- Email: [email protected]
Office communications workstation
Network control matrix switch A Network control matrix switch which locates faults, isolates problems, restores services and manages information has been launched by Infotron Systems. The INX4200 is designed primarily for synchronous, on-line, real-time environments, including retailing, banking, communications and also government, insurance and other service industries where large numbers of devices require continuous access to central or remotely located resources. The INX systems operate at 2Mbit/s and TI speeds over all facilities and at 40Mbit/s over a newly developed fibre optics switch bus. The INX4200 switch can start out with a configuration as small as 100 ports and grow into a system that can
handle 1 000 crossconnections at 9 600 bit/s. Through its advanced master/slave architecture, the INX4200 can be distributed and located near the nodes it sewes, tying them together through a ring bus topology. The interswitch networking capability permits multiple INX4200s to be linked over TI and/or 2 Mbit/s facilities, allowing for high-speed intersite data transfer and disaster recovery applications. A fibre optic interface extends the switch bus to 2 km, allowing up to 64 remote locations to be linked in a university site or building environment, and provides immediate node backup at an alternative building location. (Infotron Systems Ltd, Systems House, Poundbury Road, Dorchester, Dorset,
DT1 1TQ, UK. Tel: (0305) 66061) []
Electronic mail and conferencing system An electronic mail, filing and conferencing system, has been announced by Ericcson Information Systems. The system called Embla is a fully integrated software system which forms part of Ericsson's range of office support packages. It uses an Ericsson 2500 business computer system network as its carrier, and it allows a user to receive and despatch messages, and to organize and hold conferences without constraints of time or location. It will also establish private text archives, in which documents and messages can be created and stored in electronic 'folders' to which only the archive user has access. The electronic mail facility allows the transmission and reception of mail from individual's workstations. Letters can be written using the Saga II word processing package, and pieces of standard text can be stored and retrieved to be incorporated in
46
messages. Messages can be sent to one or more predefined distribution lists, or to individual addressees by name, by organizational code, or by a user-defined quick-code for regular correspondents. The electronic conferencing facility allows three types of conference. These are 'open', where any system subscriber can volunteer to participate; 'closed', so that the invitation list is restricted; and 'readonly', so that certain users can read conference contributions but do not participate. The Embla user can, therefore, organize or become a member of a conference, read contributions submitted by other members, and write and submit contributions of his own, all without leaving his desk. (Ericsson Infor-
mation Systems Ltd, City House, 7 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7BX, UK. Tel: 01-606 0425; Telex: 8814540 ERISG G) []
Communications package for I BM PCs A communications package which enables IBM personal computers and compatibles to emulate VT100 and V-I-52 terminals has been launched by X-Tec. XCOM/VT software allows connection to a network processor or switching device for asychronous communications with other PCs. The addition of a protocol converter further enables access to most synchronous mainframes and minis while connection to a modem links up remote terminals, mainframes and electronic mail services. XCOM/VT also enables the PC to transmit to serial or parallel printers, and to transmit and receive ASCII and binary files. The programme can control character transmission rates to suit the computer receiving the transmission. Speeds can be varied from typing speed up to the full baud rate. (X-Tec Limited, High Street,
Hartley Wintney, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG2 7 8PB, UK.) []
Office communications workstation A voice/data communications workstation aimed at meeting a company's business communications requirements has been announced by Tandata Holdings. The Tandata PA is a powerful multi-tasking system which can be used for viewdata/videotex; a computer visual display unit; for communication with another Tandata PA on an automatic 24-h basis; for financial analysis and modelling; a text editor; a notebook; filing system or address book; a diary; messaging unit, and as a complement to a telephone handset. It can be used in an office with its 12 in colour
computer communications
monitor, at home with a television set or whilst on the move and without mains power. The Tandata PA is available in two versions. The single user 100 series and the multi-user 200 series. Both are multitasking; i.e. the user can do several jobs at the same time. The PA is based on 16-bit and 8-bit microprocessors with its own specialized multiuser, multitasking operating system based on Unix. Data is stored in battery-backed RAM memory, up to 768 kbyte, but the effective storage is greatly extended by a special memory management system which compresses text up to 50%. The PA is mains powered and has interfaces for many types of screens, printers and networks, and can also be operated for short periods using its own batteries and built-in LCD. (Tandata Holdings pig Albert R o a d North, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 2TL, UK. Tel: (06845) 68421; Telex 337617) []
Security and management system for smaller dial-up networks An entrylevel version of Net/Guard, a dial-up security and management system has been launched by AvantGarde Computing. Net/Guard Level 1 will secure and monitor up to 32 lines. (Net/Guard Level 3 can monitor up to 4096 lines. Net/Guard controls access by personal computers and other dial-up devices to dial-up networks. It monitors the network, giving operators control over who is using the network, when, why, and for how long, and it alerts them to security and service problems. Net/Guard Level 1 provides different levels of security. It requires users to enter correct (and current) IDs and passwords, and it limits the number of times they may attempt to sign on. These measures, combined with Net/Guard's dial-back feature,
Network management from BT
will thwart even the most persistent hacker. Net/Guard specifies the days and times when users may gain access, and it stops them from staying on the system too long, or from using it too often. It prevents unauthorized users from gaining access to restricted hosts and applications, and it produces audit trails of all network activity. In monitoring network activity, Net/Guard builds a database of the network's performance, utilization, and availability. This is information that managers can use to improve service and control costs. The Level 1 system is a turnkey, stand-alone system that is transparent to network operations. It is also modular and fully-expandable to Level 3, so it can grow as the network grows. (Avant-Garde Computing, Inc., 8000 Commerce Parkway, ML Laurel, New Jersey 08054, USA. Tek 609-778
7000)
[]
Datel Control 1000 is designed to be installed between computers and data communications equipment. In normal operation the system is transparent to data flow. When problems arise, the network manager can rapidly overcome them by patching or switching to alternative channels or equipment. Control and access is all achieved via the front of the Datel Control 1000 equipment.
