It is rather difficult to configure a typical optimum NMC or RTH computerised data handling system because there are many constraining variables including the following:

• The national telecommunication infrastructure, which is expected to provide the communication, links.
• Financial resources to procure and install the hardware and software and pay for rentals.
• Availability of local technical expertise in hardware and software to ensure maintenance and progressive future migration.

In addition, there is the difference in the actual functions between the RSMC/RTH and NMC centres to be found in RA I. For example, while an RSMC may need the NWP capability to carry out some of its functions a small NMC may not need that capability. But whatever the functions of an RSMC/NMC are, they all need an AMSS and a DBMS as a starting point and then add on to it what other modules are needed to carry out these functions.

An AMSS is likely to be the starting point for many NMCs in RA I. The addition of the DBMS along with the data/products viewing application- the simplest of the applications- constitutes the foundation, the starting point on the road to a computerised WMO GDPS. Annex 1 shows the system layout. The recommended main items for implementing this system which is based on two server systems: one dual PC Message server system and a second dual PC Data server system are as follows:

• A direct link to the RTH operating at 19 kbps or higher and using IP (TCP/IP) protocol
• Two type (a) AMSS PCs ( in hot stand by ) – Message Server
• One Router (e.g. Cisco) with:
  
  -    one LAN port for 10Base-T
  -    two WAN ports for speeds up to 64 Kbps
  -    two WAN cables

• One V34 Modem: (e.g. Telinda Aster)
• One Ethernet Hub: 10Base-T, with 24 ports
• Ethernet Card (NIC) for 10Base-T LAN
• Sundries for LAN: Cables Connectors, Wall boxes, Ducting, etc.
• Two Printers: one colour, one laser black and white.
• Two 650kva UPSs

• Windows 2000 Professional
• Missir-Com

One complete DBMS as specified in 4.3 above.

3 weeks of intensive hands on training at system installation time.

• If satellite systems already exist at the NMC they should be integrated into system as indicated. One or two additional type (c) PCs will be required for the reception of MDD and PDUS data. It should however be remembered that METEOSAT-7 ground receiving equipment will need to be replaced by equipment operating on the MSG system by 2003.
  
• There must collaboration between NMC and the next hop on the link (RTH?) regarding routers and modems.
  
• Estimated cost excludes links rentals but includes system installation and training.