THE APPLE PILOT EVALUATION
FOR
THE NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
US.-B51VIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
March 11, 1988
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THE APPLE PILOT EVALUATION
FOR
THE NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
March 11, 1988
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CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1
1.0 Introduction 2
2.0 Background 3
3.0 Methodology 6
Timeline of Events 6
Areas of Responsibility 8
Inventory of Software 9
General Methodology 10
4.0 Questions Evaluation and Discussion 12
The Apple system vs. the IBM System 6 12
Macintosh and MS Word 12
The Apple System vs. the Lexitron Workstation 13
Keyboarding and the Mouse 13
Printer Location and Needs 13
Timekeeping, Data Entry and Project
Tracking on the Mainframes 14
E-Mail 14
Macintosh Advantages and Disadvantages for
Word Processing 14
The Local Area Network 15
Telecommunications Between Buildings 16
Electronic Transfer of Files 16
Queueing/Spooling and Location of Printers 17
Configuration Compatibility 17
Security 18
Graphics and DeskTop Publishing 18
DeskTop Publishing, Graphics, Typesetting
and Pasteup Capabilities 19
Macintosh and the Tektronix 20
Output and Output Devices 21
Optical Character Reader (DEST Scanner) 22
General Discussion 22
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CONTENTS (Cont.)
Other Areas of Interest 23
Maintenance, Backup Inventory and User Support 23
Additional Items 24
5.0 Planned Evaluations 25
Network Software and Hardware 25
Cost Analyses 27
User Groups and User Support 27
Future Needs 27
CONCLUSIONS 29
APPENDICES
A COMMUNICATIONS METHODOLOGY
FIGURES
1 NEIC Macintosh Network 7
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The NEIC Apple Pilot Evaluation was designed to determine applicability of the
Apple Macintosh SEs and an AppleTalk Network in meeting the needs of the
NEIC Word Processing Center and individual secretarial/clerical workstations.
Six months of use revealed that:
1. The system met the basic capabilities of the IBM System 6 (existing word
processing technology).
2. The Macintosh SE, LaserWriter and ImageWriter printers are suitable
replacements for the Lexitron and its applications, with some exceptions
(i.e., printing of multiple-part forms, envelopes and labels).
3. The local area network provides for effective telecommunications
between physically separated buildings, the electronic transfer of files,
queueing/spooling of printers and configuration compatibility between
Apple and IBM equipment.
4. The graphics station and desktop publishing capabilities significantly
enhance current NEIC capabilities.
This document details the evaluation leading to the conclusions above and
presents additional features being evaluated. Areas for additional evaluation
include:
Network software and hardware fine-tuning
Cost analyses
User groups
User support
NEIC's future needs
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1.0 Introduction
In May of 1987, in cooperation with the Office of Information Resources
Management (OIRM) and the National Data Processing Division (NDPD), NEIC
began a pilot study of the AppleTalk network as a means of integrating the
Agency's IBM compatible PC technology with the Apple Macintosh technology.
The primary goal of NEIC in this study was to determine the utility of the
Macintosh for word processing, both in the centralized word processing group
and for individual clerical staff. Graphics and desktop publishing capabilities
were also investigated. The following report summarizes NEIC's initial findings
and poses some additional areas for evaluation.
Completion of this report on the Apple Pilot, has resulted in determining specific
applicability of the Macintosh and the AppleTalk network. NEIC will continue to
refine its investigation of additional Macintosh and network features.
The background (Section 2.0) of NEIC's current equipment and technology is
important to understand in relation to NEIC's word processing needs. Several
aspects were analyzed for this Apple/Network Pilot: (1) The compatibility of
NEIC's new and existing equipment, (2) the conformance to existing agency
standards, (3) the Apple/IBM PC connectivity, (4) the compound document
production, and (5) the desktop publishing capabilities. Included are the
methodology used in setting up this evaluation, as well as the Apple/IBM PC
network diagram and an inventory of software and hardware used (Section 3.0).
Initial objectives/questions are addressed in Section 4.0. In completing this
report of the Apple Pilot, areas for additional investigation were encountered.
These factors will comprise NEIC's continuing evaluation of the system and are
discussed in Section 5.0. Finally, Section 6.0 concludes this report, citing
results and the advantages and disadvantages of the Apple System.
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2.0 Background
To support the enforcement mission, activities at NEIC include traditional
secretarial duties such as the typing of documents, as well as operation of a
word processing center for high volume report preparation. As with most
organizations within the Agency, NEIC possesses several generations of office
system technologies. These technologies range from an early version of the
IBM System 6 word processing system to the newly acquired IBM compatible
personal computers; midway between are memory typewriters and Lexitron
word processors.
NEIC was actively looking to replace the aging and incompatible IBM System 6
configuration, as well as to upgrade or replace the Lexitron equipment. Word
processing requirements of NEIC had grown beyond the capabilities of the
System 6 configuration and maintenance of the system frequently resulted in
production bottlenecks. The time was opportune for revamping exi_sting
hardware and software.
