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Departments that run independent computer platforms now find a need to communicate with other corporate platforms. The increased user interest in open systems has encouraged even traditional proprietary computer manufacturers, notably IBM, to develop and implement inter-platform data communications protocols. Available protocols that can be used to link the AS/400 to IBM mainframe computers include OSI, or Open Systems Interconnection and TCP/IP, which stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.

The Voice Span protocol from AT and T Paradyne, the VoiceView protocol from Radish Communications Systems Inc. and the Multi-Tech Supervisory Protocol from Multi-Tech Systems Inc. are three major modem protocols that enable single-line voice-and-data communications. These protocols enable companies to use one analog telephone line for integrated voice and data communications, which used to be possible only in expensive integrated service digital networks. The characteristics of each of the three modem protocols are discussed.

Frame relays are expected to provide stiff competition for dedicated line operators as the choice for computer data transport. Although frame relay currently accounts for only 0.5% of total data transport, it offers burst local-area network traffic, fast packet switching and lower rates for long-distance data transport. Frame relay is faster than X.25 technology and can even be cheaper than X.25 point-to-point networks.

The growth of local area networks (LANs) has increased performance maintenance problems in computer information systems. Currently available software tools geared for the AS/400 computer platform include the 5494 Remote Control Unit performance analysis software and the LAN Router/400 computer network software. The former provides coaxial-connected workstation management while the latter is a gateway for non-standard Token Ring network atttachments.