Internet access to real equipment at computer architecture laboratories using the Java/CORBA paradigm

Abstract Laboratory courses in Engineering and Computer Science are not always easy to implement using Internet-based distance education. Simulation has its limits, when compared to working with the real thing (like a computer board). The system we present in this paper provides remote access to real equipment used in a Computer Architecture laboratory. It uses CORBA technology to manage real equipment as just another set of CORBA objects whose operations can be invoked remotely by students. Apart from accessibility advantages for students, there are important benefits for academic institutions. Our system allows different configurations that provide different levels of equipment availability, using fewer resources than a conventional laboratory, and reducing costs. This paper describes our system and its functional architecture, and analyzes economic savings for academic institutions.