Targeting its SNA user base, Ideassociates Ltd, Billerica, Massachusetts-based has unveiled the second phase of its Frame Relay strategy with the introduction of Idea FrameServer, which integrates existing SNA and client-server networks into a single, multiprotocol Frame Relay connection – which, according to the company, eliminates the costs involved in having to run parallel networks. Classed as a multiprotocol Frame Relay Access Device, the FrameServer is Idea’s second such offering, the first being the introduction of Frame Relay on its IdeaConcert communications processors in January. IdeaConcert enables RFC 1490-compliant Frame Relay connections for terminals and local networks locally attached to IdeaConcert. FrameServer, accordin g to Idea, extends existing capabilities by offering Frame Relay access on both local and remote local network and SDLC devices, such as IBM 3174-or 5494-compatible controllers. FrameServer can consolidate up to 32 remote SDLC connections and supports a maximum of eight wide area network ports. FrameServer performs its own local polling in order to avoid the problem of SNA time-outs, and the inclusion of PU Polling and PU concentration which enables one Physical Unit on the host to support up to 254 local network devices. There is a choice of two hardware systems: the F300 and F700 series, each available in Token Ring or Ethernet configurations. FrameServer is available immediately with a fully-configured system costing some $4,180.
