Abstract: A data source on a main local area network (LAN) transmits broadcast messages via bridges to remote stations. A ring buffer in a bridge on the main LAN buffers a selected number of packets received from the data source. When the main bridge on the main LAN receives a "Lost Frame Message" from a remote bridge, not on the main LAN, the main bridge backs up to the address of the lost packet in the ring buffer, and retransmits the lost packet and then continues sequential transmission of subsequent packets. If buffer is, filled above a pre-set criteria, retransmission is slowed or stopped until buffer is mostly emptied.

Abstract: A procedure for bringing-up and/or establishing the operability of a distributive data processing system comprises the steps of providing, at each terminal of said system, a display having a plurality of individually activatable indicators and/or indicia configured in a predetermined geometrical pattern with the position in the pattern and the electrical state of each indicator being representative of the operational readiness of an assigned terminal; running a series of operational tests in each terminal and selectively enabling the indicator and/or displaying an alphanumeric character representing said terminal on the successful completion of the operability tests.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for defining I/O devices connected to terminals of a distributive data processing system and for downloading programs from a control computer into said terminals. A global listing containing identities of all devices that can be coupled to the terminal is prepared at each terminal. A configuration list of devices which are actually coupled to the terminal is derived from the global list. The configuration list is stored at the terminal and at the control computer. Thereafter, only programs that are required for controlling the devices that are actually coupled to the terminal are downloaded into the terminal.

Abstract: Described is an architecture and protocol for exchanging messsages within a distributive data processing system. Instead of transmitting a frame with a beginning flag field (SDEL) followed by an address field as is the usual case, the SDEL field and address field collapsed and merged into a single field. The field includes a control bit whose setting determines whether the field is the beginning of a frame or otherwise. A second control bit within the single field is used to identify the type of message being transmitted and the response that a recipient station is permitted to return to a control unit issuing the message. The protocol is well suited for framing messages in the well known SDLC communications format. In this format it allows the detection of delimiters without resorting to bit stuffing.

Abstract: A tool for cutting materials such as animal carcasses and portions of carcasses one after another, the tool including a cutting blade and a guard member, together with means for discharging against the blade and against the guard member hot water at sterilizing temperature for sterilizing the cutting blade and guard between their use in cutting different carcasses. The disclosure also deals with a process in which one carcass is cut using the tool, the tool withdrawn and the blade and guard then treated by discharging sterilizing water thereon before the tool is again used in the cutting of other carcasses.

Abstract: A tool for cutting materials such as animal carcasses and portions of carcasses one after another, the tool including a cutting blade and a guard member, together with means for discharging against the blade and against the guard member hot water at sterilizing temperature for sterilizing the cutting blade and guard between their use in cutting different carcasses. The disclosure also deals with a process in which one carcass is cut using the tool, the tool withdrawn and the blade and guard then treated by discharging sterilizing water thereon before the tool is again used in the cutting of other carcasses.