London, N1-based open systems integrator and developer Torchraven Ltd has announced its Torchraven VARpack portfolio of interoperable open systems tools and services for UK resellers. The total value of items included in the pack is over ?9,000, but Torchraven will be offering the entire suite to resellers for ?2,500 – a package it hopes will increase its 48-strong dealer base. The VARpack provides resellers with the means to develop guaranteed fully integrated open systems with provision for value added functions such as facsimile connections, integration with personal computers and built-in security, which are important for product differentiation. The modules included in the pack are as follows: Hasler AG’s automated facsimile hardware and software that enables end users to send and receive messages directly from their workstations; Advanced Grpahical Environments Inc’s X Server software that integrates Windows, MS-DOS and X Window applications on 80386 and 80486 personal computers; Planar Systems Inc’s and Unicord Inc’s Unix terminal integration software that enables MS-DOS and Windows 3-based personal computers to be integrated into Unix environments; Novell’s LAN Workplace for MS-DOS that enables personal computer users to link to other local area network users or remote hosts; Locus Computing Corp’s personal computer interface for resource sharing between MS-DOS, Windows, Mac and Unix users; Schasiepen GmbH’s Netprint for shared access to a central printer on a network; a TCP/IP boot prom – enabling MS-DOS and standard TCP/IP network software to be booted from a network server – and Ethernet board for diskless, networked workstations; and Unicorn security software for controlling access, activity logging and reporting.
Formation in 1986
?1,000 worth of technical and sales training and technical notes, with an additional ?1,200 of support is also included in the deal. Torchraven is targeting the VARpack at resellers in vertical markets such as local govermnment, finance and retail; those developing applications for specific products; and computer departments in large companies that act as resellers within their organisations. The company has developed open systems for resellers and end users since its formation in 1986. Past customers include the Automobile Association, Digital Equipment Corp, Easams Ltd, the European Commision, GKN Plc, Hewlett-Packard Co, IBM Corp, the Ministry of Defence, Unisys Corp and Virgin Group Plc. Its 10 staff are divided into an Applications Development Team which works on one-off technical developments, bespoke application development and product evaluation; Products Department that supply integrated open systems products; and customer services offering consultancy, support and training. The company has invested over ?500,000 in research and development to ensure that the products it offers integrate. It is currently working on a system for extending the security provided on Unix and local area network systems.