NEIC explored the utility of NBI and Wang systems to upgrade technology.
Concurrently, the Agency was seeking to establish an individual workstation
environment, which had the capability to perform computing functions, as well
as word processing. The Agency PC contract was viewed as a mechanism to
create executive workstations using IBM PC ATs. Eventually, these PCs could
also serve as the secretarial workstation alternative. NEIC investigated other
alternatives to maintain consistency for developing Agency microcomputer-
based standards.
In cooperation with the Office of Information Resources Management (OIRM),
NEIC reviewed the functional word processing and associated requirements to
determine an approach. In conducting that analysis, the following requirements
were established:
Compatibility of new and existing equipment - To the extent
possible and practicable, the new and existing equipment must be
capable of exchanging data and files. Already acquired IBM PC
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equipment was to be considered a valuable component of a newly
configured system.
Conformance to existing Agency standards - Agency efforts to
standardize PC hardware and software, particularly for word
processing must be integrated into the solution.
Connectivity - The system must be networked in such a way that
files can be moved from unit to unit, and IBM PCs must be able to
be included within that network.
Compound document production - Multiple staff members from
diverse disciplines work on different elements of many NEIC
projects. This includes the task of preparing the final report. Each
participating staff member must be able to independently complete
his/her portion of the work without the need for rekeyboarding.
The means must be available to bring the various portions
together, move them into the intended position within the whole
report, and move the entire copy back to the reviewing community
to provide a review or final copy.
Desktop Publishing Capability - NEIC reports are considered vital
to communication of findings and evaluations and, therefore, fine
copy must be integrated with text, graphics, charts, diagrams, etc.
The system must incorporate the traditional keyboarding and
printing functions to provide high quality typesetting and pasteup
services to enhance the ease as well as visual appeal of NEIC
reports, newsletters, announcements, etc.
To examine alternatives and supplements to the IBM PC technology, NEIC was
selected to pilot a network of Apple Macintosh SEs in conjunction with IBM PC
ATs. Microsoft Word was selected to serve as the resident word processing
package on the Macintosh and on selected IBM PC ATs because it:
(1) Accommodated most all of the Word Processing Center's need for
formulas, tables and complex scientific text; (2) most closely mimicked the
System 6, and (3) was one of the few word processing packages of its caliber,
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compatible on both IBM and Apple personal microcomputers at the time of
selection. The Apple Macintosh and AppleTalk network met all the requirement
specifications (on paper) outlined above. NEIC set out to pilot the equipment for
its specific situation.
The network was installed by July 3, 1987. Training on the use of the hardware
and software took place simultaneously with installation. The time period for the
pilot was 4 months. Issues evaluated were:
1. Does the system meet the current capabilities of the IBM System 6?
2. Are a Macintosh SE and printer suitable replacements for the Lexitron at
the executive secretary's workstation for keyboarding, printing and E-Mail
purposes?
3. Does the local area network provide for effective telecommunication
between physically separated buildings, the electronic transfer of files,
queueing/spooling of printers, and configuration compatibility between
Apple and IBM equipment?
4. Do the graphics station and desktop publishing capabilities significantly
enhance current NEIC capabilities?
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3.0 Methodology
Implementation of Apple hardware, software and local area network began in
the summer of 1987. Below, the timeline of events, areas of responsibility and
an inventory of software are listed. Falcon Microsystems of Landover, Maryland
performed the system integration and installation. A discussion of general
methodology follows.
3.1 Timeline of Events
July 3, 1987 Installation of the Apple hardware, software and
local area network. System included 7 Macintosh
SEs with MS Word, 4 IBM PC ATs with MS Word,
and a complete network between two NEIC
buildings. Network component training (LAN,
Macintosh as File Server, OCR Scanner) was
provided to telecommunications and PC
personnel (Falcon Microsystems). Please see
Figure 1 for a diagram of the NEIC Macintosh
network.
July 6, 1987 Training began - Introduction to Macintosh, TOPS
8A-12N and general software. All initial training was
provided by a representative of Falcon
Microsystems and by a local vendor - Adams
Computers.
