Herzegovina Ex-Yugoslavia
BB Barbados
BD Bangladesh
BE Belgium
BF Burkina Faso
BG Bulgaria
BH Bahrain
BI Burundi
BJ Benin
BM Bermuda
BN Brunei Darussalam
BO Bolivia
BR Brazil
BS Bahamas
BT Buthan
BV Bouvet Island
BW Botswana
BY Bielorussia Ex-USSR
BZ Belize
CA Canada
CC Cocos (Keeling) Isl.
CF Central African Rep.
CG Congo
CH Switzerland
CI Ivory Coast
CK Cook Islands
CL Chile
CM Cameroon
CN China
CO Colombia
CR Costa Rica
CS Czechoslovakia
CU Cuba
CV Cape Verde
CX Christmas Island
CY Cyprus
DE Germany
DJ Djibouti
DK Denmark
DM Dominica
DO Dominican Republic
DZ Algeria
EC Ecuador
EE Estonia Ex-USSR also via .su domain
EG Egypt
EH Western Sahara
ES Spain
ET Ethiopia
FI Finland
FJ Fiji
FK Falkland Isl.(Malvinas)
FM Micronesia
FO Faroe Islands
FR France
FX France (European Ter.) ???
GA Gabon
GB Great Britain (UK) X.400 address gateway
GD Grenada
GE Georgia Ex-USSR
GH Ghana
GI Gibraltar
GL Greenland
GP Guadeloupe (Fr.)
GQ Equatorial Guinea
GF Guyana (Fr.)
GM Gambia
GN Guinea
GR Greece
GT Guatemala
GU Guam (US)
GW Guinea Bissau
GY Guyana
HK Hong Kong
HM Heard & McDonald Isl.
HN Honduras
HR Croatia Ex-Yugoslavia via .yu
HT Haiti
HU Hungary
ID Indonesia
IE Ireland
IL Israel
IN India
IO British Indian O. Terr.
IQ Iraq
IR Iran
IS Iceland
IT Italy
JM Jamaica
JO Jordan
JP Japan
KE Kenya
KG Kirgistan Ex-USSR
KH Cambodia
KI Kiribati
KM Comoros
KN St.Kitts Nevis Anguilla
KP Korea (North)
KR Korea (South)
KW Kuwait
KY Cayman Islands
KZ Kazachstan Ex-USSR
LA Laos
LB Lebanon
LC Saint Lucia
LI Liechtenstein
LK Sri Lanka
LR Liberia
LS Lesotho
LT Lithuania Ex-USSR
LU Luxembourg
LV Latvia Ex-USSR
LY Libya
MA Morocco
MC Monaco
MD Moldavia Ex-USSR
MG Madagascar
MH Marshall Islands
ML Mali
MM Myanmar
MN Mongolia
MO Macau
MP Northern Mariana Isl.
MQ Martinique (Fr.)
MR Mauritania
MS Montserrat
MT Malta
MU Mauritius
MV Maldives
MW Malawi
MX Mexico
MY Malaysia
MZ Mozambique
NA Namibia
NC New Caledonia (Fr.)
NE Niger
NF Norfolk Island
NG Nigeria
NI Nicaragua
NL Netherlands
NO Norway
NP Nepal
NR Nauru
NT Neutral Zone
NU Niue
NZ New Zealand
OM Oman
PA Panama
PE Peru
PF Polynesia (Fr.)
PG Papua New Guinea
PH Philippines
PK Pakistan
PL Poland
PM St. Pierre & Miquelon
PN Pitcairn
PT Portugal
PR Puerto Rico (US)
PW Palau
PY Paraguay
QA Qatar
RE Reunion (Fr.) In .fr domain
RO Romania
RU Russian Federation Ex-USSR
RW Rwanda
SA Saudi Arabia
SB Solomon Islands
SC Seychelles
SD Sudan
SE Sweden
SG Singapore
SH St. Helena
SI Slovenia Ex-Yugoslavia also via .yu
SJ Svalbard & Jan Mayen Is
SL Sierra Leone
SM San Marino
SN Senegal
SO Somalia
SR Suriname
ST St. Tome and Principe
SU Soviet Union Still used.
SV El Salvador
SY Syria
SZ Swaziland
TC Turks & Caicos Islands
TD Chad
TF French Southern Terr.
TG Togo
TH Thailand
TJ Tadjikistan Ex-USSR
TK Tokelau
TM Turkmenistan Ex-USSR
TN Tunisia
TO Tonga
TP East Timor
TR Turkey
TT Trinidad & Tobago
TV Tuvalu
TW Taiwan
TZ Tanzania
UA Ukraine Ex-USSR via .su domain
UG Uganda
UK United Kingdom ISO 3166 code is GB
UM US Minor outlying Isl.
