DI QUESTIONS ABOUT IBM 3270 ATS

• Document Type: CREST
• Collection: General CIA Records
• Document Number (FOIA) /ESDN (CREST): CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
• Release Decision: RIPPUB
• Original Classification: C
• Document Page Count: 11
• Document Creation Date: December 23, 2016
• Document Release Date: August 23, 2012
• Sequence Number: 16
• Publication Date: April 11, 1986
• Content Type: MEMO

ii
Declassified in Part - Saniitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
TRANSMITTAL, SLIP
.15 April 1986
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FORM NO REPLACES FORM 36-8 (47)
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 .i
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25X1
OIT-0283-86
1 1 APR 1986
MEMORANDUM FOR: Associate Deputy Director for Intelligence
VIA: Deputy Director for Administration
Director of Information Technology
FROM: William F. Donnelly
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
REFERENCE: Your Memo, dtd 27 Mar 86,
Same Subject (DDI #01602-86)
ohm
workstations was exceptionally
provide a framework
overall strategy in this area.
the incredibly dynamic nature of
requirements of OIT customers, and
and DI staffs have, I'm afraid,
to confusion over this subject. We believe our
a prudent and reasonable path, and I am confident
as a guideline for you in making your decisions in
contributed
strategy is
it will act
wish to restate the Agency's
The complexity of the topic,
the marketplace, conflicting
technical debates between OIT
1. Your
thorough. To
area.
2. What is our strategy? It has several elements. We
intend to provide in each workstation both word processing and
data processing capabilities, along with mainframe
connectivity. A new network architecture and associated
communications protocol will provide high data rates, high
reliability, and universal connectivity. The New Building
Communications Project Office (NBCPO) was responsible for the
choice of network architecture. They selected a modern, highly
capable Private Branch Exchange (PBX) in June 1984.
3. Our choice of a protocol is IBM's modern variant of
the one most used in the mainframe world. It is the so-called
IBM 3270 protocol that is supported by almost all
commercially-available IBM-compatible mainframe software,
plug-compatible front end processors and controllers from many
C ENTIAL
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 Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
C DENTIAL
25X1
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
vendors, and, most importantly, almost all workstations work
with this protocol. Among the many reasons for its rather
routine use is that it provides both high data rates (1 megabit
per second) and high reliability (3270 compatible front end
processors run very sophisticated diagnostic software). Our
selection of the 3270 protocol is, in fact, low risk, highly
functional, and very conservative from our perspective, and
will definitely allow us to improve system reliability as our
customers see it.
4. The workstation issue is more complicated. The 3270
protocol is the de facto IBM standard protocol. Our "legacy"
is an older asynchronous protocol, supported by our front end
processors/controllers (COMTENs), our terminals (Delta Datas),
and our applications and systems software (specifically
CAM--the Conversational Access Method, a communications
software module through which most existing mainframe software
in our environment "talks" to Delta Data terminals). How can
we deal with the "legacy" and move into the future 3270 world?
5. Our direction involves "bridging" from the Delta Data
CAM world under which most of our current applications run to
the new 3270 world where we intend to provide our new
applications. The best "bridging" solution is the IBM 3270 AT,
a sophisticated product that provides the internal software
whereby we will be able to run portions of CAM "under" the 3270
protocol. This is an excellent solution, and we have a major
effort underway to provide the necessary software (loosely
known as the software portion of "NEWS") to support it. We,
too, know that the 3270 AT has some deficiencies. Although the
cost of this machine recently has dropped, in all probability
it will continue to be a relatively expensive machine in the
near term. We have considered this in our planning. We are
cognizant of the preference some of our customers have for the
less complicated standard IBM AT or compatible equipment. We
pointed this out at the Agency Contract Review Board meeting in
January and committed to the Board and later to the Information
Systems Board that we would competitively procure
IBM-compatible, 3270-capable PCs that would meet customer
requirements and competition responsibilities at a more
competitive price. Our goal is a full workstation cost
(hard-disk based, excluding software and network communications
costs) for under $4,000.
S,.a D M TIAL
Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
 Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
LONrLll~NlLAL
25X1
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
6. We will begin to procure new workstations
competitively within the next year and a half (our target for
contract award is September 1987.) These workstations will, of
necessity, be IBM AT-compatible and capable of 3270 emulation
in some manner. In order to avoid being trapped at any point
in PC technology or pricing, part of the contract will involve
periodic review of both functionality and cost. In the
June/July 1986 timeframe, we will begin an internal software
development effort that will permit an AT-compatible device to
support CAM ("Generic NEWS"). Generic NEWS is targeted to be
available in the spring of 1987. The new workstation will
therefore handle our software "legacy." It will, of course, be
fully supported by OIT. The competitive procurement will
guarantee favorable pricing and perhaps open some configuration
options not available in IBM brand PCs.
