VOLUME 20 - BULLETIN #251

TO:	ALL CLEARING MEMBERS
FROM:	BUSINESS SYSTEMS GROUP
DATE:	August 24, 2000
SUBJECT:	Customer Network

On October 19, 1999, the Clearing Corporation announced the implementation of a new customer network as a major strategic objective. The major goal of the new network is to enhance communications between the Clearing Corporation and its member firms by utilizing the TREX record format with MQM TCP/IP communications technology and FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The Clearing Corporation planned to have all clearing members utilizing the new customer network by Friday September 1, 2000. Although many firms are utilizing applications on the new customer network, the majority of firms have not replaced RJE functionality of give-up transactions with MQM transmissions of TREX messages and will not be ready to fully convert to the new customer network by Friday September 1, 2000. To minimize the impact to the member firms back office operations, Clearing will continue to support the old network beyond this date.

However, to keep firms network cost down and utilize advanced technology, clearing will maintain an aggressive schedule to convert firms to the new customer network. A bulletin will be issued declaring when the old SNA network will no longer be supported.

Firms are reminded that the variable fee for the new customer network will begin on Friday September 1, 2000. Please see Volume 20 Bulletin #250

Should you have any questions, please call or e-mail one of the following Business Systems Analysts: