Dr. Steve Shao, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN
Summarized by: Ms. Mary Morris
The Diversified Information and Assistance Network (DIANE) is a three-year-old project linking people at universities, schools, museums, libraries, neighborhood community centers, and business assistance organizations using digital multimedia computer technologies The pilot of the project began operation with 10 organizations in the Memphis area in 1993. Now, two years later, there are 26 participating organizations, including some in other areas of Tennessee as well as one in Alabama and one in Maryland. There is a five year plan for development. Dr Steve Shao, DIANE Director, emphasized the versatility, quality and economics of this network.
The user's imagination is the only limitation to the possibilities for using DIANE. Existing technology is integrated into network presentations so that video cassettes, CD-ROM, text, voice, computer programs, or slide presentations can be used to present information. Initiated at the user level to answer specific needs, DIANE has expanded as users have become familiar with the technology and its opportunities.
Dr. Shao gave the following examples of programs now in use:
The network uses Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) circuits to transmit over regular twisted-copper wire telephone lines. Dial-up connections allow the network to pay only for actual usage. Long distance sessions are via Virtual Private Networks(VTN) maintaining low connect charges. The computer equipment is modular so changes can be made easily. Updated software can make new programs readily available. Customizing of services to the need of the organization is one of DIANE's advantages. Dr. Shao estimates a cost between $5,000 to $10,000 to set up each multimedia computer depending on whether the abilities for both sending and receiving all forms of data are included. The system costs about one-tenth as much as a conventional distance education production system, yet can be adapted to other uses and future needs with less expense.
The system is capable of voice-quality transmission, two-way video teleconferencing, realtime computer program sharing and the ability to mark up or draw diagrams and type messages to one another. Transmission is at twice the speed of a normal telephone line -- more than adequate for 80% of user applications.
Dr. Shao demonstrated an "Electronic Field Trip" to a museum with video footage of a session. Participants could see the aquarium, computer programs, a microscope image, fossil specimens and text from a book. A small window allowed the participant to see the screen that was being transmitted from their location. A lecturer could see the responses of an audience or group while making a presentation and use a small window to keep an eye on what the presentation looks like on the other monitor. The lecture included a question and answer session.
DIANE can be adapted to meet the needs of small or large organizations. The ability to function with available phone lines now makes it attractive to organizations unable to obtain wiring upgrades. Plans to implement fiber optic cable as it becomes available will improve service while still using the same technology and equipment.