7. This leaves us with the question, "What to do now?"
As a short-term solution, I strongly recommend the procurement
of the IBM 3270 AT. This is the only equipment for which we
currently can guarantee full integration into the Agency
network both now and in the future. By this summer, the NEWS
software will be available. By January 1987, we also will have
available a PC-based word processing capability that can
communicate with the host. As the PBX becomes operational in
late 1986, we will begin the phased connection of these devices
to our mainframe network (including SAFE). We expect, based on
proprietary information, that the current 3270 AT will be
functionally compatible with IBM's future PC product line.
8. We understand DI interest in the IBM AT. To choose
that model now would make you dependent for :integration in the
Agency network (and.use of SAFE Delivery 2) on Generic NEWS.
This has risk and cost implications (board changes will be
required). Use of available "clones" now would be even
riskier, in terms of the ability of Generic NEWS to "play" with
the clone. Furthermore, fragmentation of our workstation
inventory over many types of clones is, potentially, a
difficult support problem, both from the hardware and software
side. Based on the results of our planned competitive buy
(September 1987), we expect to support one or more clones.
Predicting which ones is impossible at this time. We cannot
recommend a clone solution to your problem. Apparent cost
advantages may well be ephemeral.
Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
 ILLEGIB GO-NE NTIaL
1Z
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
9. We therefore believe that to minimize your risk, the
IBM 3270 AT is the preferred path. Our technical personnel
will work with yours to select appropriate configurations. In
addition, we are prepared to address your current SAFE
connectivity problem head-on. You currently have about 200
unallocated COMTEN ports. We are prepared to provide you Delta
Data 8260/7260s so that you may use those ports to extend SAFE
~..-~ and Host-based Word Processing to a larger audience
now. We understand that you are willing to tolerate some
reduction in performance to achieve greater connectivity.
Given our current capacity, that is a risk -- especially if AIM
use increasemoderately. If you choose this option, we will
obtain these terminals by "swapping" selected Delta Datas from
Agency-wide customers (primarily from OIT "volunteers") for
3270 ATs that you purchase. When NEWS software is finally
implemented, we can swap again. I am aware that even with this
k tion
t
f
a
wor s
accommodation. you -still will require some kind o
for nearly people. The IBM 3270 AT is the short term
answer. Connection to the mainframe must await the operation
of the secure PBX, but until then these devices would provide
standalone word processing and computing capabilities for your
staff.
10. As the PBX becomes operational, we will work with your
staff to identify the proper phasing-in of DI personnel to SAFE
Delivery 2 using available 3270 ATs and NEWS software. We will
enhance DI connectivity in an expeditious and orderly fashion.
11. Now, I would like to ask for your help. In the
Gramm-Rudman environment, we will be scrambling for funding for
consulting, development, and technical support. We need the
technical expertise in your Directorate for advice,. consulting,
testing and evaluation. I believe we must work at improving
the communication between our staffs. I would like a few of my
key technical officers involved with network architecture, the
NEWS project, and workstation evaluation to brief your staff
25X1 Chief, Network Systems Engineering Group, wow more
participate in subsequent regularly scheduled technical
exchanges.
AL
C O E T
Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
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 Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
CONFIDENTIAL
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
12. Finally, to develop and implement the Agency
information systems network we both desire, I need the
commitment of your managers. We have to move from a
confrontational environment at the working level to one of
mutual cooperation. We must get on with the difficult job
25X1 DDA/OIT/MD/rjw/bdh
4/11/86)
William F. Donnelly
Distribution:
Original 1 - Addressee
1 - DDA
1 - D/OIT
1 - MD Chrono
1 - MD Subject
2 - OIT/Registry
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Central Intelligence Agency
Office of the Deputy Director for Intelligence
STAT.
NOTE TO: Dire r, Information Technology
While I was preparing this memo to
you yesterday, Dick Kerr walked into my
office. When he discovered what I was up
to, he asked that I send him a copy of
this memo for his information. I have
sent a drop copy to Dick at the same time
I forward this to you. I hope this causes
no problems at your end.
Johrny. . Helgerson
Assptiate Deputy Director
r Intelligence
Attachment:
DDI #01602-86, dtd 27 Mar 1986
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ADMINISTRATIVEERNAL USE ONLY
DDI #01602-86
27 March 1986
MEMORANDUM FOR: Director of Information Technology
John L. Helgerson '
Associate Deputy Director for Intelligence
DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
The DI has a near-term requirement to purchase as many
STAT as computer workstations for personnel who currently have no
access to computing at their desks. We understand OIT's
recommendation that we purchase IBM 3270 ATs. We are also aware
that there is a vigorous and competitive market (both in cost and
performance terms) in PC compatibles or clones. We are
attempting to derive a Directorate strategy to go with the IBM or
a clone, and would appreciate your views on the issues raised
below.
p
c
eve t
a
We
e
remaining 86 dollars
for
IBM-compatible machines from other venaors or equal-or super
~ performance for around $4,000, and basic, low-cost PCs (a less
C
~Gtd.L1 attractive option) fpr under $2,000. "3"he savings -accrui'ng
STAT
t~,as and could be
l
ones tuR
from buyin c
Wiz CL
_- STAT as much as I am still unclear a ou whether and
ILLEGIB why it is rea essar to endure the extra cost of the IBM
to us,we would hope
ilable`
r
v
ings
h
e a
a
we
ese sav
If t
equipment.
o p e additional funds to OIT to use on the AIM project,
erformance is stretched beyond the limit and where neither
where
p
of us has significant other funds available.
