Motorola Computer Systems is pressing its assault on the DEC MicroVAX market by adding DECnet communications to its 68030 based Delta systems. Its MicroDNet implementation of DECnet is claimed to give users full access to files and software on DECnet nodes without modification, additional hardware or software nodes. Low layers of the DECnet protocols are offloaded to Motorola’s MVE373 multi-protocol Ethernet controller, co-exists with TCP/IP, and can communicate with DEC systems running the VMS, Ultrix and RSX-11 operating systems. According to Motorola’s UK head of marketing John Shouler, the Delta 3840, which uses a 33MHz 68030, offers a 150% performance advantage at half the price of a MicroVAX. No price. Motorola is not the only company to see the value of DECnet compatibility: graphics workstation and server maker Stellar Computer Inc, Newton, Massachusetts, has also implemented DECnet on its GS1000 and CS1000 ranges via an OEM deal with Bell Atlantic subsidiary Technology Concepts Inc, Sudbury, Massachusetts. The CommUnity DECnet Phase IV line will be available in May.
