Dallas, Texas-based LanOptics Inc, has announced the immediate availablility of its integrated hub-router products, developed jointly with Cisco Systems Inc. The Cisco AccessPro router board will be available in StackNet, LanOptics’ multi-protocol stackable hub and packaged with BranchCard, the company’s personal computer-based hub board. The StackNet product will enable users to integrate routing with a fully featured stackable hub that supports simultaneous Ethernet, Token Ring, 5250 and 3270 communications, say both firms. The BranchCard/Router Card package is claimed to enable integration of router and hub functionality in a standard personal computer-based server. Integration of the hub, router and associated Simple Network Management Protocol agents enables access and management of a remote hub, from a centrally located mangement system, via the router link even when the local area network is malfunctioning, says LanOptics, rather than requiring out-of-band management. The StackNet and BranchCard with personal computer router are available in Ethernet and Token Ring versions, and include Flash Electrically Programmable ROM, support for Cisco’s AutoInstall capability, and are manageable by CiscoWorks. The BranchCard/Router Card package costs from $3,400 for Ethernet, $4,040 for Token Ring. The StackNet with router starts at $4,600 Ethernet, $5,800 for the Token Ring Version.
