Abstract: A method for identifying marginal transmission line conditions in a token ring network. The method includes the steps of (1) generating a series of test patterns simulating different frequency signals; (2) writing each test pattern into a token ring packet frame; (3) successively transmitting said test patterns from a sending station connected to said token ring network to a receiving station on said token ring network; (4) measuring the time required for each transmitted test pattern to be successfully transmitted from the sending station to the receiving station; (5) comparing the transmission times measured for all successful test pattern transmissions; and (6) determining that a marginal transmission line condition exists within the token ring network when the transmission time associated with one of the test patterns greatly exceeds the transmission times associated with the other test patterns.

Abstract: A method for remotely testing transmission line conditions in a token ring network. The method includes the steps of (1) generating at a remote station a series of test patterns simulating different frequency signals; (2) writing each test pattern into a token ring packet frame; (3) successively transmitting said test patterns from the remote station through a router connected to said token ring network to a receiving station on said token ring network; (4) measuring the time required for each transmitted test pattern to be successfully transmitted from the sending station to the receiving station; (5) comparing the transmission times measured for all successful test pattern transmissions; and (6) determining that a marginal transmission line condition exists within the token ring network when the transmission time associated with one of the test patterns greatly exceeds the transmission times associated with the other test patterns.

Abstract: An improved drop stimulation system for a continuous ink jet printer includes a generally rectangular orifice plate with orifices along a central, longitudinal axis and transducer members coupled to longitudinal edge regions of the orifice plate, equidistantly from the central axis. The transducers are actuatable to flex the orifice plate alternately concave and convex about its central axis.