July 6, 1987 Introduction to MS Word I for pilot users (Falcon &
1P-4P Adams)
July 7, 1987 Introduction to MS Word II for pilot users (Falcon
8A-12N & Adams)
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BLDG.45
Krohn SE
Anderson SE
Bldg. 45
LaserWriter
Schipporeit SE Park SE
GRAPHICS WORKSTATION
(CHEATUM)
Scanner, SE, Superview LaserWriter
Plus
| Star Controllers)
BLDG. 53
FISHER
SE Director's
LaserWriter
Daisy-wheel SE. ImageWriter II
printer (proposed)
RITTHALER
Computer Room SE
File Server
Technical Analysis Branch
IBM PC
.;. ,. Operations Division
IBM PC
Laboratory Services
Division IBM PC
Library
IBM PC
NEIC MACINTOSH NETWORK
(using TOPS software)
FIGURE 1
drc-2/17/88
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July?, 1987 Presentation of graphics I (MacDraw and
1P-4P CricketDraw) (Adams)
July 8, 9,10 Presentation Graphics II (More, Adobe Illustrator,
PageMaker) (Adams)
3.2 Areas of Responsibility
Gary Young
Chief, Information
Management
Branch
Project Implementation
George Allison
Chief, ADP
Section
Network/Equipment installation oversight
(Falcon)
Keith Krieger
CSC Information
Management
Specialist
Marcia Colvin
Management
Assistant
Network itself (particularly the PC ATs in
the network and the Macintosh as File
Server)
Onsite MS Word user support,
documentation of the use of MS Word on
the Macintosh and on the IBM PC AT
Veronica Bladt
CSC Associate
Mini-Computer
Specialist
Denise Cheatum
Computer
Assistant
Onsite user support for the Macintosh, PC
Coordinator
Onsite user support for Macintosh graphics
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3.3 Inventory of Software
Initially installed software included:
Graphics
Adobe Illustrator
CricketDraw
MacDraw
More
PageMaker
SuperPaint
PublishPac
Word Processing
MS Word
Produces high quality, finely-
detailed line art
Object-oriented drawing program,
similar to MacDraw has some
additional "special effects"
Drawing package
Outlining, presentation and
organization chart package
Desktop publishing software
Paint package
Used to scan text and images on
DEST Scanner
Word processing software
Communications/Other
AST 4000
FileMaker Plus
HyperCard
MacTerminal
Node Check
Software for the computer room's
hard disk drive
Database management program
with graphic format capability (e.g.,
forms, presentations)
Information organizer, user
definable database, used for linking
information
Terminal emulation software
Checks the AppleTalk network
status
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Peek Checks the AppleTalk network
quality
SuperLaserSpool Printer spooler program which
allows use of Macintosh while
waiting for files to be printed
Switcher Allows numerous applications to be
open at the same time
TOPS Allows several users to share the
same file or to send and copy a file
over the network
Traffic Watch A network analyzer
3.4 General Methodology
After the early July training sessions, the system was configured
as in Figure 1. The AppleTalk Pilot called for the network to serve
nine separate locations within Building 53 and one location in
Building 55. The two buildings were provided communications via
existing telephone lines. Details of NEIC's communications
methodology may be found in Appendix A. Building 55, housing
the Word Processing Center, was set up with three Macintosh
SEs. The graphics station (Cheatum), the computer room (File
Server), and two secretarial stations (Ritthaler and Fisher) were
also configured with Macintosh SEs.
The File Server was to serve several purposes: (1) To maintain
document files for NEIC multiple users, (2) to serve as a device
through which IBM files could be sent to a Macintosh and vice
versa, and (3) to be used as a basic Macintosh by the computer
operators.
The Introduction to Macintosh, TOPS, network component and MS
Word training were all custom-tailored to NEIC's needs.
Preparation for training required substantial time upfront from
vendors and NEIC user support personnel.
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Users were instructed to use the network and/or their Macintosh
whenever possible, in place of a Lexitron or System 6. Each
maintained a problem log and the PC coordinator, Veronica
Shray, remained on-call to assist with trouble shooting. Users
experienced an expected adjustment period and made extensive
use of troubleshooting support until they became comfortable with
the hardware and software. Constant contact was maintained with
the users.
A 3-day graphics training course was provided to additional NEIC
users. A local vendor, Adams Computers, taught the class.
Answers to original evaluation issues were solicited on an
ongoing basis. Two Macintosh Users meetings were held over
this evaluation period. Problem logs were evaluated and
solutions were provided through local NEIC expertise or through
the vendor. The installation of Version 3.1 of MS Word solved
many of the problems users had encountered with Version 3.0.
Interviews with pilot users were frequently conducted.
In addition to testing Word Processing Center needs, most facets
of the secretarial workstation were used and evaluated (i.e.,
typing, data entry, E-Mail and local applications). E-Mail
procedures (using MacTerminal) were documented and
distributed.
Currently, use of the File Server and network are being further
evaluated. Users answers from a followup questionnaire are
being tabulated. Additional hardware is being researched which
will accommodate multiple-forms, labels and envelope typing;
SuperView screen problems; and other, minor (but solvable)
issues. Further system evaluation is detailed in Section 5.0.
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4.0 Questions Evaluation and Discussion
4.1 The Apple system vs. the IBM System 6
The Apple system basically meets the current capabilities of the
IBM System 6.
4.1.1 Macintosh and MS Word
The Macintosh system using Microsoft Word for word
processing surpasses the IBM System 6 in almost all
areas except for one. The major exception to MS
Word was that large reports could not be worked with
as an all-in-one document. We were told by
Microsoft Technical Support that MS Word Version
3.0 does not operate efficiently when documents are
longer than about 15 to 20 pages. The word
processing operators learned to work with that
limitation by separating a report into sections and
then linking them for printing, pagination and table of
contents. The linking feature in MS Word was
somewhat cumbersome for the word processing
operators.
