High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991

Citation: High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991, Pub. L. No. 102-194 (1991).

Overview

The High-Performance Computing and Communications Program Act of 1991 was passed to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing high-performance computing programs of various federal agencies. This law was the original enabling legislation for what is now the NITRD Program.

Requirements

Among other requirements, the Act called for the following:

• Setting goals and priorities for federal high-performance computing research, development, and networking.
• Providing for the technical support and research and development of high-performance computing software and hardware needed to address fundamental problems in science and engineering.
• Educating undergraduate and graduate students.
• Fostering and maintaining competition and private sector investment in [[high-

speed data networking]] within the telecommunications industry.

• Promoting the development of commercial data communications and telecommunications standards.
• Providing security, including protecting intellectual property rights.
• Developing accounting mechanisms allowing users to be charged for the use of

copyrighted materials.

This law also requires an annual report to Congress on grants and cooperative R&D agreements and procurements involving foreign entities.