VDLANOVR.RVW   980809

"Local Area Network (LAN) Overview Video", Dan Black, 1994,
1-57305-037-7, U$695.00
%A   Dan Black
%C   Room 3A184, 8 Corporate Place, Piscataway, NJ   08854
%D   1994
%G   1-57305-037-7
%I   Bellcore
%O   U$695.00 800-521-CORE llavoie@notes.cc.bellcore.com
%P   101 min., 2 tapes, 52 p.
%T   "Local Area Network (LAN) Overview Video"

Having reviewed a number of Bellcore products, I was very agreeably
surprised at the quality of this one.  The production values, while
not quite ready for prime time, are at least acceptable.  The talking
head is at least "shot" from varying angles.  The overheads use some
colour and occasional animation, and actually do assist the viewer to
understand the concept under discussion.  The material sticks to the
topic, and maintains a fairly consistent level.

The topic covered is an introduction to local area networks.  Included
in the overview are functions of LANs, networking models, LAN
components, media, topologies, LAN layers, standards and protocols,
interconnection devices, test equipment, and troubleshooting.  None of
the subjects is handled in any depth, but the level is quite suitable
as an introduction to new staff, or as an introduction to a more in-
depth course of study.  In addition, some topics are covered very
well.  For example, interconnect devices tend to be presented in a
very confusing manner.  This package presents repeaters, bridges,
routers, and gateways in a clear and unambiguous manner that should be
clear to anyone.  (Unfortunately, it doesn't continue on to switches.)

One shortcoming in the package is the study guide, or rather the
relation between the tape and the guide.  Most other Bellcore packages
simply reproduce slides used on the tape in the study guide.  This
package seems either to have wanted to make the study guide a true
adjunct to the tape, or to have had the two parts created by different
groups.  In any case, it is very difficult to relate a specific
section of tape to the relevant portion of the guide.

For those who are approaching networking for the first time, this
package does provide an excellent introduction.  Although there is not
enough information included to start you working with a LAN, you will
get the terminology and concepts necessary to start learning details. 
While those used to documentation may prefer a book on the subject as
quicker and more complete, those with more limited reading skills
(such as, say, managers and executives) will probably enjoy this a
great deal more.

copyright Robert M. Slade, 1998   VDLANOVR.RVW   980809