3. As DI officers understand your plans, full SAFE Delivery
maine until
2 compatibility will not be available for the IBM J
1,,-a) the "Virtual CAM Terminal" program is finished, T) a PC-based
We understand that IBM 3270 ATs, as configured for NEWS,
cost between $7,000 and $8,000 without applications software. Is
this a hard figure or can-it be brought down in time to get more
urcha
se
ould
t we
h
li
?
b
word processor is integrated with it and AIM and SAFE,Lol
modifications are made to SAFE and other host-based applications
important to th I to make them operate with the Virtual CAM
terminal, and d) IBM PCs can actually be connected tg your
computers as 3270 devices in significant numbers. Are we correct
that those are the necessary steps? If so, when do we
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 Declassified in Part - Sanitized Copy Approved for Release 2012/08/23: CIA-RDP95-00972R000100190016-4
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
realistically expect all this to be accomplished?' ( What fallback ~----
postions do we have if the\Virtual CAM Terminal p ogram is
delayed or if it proves difficult to convert our existing
mainframe applications to work with it?
4. I understand that your motivation for selecting the IBM
3270 AT is to be in the"mainstream" of the commercial world, and
I support this goal fully. Yet as my st*ffers look at the
commercial PC situation, they6ee the 3270 AT as ,a costly, /"
y
hybrid device that has found uncertain commercial
s~ pe ia'l~zed,
acceptance Instead, the PC marketplace seems to be evolving a\j
flt'g`Sns ream composed of PC clones connected to local area
networks.( Do you believe our Agency can be confident that if we
embrace the 3270 AT, we will not find ourselves outside the
mainstream instead of inside it?
5. we-recognize that resources will have to be diverted to
`the job of converting &bur:current Delta Data-based applications
to work with the 3270 AT. hat opportu4nity costs 'are 'vie
_Incurring? Are there alternatives that do not require conversion
of existing applications?
6. One possible DI strategy for dealing with an uncertain
future is to avoid overcommitting ourselves. For the decision at
hand, this would imply these objectives:
-- Minimize the initial investment in PCs, spending money
instead on such things as central services upon which our
dependence is unambiguous and unlikely to change.
~^ -- Buy relatively basic equipment that can be upgraded as
necessary.
7. We are aware that DIA has decided to purchase Zenith PC_
compatibles to be its SAFE terminals .We presume you will devise
uld
?r.--
and implement a scheme to make SAFE work with the DIA PCs. Wo
t"- e_in- the best interest of all if a common solution could be
found? Shcld_we__$o.;_tY~e,, DIA route and buy the Zenith? What
uld be the impact on OIT if we did? What would 1SI users los_~e
8. We have examined your NEWS initiative for FY '88 in an
rattempt to understand the marginal costs associated with
converting from asynchronous to 3270 host connection. This
conversion would be required if the DI were to buy 3270 ATs and
exploit them as such.J In the case of additional asynchronous
connections and neglecting continuing payments on any COMTENs
that we do not already fully own, we calculate the marginal cost
of the additional connections the DI requires to be essentially
-2-
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
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ADM1NISTRA'1'1VE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
STAT
STAT
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
zero.`. This is because the new PBX can be used as a port
contender; indeed, we understand that using it this way is part
of your strategy for the move to the new building.~What is the
marginal cost for 3270 connections? Our estimate, based on the
lfigures in the NEW initiative, is $2,000 per device, implying an
{{{ dditional cost of for the 3270 AT option compared with
C compatibles. This is a big expenditure, even if it does not
have to be paid by us in the DI.
9. I have put these questions on paper to get myself better
informed and to help us in the DI weigh the various
considerations involved in this important decision. If your
office could clarify these points, it would bolster my confidence
that we are indeed making the right decision to go with the 3270,
or, perhaps, that we should explore more co whet-he.r- the. e
are less expensive options available to us. Whatever we do, I
want to be sure OIT and the DI have a common understanding of
where we are going and why as we decide how to spend our scarce
resources.
10. Thanks for your help.
Joh,f X. Helgerson
As o late Deputy Director
r Intelligence
-3-
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
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ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
STAT
SUBJECT: DI Questions About IBM 3270 ATs
ADDI/JLHelgerson:sds~ (27Mar86)
Distribution:
Orig - Adse
1 - DDA
1 - DDI Registry
1 - C/DDI/ASG
1 - ADDI Chrono
-4-
ADMINISTRATIVE - INTERNAL USE ONLY
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