Installation of MS Word, Version 3.01, provided for
all-in-one manipulation of reports up to about 24
pages. The PageMaker graphics package, it was
discovered, allows for even larger document
manipulation, as well.
Originally, operators encountered the bomb icon on
the screens and total system lock-ups almost
everyday in working with MS Word 3.0. Two floppy
disks had unrecoverable disk errors from unknown
causes. With the upgrade to MS Word 3.01, the
bomb icon problem has occurred only occasionally.
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4.2 The Apple System vs. the Lexitron Workstation
The Macintosh SE and printers are suitable replacements for the
Lexitron at the executive secretaries' workstations for keyboarding,
printing, timekeeping, and E-Mail purposes, with some exceptions.
4.2.1 Kevboardina and the Mouse
The touch on the keyboard is fine for long periods of
typing. The operators did not find noticeable
differences between the System 6, Lexitron, memory
typewriter or Macintosh keyboards. For one
Macintosh user, the keyboard was initially awkward
because of the change from a typewriter to a
computer keyboard. Two operators felt that having to
use the mouse was inconvenient and took additional
time. When they were typing, they preferred not to
leave the keyboard to issue the commands. Other
users found working with the mouse sufficient for
executing a command. The keyboard touch is
suitable for the graphics operator, and the mouse is
required for graphics.
Followup interviews indicate little or no awkwardness
with the mouse still exists. Some users have
employed the use of a 'turbo mouse': the user
moves a large sphere on a stationary unit, taking up
much less desk/table space. Most commands can
also be issued from the keyboard, as well as with the
mouse.
4.2.2 Printer Location and Needs
The printer locations are fine. Sharing LaserWriters
(letter quality) is a valid concept. As use grows,
additional units may be required. A secretary can
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use an ImageWriter (Dot Matrix) for the draft of a
document and prints the final version on the
LaserWriter with ease.
Current printers do not accommodate the need for
printing labels, envelopes and multiple-part forms.
However, as mentioned in Section 4.2.5, we believe
this can be solved with alternative hardware.
4.2.3 Timekeeping. Data Entry and Project
Tracking on the Mainframes
The Macintosh handles the timekeeping function,
data entry into the Criminal Docket and Project
Tracking on the mainframes accurately and with the
same or fewer keystrokes than the VT100.
4.2.4 E-Mail
Reading mail is easy to access. The steps are stored
in a utility program within MacTerminal, allowing the
user to sign off the E-Mail system sooner than when
reading the mail on the Lexitron. When sending a
file from MS Word to an E-Mail box the conversion to
an ASCII file is required to save the file in the proper
format before transmitting.
4.2.5 Macintosh Advantages and Disadvantages
for Word Processing
The spelling feature is excellent. The Macintosh has
many more features than the System 6, plus several
methods of communication with the Word Processing
Center. The print on the LaserWriter is superior to
the print of the memory typewriter because it offers so
many more features, such as: (1) Italics,
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(2) underlining, (3) different fonts and point sizes,
(4) boldface, and (5) other type styles. The storage
for the memory typewriter appeared to be adequate
and the operator does not see a major difference in
storage capacity.
NEIC is currently investigating a hardware solution
for the current configuration's inability to feed and
print labels, envelopes and multiple-part forms. We
are attempting to interface a dot matrix printer into the
network to accommodate these needs.
The DEST Scanner is not a viable solution for Word
Processing's document conversion need. Text
requires substantial cleanup after scanning. The
DEST Scanner will not scan proportional spaced
typing at all. The Word Processing operators feel
they can type a page faster than the time it takes to
scan and edit unrecognized characters and
paragraph returns.
NEIC has recently purchased a Kurzweil Optical
Character Reader (OCR) that may suit word
processing needs for scanning (basically for
document conversion to the new system). NEIC is
testing the Kurzweil's ability to scan documents and
send the text to PC data files. Results have been
favorable.
4.3 The Local Area Network
The local area network provides for effective telecommunications
between physically separated buildings, the electronic transfer of
files, queueing/spooling of printers, and configuration compatibility
between Apple and IBM equipment.
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4.3.1 Telecommunications Between Buildings
Two physically separated buildings have been
successfully networked. The buildings are currently
networked with the TOPS software and two Star
Controllers. It is a single network. When a user is
sending a file to a printer, the network searches the
complete network (both buildings) until it finds the
one the user has chosen. (Details of the
communications methodology may be found in
Appendix A.)
4.3.2 Electronic Transfer of Files
The electronic transfer of IBM PC files to the Apple
Macintosh, and vice versa, is easily accommodated
through the File Server. Of the three purposes for the
File Server, this Apple/IBM transfer was a function
most used. Otherwise, the electronic transfer of files
through the network was used mostly to send a
document to print on an ImageWriter or LaserWriter.
The network has been tapped very little, to date, for
its "Publishing" feature for multiple users. As authors
become more familiar with, and have access to the
Apple Macintosh, we expect this use will greatly
increase.
