The previous issue of LSN reported Hartford County's use of its DataPhase ALIS II system to access the CLSI and SCI systems of other Maryland libraries. DataPhase Systems has now announced that the installation of the largest single- library data communications network in the country, CPLNET, has been completed. Because of the cost of maintaining communications lines, data communications networks have emerged as critical components in the implementation of large library information systems. CPLNET links the central Chicago Public Library (CPL) with its 89 branches.
To insure efficient communications services an Intertel EMS-l system has been installed to automatically monitor CPL's ALIS II/E system on a continuous basis, eliminating the need for specialized operators to check the system for faults. The communications network is a key aspect of CPL's system, the alpha test for the DataPhase/Tandem project.
The system will serve 500,000 annual patrons while circulating 15 million items. It will initially utilize 150 terminals with expansion capability of 500 terminals.
[Contact: DataPhase Systems, Inc., 3770 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo 64111. (816) 931-7927.]
