program. This version is configured as a single
workstation. Version 3.0 can be configured as a
multiple workstation or single workstation PCMT
system to replace both the earlier version 1.0
MARCEMP and version 2.0 PCMT. The PCMT
version 3.0 can do everything MARCEMP and PCMT
version 2.0 can doand much more.
GATEGUARD SUBSYSTEM
The GateGuard subsystem is an Automatic Digital
Network (AUTODIN) Interface Terminal (AIT) that
provides user office automation systems (OASs) a
gateway to the AUTODIN system. (AUTODIN is
discussed later.) GateGuard also acts as a security guard
device; hence, the name GateGuard. The GateGuard
subsystem will eventually allow commands
(subscribers) to interface directly with the AUTODIN
system. This direct interface eliminates the manual
handling of messages by the servicing
telecommunications center (TCC).
Currently, a servicing TCC processes (transmit and
receive) message traffic from the AUTODIN system for
its subscribers. The GateGuard subsystem will
eventually eliminate the need for TCCs because
subscribers will be able to process their own messages
through GateGuard. Subscribers will also be able to
route messages via their local area networks (LANs)
using desktop computers.
The GateGuard system is comprised of three
elements:
An AUTODIN Gateway Terminal (AGT),
A gateway communications link to an
Automated Information System (AIS), and
A Guard Device (GD).
The AGT functions as a RIXT look-alike send-and-
receive terminal connected to one of the AUTODIN
subscriber terminals, such as the LDMX,
NAVCOMPARS, or PCMT. The AGT serves as the
primary AUTODIN interface point for a single
organization.
The AGT has software that will operate on
microcomputer systems designed to be operated by
organization admin personnel. For example, in a small
command, the AGT is located in the commanding
officers outer office and is operated by the Yeoman or
secretary.
The communications link connecting the
AUTODIN Subscriber Terminal (AST) with the AGT
passes through the Guard Device (GD). The main
purpose of the GD is to assist in enforcing system
security policy. Specifically, the GD serves to isolate
sensitive data in the serving AST from data processed
by the AGT. It does so by ensuring that each message
processed has been properly encapsulated and assigned
a security code that the AGT is cleared to process.
The serving AST provides long-term archive
storage for all messages sent to or received from the
AGT. When the AGT is served by an LDMX, an
operator at the AGT is able to recall messages from that
system automatically. The operator is also able to
identify the desired message by its originator and date-
time group, originating station routing indicator, station
serial number, time of file, or by the processing
sequence number assigned to the message by that
system.
The following is a simplified description of how the
GateGuard subsystem works:
Various offices in a command have desktop
computers that are interconnected by the commands
LAN. Messages drafted on any computer in the system
can be stored in a central computer. These messages can
be accessed by any computer in the LAN. The
messages can then be reviewed and checked for
accuracy in format and content. When a message is
released, the command sends it to the AUTODIN
system via the GateGuard subsystem. At no time does
the message leave the computer channels.
When messages are sent to subscribers via the
AUTODIN system, the GateGuard subsystem will be
able to identify messages for the various subscribers by
plain language addresses (PLAs) or routing indicators
(RIs). In some cases, GateGuard will use a key word or
phrase in the message text to identify the subscriber for
which the message is intended.
GateGuard will examine each message for which it
accepts delivery responsibility, determine message
completeness, and determine if it contains internally
consistent security labels. If GateGuard detects any
discrepancies, the software will not allow the message
to be forwarded or delivered to a diskette. However, the
message can still be routed to a local printer connected
to the GateGuard subsystem.
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