Atlantec Inc has expanded its Fast Ethernet switching offerings with four modules for its PowerHub desktop and workgroup range. The new products include a 6×1 Universal Fast Ethernet Module and a 2×8 Fast Ethernet microsegment module for Atlantec’s flagship PowerHub 7000; alongside a 2×12 Fast Ethernet microsegment module and a 1×12 Fast Ethernet microsegment module for the PowerHub 6000. According to the San Jose, California-based company, the addition of four new modules enables implementation of Fast Ethernet throughout the enterprise. The 7360 6×1 module, is a single-slot module featuring two on-board RISC processors (unspecified-ARM? Alpha?), as well as its own shared memory. The module is designed to perform packet processing functions to reduce the load on the PowerHub’s central processors. The additional three microsegment modules, featuring 100Base T repeater technology, all support full-featured bridging, 802.1d Spanning Tree, multiprotocol routing and multilayer virtual local networks, according to the company. Atlantec boasts that it can provide shared Fast Ethernet at a lower price point than dedicated switches to workgroups needing more bandwidth, but not dedicated 100Mbps lines. The 7360 6×1 costs $5,950 and is available immediately and the 7380 2×8 segment will be $7,950 when it is available next quarter. The 6220 2×12 and the 6222 1×12 are also promised for next quarter, but no prices were given.