US United States
UY Uruguay
UZ Uzbekistan Ex-USSR
VA Vatican City State
VC St.Vincent & Grenadines
VE Venezuela
VG Virgin Islands (British)
VI Virgin Islands (US)
VN Vietnam
VU Vanuatu
WF Wallis & Futuna Islands
WS Samoa
YE Yemen
YU Yugoslavia
ZA South Africa
ZM Zambia
ZR Zaire
ZW Zimbabwe
Some other top level codes being used:
--------------------------------------
ARPA Old style Arpanet
COM Commercial
EDU Educational
GOV Government
INT International field used by Nato
MIL US Military
NATO Nato field being replaced by .int
NET Network
ORG Non-Profit Organization
The codes (domains) in this section are special in that some of
them are used in more than one country.
Appendix 7:
About the author
================
Odd de Presno (born 1944) lives in Arendal, a small town in Norway,
with his computers and modems. He has written twelve books. Half
these focus on various aspects of the Online World. The rest is
about practical applications of MS-DOS based personal computers.
Published in Norway and England. His book "The Online World" is
distributed globally as shareware.
Over 700 of his articles have been published in management and
technical magazines in Scandinavia, England, Japan, and the U.S.
Writer. International public speaker. Consultant. Operates an
English-language bulletin board system in Norway (since 1985).
Area of special expertise: applications of global sources of
online information, computer conferencing, global electronic mail,
automation of information retrieval, MS-DOS computer applications.
Founder and Project Director of KIDLINK, an international non-
profit organization promoting a global dialog among the youth of
the world. Since its start in 1990, KIDLINK has involved over ten
thousand kids in the 10 - 15 years range in over 50 countries.
Educational background includes a Diploma Degree in Business
Administration from Bedriftsoekonomisk Institutt (Norway).
He founded the software company Data Logic A/S (Norway) in 1967
and was president for five years. Sales manager Control Data Corp.
seven years (in charge of CYBERNET/Norway, an international online
service). Marketing manager IKO Software Service A/S, two years.
Currently running his own business.
Member of the Computer Press Association (U.S.A.) since 1983,
and NFF (Norway). Listed in Marquis' "Who's Who in the World" from
1991.
Appendix 8:
HOW TO REGISTER YOUR COPY OF THE ONLINE WORLD
=============================================
The online world is extremely dynamic. Services and offerings come and go.
Your registration will support further research, and production of updates.
You can register your current copy, or sign up for six updates of the book
during one year. Details are given below.
==============================================================================
Please send to:
Odd de Presno
4815 Saltrod
Norway (Europe)
Please add me as a supporter of the Online World book:
Name ______________________________________________________________
Company ______________________________________________________________
Address ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
City ________________________________State _______ Zip ____________
Country ________________________________
Email address ______________________________________________________
Please mark off your selections with (x) below:
Basic Registration for individuals
----------------------------------
( ) NOK 105.00 For payment by credit card.
(around US$ 15.00)
( ) US$ 20.00 For all other methods of payment.
(or, in Norwegian currency: NOK 140.00.)
Option (for Basic Registration)
-------------------------------
( ) US$ 2.00 Add to have a copy of the most recent version of the
book sent you on diskette. Only with registration!
(In Norway, NOK 10.00)
( ) 5.25" MS-DOS disk ( ) 3.5" disk 720KB MS-DOS
Registration with Six Updates for individuals
---------------------------------------------
Six updates of the manuscript will be sent you during the next 12 months.
( ) US$ 60.00 For all methods of payment.
Registration for businesses
---------------------------
All Corporate site licence options include six updates during the
next 12 months.
( ) US$ 500 Distribution for up to 100 people on a single network
( ) US$ 3.000 Distribution for up to 1000 people on a single network
( ) US$ 6.000 Distribution for up to 2500 people on a single network
( ) US$ 10.000 Distribution for up to 5000 people on a single network
( ) US$ 15.000 Distribution for up to 10000 people on a single network
( ) US$ 25.000 Distribution for over 10000 people on a single network
Discounts for schools and public libraries
------------------------------------------
Special rates are available for schools and public libraries. For details,
send a message to LISTSERV@vm1.nodak.edu (BITNET users can send it to
LISTSERV@NDSUVM1). In the text of the message, use the command:
GET TOW SCHOOLS
GET TOW LIBRARY
( ) Please identify what type of discount you are taking advantage of:
Ref: ______________
Description: ____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Amount ____________________ Date _______________
( ) Check or money order payable to Odd de Presno in U.S. funds enclosed
( ) SWIFT transfer to 6311.05.27189 (Kredittkassen 4800 Arendal, Norway)
( ) VISA ( ) MasterCard ( ) American Express
Credit card number __________________________________ Exp date _______
If you already have an evaluation copy of the book, where did you get it?
________________________________________________ Version number: ____
Comments or suggestions for improvement of The Online World __________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Date ___________________
Signature _________________________________
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│ T H A N K Y O U F O R S U P P O R T I N G S H A R E W A R E │
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