The only problem encountered, thus far, is the
transfer of an IBM PC-created document to a specific
printer within the network. Though TOPS (the
communications software) allows a user to specify a
specific LaserWriter destination, the specified device
is never found. The software will work if it is allowed
to search the entire network and print on the next
available LaserWriter. We believe this is a TOPS
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print software limitation and will hopefully be
corrected with the upgrade to TOPS 2.0.
4.3.3 Queueino/Spooling and Location of Printers
There is sufficient buffer capacity with the spooler
software to free up the Macintosh during large print
jobs. Occasionally, a document did not print
because of a timeout procedure within the Laser
spooler. If the job was too complex, the laser spooler
gave a message saying the job was sent to the
printer but nothing printed. The user then had to
issue the print command again or deinstall the laser
spooler in order to get the document to print.
PageMaker bypasses the Laser Spooler; therefore,
the Macintosh is tied up until the document is
completely transmitted to the printer. However, an
upgraded version of SuperLaser Spool has just
been announced and is advertised as being
compatible with PageMaker, providing an alternative
to tying up the Macintosh.
4.3.4 Configuration Compatibility
As mentioned in 4.3.2 above, the File Server
facilitates IBM-Apple compatibility well. Although like
software operates differently on the IBM PC AT than
on the Apple Macintosh SE (specifically, MS Word),
a user familiar with his/her own machine is not
affected. The newsletter, mentioned in Section 4.4.1,
was a valuable test in combining documents created
in various word processing packages sent through
the network to create a single report.
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The printer location configurations are suitable for
Macintosh and IBM users. If the need arises, the
Apple printers would work out as backup printers.
There was a definite increase in traffic wherever a
common-use LaserWriter was located. Occasionally,
the printed documents will print on letterhead instead
of plain paper because letterhead was left in the
paper tray. IBM users do not always get their
documents printed on the specified LaserWriter
using the AppleTalk network, as discussed in
Section 4.3.2.
4.3.5 Security
There is not a security problem with files transmitted
to and through the File Server. Document or. file
security is handled in three ways:
(1) The most obvious is to use floppy diskettes for
confidential documents. Files are stored to
floppy diskettes which are then kept secured.
(2) A document published on the network can be
password-protected through the TOPS software,
allowing only those users with the password to
read or write to the document.
(3) Each document on the hard disk can be write-
protected.
4.4 Graphics and DeskTop Publishing
The graphics station and desktop publishing capabilities
significantly enhance current NEIC capabilities.
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4.4.1 DeskTop Publishing. Graphics. Typesetting
and Pasteup Capabilities
The system provides NEIC with a desktop publishing
capability that it did not have previously. For
example, the NEIC newsletter was compiled from
articles keyboarded from various users with various
word processing packages. All the articles were sent
to the graphics department Macintosh using the
AppleTalk network. The DeskTop publishing
software using PageMaker, text and graphics were
integrated to produce a very high quality newsletter.
The system is able to produce fine copy and
incorporate various pieces including text, graphics,
charts, diagrams, etc. It easily incorporates text and
graphics into MS Word. The two graphical fonts,
Cairo and Mobile, are very easy to use and will print
into MS Word documents on the LaserWriter or
ImageWriter. When using Cricket Draw, the drawing
will not always print on the LaserWriter. It will always
print on the ImageWriter, but the copy is not as clear
and detailed. We are in the process of incorporating
charts and diagrams.
The system incorporates the traditional keyboarding
and printing functions to provide high quality
typesetting and pasteup services to enhance the
ease of production as well as visual appeal of NEIC
reports, newsletters, announcements, etc. The
above options are very easy to use with a
LaserWriter printer; the final copy has a very high
quality appeal. The same "typeset look" can be
created using the LaserWriter and PageMaker.
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4.4.2 Macintosh and the Tektronix
The Macintosh graphics are much easier to use than
the Tektronix, especially for the infrequent user.
Although Tektronix graphics are much more
cumbersome to use, two of its advantages are the
large color high resolution screen and color output
devices. The Apple SuperView 19-inch monitor
does not support all Macintosh products due to the
required storage. The images on the 19-inch screen
are sometimes actually smaller than when working
on the smaller SE screen and, generally, resolution
is poor. For example, Adobe Illustrator requires
additional memory to be used on the larger screen.
Basically, with NEIC's current software (or software
access), the Tektronix advantages include:
Statistical analysis capabilities; graphs, bar charts,
and pie charts through Cuechart; interface with the
Zeta Plotter for large size presentation graphics;
color output; access to packages, such as
TELLAPLAN, TELLAGRAF and DISSPLA, as well as
access and manipulation of mainframe data files.
The Apple Macintosh advantages include: Its user
friendliness and technology transferability, versatility
in free-hand drawing and graphics creation, and the
fact that it is a stand-alone system independent of a
mainframe environment and communication
problems.
A number of Tektronix advantages could also
become Macintosh features with the addition of
statistical and plotting software, the Macintosh-IBM
gateway (allowing transfer of data files to and from
the mainframe) and addition of an interface cable for
the Zeta Plotter. The Macintosh II Plus also has a
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color monitor and Apple promises a color printer
soon.
