The line discipline is enabled by a sequence:
#include <sgtty.h>
int ldisc = NETLDISC, fildes; ...
ioctl(fildes, TIOCSETD, &ldisc);
A typical application program then reads a sequence of lines from the terminal port, checking header and sequencing information on each line and acknowledging receipt of each line to the sender, who then transmits another line of data. Typically several hundred bytes of data and a smaller amount of control information will be received on each handshake.
The old standard teletype discipline can be restored by doing:
ldisc = OTTYDISC;
ioctl(fildes, TIOCSETD, &ldisc);
While in networked mode, normal teletype output functions take place. Thus, if an 8 bit output data path is desired, it is necessary to prepare the output line by putting it into RAW mode using ioctl(2). This must be done before changing the discipline with TIOCSETD, as most ioctl(2) calls are disabled while in network line-discipline mode.
When in network mode, input processing is very limited to reduce overhead. Currently the input path is only 7 bits wide, with newline the only recognized character, terminating an input record. Each input record must be read and acknowledged before the next input is read as the system refuses to accept any new data when there is a record in the buffer. The buffer is limited in length, but the system guarantees to always be willing to accept input resulting in 512 data characters and then the terminating newline.
User level programs should provide sequencing and checksums on the information to guarantee accurate data transfer.