The system provides flexibility in the features offered, so that users can choose a suitable combination to meet their specific needs. Each basic module will handle up to 16 data channels and options include patching, test and monitor access, alarms, manual switching and block switching. (Merlin Business Systems, 23 Howland Street, London WIP 6HQ, UK. Tel: 01-631 2345) []
Data communications using telex lines
siderable benefits. The provision of communications ports on all Autex systems (eight on the Autex 200 and 400, and 16 on the 1600) means that more than one terminal can be linked to each telex line, maximising line rentals and using line capacity to the full; while Autex's multiline capabilities allow users to begin with one line and one terminal and gradually built up to a powerful multiterminal system linked via up to 16 telex lines. (Chernikeef Telecommunications Ltd, Church Wharf, Pumping Station Road, London W4 2SN, UK. Tel: 01-994 6685/6, T e l e x : 935972 MIGLDN G) []
A data communications device which provides central site control over a data network has been launched by British Telecom. Datel Control 1000 is a modular system of technical control facilities, such as, patching, switching, testing and monitoring. It is compatible with all equipment operating over CCITT V.24 interface. Later versions will provide V.35 interfaces.
IBM PC users will be able to use Chernikeeffs Autex telex management system for data communications via the international telex network. All dialling procedures are handled automatically by the Autex. The system thus eliminates time consuming staff involvement in redialling engaged or difficult-tocontact numbers, while a 'group broadcast' feature enables the same message to be 'personalized' and sent automatically to a preprogrammed list of addresses.
vol 9 no 1 february 1986
A system of five priority levels enables urgent messages to be transmitted immediately at any time, and Autex can be set for automatic transmission after normal working hours. Incoming messages are printed out in 'hard copy' form on an online printer and can then be stored in the Autex's memory, or manually switched into the host IBM PC for local printing or editing into new messages for onward automatic transmission. Linking PCs via Autex has con-
47
handle 1 000 crossconnections at 9 600 bit/s. Through its advanced master/slave architecture, the INX4200 can be distributed and located near the nodes it sewes, tying them together through a ring bus topology. The interswitch networking capability permits multiple INX4200s to be linked over TI and/or 2 Mbit/s facilities, allowing for high-speed intersite data transfer and disaster recovery applications. A fibre optic interface extends the switch bus to 2 km, allowing up to 64 remote locations to be linked in a university site or building environment, and provides immediate node backup at an alternative building location. (Infotron Systems Ltd, Systems House, Poundbury Road, Dorchester, Dorset,
DT1 1TQ, UK. Tel: (0305) 66061) []
Electronic mail and conferencing system An electronic mail, filing and conferencing system, has been announced by Ericcson Information Systems. The system called Embla is a fully integrated software system which forms part of Ericsson's range of office support packages. It uses an Ericsson 2500 business computer system network as its carrier, and it allows a user to receive and despatch messages, and to organize and hold conferences without constraints of time or location. It will also establish private text archives, in which documents and messages can be created and stored in electronic 'folders' to which only the archive user has access. The electronic mail facility allows the transmission and reception of mail from individual's workstations. Letters can be written using the Saga II word processing package, and pieces of standard text can be stored and retrieved to be incorporated in
46
messages. Messages can be sent to one or more predefined distribution lists, or to individual addressees by name, by organizational code, or by a user-defined quick-code for regular correspondents. The electronic conferencing facility allows three types of conference. These are 'open', where any system subscriber can volunteer to participate; 'closed', so that the invitation list is restricted; and 'readonly', so that certain users can read conference contributions but do not participate. The Embla user can, therefore, organize or become a member of a conference, read contributions submitted by other members, and write and submit contributions of his own, all without leaving his desk. (Ericsson Infor-
mation Systems Ltd, City House, 7 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7BX, UK. Tel: 01-606 0425; Telex: 8814540 ERISG G) []
Communications package for I BM PCs A communications package which enables IBM personal computers and compatibles to emulate VT100 and V-I-52 terminals has been launched by X-Tec. XCOM/VT software allows connection to a network processor or switching device for asychronous communications with other PCs. The addition of a protocol converter further enables access to most synchronous mainframes and minis while connection to a modem links up remote terminals, mainframes and electronic mail services. XCOM/VT also enables the PC to transmit to serial or parallel printers, and to transmit and receive ASCII and binary files. The programme can control character transmission rates to suit the computer receiving the transmission. Speeds can be varied from typing speed up to the full baud rate. (X-Tec Limited, High Street,
Hartley Wintney, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG2 7 8PB, UK.) []
