New File Transfer Protocol

[T Cox]

[]
/*distribution to north america only*/

I have downloaded to my site the sources and documentation for the
CompuServe B file transfer protocol.  I plan to post the C source to 
net.sources eventually; the documentation, though, is 114 K.  What is the
"B" Protocol? According to CompuServe:

    CompuServe has placed specifications for the asynchronous "B" Protocol
file transfer system into the public domain, and will provide a generic 
implementation at no charge.  The "B" Protocol has been proprietary
since its development in 1981.
    "The beauty of 'B' Protocol is its user transparency.  Unlike
many other protocols, CompuServe 'B' Protocol accomplishes file 
transfers without the need for archane local commands or other user
intervention," said Alexander B. Trevor, CompuServe executive vice 
president and chief technical officer.
    Protocol features include interrogation of remote computer characteristics
such as transfer capabilities, cursor addressing and graphics modes, as well
as host initiation of file transfers in either direction.  "B" Protocol has 
lower transmission overhead than the XMODEM or Kermit protocols, which results 
in faster throughput, according to Trevor.
    Additional features include preservation of file length and translation
of ASCII files to native conventions , such as end-of-line termination 
adjustments for target machines during transmission.
    The specification documents and "C" language sources for the generic 
implementation can be downloaded free of surcharge from the CompuServe
Information Service.  Information Service subscribers can obtain additional
information by entering GO VIDTEX at any system prompt.
    CompuServe Incorporated provides database information, electronic
mail, private videotex and value-added network telecommuntications services
to businesses and consumers.  The CompuServe Information Service, serving more 
than 270,000 personal computer users, is the largest general information
database in North America.
    CompuServe is an H&R Block company.


Well, there is the press release.  If anyone has better ideas where I could
post the "C" sources, please write me.  If you want them mailed to you,
I will do so.  Does anyone know if I can mail the 114K docs thru the net
in one piece, or what?  I may resort to mod.sources.docs for them...

--
Thomas Cox	...ihnp4!gargoyle!sphinx!benn


There is no limit to stupidity.  Space itself is said to be bounded by
its own curvature, but stupidity continues beyond infinity.  

			--Severian of Nessus
--