An increasing number of libraries and library consortia are implementing frame relay for linking remote locations to the central site. The technology supports data transfer rates from 56 Kbps to 1.544 Mbps. Those who are looking ahead to high-volume transfer of full-text, image, and multimedia among locations have been concerned that frame relay may not offer enough bandwidth: it may be necessary to have 100 Mbps or more for at least the backbone. That is now possible because a standard for frame-relay-to-ATM connectivity has recently been adopted by the ATM and Frame Relay Forums.
Sprint will be the first company to offer interconnectivity which conforms to the new standard. Its service will be available by November 1, 1995. Regardless of the bandwidth of the frame relay circuits, it will be possible to connect with ATM circuits operating at 1.544 to 45 Mbps, or even to OC3 ATM circuits which transmit data at 155 Mbps. Prices per Mbps of ATM service are comparable to prices for frame relay; therefore, the major basis for choosing between the technologies will be the amount of bandwidth needed.
Prices for ATM hardware and software for ATM to desktop workstations are still extremely high (up to $5,000 per user); therefore, ATM is not expected to come “inside” for several more years.
AT&T expects to introduce its service later this year, and MCI and LDDS World Corn are expected to offer the same service in early 1996. Local telcos also are expected to offer internetworking using the recently introduced standard.
