Boca Research Announces BocaVision JNC205 Java Network Terminal.

BOCA RATON, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 27, 1999--

First Thin Client Device with Embedded Linux Operating System

Boca Research, Inc.(R) (Nasdaq:BOCI) today announced the BocaVision(TM) JNC205 Java Network Terminal, featuring a high-powered customized Linux operating system and a full implementation of Infomatec's Java(TM) Network Technology(TM) (JNT).

This adds increased functionality to the BocaVision family of server-based thin client products; the family also includes the WT120 Ethernet-based Windows(R) terminal, the STB121 dial-up client, and the DTC203 Windows-based terminal, which runs the Windows CE operating system.

The BocaVision JNC205 Java Network Terminal is a cost-effective, full-function, desktop client appropriate for server-based computing environments. It delivers the ease-of-use of a personal computer, along with the ease of maintenance of a centralized terminal system. The JNC205 supports the Citrix(R) Independent Computing Architecture (ICA(R)) and Remote Desktop Protocol display protocols, which allow the device to operate as if Windows-based application programs were running locally. ICA, in conjunction with Citrix MetaFrame(TM) and WinFrame(R) server-based software, ensures that applications run 100 percent on the server.

Microsoft(R) Windows applications run through a connection to Microsoft Windows NT(R) Server 4.0 Terminal Server Edition (Terminal Server). Remote Desktop Protocol is a key component of Terminal Server that allows a thin client to communicate with a terminal server over the network. It currently supports the TCP/IP network protocol. The system also supports a wide variety of terminal emulation modes including 3270, WYSE60, ANSI, AT386, VT320, BA80, and SNI97801 (7-bit, 8-bit).

Additionally, the JNC205 is designed to allow easy user access to the Internet, intranet, and Java-based applications. It features a Netscape(R) customized browser, which together with Java Virtual Machine (JVM) use the local processor, eliminating network bandwidth problems and high server utilization. Java applications will be loaded from the server on an as-needed basis to keep the network traffic and server utilization at a minimum. Therefore, Netscape's browser, e-mail client, and the associated JVM run strictly locally.

The JNT operating system was developed by Germany-based Infomatec Integrated Information Systems AG. In June, Infomatec became the largest investor in Boca Research. The two companies are strategically planning to market products that can be mutually beneficial. JNT's ease of development and widespread industry support means lower development costs and quicker time to deployment. Built-in security protects an organization's information and assets. JNT utilizes a multi-tasking customized Linux architecture, which is embedded in a Flash ROM chip, using M-Systems' DiskOnChip. This "burned-in intelligence" allows it to be integrated in almost any imaginable device.

The BocaVision JNC205 consists of a high-speed National Semiconductor(R) Geode(TM) GX series processor with 32 MB of RAM, a PS/2 keyboard, and a mouse, which together with the user's monitor complete the desktop client device. Two serial communications ports and a printer port are included in the configuration. Remote control and configuration options allow system administrators the opportunity to better manage equipment assets, as well as support user connections, configurations, and applications. Firmware updates are enabled via FTP (file transfer protocol) downloads of boot code, applications and the operating system. The JNC205 delivers state-of-the-art technology while providing a low total cost of ownership, from the initial purchase through overall network maintenance. The BocaVision JNC205 is the first thin client device with an embedded Linux operating system. It is also the first Java-based thin client with 10/100 BaseT Ethernet auto sensing.

"Boca Research is excited to be working with Infomatec, National Semiconductor, and Citrix Systems in offering a JNT-based thin client as part of our growing family of BocaVision information appliances," said Larry Light, chief technology officer for Boca Research. "The BocaVision family offers a range of thin client solutions designed to meet the needs of IT and end users, while providing one of the lowest total costs of ownership in the industry."

"Infomatec is committed to the thin client and information appliance markets throughout the world," commented Gerhard Harlos, chief executive officer, Infomatec AG. "We look forward to continued endeavors with Boca Research, providing innovative solutions for these rapidly growing markets."

Ziv Azmanov, Thin Client Business Manager for National Semiconductor Corporation (NYSE:NSM), commented, "The Geode GX series processors offer a low-cost, high-performance integrated platform that enables Boca Research to offer innovative products, such as the JNC205."

The BocaVision JNC205 will be available in Q4 1999 through authorized BocaVision value-added resellers (VARs). The suggested street price is $699.99, which is very cost competitive for the feature set. The BocaVision family not only provides server-based computing solutions for large enterprise networks, but also for small to mid-size businesses and selected vertical markets, such as education and hospitality. Boca Research has recently launched a comprehensive BocaVision VAR program. For more information on BocaVision solutions or the Reseller First Program, visit the newly developed Web site at http://www.bocavision.com, which is dedicated to innovative information appliance solutions.

Boca Research Corporate Information

Founded in 1985, Boca Research is a leading provider of software and hardware technology. Boca Research provides communications solutions that enable data transmission, connectivity of devices, and access to applications and information via the Internet, personal computers, and/or server-based environments. The Company designs, manufactures, markets, and supports quality, innovative products that have a cost, performance, and time-to-market advantage.

Boca Research markets modems, I/O cards, and multiport products under the Boca Research brand name. The Company also markets Macintosh(R) peripherals and software under the Global Village(R) brand name, as well as thin client/server computing devices and information appliances under the BocaVision brand name.

Products are sold worldwide through original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), wholesale distributors, and/or retailers. The thin client products are sold only through value-added resellers. Boca Research is a U.S. corporation headquartered in Boca Raton, Florida with international operations and ventures worldwide.

Notes to Editors: For copies of recent press releases from Boca Research via fax, call 800-331-1323. For product or company information via the Internet, visit our Web sites at http://www.bocaresearch.com, http://www.globalvillage.com, and http://www.bocavision.com.

Boca Research Inc., Boca, and Global Village are registered trademarks, and BocaVision is a trademark of Boca Research, Inc. All other products and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.