ASA History Timeline

Nichols Awarded Professional Services Contract

1993

The Professional Services contract was re-bid and was awarded to Nichols Research Corporation (NRC). ASA was the only state-wide network in Alabama.

Cray C90 Replaces Cray X-MP

1993

The Cray X-MP was decommissioned and replaced with the Cray C90.

ASPIRE Program Adds Six Highschools and One College to Network

1995

Information Superhighway services available on the Network are in great demand for their own independent value. With the ASPIRE program, there are six high schools and one Community college connected to the ASA network.

56Kb Network Lines Upgraded to T1

1995

 56Kb network lines were upgraded to T1.

Cray SV1 Replaces Cray C90

1999

  • Cray C90 was replaced by the Cray SV1. 
  • The Cray SV1 was the first SV1 system installed in the country. 
  • Nichols Research was merged into Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC).

Implementation of Governor's K-12 Internet Initiative Begins

2002

  • ASA began implementation of the Governor's K-12 Internet Initiative which was designed to provide internet services to K-12 schools that did not yet have internet access.
  • The K-12 Internet Initiative will provide T1 broadband access to Alabama's statewide education network, the Alabama Research and Education Network (AREN). AREN is a statewide, state-of-the-art network that provides broadband connectivity and Internet access to all of Alabama's universities, colleges, junior colleges, and public libraries.
  • Alabama Research and Education Network (AREN) connects educational entities through technology for internet access, cybersecurity, and research.