communication system

communications A system or facility capable of providing

information transfer between persons and equipment. The

system usually consists of a collection of individual

communication networks, transmission systems, relay

stations, tributary stations, and terminal equipment capable

of interconnection and interoperation so as to form an

integrated whole. These individual components must serve a

common purpose, be technically compatible, employ common

procedures, respond to some form of control, and generally

operate in unison.

["Communications Standard Dictionary", 2nd Edition, Martin

H. Weik].

(1995-02-06)