4.4.3 Output and Output Devices
The ImageWriter was found to be inadequate for
most graphics purposes. It is preferable to use the
LaserWriter because of the differences in the print
quality and speed. It can print on letter or legal size
paper, but it is limited to an 81/2 inch width.
Due to the heavy printload from the graphics
workstation, NEIC purchased a LaserWriter Plus,
which also had additional fonts that were found
useful by the graphics users.
The ImageWriter might be able to produce
overheads in color if a color ribbon was purchased.
We have not tried this because the quality of the
output would not be acceptable for transparencies.
The LaserWriter can produce transparencies in black
and white only.
Our research indicates that the Macintosh, Tektronix
and IBM PC can be hooked up to a common output
device, specifically, the Hewlett Packard color plotter.
Drivers to run the software will need to be purchased.
The Tektronix color printer will work with the IBM PC
with the purchase of an additional cable. The
purchase of a special plotter driver would be
required for the Macintosh SEs to use the Hewlett
Packard or Zeta Plotter. (Tektronix has recently
advertised an interface for one of their color printers
and the Macintosh II.) Color transparencies or paper
copies can be done on the plotter.
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4.4.4 Optical Character Reader (PEST Scanner)
The DEST Scanner is being used most frequently by
the graphics operator. The scanner works nicely with
graphics because the operator is scanning drawings
and not text. Scanning the drawing is more efficient
than if the graphics operator were to draw the image
herself.
The drawings scanned in are "cleaned up" or
enhanced using a draw or paint package. Another
use is to scan an image and use it as a "template" to
create modified drawings of existing artwork. The
scanner has been used mainly for line art rather than
photographs.
4.4.5 General Discussion
Additional software packages or hardware that are
needed to provide the full array of graphics services
the user community desires include: Additional fonts
for the LaserWriter; a drafting package; several clip
art packages; a statistical package for creating line,
pie and bar charts; MapMaker; an animation
package; and possibly some specialized packages
such as MacEarthworks for Chemistry or Operations,
a high resolution color monitor, and color output
device.
The Macintosh graphics capability has become a
vital part of the desktop publishing environment at
NEIC. It allows for the incorporation of graphics into
text and provides typeset quality output for reports
and other documentation.
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The responsibility of the Information Management
Branch is to provide state-of-the-art thinking in
information management and in office automation.
The quality of our output is extremely important. The
LaserWriter and desktop publishing features allow
production of high quality reports, enabling us to
project the image of quality. The branch staff is able
to produce professional-looking graphics/text
products without a formal technical illustration staff.
4.5 Other Areas of Interest
4.5.1 Maintenance. Backup Inventory and User
Support
None of the SEs have been repaired or -have
required maintenance since we received them.
However, we are currently negotiating maintenance
agreements with local vendors. All of the hardware
and software problems were discussed over the
phone with Falcon who offered some suggestions or
options. Some of the suggestions helped clear up
part of the problems and the majority of software
problems have been cleared up since the new
software for MS Word (Version 3.01) was installed.
Spare parts or spare equipment inventory necessary
to provide sufficient redundancy include: Toner,
cartridges, diskettes, paper, transparencies and
possibly an extra mouse and extra cables.
User support on an individual basis, currently
includes that from the PC Coordinator and from the
Graphics technical support person. Apple users
meetings provide the forum for demonstrations,
training and group solution of new issues. The
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meetings also provide a means to request additional
training and to meet other users with varied and
diverse levels of expertise.
The Macintosh has been well received by the
clerical/secretarial, word processing and graphics
communities. The demand on the current Macintosh
terminals is constant, and additional units are
required to meet the needs of the Branch, alone.
4.5.2 Additional Items
After adjusting to the mouse and icon technology, the
learning curve for new software packages is greatly
reduced. Users, especially in the graphics area, are
constantly using the common use equipment, to the
point that a sign-up schedule will be adopted.
A sluggish mouse problem was cleared up with a
simple disassembly of the unit and cleaning with
alcohol and a cotton swab. The mouse has become
an invaluable tool for graphics and the Turbo-mouse
offers another option for word processing and clerical
work.
Users have requested the following training and
demonstrations:
Tables and dual column training
MS Word for beginners (general new users)
Overview of all software available
Demonstrations of HyperCard
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5.0 Planned Evaluations
In the course of the pilot evaluation, NEIC encountered a number of
areas which need further investigation. Most of the tasks listed below are
underway.
5.1 Network Software and Hardware
NEIC is upgrading the TOPS software (from Version 1.02 to
Version 2.0) installed on the network. We are hopeful that this
upgrade will provide for the IBM PC AT to print at a specific
LaserWriter location (versus the next available printer, as stated in
Section 4.3.2). The problem seems to reside in the TOPS Print
portion of the software versus the TOPS file transfer portion.
Integration of bar chart, pie chart and diagram software into text
will be tested. Statistics and plotting software is being investigated
for manipulation of data files and for graphics purposes.
