Channels

We have prototyped a Java class library for channel communication. The semantics are similar (but not identical) to the dynamic channels of Fortran M.

The model is quite attractive in Java because

1. It is ``connection-oriented'' so ordinary data communications map directly onto the socket I/O primitives efficiently implemented for Java and the Web.
2. It directly supports highly dynamic situations where new remote processes (eg, applets) come into existence unpredictably, and may have unpredictable communication demands (eg, determined by requirements of a remote user).
3. It provides a layer of abstraction above internet addresses and socket port numbers, and associated resources to which access may be limited by Java security models.