Convergent Technologies Inc, as reported briefly (CI No 725), has added an 80386-based machine that doubles as a Personal Computer server and multi-user Unix machine to its product line-up. The Server PC using the 20MHz 80386 runs Convergent’s implementation of Unix System V.3, CTIX/386, and Merge 386 from Locus Computing, which allows Unix and PC-DOS applications to run simultaneously. PC Exchange/Vines networking software allows the Server PC to support up to 64 Personal Computers, 32 terminals or a combination of both. The Server PC uses an integral 64Kb write-back cache with zero wait-states and 32-bit data paths and two optional floating point processors, the Intel 80387 and the Weitek 1167. The machine comes with a SCSI interface, a hard disk drive, an AT-compatible floppy, and three full-height bays for additional SCSI peripherals. Memory is expandable to 64 Mb and disk storage to 1Gb. Ten expansion slots are provided for AT and PC cards as well as 32-bit peripherals. The Server PC’s integral AT-bus architecture allows the addition of standard networking cards including Ethernet and Token Ring. PC Exchange/Vines, X25, and SNA 3270 networking protocols are supported as well as AT&T’s RFS Remote File Sharing networking software operating under TCP/IP. Convergent of San Jose, California also expects to have Sun’s Network File System available soon. Software available on the system includes Convergent’s own Unix-based office automation software, WGS/Office, which includes a window manager, word processor, spreadsheet, mail and calendar system. Unify’s relational database, and the Accell/E program development environment are also available. The Server PC will be offered through Convergent’s standard channels and is intended as a low-risk investment for businesses needing a powerful departmental server. Convergent is also hoping to cash in on those companies that have a number of Personals and would like the option of adding powerful Unix-based databases or accounting systems. Volume OEM shipments are scheduled to begin in the third quarter. Typical OEM pricing for the Server PC’s base configuration is $7,500.