NEIC will test the transport of specific application files from the IBM
PC AT (i.e., Lotus, dBase III Plus, etc.) to the Apple Macintosh
applications, such as FileMaker. Also, NEIC may employ the use
of PageMaker for production of 20 plus page reports.
To solve the problem with printing forms, labels and envelopes,
NEIC has found two brands of 'intelligent network boards' that will
allow the interface of a daisy wheel printer into the network. These
boards emulate an AppleTalk network board and are installed in
an interface box that connects to the network.
In an effort to enhance connectivity among networked, and
previously unnetworked equipment, NEIC is looking at or installing
the following options:
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1. Installation of the Macintosh-IBM Gateway will allow data
files to be uploaded to or downloaded from the IBM 4381
mainframe.
2. Interface of all computer graphics workstations, including
the Tektronix, IBM PC, Macintosh and the IBM 4381. Also
included is the evaluation of the interface cable from
Macintosh to the Hewlett Packard and Zeta Plotter.
A complete Apple desktop publishing and graphics capability
should include a color monitor and printer. NEIC will watch for the
announcement of these pieces of equipment, as they apply to
NEIC's configuration.
A Kurzweil OCR is being evaluated as a suitable scanner for word
processing. The Word Processing Center's need for a scanner
have included:
Document conversion from the IBM System 6 to the
Macintosh.
New document transmittal to a data file such as the
transmittal of Consent Decrees or Potential Responsible
Party (PRP) reports to a data file.
The Kurzweil has successfully transferred a typed PRP report into
a PC data file. After the Macintosh-IBM Gateway is installed, this
media will also be evaluated.
NEIC is negotiating with a local vendor for a maintenance
agreement for the Apple system components. Up to this point, we
have had very little occurance of equipment failure; however, a
reliable maintenance agreement is necessary.
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5.2 Cost Analyses
NEIC will look into the Apple workstation and associated network
costs versus other, available technology alternatives. IBM
System 6 and Lexitron are obsolete, an intangible cost that must
be factored into this evaluation. The costs of comparable IBM
workstations will also be taken into account.
5.3 User Groups and User Support
As each group or individual develops a particular expertise or
network solution, this information has been, and will continue to
be, shared through regular user group meetings. The user groups
serve as an excellent forum for information exchange and update.
The NEIC graphic technical support person, Denise Cheatum and
the current PC Coordinator, Vicki Dougherty, continue to provide
on-call support for software and hardware questions. They
regularly attend Federal Center Macintosh Users Special Interest
group meetings to exchange local expertise. Valuable, local
contacts have been established as well as common problems
shared.
A followup questionnaire has been distributed to and collected
from all network users. Questions address usage frequency and
proficiency, the LAN, job effectiveness, system strengths and
weaknesses, applications, equipment location and features,
desktop publishing and graphics, additional needs, system
security and system value. Results are being tabulated for further
discussion.
5.4 Future Needs
NEIC must continually remain aware of future office automation
needs that equipment and network must accommodate. Currently,
one 'Paperless Office1 concept is being tested by automating the
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Travel Advance/Voucher approval and paperwork process. The
Travel Management System (TMS) will serve as the prototype for
automating other paper-intensive processes at the NEIC. Another
system currently under discussion is a Procurement Tracking
System. Both of these and future 'Paperless Office1 systems are
considered as part of NEIC's needs for a network. Through users
support groups and by maintaining state-of-the-art thinking in
information management, NEIC must be able to manipulate
existing hardware/software to meet future automation needs. The
Apple Macintosh and AppleTalk network must be constantly
evaluated in terms of meeting these needs.
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CONCLUSIONS
The Apple Macintosh SEs and IBM PC ATs linked through the local area
network did, basically, meet the functional word processing and associated
requirements for:
Compatibility of new and existing equipment
Conformance to Agency standards
Apple/IBM PC connectivity
Compound document production
Desktop publishing
1. The Apple system basically meets the current capabilities of the IBM
System 6.
The Macintosh system using Microsoft Word exceeds the capabilities of
the IBM System 6, in all areas except one. MS Word, originally did not
operate efficiently when documents were longer than about 15 to 20
pages. The upgrade to MS Word Version 3.01 provided for efficient
production of up to 24 pages. Use of the PageMaker package in
conjunction with MS Word (3.01) appears to be a solution for production
reporting over 24 pages.
2. The Macintosh SE and printers are suitable replacements for the Lexitron
workstations.
Operators found no substantial difference between Lexitron and
Macintosh keyboards. Use of the mouse, a new factor with which to
contend, received mixed acceptance, at first, particularly due to the fact
that one must leave the keyboard to use the mouse for several
commands (although many of the mouse commands have equivalent
keyboard commands). The Macintosh successfully handled
timekeeping, data entry, project tracking and E-Mail. It excelled in the
areas of its spelling checker and quality (with many more features) of
output. LaserWriters and the LaserWriter Plus are the printers of choice
(due to better resolution and increased speed - 6 seconds per page).
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The current printer configuration does not print envelopes, labels or
forms, but an alternative hardware solution is being investigated.
