dcl9002.htm

data communications for FPLS

JAN 17, 1990 DC-9002

TO STATE IV-D DIRECTORS

Dear Colleague:

Presently, the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) Computer Center in Baltimore is supporting both asynchronous and synchronous (including By-Sync) data communications for the Federal Parent Locator Service (FPLS) System. However, due to the high cost of supporting synchronous communications, our computer center will be phasing it out within the next six months.

According to our records, Cuyahoga County and the Akron offices are currently accessing the FPLS through synchronous communications. Since it may take some time for these offices to convert to asynchronous equipment, we want to give them ample time to procure the necessary hardware and software. Enclosed are the asynchronous configuration specifications and log on procedures that are needed by the technical staff for the conversion.

The specifications include an asynchronous modem of either 1200 or 2400 baud rate. Either a serial prot board in the PC with an external modem may be used or an internal modem. Acceptable software protocols include Cresstalk and Mirror which will support any printer. Procomm may be used, but only with high speed printers such as a laser printer.

Also, it will be necessary to use a different telephone access number than presently being used. This will be a local phone number which is connected to the Tymnet communications network. This number may be obtained by calling the FPLS staff at (202) 252-5421.

If you have any questions regarding the conversion or technical computer specifications, please call Paul Ledford at (202) 252-5566 or Abe Klugman at (301) 965-5635.

Sincerely yours,

Robert C. Harris

Associate Deputy Director

Enclosures