Sun Microsystems is to release an upgraded version of its TOPS DOS networking software for IBM personal computers. TOPS DOS Version 2.1 is claimed to give users of TOPS-based networks Ethernet support for faster network performance, improved memory usage through the ability to configure MS-DOS micros optionally as client-only network nodes, and to expand the range of supported applications through compatibility with IBM’s NetBIOS networking interface. Users of TOPS DOS 2.1 can also upgrade from LocalTalk or PhoneNet-based hardware to Ethernet by using an Ethernet card, Ethernet cabling and performing a one-time installation of the TOPS software; priced at $190 per node, TOPS DOS 2.1 enables each server to support up to 20 client microcomputers.