The DEST Scanner is not a viable alternative for WP scanning; however,
the limitations may not be true of other scanners on the market.
3. The local area network provides for effective telecommunication between
physically separated buildings, the electronic transfer of files,
queueing/spooling of printers and configurations compatibility between
Apple and IBM. The TOPS print software does not properly route to
specific laser printers for IBM PC-created documents, but this will
hopefully be resolved with the upgrade to TOPS Version 2.0.
The File Server was most often used for the transfer of files between IBM
PC AT and Apple Macintosh SE. Security is not a problem using the
network.
4. The graphics station and desktop publishing capabilities significantly
enhance NEIC's capabilities. The AppleTalk network allows the use of
multiple word processing packages and hardware for assembly of quality
publications - such as the NEIC newsletter. Graphics have successfully
been incorporated into text. The ease of use has encouraged many new
users to redesign forms and manuals, create organization charts,
diagram instead of describe, and in general, liven up data processing
documentation of all kinds. We anticipate the rapid expansion of report
graphics.
The DEST scanner is a useful tool for graphics applications only.
The Macintosh and Tektronix graphics packages each had advantages
when compared to each other.
The SuperView 19 inch screen is useful for page layout only, due to poor
text resolution. Again, graphics and desktop publishing is best suited to
the LaserWriter or LaserWriter Plus output quality.
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The Macintosh and its network appears to be a viable alternative to
current word processing technology at NEIC. Its advantages are:
• Shared document capability
Quality and quantity of graphics, text, fonts and output in
general
Incorporation of graphics into text
Use of the network to link IBM and Apple technology
Output is of camera-ready quality
Learned skills on one package are very transferable to a
new package
The current system configuration, however, also has its disadvantages:
A short period of adjustment to the mouse
Minor bugs in TOPS print software
Peculiarities with MS Word (such as for long reports)
Possible hardware limitations for particular
printing/scanning functions (i.e., envelopes, forms and label
printing, SuperView screen resolution and lack of color
output)
As mentioned within this report, most of these current disadvantages are
currently under evaluation. Positively, NEIC feels there are
hardware/software solutions for most of the issues.
NEIC concludes that the Macintosh system, as detailed herein, is a
feasible alternative for centralized word processing and for individual
clerical staff. It greatly enhances NEIC's graphics/desktop publishing
capabilities. Finally, the network is a viable means of integrating the
Agency's IBM compatible PC technology with Apple Macintosh
technology.
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APPENDIX
A COMMUNICATIONS METHODOLOGY
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APPENDIX A
COMMUNICATIONS METHODOLOGY
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A-1
APPENDIX A
COMMUNICATIONS METHODOLOGY
The AppleTalk Pilot called for the network to serve nine separate
locations within Building 53 and one location in Building 55. Although the two
buildings are no more than 300 feet apart, the only practical means of providing
communications between buildings was via the existing telephone wiring.
Since all the telephone lines are routed through the central switchboard area in
a building located approximately one quarter mile away, it was estimated that
the total length of a circuit between buildings would be slightly more than one-
half mile.
The technology using telephone circuitry for connecting an AppleTalk
network has been developed by Farallon Computing of Berkeley, California.
Their "Phone-Net" products include connectors to interface Apple equipment to
twisted-pair telephone wires, and star controllers to permit a centralized -star
topology as opposed to a serial, "daisy-chain" approach. The NEIC network
was designed to have a star controller located in each building joined by a local
area data circuit, provided by the telephone company. Consideration was given
to the possibility of placing a third star controller as a repeater, midway in the
circuit between buildings provided access could be obtained at a suitable point.
A local company, Mountain Cable Industries, was given a contract to
install the network wiring within Building 53. Four-pair number 24 solid
telephone cable was used to provide for both AppleTalk and asynchronous
ASCII communications. The computer room was selected as the location to
install the star controller in Building 53, since the ASCII communications wiring
must terminate at the Develcon port selector located in the computer room.
When the installation of equipment began, the circuit between buildings
was first tested using a single Macintosh on each end. The two machines were
able to communicate with no noticeable errors. However, when star controllers
were introduced at each end, the error rate jumped up to about 10%. This level
of errors caused problems, particularly with the laser printers. The LaserWriters
seemed to give up after a large number of errors on the network, and print was
lost.
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A-2
The difficulties with the line between buildings were researched with the
aid of a time domain reflectometer (TDR) borrowed from the National Computer
Center. With this device it was possible to measure the length of the line and
observe any signal reflections which might be present if the line had been
improperly installed. The TDR showed that there were no serious reflections,
but the length of the line was approximately 3,800 feet, exceeding the maximum
recommended by Farallon.
Since the initial installation of the star controllers introduced some errors
to the line between buildings, the idea of using a third one as a repeater
seemed much less feasible. The problem was finally solved by connecting two
circuits in parallel. Since the standard data circuit provides both transmitting
and receiving pairs for full duplex operation, and AppleTalk requires only a
single pair (half duplex), another pair was readily available. The parallel
connection reduced the error rate to less than 1%, and the problems that had
been observed were eliminated.
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