< 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)