RadioGraphics, Vol 17, 988-992, Copyright © 1997 by Radiological Society of North America
Primer on computers and information technology. Part two: an introduction to computer networking
DS Channin and PJ Chang
Department of Radiology, Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pa 17033, USA.
Computers networks are a way of connecting computers together such that
they can exchange information. For this exchange to be successful, system
behavior must be planned and specified very clearly at a number of
different levels. Although there are many choices to be made at each level,
often there are simple decisions that can be made to rapidly reduce the
number of options. Planning is most important at the highest (application)
and lowest (wiring) levels, whereas the middle levels must be specified to
ensure compatibility. Because of the widespread use of the Internet,
solutions based on Internet technologies are often cost-effective and
should be considered when designing a network. As in all technical fields,
consultation with experts (ie, computer networking specialists) may be
worthwhile.
