21.   But the system designed by the Dirty Dozen is still the dominant platform for desktop computing, although it is receding in importance with data networks taking center stage.

22.   But when the dot-coms started collapsing, so did much of the interest in building out huge data networks.

23.   But throughout the world, telephone networks and computer data networks are ceasing to be separate systems.

24.   Calls to branch offices already hooked into the same data network are cheaper.

25.   Companies have spent billions on private data networks in recent years, but these were mainly in-house conduits.

26.   Data networks are used to allow electronic devices, including computers, fax machines and phones, to communicate with each other.

27.   Conversely, data networking giants including Cisco Systems Inc. are developing technologies to transmit voice conversations over advanced data networks.

28.   Delphi is a local call throughout most of the country to numbers on one of two data connection networks, SprintNet and Tymnet.

29.   Each seat is then linked to a central computer over a high-capacity data network not that different from the ones that connect the PCs in many offices.

30.   Farm broadcasters are also using new technology to interact with their audience, building on a relationship that data networks can never duplicate.