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From: Average Torvaldsian <mflang@bellsouth.net>
Organization: Happy enough without any, thanks for asking...
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Subject: Re: Server + Client (I'm a beginner)
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Date: Sun, 18 Jun 2000 14:58:53 -0400
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E wrote:
> 
> Old Mainframe and Small computers running Unix can have several
> terminals connected. How can we connect terminal (emulated by PC) to
> Minix system and use the Minix system as the server, vias the serial
> port ?

Same way with Minix/Linux as with the "big" guys...
There is a nice Linux-centric doc that spells out most all the details here:
<http://www.linux.org.au/LDP/HOWTO/Text-Terminal-HOWTO.html>.


> 1) What type of cable nee to be used ? (Laplink or direct ?)

A normal null-modem cable for a PC or a terminal with a standard RS-232 port
(like a DEC VT520), or a connecting cable with the appropriate connectors if
you have a terminal using an offset 6 pin connector (like a Wyse 60 or DEC
VT320). Anything switching pins 2 and 3 on one end should work. Here I use
serial printer cables. Go to <www.belkin.com> and do a search for "null modem"
and find part "#DB25 Null Modem Adapter Belkin Part Number: F4A602"

> 2) What type of serial port is OK ? (is RS232 9 pin version OK ?)

Yes, but you might need a 25 to 9 pin adapter, since most cables I've seen used
for terminals use standard 25 pin connectors, while most PCs these days only
have 9 pin connectors. If you want to get fancy, a multiport mux card would
serve more than two terminals.

> 3) What software is need by the PC (perferrablely running DOS) connected

Any terminal program, like Kermit, PCAnywhere, Telix, (or even Mite with an old
CP/M based KayPro 4!) will work, as long as it allows direct comm port access.

> to the MINIX system?
> Also, I want to know, if your method also work in Linux.

To be honest, I've never tried with Minix to run a terminal server, but
conceptually it should be similar to any other Unix. However I've done this
with a number of Linux, FreeBSD and SCO boxes, and it's always an impressive
sight to those who've never seen it work before, or even know it was possible.
(Hmm, do I smell a Minix-Terminal Server mini-howto?)

If you want to try simple IP networking without benefit of real network cards,
PPP can be pathched into Minix, and then you can use PPP networking with serial
ports to make a Minix box talk with Linux or any other box that will support a
IP stack.

M.
-- 
All parts should go together without forcing...
By all means, do not use a hammer.
                        -- IBM maintenance manual, 1925.
