Simware Ltd, based in Reading, Berkshire, has announced its new communications software, the Mac3270 Master. The new product, developed with Apple Computers in the US, at the behest of Motorola Inc in Canada, enables Macintosh users to access IBM compatible mainframes and networks. The user may be connected to the mainframe by a number of means – X25, cellular telephone, local area networks – and the Macmaster will provide push-button access. Simware UK claims that the product has three main advantages. The consistent user interface means that regardless of the protocol conversion applied, the user is sheilded from the intricacies of access and retrieval. Standardised file transfer enables the quick transfer of data across multiple communication paths and protocols. In addition, host access and file transfer can be customised to the user’s particular requirements. A single copy of Macmaster will cost UKP300, but Simware recommends that large users buy a right to copy licence since the unit price falls accordingly.
