Connectware introduces Cruiser as the complete communications software solution -- the first software that actively integrates all aspects of communications.

RICHARDSON, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 1, 1994--Connectware Inc., a subsidiary of AMP, Harrisburg, Pa., Tuesday introduced Cruiser, the first software to offer a complete solution for integrating all aspects of communications.

Cruiser is a communications integrator that provides an innovative solution to communication problems caused by geographically dispersed workgroups.

By combining the various communications media commonly used in business (real-time voice, fax, e-mail and file transfer) with intelligent, message-handling tools, Cruiser allows the user to set criteria that automatically establish availability and actively facilitate and control communications.

``Cruiser is an affordable, highly intelligent communications assistant,'' said Tim Sullivan, president, chief executive officer and founder of Connectware. ``And much like an assistant, Cruiser knows where you are and how to get in touch with you. Many of today's technologies force you to be accessible to everyone; Cruiser lets you control who you talk to, by what media, on what subjects and at what time,'' continued Sullivan.

``In addition, it sorts your mail, dials your phone, provides automated file management, organizes your calendar and helps you set up meetings. Cruiser efficiently manages your communications requirements automatically so you can focus on business objectives.''

Sullivan explained that each form of today's communication technology has distinct individual advantages, and Cruiser allows each technology to work together as part of an overall multimedia communications system. Cruiser eliminates the need for stand-alone applications that do not work together by integrating contact manager, scheduler, fax/modem and various e-mail systems.

``Cruiser is more effective than any other communications software available today,'' continued Sullivan. ``Cruiser introduces the concept of correspondent availability with its `status' feature. With `status,' users have a variety of communication options, including when and in what medium to communicate.

``Depending upon user preferences, other correspondents can be reached by e-mail, fax or Cruiser message without worrying about media format. Cruiser forwards a single message to several users via the media requested by the recipients. Similarly, users can set their own status, allowing Cruiser to screen their calls and mail,'' added Sullivan.

By combining the ``status'' and ``hallways'' features, a user can communicate by ``cruising'' virtual electronic hallways, contacting and leaving messages for internal and external correspondents. The user can glance down a virtual hallway to determine other users' availability and reachability.

Cruiser chronologically records incoming and outgoing communications, providing a multimedia filing system for voice, e-mail, fax and text messages. It also allows the user to specify rules to logically associate and act on these messages. The resulting network improves communication efficiency by allowing users to see, annotate and publish the entire communication process.

The conferencing capability enables switching between voice and data modes, during the same call, to allow the exchange of data files for simultaneous on-screen review. Applications integration allows the user to access Cruiser features while simultaneously working in other Windows-compatible applications.

Cruiser can be purchased by individuals or departments, and can expand across multiple workgroups and corporations. Virtually all Cruiser functions can be performed with telephone modems, and Cruiser will support industry-standard LANs and LAN-operating systems.

Cruiser release 1.0 runs on Windows PCs with a modem or TAPI-compliant telecommunications device. Offered as a software- only application, Cruiser is compliant with Microsoft/Intel TAPI, as well as standard AT modem commands. Cruiser also supports MAPI, the Microsoft mail API for connectivity to existing mail systems. General availability is scheduled for the first quarter of 1995. Cruiser is priced at $199 per user.

Connectware was founded in September 1993 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of AMP. Connectware is an emerging leader in multimedia and advanced networking technologies. The company's technology focus includes LAN/WAN convergence utilizing Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), communication integration through software and hardware offerings, and imaging/video solutions to the desktop.

Connectware has offices in Texas, California, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, England, Australia and the Asia-Pacific region.

AMP is the world's leading supplier of connectors and interconnection systems, serving customers around the world in a wide range of markets, from consumer goods to communication and computer systems. Employing more than 27,000 people in 36 countries, the company ranks 144th in the Fortune 500 list and had a record $3.45 billion sales in 1993.

For more information, please contact Connectware, 800/357-0852. Editorial inquiries may be directed to Cynthia Stine, 214/276-5724. -0-

NOTE TO EDITORS: Connectware is a registered trademark and Cruiser is a trademark of Connectware Inc. AMP is a registered trademark of AMP. Windows is a trademark and Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corp. Intel is a registered trademark of Intel.

CONTACT: Connectware Inc., Richardson

Cynthia Stine, 214/276-5724