Technical data

JSC 36381 MARCH 30, 2000

Baseline

1.3 Network Devices

The structure of the OPS LAN will extend to include the File Server, various client

laptops, RF access points, a mass storage device, printers, routers. and any other device

that might need to interact with the network. The following sections describe devices

already planned for deployment. For the latest information about network devices and

their software content, consult the S-POCCB Manifest and Usage web page (see

Appendix B.4 ).

1.3.1 File Server

The OPS LAN File Server is an IBM ThinkPad 760XD laptop computer equipped

with the SSC server software load. The software load includes Microsoft’s Windows

NT Server operating system. Initially, the File Server will be located and operated in

the Service Module (SM). After Mission 5A, the File Server will be moved to the U.S.

Lab module and attached to a 10Base2 Ethernet cable. The SSC File Server may be

referred to by its assigned NetBIOS name, FServer.

1.3.2 SSC Clients

SSC OPS LAN Clients, like the File Server, are IBM ThinkPad 760XD laptops. SSC

Clients contain the SSC client software load, which includes Microsoft’s Windows

95b (OSR2). As early as Mission 2A.1, several network capable laptops will be left

aboard the ISS. These IBM ThinkPad laptop computers will communicate via RF

network adapter cards. After Mission 5A, when the majority of OPS LAN

components are be moved to the U.S. Lab, clients in the Service Module (SM) and

Russian FGB will continue to be serviced by RF network coverage. SSC Clients may

be referred to by their NetBIOS names, SSC1, SSC2, ..., SSC9.

1.3.3 Early Communication System/Orbital Communication Adapter

(ECS / OCA)

The Early Communication System laptop is an IBM ThinkPad 755C attached to an

on-site docking station in which the Orbital Communication Adapter (OCA) card

and Video Teleconferencing System (VTS) card are installed. It is configured with

an RF PC card to participate in OPS LAN activity. The configuration and software

capabilities of this laptop will be tailored for ECS functionality. At crew arrival, the

ECS/OCA is the primary mode of uplink and downlink between the ground and the

OPS LAN, transferring data at a rate of 128 KB/sec. in either direction. At Mission

5A.1, an OCA Router will arrive to provide true network communication between

the ISS and ground. Following the installation of the OCA Router, the ECS/OCA

will be relegated to a backup role, until it is offloaded from the ISS. The SSC

ECS/OCA may be referred to by its NetBIOS name, OCA1.