MEDLINE data communications.

A primary objective of the Data Communication Component (MEDLINE) of the Biomedical Communications Network (BCN) is to provide low-cost, reliable, nationwide and international access to the NLM on-line services. The network has evolved over several years and continues to change as new technologies and user requirements emerge. Today, TELENET and TYMNET form the backbone of the network complemented by a variety of other communication resources. This paper discusses the evolution of the network, and the domestic and international communication services.