The real world of high speed networking: user interfaces

Abstract

High-speed data transfer networks are becoming the norm in new ship system designs. The network interfacing situation in present-day and foreseeable ship designs are described and a method of dealing with the user network interfaces is discussed. This discussion and the recommended solution are illustrated by examples of shipboard data transfer networks implemented by Rockwell International Corporation on US and foreign navy ship programs. In the design philosophy used, the network must provide the interface capability for users which do not have a direct network compatible interface. This way, the possible application of the network is expanded, resulting in greater operating benefits to the ship and its mission.<>