Abstract: A system and method for diagnosing faults that occur on a computer system. An executive unit loads an appropriate file set for a given fault from a database of file sets. An expert system unit analyzes the fault and uses the file set to determine a fact request to be asked or a remedy to be applied to the computer system. The executive unit directs a script management unit to run the fact request or remedy script selected by the expert system unit from the file set. If a response is given by a user or the computer system to the fact request, the executive unit returns the response to the expert system unit. The expert system unit engages in a further analysis based on the initial fault information and response received. The expert system makes additional fact requests if needed until a diagnosis is reached or the current file set is exhausted. File sets are linked in problem domains, and the executive unit can load another file set covering the same domain to continue the diagnostic process.

Abstract: An interactive terminal system transfers information at 750,000 bits per second between a central system and a number of work stations, all coupled in common to a single conductor coaxial bus. The central system prepolls an addressed work station before sending a block of information. The prepoll conditions the work station to prepare to receive a block of information.