Communications system

In telecommunication, a communications system is a collection of individual communications networks, transmission systems, relay stations, tributary stations, and data terminal equipment (DTE) usually capable of interconnection and interoperation[?] to form an integrated whole.

Note: The components of a communications system serve a common purpose, are technically compatible, use common procedures, respond to controls, and operate in unison.

Source: from Federal Standard 1037C and from MIL-STD-188