[comp.newprod] Xylogics introduces Annex Three Communications Server

wieder@Xylogics.COM (Scott Wieder) (04/03/91)

The following text is from Annex Three press release.  Technical
questions should be directed to annex-support@xylogics.com

XYLOGICS INTRODUCES NEW GENERATION UNIX COMMUNICATIONS SERVER

New Annex Three Features Extensive Network Management Software,
Lowest Price Per Port And Unprecedented Security Features

BURLINGTON, Mass., -- Xylogics, Inc. (NASDAQ/XLGX) made connecting users
to computer networks more functional, secure and economical with a new
multiprotocol UNIX communications server.  Called the Annex Three, it
features the industry's best software, security and price per port.

The Annex Three provides an unbeatable package of comprehensive features
and the lowest price per port.  It offers from eight to 64 serial ports
for just over $100 per port.  Until now, the lowest priced terminal
server cost $134 per port for an equivalent configuration.

The Annex Three provides all the capabilities of a terminal server and
more.  It reduces the difficulty and expense of hardwiring terminals,
modems, printers and remote PCs directly to UNIX and Digital VAX/VMS
host computers by packaging multiple serial ports in a single
"intelligent" box.

With the Annex, any terminal can access any TCP/IP or LAT host.  Users
can connect to multiple hosts and toggle between sessions easily with a
"hot key."  Printers, including Postscript, and modems can be shared. 
The Annex Three includes an additional parallel port for connecting
Centronics or Dataproducts printers.


MADE FOR UNIX

Annex is the only communications server family developed specifically
for UNIX systems.  Annex ports behave like local UNIX ports.  Where the
Annex Three is tightly integrated with UNIX, all other competitive
terminals servers are either proprietary or based on Digital VAX/VMS
environments.  They also typically manage and load software from VAX
host computers.

UNIX users feel familiar with the Annex right from the start because
Annex commands are identical to their UNIX equivalents whenever
possible,  The Annex Three also gives users the ability to create custom
menus and macro commands, or hide the interface completely.


COMMUNICATIONS PLATFORM

Where earlier terminal servers were built as closed boxes, the Annex
Three architecture is designed as a modular communications platform. 
This enables users to add I/O ports as needed, as well as plug in future
communications technologies as Xylogics develops them.

Other modular terminal servers use backplanes in which cards are
installed. Xylogics designed the Annex Three with a main logic board
with two slots for line cards.  This design provides the benefits of a
modular architecture without the cost burden of expensive backplane
architectures.
 
By using 32-bit microprocessors on the main logic board and line cards,
the Annex achieves unprecedented performance: 38.4 Kbps on all ports. 
Performance is critical for applications that use high speed modems,
printers, or TCP/IP over asynchronous lines.


NETWORK SECURITY

Because a communications server is a primary point of entry into a
network, the Annex offers several security features to protect your
network, including the ability to:

*    Identify users before granting network access
*    Produce audit trails that monitor users and activities 
*    Automatically disconnect inactive sessions 
*    Restrict commands and access to sensitive hosts and 
*    Encrypt data


ANNEX SOFTWARE AND NETWORK MANAGEMENT

Although based on a new hardware architecture, the Annex Three is fully
compatible with the proven software and network management features of
earlier Annex models.  These include:

*    UNIX host-originated connections
*    Modem pools and connections to hosts without network interfaces
*    Full TELNET and rlogin implementations
*    Multiple name servers and routing
*    Compressed SLIP
*    Network configuration and software downloading from UNIX/Xenix
     systems
*    SNMP MIB-II with extensions


SIZE, PRICING AND AVAILABILITY

The Annex Three features a compact 3.5" high design that can either be
rack mounted or used in a standard office environment.  Annex Three
communications servers are available immediately with prices ranging
from $3,995 for an 8-port server to $6,995 for a 64-port Annex.

A special trade-in program is available for owners of the Annex I. 
Trade-in an Annex I when buying an Annex Three and reduce your Annex
Three price $500 for 64 port units, $350 for 32 port units and $250 for
16 port units.  This is a limited time offer.  Contact Xylogics for
additional information.

Headquartered in Burlington, Mass., Xylogics, Inc. is a leading supplier
of computer I/O and networking products used primarily in the UNIX
market.  Information on the company and its products can be obtained
through its toll-free number: 1-800-225-3317.

                              ###

Annex is a trademark of Xylogics, Inc.  All other products and services
mentioned in this document are represented by the trademarks of their
respective companies.

CONTACT:
Kevin Murphy
Xylogics Inc
53 Third Avenue
Burlington, MA 01803
1-800-225-3317, extension 362
kmurphy@xylogics.com