If it had managed to get the stuff out two years ago as originally planned, the prospects for Hal Computer Systems Ltd’s new 64-bit Fujitsu HalStation 300 workstations would probably be much brighter than they are now, given that Sun’s 64-bit UltraSparc boxes are on the launch-pad. Named for its parent, the Fujitsu HalStation 330 uses a 100MHz version of Hal’s seven-chip Sparc64 CPU and is rated at 181 SPECint92 and 230 SPECfp92. The 118MHz Model 350 comes in at 212 SPECint92 and 271 SPECfp92, and faster versions are due. Sparc64 has some high-reliability features that are well-regarded by folk such as Microprocessor Report: a Max service processor monitors the CPU’s behaviour and system condition. A Sparc64+ and third generation part will follow. The part uses a 1Gbps memory bus and 400Mbps input-output bus. Hal is aiming the boxes at technical and financial markets. Servers are waiting on NUMA, coherency, high-speed interconnect and a server-oriented operating system. Hal abandoned development of its own operating system some time ago and has put Solaris 2.4 with its own 64-bit extensions up on them as Sparc64/OS 2.4 which will run Solaris applications. Hal is putting the workstations through Ingram Micro D in the US. Fujitsu’s ICL Plc is carrying the boxes in Europe. The 330 is from $23,000 with 64Mb RAM, 2Gb disk, 4 Sbus slots and 17 colour screen. The $33,000 350 has a 20 screen.
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