Acorn introduces Universal Networking

Acorn Computers has announced the first new products to be
launched under its open networking strategy,  Acorn
Universal Networking (AUN).

AUN provides a framework for the introduction of, and access
to, new networking technologies in new or existing Acorn
sites.  By incorporating the relevant technologies, industry
standards such as TCP/IP and the concepts of Open Systems,
AUN enables different computer types to be interconnected. 

AUN supports different cabling systems and a key feature of
AUN is that users can connect different networks in the site
together via RISC OS computers running an AUN software
application. This allows every computer on site to see every
other computer, even when they are not connected to the same
physical network. 

An Acorn Universal Network can consist of a number of Econet
and Ethernet networks linked together via a backbone
Ethernet network using RISC OS computers as Gateway
stations. These computers can act at the same time as local
fileservers.  In this way AUN gives users the benefit of
being able to take a site-wide approach to networking and by
extension their IT resources. 

A new release of Acorn's Level 4 Fileserver networking
applications has been optimised for Ethernet support. This
new product gives users the benefits of significant
increased speed performance and an industry standard cabling
system, albeit that existing networks can be left intact
with faster cabling systems added to form a single
integrated network. 

For example, users of Acorn's proprietary Econet network may
now extend their system by adding new cabling technologies
such as Ethernet, while ensuring that users can still use
established Econet methods of accessing network resources.  

A parallel Acorn software product called TCP/IP Protocol
Suite enables a RISC OS computer to talk to a UNIX computer
over AUN.  This is likely to be of particular benefit to
higher education where TCP/IP and Ethernet networks are
commonplace.

Acorn's Marketing Director, Mike O'Riordan stressed the cost
effectiveness of Acorn's Universal Networking package. "AUN
protects existing user investments due to its compatibility
with existing networks and its future proofing for tomorrow. 
All of this adds up to a cost effective and efficient
network offering which is ideal for schools, universities
and businesses."

"With the new AUN package, users can now expand their
networks in planned stages according to their resources and
requirements." he added.

The Acorn Universal Networking product pack which contains
site software and a new release of Level 4 FileServer costs
#399 ex VAT.

In addition, the AUN interfaces are clearly defined
allowing third party products to be incorporated into an
overall AUN strategy.  This ensures compatibility and
coexistence between products from different manufacturers. 

Ends




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