New version of Eicon's Windows NT server-based router is first to extend Microsoft enhanced routing over WANs.

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 16, 1995--Eicon Technology has introduced a software package that for the first time extends Microsoft Corp.'s server-based Multi-Protocol Routing (MPR) service over wide-area networks (WANs).

This will enable organizations to use their Microsoft(R) Windows NT(TM) Server operating systems for network access to information residing on host mainframes, distributed servers and on-line information services.

Eicon's new WAN Services for Windows NT V3R3 server-integrated routing software implements Microsoft's MPR LAN-to-LAN networking capability across WAN links, allowing remote users to connect across leased or dial-up lines using the Point-to-Point Protocol, frame relay, X.25 or ISDN links.

The WAN Services for Windows NT software, which runs on Eicon's line of high-speed intelligent communication cards, is especially well suited for use with the recently introduced EiconCard S51 Multiservice Access Card, which provides serial and dial-up connections and supports frame relay, X.25, PPP, ISDN and other WAN services.

In addition, the software interoperates with stand- alone routers from such vendors as Bay Networks, Cisco Systems and 3Com, for seamless integration into an existing backbone network.

At initial shipment, WAN Services for Windows NT will support networks running the IP protocol. IPX networks will be supported in a subsequent release.

Tight Integration Into Windows NT Server Reduces LAN Congestion 

Jeff Paine, Eicon vice president of marketing for the Americas, said, "WAN Services for Windows NT, in combination with the EiconCard S51, is the only solution -- including stand-alone routers -- that lets Windows NT users work as if locally connected to host- and server-based and on-line resources.

"And because it is fully integrated into the Windows NT Server, our product doesn't add to LAN congestion the way that external stand-alone routers and even card solutions such as Cisco's AccessPro, do.

"This tight integration also lets the user manage and configure IP routing services using the Windows NT- based tools with which he is familiar , and to do so from anywhere on the WAN -- a Windows(R)-based console or HP OpenView or NetView/6000 console -- not just from the location where the card is installed."

"We're pleased that Eicon has extended MPR to the WAN," said Mike Nash, group product manager, business systems division, at Microsoft Corp. "This meets the needs of our customers who have a special requirement for multiprotocol routing services to run outside of the local network."

Two New Platforms Supported: MIPS, PowerPC

WAN Services for Windows NT, which previously supported the Intel x86, Intel Pentium and DEC Alpha platforms, now adds two new platforms: MIPS and PowerPC.

The product's ability to operate across multiple environments will enable server vendors, no matter what their processor platform, to address the growing demand for turnkey products that include a standards-based communication link to geographically dispersed resources.

In addition, improved utilities intuitively guide the user through installation and configuration of both the software and the associated EiconCard. A hardware auto-detect feature automatically determines the configuration best suited for the particular card being installed.

WAN Services for Windows NT offers robust, high-capacity implementations for the components of the Microsoft BackOffice(TM) integrated family of server software, including X.3 PAD support for Remote Access Service (RAS), SNADIS driver support for SNA Server, and X.25 messaging support for Exchange Server. Key ISDN standards, including NT1, Euro-ISDN and 5ESS, are supported.

A dial-on-demand feature ensures the cost-effective use of dial-up links by maintaining connections only when data are being transferred; and a dial-backup feature automatically reroutes traffic to a secondary line when the primary link has failed. High- performance data compression maximizes bandwidth usage.

Pricing/Availability

WAN Services for Windows NT software is priced at $595; the Intel x86, Pentium and DEC Alpha version will be available this month, the MIPS and PowerPC version in November. The software operates with Windows NT 3.51 and runs on the EiconCard family of server- integrated networking cards, which range in price from $1,095 to $1,495.

Eicon Technology is a worldwide provider of desktop and server- integrated information access solutions for the networked enterprise. The company develops, markets and supports hardware and software products that enable personal computers from a wide range of industry-standard platforms and operating environments to access corporate internetworks, IBM SNA networks and on-line information services.

The products are sold in more than 70 countries through an extensive distribution network. Eicon Technology shares are traded on The Toronto Stock Exchange and the Montreal Exchange under the symbol EIC.

Further information on Eicon products can be obtained through the World Wide Web address http://www.eicon.com. -0-

Note to Editors: Microsoft, Windows NT, Windows and BackOffice are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corp. in the United States and/or other countries.

CONTACT: Eicon Technology, Inc.

Janie Reyes, 214/239-3270

or

Ulevich & Orrange, Inc.

William Orrange or Janis Ulevich, 415/329-1590