Name
Description
Manufacturer~distributor
Allows two or more remotely located LANs to be joined into a single seamless network working with TCP/IP, DECNET, ISO, IBM and cornpatible computers. LAN-to-LAN connectivity options range from simple point-to-point connection over slow-speed analogue circuits to complex multinode networks connected via high-speed digital links. Other WAN connections for slower speed applications can still include X.25. Configuration and control capabilities enable LAN traffic routing via complex interconnected networks of universal bridges. Operating conditions, security control features, spanning tree settings and other vital control parameters can be set remotely via IMS for each node regardless of location, each interface module and each communication line.
Tricom Group Ltd., Oxford Rd, Stokenchurch, High Wycombe, Bucks HP14 3SX, UK
Bridges Tricom Universal Bridge
Encryption and security devices Datalok-H
Designed for protecting data on Megastreamcommunications networks. Transparent in use and operates in full duplex mode between 9 600 bit/s and 2.048 Mbit/s. Incorporates user-selectable electronic key management which can be automatic, manual or via a key transport/loader system. Automatic key management requires no user intervention after initial set-up procedures. Possessesextensive diagnostics providing internal self-checking, local and remote loop tests and time/data stamp alarm and status reports.
Datarange Communications Ltd., Cressex Business Complex, Lancaster Rd., High Wycombe, Bucks HP12 3PY, UK
TGS/2
Internetwork router providing secure network interconnection for defence and private network environments. Fully NACSIM 5100A compliant and designed for users dealing with classified information working in sensitive environments. Routes multiple protocols including TCP/IP, DECnet, XNS, OSl, AppleTalk, Novell IPX and X.25 across Ethernet and serial communication lines at rates up to 12 000 packets/s. Can be configured with up to eight Ethernet (IEEE 802.3) LAN connections, eight RS-449 synchronous serial connections and/or eight RS-232 connections with a maximum of 16 ports supported simultaneously. Offers dynamic routing of data across multiple network paths, load sharing and balancing of packets on parallel links and compatibility with industry standard protocols.
Integrated Computer Networks Ltd., 21 Broadway, Maidenhead, Berks SL6 IJK, UK
RELAYtoken-ring gateway
Hardware and software 3270 gateway solution designed for users running on IBM token-ring networks. In this scenario, the mainframe becomes a member of the token-ring [.AN, just like the user PCs. PCs are connected to the network via token-ring network cards and the mainframe connected via one of two methods: either a device located in a 3174 cluster controller known as a token-ring adaptor (TRA) card, or a device located in a 37xx communications controller (or front-end processor) known as a token-ring interface coupler (TIC).
Microcom Software Division, 2D Dukes Court, Duke St, Woking, Surrey GU21 5BH, UK
N ETFAX
Integrated fax and electronic mail communication system providing time and destination control to administator, to enable users to send messages within their own authorized schedules to permitted destinations. Only one fax card needed for all workstations to be able to send facsimiles. Messages queued according to transmission time and to priority privileges of individual senders. With power or transmission failure, NETFAX automatically recovers all messages and resumes operation.
Pan Systems Pte Ltd., 180 Yi Guang Building, No 05-05/06 Singapore 1440
Cisco FDDI Router
Connects FDDI networks to dissimilar LAN segments and provides necessary packet fragmentation and address translation. Multiple Ethemet, token ring, X.25 or point-to-point networks can be connected to FDDI ring. Protocols supported include TCP/IP, OSI, DECnet, XNS, AppleTalk and X.25. Also support for standard routing and applications protocols giving greater network management facilities, including SNMP, RIP, BGP and rlogin/Telnet. In the event of a fault occurring on a ring at any station or segment, router reroutes data to fault-free connection, thus ensuring no interruption in service.
ICN Ltd., The Old Bell House, 4 High Street, Twyford, Berks RG10 9AE, UK
Gateways
316
computer communications
Name
Description
Manufacturer~distributor
Connects Olivetti CP486, Compaq Systempro or compatible EISA bus PCs to token ring networks running at 16 or 4 Mbit/s. Using IBM PC I_AN program, Novell Netware or Microsoft LAN Manager for both MS-DOS and OS/2, adapter is certified to be IBM compatible and can be freely mixed with IBM adapters in a token ring network. Fits into standard EISA slot and comes with program disc and instruction booklet. Designed for applications demanding high rate of data transfer, such as technical workstations with high-resolution graphics.
Skytech Ltd, Skytech Centre, Poyle Rd, Colnbrook, Slough, Berks SL3 0DS, UK
TCI 2000 Series
Token ring interfaces that allow any MicroVAX system to be connected directly to token ring. Each interface consists of an intelligent, high performance communications front-end processor (COMFEP) and software. Protocols available include 802.2 interface for simple station-tostation transactions; TCP/IP interface for user services such as file transfer and terminal emulation; and IBM-compatible NetBIOS and LU6.2 interfaces for program-to-program communications. Packaged as single Q-bus board with 68020 processor and up to 2 Mbyte local memory. Plugs directly into backplane of microcomputer.
Simpact Associates Inc., 9210 Sky Park Court, San Diego, CA 92123, USA
Auto Fax-Switch
Fax box which works on the principle of detecting whether an incoming call is coming from a fasimile machine or not, then automatically directs it to phone or fax machine, thus eliminating the need for a dedicated facsimile line. By adding telephone answering machine, one line can provide a 24 hour message/fax facility. If fax is not in use when call comes in, Auto Fax-Switch puts busy tone onto the phone handset.
Inmac (UK) Ltd., Westerly Point, Market Street, Bracknell, Berks RG12 1EW, UK
Interfaces EISA 16/4 Adapter Card
Nelwork management ACS 4800 Network management system that implements SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to collect data and monitor networks. Graphical map builder allows creation of network map that only shows devices that need managing. ACS 4800 builds up its Rolodex-style database, with one card to store information for easy access. Checks each device in the network at a user-defined interval and updates database cards. Also indicates change in network status by flashing alarm clock icon or sounding audible bleep. Besides historical record of the event log, ACS 4800 can also display real-time statistics such as number of X.25 packets, transmission, retransmission, or total errors. Can display up to four statistical plots at a user selected frequency for ongoing record of network performance. Networks Twisted Pair I_AN System
Consists of physical layer of 10 Mbit/s Ethernet/IEEE 802.3 CSMA/CD network on twisted pairs in a star topology. System concentrator accommodates variety of plug-in units. 14-slot concentrator chassis can support 70 twisted pair links to MAUs. System features standard Ethernet AUI 15-pin interface and is fully compatible with conventional Ethernet coax systems and accessories, which include fibre optic extension unit. Each unit has integral power on/off switch to enable on-line maintenance to be carded out.
Advanced Computer Communications, 720 Santa Barbara Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93101, USA
Fujikura Europe Ltd., CI Tower (1 lth floor), St. George's Square, High Street, New Malden, Surrey KT3 1L
From left to right: ACS 4800 network management system from Advanced Computer Communications; Inmac's Auto Fax-Switch Box; Q-bus board as part of TC12000 series of token ring interfaces from Simpact Associates
vol 13 no 5 june 1990
317