> I was poking around eBay and up came a listing for a DEC "mini exchange", DFMSA. What is that? The name > doesn't sound familiar. It looks like a box with a bunch of DB25 connectors on the back, but that doesn't > help much.
See page 4.50 of https://bitsavers.trailing-edge.com/pdf/dec/catalog/Digital_Networks_and_Com munications_Buyers_Guide_198710.pdf >From that page: The Mini-Exchange is a microprocessor-based, standalone, asynchronous circuit switch designed for local connection of up to eight of Digital's personal computers (DECmate II, Rainbow personal computer, and Professional 300 series). It operates at speeds of up to 19,200 bits per second. Modem control is offered on line eight only. The Mini-Exchange offers DCS product support for file transfer operations to IBM PC/XT, Apple II and III, and TRS-80 systems. The Mini-Exchange is the least costly method of connecting personal computers and associated devices within a 60 meter (200 foot) area. It provides flexibility in designing local hardware configurations and allows asynchronous communications to other Mini-Exchanges for host systems over modems.
