Re: network GSs - file server

[ddoms@tyrell.net (Dennis Doms)]

In article <3kcv7d$e7a@onyx.southwind.net>, shack@onyx.southwind.net
(Randy Shackelford) wrote:

> David L. Wrikeman (ao600@yfn.ysu.edu) wrote:
> 
> :     1)  Can I share a network with a PC? Has there ever been a
software package
> : that will allow PC's to network with a IIGS? Specifically. to share
modem and
> : printer and pass ASCII or hexadecimal files?
> 
> There was a localtalk card for IBMoids once upon a time but it's been years 
> ago. I expect that the included software only let you use file sharing as
> a client, not as a server. So chances are you could only share printers like
> if you only have II's on a network.

Farollon still handles that product as PhoneNet PC, I believe. All you
need is the "client" end to support networking the printer (that is, you
don't need a server, so the Mac isn't required), but you do need an
AppleTalk-compatible printer supported by the PC and the IIgs, which
severely limits your choices. (The PC client software supports an Epson
emulation to Apple model printers, but it's not very robust for the
ImageWriter models.)

File sharing is only supported with addition of a (Mac) server (though
that can even be a Mac using System 7 file sharing). Modem sharing is not
supported (no driver support for the IIgs).
   
> :     2) Can a IIGS be used as a dumb (VT100) terminal to call into a PC or
> : another IIGS from a remote location? If so, what software or hardware
is neede?
> 
> If the machines run BBS software I guess you could call 'em

You can easily pass data over a serial cable (null modem) or over
high-speed modems. This may be nearly as effective, cheaper, and less
hassle than a network unless you plan on shoveling a _lot_ of data between
systems.

As far as calling from one system to another, all you would need would be
telecomm programs that support answering the phone as a "host"; this
feature is fairly common (Proterm on the II and ProComm on the PC, for
example). Again, file exchange would probably be the largest benefit since
remote printing and remote access (running one computer from another)
really isn't supported for this hybrid combination.
 
If someone gets serial TCP/IP working on the IIgs (SLIP or PPP), that
might open up the door for interoperability through TCP/IP applications
(ftp, telnet, etc.).

There may be additional tips in the FAQ.

-- 
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Dennis Doms     | "Into this night I wander, it's morning that I dread
ddoms@tyrell.net|  Another day of knowing of the path I fear to tread..."
                | Sarah McLachlan ("Possession", _Fumbling Toward Ecstasy_)