Office communications workstation A voice/data communications workstation aimed at meeting a company's business communications requirements has been announced by Tandata Holdings. The Tandata PA is a powerful multi-tasking system which can be used for viewdata/videotex; a computer visual display unit; for communication with another Tandata PA on an automatic 24-h basis; for financial analysis and modelling; a text editor; a notebook; filing system or address book; a diary; messaging unit, and as a complement to a telephone handset. It can be used in an office with its 12 in colour
computer communications
monitor, at home with a television set or whilst on the move and without mains power. The Tandata PA is available in two versions. The single user 100 series and the multi-user 200 series. Both are multitasking; i.e. the user can do several jobs at the same time. The PA is based on 16-bit and 8-bit microprocessors with its own specialized multiuser, multitasking operating system based on Unix. Data is stored in battery-backed RAM memory, up to 768 kbyte, but the effective storage is greatly extended by a special memory management system which compresses text up to 50%. The PA is mains powered and has interfaces for many types of screens, printers and networks, and can also be operated for short periods using its own batteries and built-in LCD. (Tandata Holdings pig Albert R o a d North, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 2TL, UK. Tel: (06845) 68421; Telex 337617) []
Security and management system for smaller dial-up networks An entrylevel version of Net/Guard, a dial-up security and management system has been launched by AvantGarde Computing. Net/Guard Level 1 will secure and monitor up to 32 lines. (Net/Guard Level 3 can monitor up to 4096 lines. Net/Guard controls access by personal computers and other dial-up devices to dial-up networks. It monitors the network, giving operators control over who is using the network, when, why, and for how long, and it alerts them to security and service problems. Net/Guard Level 1 provides different levels of security. It requires users to enter correct (and current) IDs and passwords, and it limits the number of times they may attempt to sign on. These measures, combined with Net/Guard's dial-back feature,
Network management from BT
will thwart even the most persistent hacker. Net/Guard specifies the days and times when users may gain access, and it stops them from staying on the system too long, or from using it too often. It prevents unauthorized users from gaining access to restricted hosts and applications, and it produces audit trails of all network activity. In monitoring network activity, Net/Guard builds a database of the network's performance, utilization, and availability. This is information that managers can use to improve service and control costs. The Level 1 system is a turnkey, stand-alone system that is transparent to network operations. It is also modular and fully-expandable to Level 3, so it can grow as the network grows. (Avant-Garde Computing, Inc., 8000 Commerce Parkway, ML Laurel, New Jersey 08054, USA. Tek 609-778
7000)
[]
Datel Control 1000 is designed to be installed between computers and data communications equipment. In normal operation the system is transparent to data flow. When problems arise, the network manager can rapidly overcome them by patching or switching to alternative channels or equipment. Control and access is all achieved via the front of the Datel Control 1000 equipment.
The system provides flexibility in the features offered, so that users can choose a suitable combination to meet their specific needs. Each basic module will handle up to 16 data channels and options include patching, test and monitor access, alarms, manual switching and block switching. (Merlin Business Systems, 23 Howland Street, London WIP 6HQ, UK. Tel: 01-631 2345) []
Data communications using telex lines
siderable benefits. The provision of communications ports on all Autex systems (eight on the Autex 200 and 400, and 16 on the 1600) means that more than one terminal can be linked to each telex line, maximising line rentals and using line capacity to the full; while Autex's multiline capabilities allow users to begin with one line and one terminal and gradually built up to a powerful multiterminal system linked via up to 16 telex lines. (Chernikeef Telecommunications Ltd, Church Wharf, Pumping Station Road, London W4 2SN, UK. Tel: 01-994 6685/6, T e l e x : 935972 MIGLDN G) []
A data communications device which provides central site control over a data network has been launched by British Telecom. Datel Control 1000 is a modular system of technical control facilities, such as, patching, switching, testing and monitoring. It is compatible with all equipment operating over CCITT V.24 interface. Later versions will provide V.35 interfaces.
IBM PC users will be able to use Chernikeeffs Autex telex management system for data communications via the international telex network. All dialling procedures are handled automatically by the Autex. The system thus eliminates time consuming staff involvement in redialling engaged or difficult-tocontact numbers, while a 'group broadcast' feature enables the same message to be 'personalized' and sent automatically to a preprogrammed list of addresses.
vol 9 no 1 february 1986
A system of five priority levels enables urgent messages to be transmitted immediately at any time, and Autex can be set for automatic transmission after normal working hours. Incoming messages are printed out in 'hard copy' form on an online printer and can then be stored in the Autex's memory, or manually switched into the host IBM PC for local printing or editing into new messages for onward automatic transmission. Linking PCs via Autex has con-
47