Theoretically, there are several ways for Macintoshes to communicate with a Xerox 6085, including over AppleTalk. This article examines three communications methods:
- Xerox 6085 Ethernet connection
- "Kid" from Interpreter, Inc.
- The Xerox 6085 serial-port direct connection
Xerox 6085 Ethernet Connection
The best solutions take advantage of the Xerox 6085 Ethernet communications ability. The Xerox 6085 with Ethernet installed can use ViewPoint NetCom Xerox software to provide Ethernet access. This package contains user authentication, and access to functions such as electronic printing, filing, and mailing. The communication protocol may be either TCP/IP or XNS.
With TCP/IP, files are transferred using a FastPath from Kinetics, which connects the Macintosh and LocalTalk to Ethernet. FastPath, in conjunction with NCSA (National Center for Supercomputer Applications) Telnet software, provides direct log on, directory listing, and file downloading capabilities within the FTP support. NCSA Telnet is available on Internet through subscription to Bitnet, ARPANET, CSNET, and also directly from the University of Illinois.
If TCP/IP is not available, XNS support is available through a 3COM3 server. This requires that the Macintosh can talk to the server over AppleTalk and that the Xerox 6085 can talk to the server over XNS. Each, then, may be able to access one another's files once they have been uploaded to the server. Although often asked for, XNS is not directly supported by the Macintosh.
"Kid" from Interpreter, Inc.
Kid uses a conversion utility that writes Xerox 6085 files to 5.25-inch DOS disks. The files can be written to and read from PC software packages, like Microsoft Word, WordStar, and MultiMate. These PC disks are placed in an Apple 5.25-inch drive. Using AFE (Apple File Exchange) software, you can mount PC disks. Once mounted, you can read and convert PC-formulated files to Macintosh formats.
The Xerox 6085 Serial-port Direct Connection
The Xerox 6085 system can communicate through its serial port. One option is to send serial information from the Xerox 6085 through this port to the Macintosh, or vice versa. This method represents a low-end connectivity.
For more information, search under: "National Center for Supercomputer Applications" and "Interpreter, Inc."
Note: This article provides information about a non-Apple product. Apple Computer, Inc. is not responsible for its content. Please contact the vendor for additional information.